The Story of Ahmad Zaki: Nine Years as a BRILink Agent, Reaping Rewards from Perseverance

Nine years ago, when many people chose not to take up the opportunity to become a BRILink agent, Ahmad Zaki Mufid decided to take a different path. With just IDR 5 million in capital and a belief that banking transaction services would become increasingly needed by the public, he persevered as a BRILink agent in Jatiwaringin, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency. His decision has borne fruit, and he now enjoys the blessings of a business he started in 2017.

Zaki’s journey began when BRI Mauk Unit offered its customers the chance to join as BRILink agents. He was interested after a BRI officer explained that agents would earn a profit from every transaction. Alongside his existing gas cylinder trading business, he decided to join to supplement his income. However, the early days were not easy. He had to focus on building public trust through socialisation, as the concept of banking services at a kiosk was still new to the community.

‘I was among those who persevered,’ Zaki said during a break from serving a steady stream of customers at his kiosk. His efforts gradually paid off. By 2018, transaction volumes grew significantly, boosted by the disbursement of government social assistance funds. ‘I was convinced that banking transaction services would be highly needed by the public, especially the millennial generation. When people have limited time, agents like this become a preferred choice,’ he explained.

In the first year, he handled only about 10 transactions a day, earning a modest profit of around IDR 50,000. As trust grew, so did his income. Two years later, daily transactions rose to 50, and his earnings increased to IDR 100,000-200,000 per day. Today, after nearly a decade, his kiosk processes between 100 and 150 transactions daily, generating a monthly profit of IDR 10-15 million.

The economic impact on his family has been substantial. The income from BRILink allowed him to completely renovate his home and fund his children’s education. ‘It has been a tremendous help for my family,’ he stated. The business has also benefited the local community, saving residents from travelling far or queuing at bank branches for services like transfers, cash withdrawals, electricity bill payments, and loan instalments.

Despite the success, Zaki faces the modern challenge of digital mobile banking, which has reduced some transaction volumes. To retain customers, he focuses on providing excellent service and offering promotions, such as giving away cooking oil for every 20 transactions. ‘We have to be smart in persuading customers. I guarantee their money will arrive safely, and if not, I will take responsibility,’ he said, highlighting the personal touch that keeps his community loyal.