Latest news with #Lukman
Daily Express
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Dream turned reality with Shell LiveWire
Published on: Saturday, June 07, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 07, 2025 By: Sherell Jeffrey Text Size: Team Brutti. The woodworking and furniture manufacturing business in Sabah is changing and at the centre of this shift is Shell LiveWire Malaysia's inspiring success story. Shell Malaysia's support structure has enabled young entrepreneurs to not only maintain centuries-old crafts, but also engage in sustainable business strategies that are redefining industries. Advertisement Brutti, a bespoke sustainable furniture company created by husband-and-wife team Lukman Awaluddin and Siti Faznur Khaleq, reflects this shift. Their endeavour has rekindled young peoples' interest in woodworking and furniture manufacturing, bringing out the value of preserving traditional skills while incorporating sustainable approaches. This has encouraged a new generation to see the industry not just as a viable professional alternative, but also as a way to help preserve the environment and cultural traditions. The impact goes far greater than individual success stories. The woodworking and furniture industry in Sabah is currently undergoing a favourable development, shaped by better young participation, sustainable methods and innovation. Advertisement The Shell LiveWire has helped to nurture entrepreneurial talent and provide the resources needed for enterprises to expand and adapt to changing market needs. As more young entrepreneurs emerge, such as Brutti, the business is expected to expand further, with a focus on sustainability, cultural preservation and economic development. Backyard beginnings to business What began as a small carpentry venture in the backyard with the simple goal of starting a YouTube channel has grown into Brutti, a company that prioritises great workmanship, smart design and sustainability. Lukman, who was born and raised in Kota Kinabalu and has a background in automotive engineering and his wife Siti Faznur, who is also from Kota Kinabalu with a Bachelor's Degree in Tourism Management, attribute their success to the transformative power of Shell LiveWire's support system. From the start, their goal has been to create pieces that are both visually pleasing and extremely functional, effortlessly integrating form and function with responsibly sourced wood. During the second Movement Control Order (MCO), their cleaning services business was hampered by restrictions. Faced with uncertainty, they made the courageous decision to enter an entirely new field with no prior experience. With drive as their guiding force, they dedicated themselves to studying through courses, workshops and mentorship from industry experts. 'It was during the second MCO that we found ourselves at a critical crossroads,' said Lukman. 'We needed to find a new, reliable source of income. Every challenge we faced became a stepping stone towards growth,' he added. Shell LiveWire unlocks potential The couple's journey took an unforgettable turn when they discovered Shell LiveWire thanks to the enthusiastic recommendations of former winners who were close friends. Inspired by the founders of successful enterprises such as Dumowongi, Tem Tem, Kebun Mama, Farm Tokou, Wagas De Asi, G1FT, Le Doux Coffee and Grace Creation, they viewed Shell LiveWire as more than just a competition. It provided an opportunity to grow, learn and contribute while making connections with like-minded innovators. In 2023, their participation in Shell LiveWire resulted in recognition as one of theTop 5 Sabah State winners, signalling the start of a new and exciting path. 'Throughout our participation in Shell LiveWire, one of the most valuable outcomes was the opportunity to gain more knowledge into our own business,' said Siti Faznur. 'The structured exercises, workshops and mentorship sessions provided us with tools to critically assess every aspect of our operations, from our business model and value proposition to customer engagement and financial planning,' she said. The programme pushed them to look into their business from fresh perspectives, helping identify strengths and areas for improvement. Whether mapping customer journeys, calculating unit economics or crafting their pitch, each task helped solidify their understanding of business operations and growth potential. During the pitching session, they had the opportunity to discuss their goal with a distinguished panel of judges. This was one of the most crucial moments in their Shell LiveWire journey. Standing before experienced professionals and industry experts, they communicated not only their business strategy, but also the heart and purpose of their job. 'It was not just a pitch. It was a moment of storytelling in which we expressed our passion, the challenges we had overcome and the impact we hoped to make,' said Lukman. 'The panel's attentiveness and insightful questions helped us feel seen and heard. Their constructive and encouraging responses confirmed that even a tiny idea, when supported by hard effort and purpose, is worth pursuing,' he said. This moment helped them realise their business's potential on a larger scale and gave them confidence to keep moving forward, serving as a reminder that every big journey starts with a small dream. The impact of Shell LiveWire's support system was instantly evident. The extensive media attention they received was critical in increasing their brand's awareness, allowing people to connect with their story, understand their principles and identify the heart behind their work. This exposure resulted in enhanced brand awareness and trust among current and potential customers. The media attention provided not only visibility, but also credibility, connection and community trust. Stakeholders, clients and partners came to see Brutti as far more than a product or service provider, but as an important and reputable participant in their sector. Beyond media exposure, Shell LiveWire enabled connections with other businesses. What began as casual conversations during networking sessions evolved into genuine friendships rooted in mutual support, shared values and common drive for growth. Many of these connections transformed from peers to partners, with fellow entrepreneurs becoming regular clients who support Brutti's services based on quality and purpose. The expansion milestone Brutti has grown noticeably since winning the Shell LiveWire competition, showing the programme's breakthrough power. They shifted to a larger, purpose-built industrial facility, taking a step toward expanding their operations in a more efficient and professional environment that matches industry standards. The new building increased their manufacturing capacity and provided a safer, more organised environment for their growing crew. With this expansion, they invested in better equipment, streamlined workflows and hired new trained workers, bolstering their ability to satisfy rising demand while maintaining quality and craftsmanship. 'We are proud to share that we have started receiving larger orders and long-term projects from corporate clients and prominent companies,' said Siti Faznur. 'This shift in our client base is a testament to the trust we have earned and the reputation we have built for delivering reliable, high-quality work,' she added. What began as a small operation has evolved into a scalable, credible business, reflecting the concrete results that Shell LiveWire's support system can achieve. Even successful Shell LiveWire alumni confront hurdles, but the programme's emphasis on constant learning and progress enables them to overcome barriers efficiently. Recently, Brutti experienced delays due to an unanticipated rise in larger orders. Instead of seeing this as a setback, they devised strategic ways to improve productivity and workflow management. 'This experience showed the importance of adaptability in our operations,' Lukman said. 'From fine-tuning resource allocation to improving internal processes, each step puts us closer to our objectives. 'It is an ongoing journey, and each day brings new lessons about managing scale, improving communication, and streamlining production cycles,' he said. This flexible approach conveys the core values that Shell LiveWire instils in its participants whereby they see setbacks as chances for growth and continual progress. Defined purpose through Shell LiveWire The success story of Brutti through Shell LiveWire offers insights for aspiring Malaysian entrepreneurs. 'Before starting any business, it is important to have a clear and well-defined purpose,' said Lukman. 'Understanding why you are starting and what you aim to achieve sets the foundation for every decision you make. Your purpose becomes your guiding light, helping you stay focused through challenges and uncertainty,' he said. 'Do not wait for the perfect moment or for all resources to fall into place,' adds Siti Faznur. 'Start small if you have to, but start. What matters most is consistency, dedication and willingness to put in extra effort. Even the smallest venture can grow into something significant with persistence and a growth-oriented mindset,' she said. They said continuous improvement is essential DNA for entrepreneurs, staying flexible and learning from every experience while always seeking ways to refine products, processes or services. Most importantly, they advocate surrounding oneself with knowledgeable mentors and industry experts who can provide invaluable insights and accelerate learning curves. Building tomorrow's future Shell LiveWire is much more than just a business competition or grant programme. It was founded in 2015 as a holistic ecosystem to help Malaysian entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses. The curriculum aggressively seeks entrepreneurs with creative ideas that will improve people's lives through environmental sustainability, social impact, and business innovation. 'Shell LiveWire is more than simply a platform. It is a powerful launchpad for ambitious entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses beyond local borders,' said Siti Faznur. 'Designed to support startups and early-stage ventures, it provides an ecosystem rich with resources that are often hard to access in the early phases of building a business,' she added. Entrepreneurs are connected to industry experts and experienced professionals who may provide essential advice. Whether it is refining business models, assessing market dynamics or managing hurdles, having access to experienced mentors can be truly transforming. The platform opens doors to networking locally and internationally. By joining the Shell LiveWire community, young entrepreneurs connect with like-minded individuals, potential partners and collaborators who can help expand their reach and impact. In today's interconnected world, Shell LiveWire supports the vision of global scaling by promoting innovative businesses on international stages, helping them gain visibility and credibility in new markets. This long-term commitment ensures sustainable growth and continued support well beyond the initial competition phase. Shell LiveWire Malaysia operates across Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Peninsular Malaysia, ensuring nationwide coverage and equal opportunities for entrepreneurs regardless of their location. Five winners from each state receive seed grants of RM10,000, while five national winners compete for an additional RM30,000. The programme's structure includes three years of mentorship and business guidance, opportunities for supply chain absorption and retailer partnerships, plus access to a network of successful alumni and ongoing peer support. The success of Brutti and countless other Shell LiveWire alumni reflects Shell Malaysia's commitment to nurturing local talent and driving sustainable economic growth. By focusing on environmental sustainability, social impact and business innovation, Shell LiveWire is not just creating successful businesses, it is building a foundation for Malaysia's entrepreneurial future. Shell LiveWire Malaysia continues to seek passionate entrepreneurs who are ready to transform their innovative ideas into thriving businesses. Join the ranks of successful Shell LiveWire alumni who are making meaningful impacts in their industries and communities. Your story of transformation and success could be the next inspiration for Malaysia's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Registration for Shell LiveWire Sabah closes on June 23. Do not let this opportunity pass by. Register today at and begin your journey toward entrepreneurial success. Live your dream with Shell LiveWire Malaysia! * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? 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The Star
25-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Indonesia evaluates airline ticket pricing formula amid rising costs
Well-wishers look on as a Garuda Indonesia Boeing 777-300ER in retro livery, transporting Indonesian Muslim pilgrims for the annual hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, takes off from the Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Blang Bintang, Aceh province on May 18, 2025. - AFP JAKARTA: The Transportation Ministry is evaluating airline ticket prices amid mounting cost pressures, which could lead to increased airfares paid by passengers, despite the government's longstanding efforts to keep prices affordable. Lukman F. Laisa, the ministry's civil aviation director general, told lawmakers on House of Representatives Commission V, which oversees infrastructure and transportation, on Thursday (May 22) that the evaluation was being conducted in light of several key considerations. He first pointed out rising airline maintenance costs, leading to higher operational expenses to reactivate aircraft, previously grounded amid the decline in travel demand during the Covid-19 pandemic. 'There are disruptions in the global spare parts ecosystem, such as engine-related difficulties, rising contract costs and a weakening rupiah exchange rate against the United States dollar,' Lukman added, as quoted from Kumparan. Moreover, new accounting standards are expected to reduce aircraft leasing costs, as they are subject to depreciation. Airlines have also restructured their leasing debts after Covid 19. Given these considerations, the ministry has proposed several changes in the airline ticket pricing regulations. 'There have been changes in fare structure with a new calculation formula that takes travel time into account, as well as revised upper and lower fare limits,' Lukman explained. The regulations subject to revision are Transportation Ministerial Regulation No. 20/2019 on airfares for domestic commercial airlines and the Ministerial Decree No. 106/2019 on the implementation of the new airfare ceiling prices. Lukman also recommended adjusting the pricing of domestic airline tickets in economy class, particularly for short distance routes. He also suggested that the fare differentiations in the service categories of full service, medium and low-cost carrier (LCC) should apply only on jet-powered aircraft. Currently, they also apply to propeller-driven aircraft, which are typically used to service regional air travel, particularly to remote and underserved destinations. 'Lastly, adjusting upper and lower fare caps to avoid predatory pricing and to improve business competitiveness,' he said, adding that it would also protect the public from the effects of having too wide a gap between low-season and high-season flight tickets. At the same meeting, flag carrier Garuda Indonesia also complained about the increasing operational costs seen in the past few years, while the upper price limit had not been adjusted since 2019. Garuda Indonesia president director Wamildan Tsani Panjaitan said airlines faced climbing prices of aviation turbine fuel and maintenance, coupled with the rupiah exchange rate that has also depreciated significantly against the US dollar over the past years. 'This is certainly weighing on airlines because a decrease in load factor or passenger occupancy by three to five percentage points affects airlines' margins and profitability greatly,' he explained, as quoted from CNBC Indonesia, adding that airlines had been operating with tight margins for years. In 2019, it cost Rp 194 million (US$11,876) per flight, but this has now risen by 38 per cent to Rp 269 million per flight due to increases in the cost of maintenance repair overhaul (MRO) and aviation turbine fuel prices, among other factors. While leasing expenses could be reduced through the restructuring process, Wamildan noted that the minimum wage for workers in the airline industry had increased by 35 per cent since 2019, adding pressures to already high operational costs. - The Jakarta Post/ANN
Hans India
02-05-2025
- Hans India
Mangaluru Sees Two More Assaults Amid Rising Communal Tensions in Coastal Karnataka
MANGALURU: In what appears to be a continuation of escalating communal violence in Karnataka's coastal belt, two Muslim youths were attacked in separate incidents in Mangaluru city on Thursday. In the Kuntikan area, Lukman, a fish trader from Ullal, narrowly escaped a murder attempt when unidentified assailants arrived in a car and tried to attack him. The attackers fled when a woman passerby began shouting for help, potentially saving Lukman's life. He was later taken to a hospital for treatment. CCTV footage has captured the incident and is now with the police. In another case from Kannur, three unidentified men assaulted a youth named Naushad while he was heading to the market. He is currently being treated in a private hospital. These back-to-back assaults come in the wake of multiple religion-based killings in Karnataka over the past three days. On April 29, Bajpe witnessed the murder of Suhas Shetty, a Hindu youth, sparking outrage and calls for an NIA investigation. Just a day later, reports emerged of a Muslim youth being killed in Belagavi district, allegedly in a communal dispute. The sequence of violent incidents has triggered concerns about the re-emergence of polarisation in a region already known for its sensitive communal fabric. Police are investigating all recent incidents and have increased surveillance in vulnerable areas.
New York Times
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Smartly Dressed Travelers With a Sentimental Satchel
The word 'timeless' came to mind when I glimpsed Gilang Al Ghifari Lukman, left, and Medina Janneta El-Rahman at a ferry landing in Istanbul while I was in the city on vacation last November. Though it has been months since we met, I thought of them as I prepared to go to Europe for fashion shows this month. They are the type of stylish people I always hope to bump into when I'm traveling — the kind who give me a chance to break out my vintage Rolleiflex film camera, a model that was used by noted fashion photographers like Richard Avedon and Bert Stern and that I do not get to use enough on the street these days. Mr. Lukman, 27, and Ms. Rahman, 25, live in Birmingham, England, and were vacationing in Istanbul. They told me that they always liked to dress smartly. Both grew up in Indonesia, and Mr. Lukman said his style was influenced by how people there dressed and by the elegant fashions of Britain's Edwardian era. His handsome satchel was made of goat leather, he said, and sentimental to him: 'It was purchased with my first-ever salary from a dishwashing part-time job while studying in Kyoto.' Tap to see more looks
