10-13 July 2025 – Tsinghua SEA, Bali
The Tsinghua Southeast Asia Center (Tsinghua SEA) in Serangan, Denpasar, Bali, had the privilege of hosting participants of the Tsinghua PBCSF Belt and Road Initiative Executive MBA (BRI EMBA) program from July 10 to 13, 2025. This intensive four-day program convened esteemed scholars, government leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives for a distinctive cross-cultural and intellectual exchange centered on Southeast Asia’s evolving business and social landscape.
The program began with a session on an overview of Indonesian society and culture, delivered by H.E. Ambassador Tantowi Yahya. This session provided the participants with a foundational understanding of the nation’s social and historical context. The day continued with the Hospitality and Tourism Forum, featuring a distinguished lineup of thought leaders, including a video message from H.E. Sandiaga Uno, former Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy. This was followed by insightful talks from Julius Ruslan (Milestone Pacific Hotel Group), Indra Gunawan (Bobobox), and John Sumampouw (Taman Safari). The afternoon program concluded with a high-level sharing session led by Pahala Mansury, former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and State-Owned Enterprises. Mansury’s presentation focused on Indonesia’s economic diplomacy and transformation.
On the second day, Prof. Sumit Agarwal of the National University of Singapore led in-depth discussions on Real Estate in Asia and Sustainable Household Finance, examining economic behaviors and financial trends shaping regional markets. The day ended with a cultural touch—local dress photography, offering participants a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich heritage.
The third and fourth days focused on Business Ethics, led by Prof. Isabel de Bruin Cardoso, Head of the Gradel Institute of Charity’s Non-profit Ethics Lab. Her sessions emphasized ethical leadership, governance, and responsible business practices in an era of global change. A working lunch and alumni sharing session provided space for reflection and dialogue, while the evening Gala Dinner and Cultural Experience celebrated intercultural connections. A special sharing session by Pandu Sjahrir (or Cherie Nursalim, tbc) added further insights on blended finance and regional development strategies.
The program concluded with deeper exploration into ethical frameworks in business, reinforcing the BRI EMBA’s commitment to nurturing globally minded leaders who are not only financially astute but also ethically grounded. The TSEA experience provided a powerful platform for learning, collaboration, and cultural appreciation among future leaders across Asia and beyond.