FROM the moment he arrived in Bali, Hilarius Mali had set a major goal for himself: one day, he wanted to travel abroad—at the very least, to Australia. That ambition slowly began to take shape as he worked and interacted with foreign investors who had strong ties to Bali.
One of the most memorable experiences occurred in 2002, when a Swedish investor he had grown close to passed away in Bali due to illness. The investor, who had previously sought medical treatment in Sweden, chose to spend his final days in Bali because of his emotional attachment to the island.
Hilarius was entrusted with the solemn duty of bringing the investor’s ashes to Sweden and delivering them directly to his wife and children inside a church. It was a deeply emotional moment—many people cried, including Hilarius himself. He recalls thinking, “My duty and responsibility are now complete.”
After fulfilling this responsibility, international opportunities began to open up. Hilarius was invited to travel across countries around Sweden, including with an investor friend from Norway. These experiences not only broadened his horizons and international network, but also taught valuable lessons about responsibility, integrity, and genuine human connection.
For Hilarius, every experience—from working tirelessly in Bali to his journeys abroad—held meaningful lessons. His story serves as a real example for the younger generation: with determination, courage, and a strong sense of responsibility, great opportunities will come—even across borders. **
Tested by a Candy: Taught by Integrity
Behind the business journey of Adv. Hilarius Mali Asa, SH, lies a simple yet powerful story about how he came to understand the meaning of honesty.
The lesson did not come from the university classroom, but from his experience working with two partners from Norway and Sweden—foreigners who taught him one of the most fundamental values in business: trust.
In the early years of his career, Hilarius was often assigned to withdraw large sums of money from the bank. The amounts were always written down precisely, and he was instructed to take only what was listed.
Each time he returned to the office with the exact amount—without a single cent missing—he received the same praise.
At the time, he didn’t realize that those compliments were not mere words. They were acknowledgment of his integrity. His partners were assessing something far more valuable than the cash he carried: character.
Yet the test did not end at the bank. Near the office telephone, they placed a small jar filled with candies.
It looked trivial, but it was actually another deliberate test of honesty. If the candies were reduced, they would know. If someone took one without permission, they would ask who did it. **
Writer: Karolina, Editor: Igo Kleden
