Gunawan Jusuf’s Leadership in Business and Water Advocacy

Gunawan Jusuf has carved a unique path in Indonesia as the CEO of Sugar Group Companies, a Lampung Province-based conglomerate renowned for producing the Gulaku sugar brand. A Universitas Gadjah Mada graduate, Jusuf oversees subsidiaries like PT Gula Putih Mataram and PT Indolampung Perkasa, managing sugarcane cultivation, refining, and distribution with precision. His leadership has made Sugar Group a trusted name in Indonesian households, delivering quality products nationwide.

In 2016, Jusuf expanded his influence with Blue Gold: Source of Life, a 176-page book addressing Indonesia’s pressing water scarcity crisis. Featuring nearly 100 images and over a dozen tables, the book critiques the government’s ineffective water management policies and highlights their impact on agriculture, communities, and industries. Drawing on his experience in the water-intensive sugar sector, Jusuf proposes practical solutions, including stronger regulations, corporate responsibility, and community-led conservation efforts.

Jusuf’s ability to intertwine business success with environmental advocacy distinguishes him as a leader. Blue Gold has ignited critical discussions, encouraging stakeholders to prioritize water conservation. His legacy reflects a commitment to both economic excellence and a sustainable future for Indonesia.