As part of MDF’s 40th anniversary, we’re exploring the unique journeys of our offices worldwide. This feature brings us to MDF Indonesia, where a commitment to education and development has shaped our growth and impact in the region.

The founding purpose

The story of the MDF Pacific-Indonesia office starts in 2010, working across Indonesia and in the region. The office, consisting of nine dedicated professionals, was established to support the growing demand for educational projects in the region. With four significant Nuffic-funded education projects already underway, MDF marked its presence in this part of Asia.

2nd Regional Workshop on 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to Protect the Marine Environment and Coral Reefs' (3RproMar) in Bali, 2023.
MDF Indonesia leading the 2nd Regional Workshop on 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to Protect the Marine Environment and Coral Reefs' (3RproMar) in Bali, 2023.

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Course on Leadership & Personal Management Skills, 2014, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Course on Leadership & Personal Management Skills, 2014, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Achievements and notable partnerships

Since its inception, MDF Pacific-Indonesia has successfully managed five large Nuffic projects, totalling approximately €6 million. Beyond education, the office has expanded its expertise, collaborating with prominent international agencies such as ASEAN, UN agencies, and the Asian Development Bank. The office has also worked with private sector giants like Mars, Nestlé, and Hershey. MDF Indonesia is distinguished by its analytical consulting approach, making it a prominent firm in the region.

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Group photo from the Nuffic workshop closing event in Jakarta, 2012.
Group photo from the Nuffic workshop closing event in Jakarta, 2012.

Trust and personal responsibility

The MDF Pacific-Indonesia office values the well-being of its team by offering flexible work hours and remote work options, fostering an atmosphere of trust and personal responsibility. This approach contributes to an autonomous work culture, allowing employees to manage their own schedules. Additionally, the office shows its commitment to the community by engaging in at least one Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity each year, reinforcing its dedication to giving back locally.

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A future to make it work

MDF Pacific-Indonesia sees interesting opportunities ahead, especially in establishing itself as the trusted consultancy for high-level development actors such as the UN, ASEAN, and the Asian Development Bank. "The ambition is to continue delivering top-tier analytical consulting with a practical focus on 'making it work,' solidifying the office's role as a key player in the region's development," notes Bart van Halteren, director of MDF Indonesia.

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Workshop on Initial Findings of the ASEAN Capacity Building Impact Study and Development of the ASEAN Capacity Building Roadmap in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 2023.
Workshop on Initial Findings of the ASEAN Capacity Building Impact Study and Development of the ASEAN Capacity Building Roadmap in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 2023.

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As MDF Global celebrates its 40th anniversary, the team at MDF Indonesia looks back with pride on their journey and achievements over the past 14 years as part of MDF’s global impact. Respect and appreciation are well-earned rewards for the hard work and contribution MDF Pacific-Indonesia has dedicated to empowering and creating impact in the region.

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