NOT every childhood dream leads to the path we ultimately take in life. Such is the story of Ricky Putra, now Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sudamala Resorts, and one of Indonesia’s most respected figures in the hospitality and tourism industry.
“I never planned to work in tourism,” Ricky says with a smile. “My dream was actually to become an engineer.”
Ricky was even accepted into the Architecture program at Udayana University, before deciding instead to pursue a degree in Tourism Studies. What began as an unplanned choice turned out to be a life-changing decision — one that opened the door to a world that would later become his true calling. Inspired by a cousin who found success as an architect, Ricky never imagined that fate would lead him down a different road — a road that ultimately defined his purpose.
“Success isn’t measured by money,” he says firmly. “There are many wealthy people, but not all of them are truly happy. It’s my destiny to be a worker, not a businessman — and I’m proud of what I do.” **
From Cruise Ships to the World of Hospitality
Ricky Putra’s career began in 1986, when he became one of only five people from Buleleng Regency to secure a job on a cruise ship. “It was an incredible feeling,” he recalls. “Coming from a small town and suddenly working while traveling the world — it felt surreal.” Though initially disappointed that he hadn’t become an engineer, that feeling vanished the moment he returned home from his first voyage. “Coming back from the cruise ship, I felt like a billionaire,” he laughs.
For seven years, Ricky sailed across the world’s oceans, learning about diverse cultures and mastering the art of global service standards. Yet life at sea came with its own challenges — long contracts, grueling schedules, and only two months of vacation each year. Once he had saved enough and built his own home, Ricky decided to leave the sea behind and embark on a new journey on land — in the hospitality industry.
That decision marked the beginning of his remarkable career in hospitality. Ricky discovered that serving others, creating meaningful guest experiences, and leading with empathy were his true passions. What began as an unplanned path turned out to be his life’s calling.
Today, with extensive international experience across some of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands — and his current strategic role at Sudamala Resorts — Ricky Putra proves that true success is not about how quickly we achieve our first dream, but how deeply we embrace the meaning of the journey itself.
“Not everything happens according to plan,” he says. “But when you walk your path with heart, every step will lead you to the right place.” **
Writer: Karolina | Editor: Igo Kleden
