UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has once again highlighted the national achievements of its graduates. Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) alumnus Buyung Zaelani, SE, was appointed Commissioner of PT Bukit Asam Tbk during the company’s General Meeting of Shareholders (GMS) on Thursday (June 12, 2025). Before his appointment, Zaelani built a distinguished career as a civil servant, holding numerous high-level positions. These included Special Advisor to the Head of the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) from 2020–2024, Principal Secretary of BIN from 2014–2020, Deputy Head of BIN for Economic Affairs from 2010–2014, and Commissioner of PT Aneka Tambang Tbk from 2012–2020.
Assuming the commissioner role at the age of over 65, Zaelani admitted the position came as an unexpected honor. He views it as both a mark of trust from the government and a responsibility earned through years of professional relationships and goodwill. “This is something I am deeply grateful for, and I intend to fulfill it by working with complete dedication,” he said.
Active in student organizations
During his studies at FEB UNAIR (1979–1984), Zaelani was active in both on-campus and off-campus organizations. He joined the Islamic Students Association (HMI), served as vice chairman of the FEB student senate, and was part of the management team of the Nuruzzaman Mosque at Campus B.
“In college, I was drawn to student organizations mainly to meet friends and socialize. After graduating and starting my career, I realized that the experience of discussing ideas, presenting opinions, and organizing activities with peers had provided valuable skills that positively influenced my professional journey,” he recalled.
Throughout his career, he often found himself engaged in discussions and idea exchanges, both individually and as part of a team. “That’s why it’s essential to have the ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively so others can understand and support your responsibilities—both personal and collective,” he explained.
His active involvement in organizations never came at the expense of academics. Zaelani completed his studies on schedule, crediting his lecturers for their guidance.
“I am sincerely grateful to the professors who provided knowledge, mentorship, and direction, enabling me to graduate on time,” he said.
Keys to success
Having built a long career in strategic roles, Zaelani believes that success depends not solely on intellectual ability, but on balancing four types of intelligence: intellectual, spiritual, social, and emotional.
He also shared practical advice for professional interactions: whether dealing with superiors, colleagues, or subordinates, it is crucial to be self-aware and adaptable. Most importantly, he stressed that work should be undertaken with the sincere intention of worship, as this fosters diligence and responsibility.
“To all UNAIR students, especially those in the Faculty of Economics and Business who are currently pursuing their studies, Zaelani urged them to make the best use of their time in seeking knowledge, with the sincere intention of worship. Possessing knowledge is indeed essential as a basic requirement for employment. However, to achieve true success, students are also encouraged to begin cultivating the ability to balance the four types of intelligence he previously mentioned, in equal measure,” he said.
Author: Khumairok Nurisofwatin
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
