The poultry industry has never operated in isolation. Every link in the value chain influences and supports one another. When one foundation weakens, the stability of the entire industry is put at risk.

The poultry industry is an ecosystem that brings together a wide range of stakeholders. It is sustained by breeding companies, feed manufacturers, animal health firms, poultry farmers, academics, and the government—all of whom play vital roles in ensuring a stable supply of poultry protein for the public. Aligning these diverse interests, however, is far from simple. It requires communication, trust, and a willingness to find common ground for the greater good.

That philosophy has consistently underpinned the thinking of Achmad Dawami. Throughout his tenure as Chairman of the Indonesian Poultry Breeding Association (GPPU), he has believed that the organization’s role extends beyond representing breeding companies. It should also serve as a bridge connecting all stakeholders to build a healthy, resilient, and sustainable national poultry industry.

“Everyone has their own conflicts of interest. But once you become a leader responsible for people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, you must do your utmost to be fair. A leader must also be wise—not only knowledgeable in theory but capable of building relationships and providing explanations that are acceptable to everyone,” Dawami said during an interview at his residence on Monday (June 22).

For Dawami, leadership is about far more than making decisions. A leader must be able to unite differing interests, build trust, and deliver solutions that are acceptable to all parties. This mindset has shaped many of the ideas he has consistently championed, particularly the importance of collaboration and alignment among stakeholders.

The Making of a Leader

More than four decades in the poultry industry have given Dawami a deep understanding of its challenges. His career has spanned nearly every segment of the poultry value chain—from breeding and commercial farming to poultry processing. This broad perspective became a valuable asset when he was elected Chairman of GPPU in 2018. At the same time, he also served as Senior Vice President, Deputy Head of the Commercial Poultry Division, and Head of Marketing, Commercial Poultry Division at the JAPFA Group.

Interestingly, the seeds of his leadership were planted during his university years. His first year at the Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM)—a major that had not been his first choice—was marked by disappointment and frustration. Even in his second year, he still hoped to transfer to another faculty. He sought his father’s permission once again, but his request was denied.

Feeling he had little choice, Dawami decided instead to make the most of his time on campus. He became actively involved in student organizations, serving as Chairman of the Student Senate, Head of UGM Softball, Head of UGM Karate, and participating in numerous other student activities.

A piece of advice from his father ultimately changed his outlook on life. His father told him that success is determined more by one’s attitude and conduct in society than by academic achievement alone. From that moment on, Dawami shifted his focus from merely acquiring classroom knowledge to developing character, communication skills, and the ability to work with others. That message helped him embrace his university years until graduating in 1980, while his organizational experiences became the foundation of his leadership.

Nurturing Collaboration

Among the principles Dawami has advocated most consistently is the importance of collaboration. In his view, the poultry industry is an interconnected ecosystem where every link depends on the others. If one part weakens, the entire system is affected. Consequently, the industry cannot be developed through fragmented efforts.

“The poultry industry cannot stand alone. Whether it is breeding, feed milling, animal health, commercial farming, or contract growers, none can succeed independently. We must collaborate because we are all working toward the same goal,” he emphasized.

This article is an excerpt from the Profile section of Poultry Indonesia Magazine, July 2026 edition. Read the full feature in the July 2026 issue of Poultry Indonesia Magazine. For subscriptions or further information, please contact the magazine’s circulation office. You can also stay updated on Indonesia’s poultry industry by following Satwa Media Group’s WhatsApp Channel.