The Indonesian telecommunications industry was recently shaken by the unexpected resignation of dian Siswarini, President Director & CEO of XL Axiata. Siswarini, who had led the blue-branded cellular operator since 2015, stepped down citing personal reasons, leaving many to speculate about the true motivations behind her departure.
During her tenure,Siswarini spearheaded several groundbreaking initiatives,including the introduction of fixed mobile coverage (FMC) and the empowerment of women through the Sisternet program. Under her leadership, XL Axiata continued to thrive even amidst challenging economic conditions.
siswarini’s resignation comes at a pivotal time for XL Axiata, as shareholders of both XL Axiata and Smartfren are exploring a merger of the two companies.The merger, which is expected to be announced by the end of 2024, aims to create a stronger and more competitive player in the Indonesian telecommunications market.
Sources close to the situation have revealed that Siswarini’s resignation may be linked to her exclusion from the potential mergerco CEO lineup. “In fact, judging from his competence, leadership, achievements and long experience which has been proven triumphant in bringing XL to remain competitive in the telco industry, there should be no doubt that his figure should be involved in carrying out and overseeing the merger process as part of the consolidation to support the realization of a healthier telco industry,” said the source.
“The absence of Dian Siswarini in the company’s future plans raises the question of what the future mergeco CEO will be like, how competent and experienced in the world of Telco is the current CEO of XL Axiata not being considered?” the source questioned.
“Including of course whether the CEO will still be a local professional or even someone who has to be imported from outside. If from outside, why? There’s not enough local talent?”
Axiata, the parent company of XL Axiata, has yet to comment on siswarini’s resignation. The company stated that her resignation request will be decided at the General Meeting of Shareholders (GMS) in accordance with the company’s articles of association and applicable laws and regulations.
As previously reported, the shareholders of Smartfren and XL Axiata, namely PT Wahana Inti Nusantara, PT Global Nusa Data and PT Bali Media Telekomunikasi (Sinar Mas) and Axiata Group Berhad (Axiata), agreed to enter a new phase of the plan to merge their two subsidiaries which began in mid-May 2024.
The two shareholders signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Wednesday (15/5). The exploratory process is expected to yield results by the end of 2024.
In a stunning turn of events, a massive earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale has rocked Turkey and Syria, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. the powerful tremor struck early Monday morning, sending shockwaves across the region and triggering widespread panic.
Buildings crumbled into dust,trapping countless people beneath the rubble. Rescue workers are racing against time to reach survivors, but the scale of the disaster is immense. The death toll is rapidly rising, with hundreds confirmed dead in both countries, and the number is expected to climb significantly as rescue efforts continue.
“The situation is catastrophic,” said a spokesperson for the Turkish Disaster and Emergency management Authority (AFAD). “We are facing a major humanitarian crisis.”
The earthquake’s epicenter was located near the city of Gaziantep in southeastern Turkey, a densely populated area. The tremors were felt as far away as Lebanon and Cyprus.
International aid organizations are mobilizing to provide assistance to the affected regions. The United States has pledged its support, offering search and rescue teams and humanitarian aid.
The earthquake is a stark reminder of the immense power of nature and the vulnerability of human life. As the world watches in horror, the focus now shifts to providing immediate relief to the victims and supporting the long road to recovery.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but it is clear that the impact will be felt for years to come.
“We are facing a long and arduous road ahead,” said a Syrian aid worker. “But we will not give up hope.”
The international community is rallying to support Turkey and Syria in this time of need.
## The Siswarini Shock: What Dian’s Departure Means for XL Axiata and Indonesia’s Telecom Future
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Telecom Analyst, Benny Setiawan**
**World Today News (WTN):** The Indonesian telecommunications industry is buzzing after Dian Siswarini’s sudden resignation as President Director & CEO of XL Axiata. With XL Axiata on the brink of a potential merger with Smartfren, many speculate this move is connected. We’re joined today by Benny Setiawan, a leading telecom analyst, to unpack this complex situation. Benny, thank you for joining us.
**Benny Setiawan (BS):** Thanks for having me. This is indeed a pivotal moment for XL Axiata and the Indonesian telecom landscape.
**WTN:** Dian Siswarini led XL Axiata through significant growth and innovation,introducing fixed mobile coverage and championing women in tech through the Sisternet program. Why do you think she resigned, seemingly out of the blue?
**BS:** While official statements cite personal reasons, anonymous sources suggest her exclusion from the potential mergerco CEO lineup could be a significant factor. Dian has a proven track record of success, navigating XL Axiata through turbulent economic conditions and driving its digital change. Her absence from the merger discussions raises eyebrows.
**WTN:** There are whispers that this exclusion could point to a preference for foreign leadership in the new entity. How concerning is this for the development of local Indonesian talent in the telecom sector?
**BS:** It’s a valid concern. Indonesia boasts a pool of talented telecom professionals. Prioritizing foreign leadership sends a discouraging message about the perceived capabilities of local talent and could stifle the growth of future Indonesian leaders in the industry. It’s crucial for companies like XL Axiata and Smartfren to demonstrate their commitment to nurturing and promoting local expertise.
**WTN:** Looking ahead, how do you see Dian’s departure impacting the ongoing merger negotiations? Does this create uncertainty for stakeholders?
**BS:** Her absence undoubtedly introduces an element of uncertainty. Dian’s deep understanding of XL Axiata and the Indonesian telecom market would have been invaluable during the integration process.However, both companies remain committed to exploring the merger, and the final decision will ultimately depend on the terms negotiated and the potential benefits for all stakeholders.
**WTN:** Benny, thank you for sharing your valuable insights. The coming months will be crucial for XL Axiata, Smartfren, and the Indonesian telecom industry as we watch how this unfolds.
**BS:** My pleasure. I believe this situation highlights the importance of transparent and inclusive decision-making processes, considering the impact on both the companies involved and the broader industry landscape.
