Early Life
Bachtiar Karim, born on November 5, 1957, in Medan, Indonesia, is an Indonesian businessman with a deep-rooted history in the palm oil industry. His father, Anwar Karim, founded the Nam Cheong Soap Factory in 1932, laying the groundwork for the family's future in business. Bachtiar grew up in a supportive environment, which instilled a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He attended Hwa Chong Junior College in Singapore and earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the National University of Singapore.
Rise to Success
Karim joined the family business in 1981 and progressively took on more responsibilities. He played a key role in the transformation of the family business from soap manufacturing to palm oil refining. The family's entry into the palm oil sector began with the establishment of Indonesia's first palm oil refinery in 1970. The company, later named Musim Mas, expanded under Karim's guidance, opening a regional office in Kuala Lumpur in 2002 and entering the European market in 2007.
Key Business Strategies
Under Bachtiar Karim's leadership, Musim Mas has become a global player in the palm oil industry. The company's strategies include vertical integration, controlling the entire value chain from cultivation to manufacturing. Musim Mas operates in 13 countries and has a wide network of refineries. The company focuses on sustainability, and has been recognized for its sustainable practices, including RSPO certification for its mills.
Philanthropy
Bachtiar Karim is involved in philanthropy through the Karim Family Foundation. The Foundation supports education and healthcare, and has donated to the National University of Singapore to establish a professorship on sustainability. The Foundation focuses on sports development, arts & culture, mental health, and education, and is committed to contributing to various communities, starting in Singapore and Indonesia.