Ir. Dzikri Firmansyah Hakam, ST, PgDip, MSc, PhD, is a lecturer at the SBM ITB with a grand vision of supporting the global transition to Net Zero Carbon. With a strong foundation in energy economics, finance, and policy, he is determined to contribute meaningfully to this vital cause.
“Energy, economics, and Net Zero Carbon are complex global issues. The imbalance between energy supply and demand requires creative and innovative solutions,” he emphasizes.
Early Life: Growing Up in Bandung & Organizational Involvement
Dzikri grew up in Bandung, where he attended SMPN 2 and SMAN 3 Bandung. Even during school, he was known for his academic excellence and active participation in various organizations. During his university years, Dzikri took on several leadership roles, including Head of the External Division at the ITB Electrical Engineering Student Association, Head of the Advocacy Department at the ITB Student Assembly (MWA), and Presidium of the Indonesian Forum of Electrical Engineering Student Associations (FKHMEI). These experiences helped shape his leadership, collaboration, and advocacy skills, which continue to influence his work today.
Professional Career: From Electrical Engineering to Oil, Gas, and Power Industries, and Academia
Although initially interested in becoming a doctor, Dzikri ultimately chose to study electrical engineering at ITB, driven by his desire to attend Indonesia’s top institution. His academic achievements earned him a scholarship to support his undergraduate studies at ITB.
After graduation, he was offered a master’s scholarship in electrical engineering and a teaching assistantship. However, Dzikri decided to pursue a career with Halliburton, a global oil and gas company, which allowed him to work in regions such as Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Texas, enriching his understanding of the energy industry. He further broadened his expertise by working in the electricity sector at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and PLN, focusing on power system planning, transmission, and distribution. Dzikri also engaged in research, contributed as an Expert at PLN’s Center of Excellence, and was a senior lecturer at ITPLN, advancing technology and solutions to meet the nation’s energy needs.
Advanced Studies: PhD, MSc, and PgDip at Dundee
Dzikri pursued advanced studies through prestigious scholarships. He earned a PhD in Energy Economics, Finance, and Policy from the University of Dundee, Scotland, supported by an LPDP Scholarship from the Indonesian government. His research focused on policies to promote sustainable energy transitions.
Before his PhD, Dzikri completed a Master of Science (MSc) in International Oil and Gas Management at the University of Dundee with the Chevening Scholarship from the UK government. Additionally, he earned a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Islamic Economics, Finance, and Banking from Al-Maktoum College in Dundee, equivalent to a master’s degree, with support from an Al-Maktoum College scholarship. He also obtained a diploma in Arabic from the same institution and under the same scholarship program.
His academic achievements were recognized with awards, including Best Student, and he was elected President of the Student Executive Board at Al-Maktoum College, Dundee.
“Language is a key that opens many doors. We can foster closer communication with people from different countries by acquiring new knowledge and learning new languages. It also enables collaboration across sectors, creating broader partnerships,” he explains.
Regular Research and Publications in Scopus-Indexed Journals
Dzikri is dedicated to advancing knowledge through regular research. He collaborates with industry and government, producing studies that contribute to developing the energy and economic sectors. His research team and supervised students have published numerous papers in Scopus Q1-Q2 indexed journals over the past three years, strengthening his global academic impact and contributing to the industry and policymaking. Dzikri has published 15 papers in Scopus Q1-Q2 indexed journals in the last three years in energy economics alone.
Family Tradition: Educators and Fighters
Dzikri draws inspiration from his family’s legacy of educators and Independence fighters. His extended family has significantly contributed to education and Indonesia’s independence movement. This heritage instilled in him a deep sense of duty to serve society through education and meaningful contributions. Dzikri continues this tradition through his academic work, advocating for quality education and impactful research on a global scale.
The Calling to Become a Lecturer at SBM ITB
Inspired by his family’s educational tradition, Dzikri became a lecturer at SBM ITB. He believes that teaching allows him to share knowledge while advancing research and innovation, particularly in sustainable energy and economics.
“Teaching is not just about delivering information, but about inspiring others and making a real impact on the world,” says Dzikri.
Global Contributions: Consultant and International Speaker
Beyond academia, Dzikri is a consultant for various companies, governments, and universities. He is frequently invited to speak at international conferences, including ASEAN forums and the International Association for Energy Economics (IAEE), further establishing his position as a leading expert in energy. His global contributions keep him informed of the latest developments in the field, allowing him to provide valuable insights to his students.
Dzikri’s Dreams and Message to Students
Dzikri dreams of positively impacting the world through his academic and professional contributions, both nationally and globally. As a lecturer, he inspires his students throughout their educational journey.
“The knowledge you acquire will never go to waste. Every failure is a valuable lesson. Don’t be afraid to keep learning and trying—everything will be useful in time,” he advises his students.