In its history, the city of Semarang in Indonesia was visited by the famed mariner, diplomat, and court eunuch Zheng He during China’s early Ming dynasty. The city later became one of the most important colonial ports for the Dutch East India Company. 

Eden started a social enterprise in this old city area. The idea of the “Soesmans 1866” project came from the other co-founder, Eden’s wife Jade, who is also Taiwanese. They were inspired by the story of Kartini, a famous feminist in Indonesia. Jade has always dreamt of establishing their own social enterprise so they were determined to dream bravely and looked to revitalize the ruined Soesmans Kantoor building. They regarded it as their “base of dreaming,” and wanted to help more people through the space.

The project is engaged in the restoration of historical sites, the operation of a cafe and exhibition spaces, the revitalization of old spaces, addressing women’s unemployment, youth education, and supporting the disadvantaged. They are building a friendly bridge between Taiwan and Indonesia.

Let’s hear some interesting stories from the CEO, Eden, and his team in the local cultural community!