That morning, I had prepared everything I needed for the seminar carefully. Since the night before, I had arranged all the details, making sure nothing was missed. This seminar was very important to me, an event from “Kumparan Academy” that I had been waiting for a long time. Nervousness mixed with excitement filled my mind. I was worried that if my preparation was not thorough, everything could fall apart.
However, there was one thing that made me a little hesitant. The seminar venue was quite far from my workplace, and that morning Hong Kong was being drenched in heavy rain. I thought about going straight to the seminar venue so I could arrive early and get a seat in the front row. However, I changed my mind. There was something more important: a package of books from Indonesia that I had to pick up at Causeway Bay. Even though it was raining heavily, I still decided to stop by for a while to pick up the package, even though it meant I had to race against time, get on and off trains, and jog in the rain.
When I arrived at the package pick-up location, I was a little anxious. The queue was quite long and it took the officer about fifteen minutes to find the package in my name. Time kept on ticking, and I started to worry that I wouldn’t make it to the seminar on time. However, my package was finally found. After taking care of the administration, I ran back to the train station, hoping to arrive at the seminar on time.
Alhamdulillah, when I arrived at the train, I met some friends who were also going to the same seminar. I felt so relieved, especially since I didn’t really understand the location of the place. We headed to Conference Hall 04-07 at Hong Kong Science and Technology Park together. This fairly long distance seemed to be an opportunity to add to my collection of travel photos, while bringing some books that I brought from Indonesia.
However, throughout the journey, the rain continued to pour. When we arrived, the rain had eased a little, although it was still drizzling. The sidewalk and road were wet, but I didn’t want to waste the opportunity to take pictures in front of the uniquely shaped seminar building, like a golden egg. Although it was short, I managed to take some photos, although unfortunately I didn’t have time to invite the books I brought to join in posing. Time was running out, and the event was about to start.
Once I arrived at the event hall, I immediately filled in the attendance and took my merchandise. I sat in the middle row, arranged the things I brought and took a sip of water. My backpack was very heavy because it was full of books—around 23 copies. It was rare for me to attend a seminar carrying this much weight.
The seminar went smoothly. The speakers delivered very interesting and meaningful materials. The knowledge they shared increased my insight into the digital world and various aspects within it. Time passed so quickly, and the event was closed with a group photo session.
However, before the official event started, I felt there was a golden opportunity that should not be missed. I gathered my courage to get to know one of the speakers I really admired, Mr. Aji Surya, former Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Egypt. From his distinctive appearance with a hat, I could immediately guess that it was him.
“Good morning, Mr. Aji Surya? May I ask permission, may I introduce myself?” I asked hopefully.
“Oh, of course you may!” he answered in a friendly manner, full of smiles.
“Let me introduce myself, sir, my name is Sarmini, and this is my book. This is for you as a souvenir from me, I hope you will read it,” I said while handing him the book.
“Wow, is this your own work? Very cool!” He welcomed the book enthusiastically, and we took a photo together. After thanking him, I returned to my seat with a slightly somber heart.
After the seminar was over, I again dared to get to know another resource person, Mr. Arifin Asydad, the editor-in-chief of Kumparan. “I have to be brave, I have to be confident,” I whispered to myself.
“Excuse me, sir, may I introduce myself?” I asked.
“Yes, of course you may!” he answered politely.
“Let me introduce myself, I am Sarmini, and this is my book. This is for you as a souvenir, I hope you will read it,” I said while handing him the book.
“Wow, you already have your own work, huh? Very good. How long did it take you to make this book?” he asked.
“Actually, this is a collection of old writings, sir, but there are some new writings too. It was only printed recently,” I answered proudly.
“Oh yeah, can I have your autograph? While the author is here!” he asked with a friendly smile.
My hands were shaking as I wrote a few words in the book. It felt like a dream, writing an autograph for the editor-in-chief of Kumparan. In the midst of my nervousness, I tried to stay calm.
Shortly after, Mr. Ikhwanul Habibi passed by, and Mr. Arifin immediately called him. Mr. Habibi, who had received my book earlier, also asked for an autograph, and once again I gave a few words along with a simple signature.
“8-9-2024. To Mr. Arifin, thank you very much. Signed, Sarmini.”
“8-9-2024. To Mr. Habibi, thank you very much. Signed, Sarmini.”
This experience was so memorable. Being able to meet, get to know, and even give my writing to great people like them was a moment I will never forget. Feelings of emotion and pride mixed together.
Meeting with the Kumparan speakers was a very valuable experience, and their friendly welcome made me even more enthusiastic to continue working. My deepest gratitude to all levels of Kumparan for this opportunity and hospitality. []