Jakarta – Through a life journey full of twists and turns, Jonie Yap has successfully built PT SJA Global Cosmindo and PT Nutraceutical Biotech Indonesia into widely recognized companies with their flagship product, Papaya Soap. Since its establishment in 1999, Papaya Soap has proven itself as a body care product capable of competing with international brands, bringing pride as a local product going international.
Jonie Yap, who now serves as the CEO of both companies, started his journey from a position of great hardship. “I moved to Jakarta at the age of 7, and our family was very poor. We lived in a rented house with unpaved floors and had to share a well with our neighbors for bathing,” he recalled.
These difficult conditions did not break Jonie’s spirit. In high school, he helped his parents run a gas store and delivered orders by bicycle. Additionally, he and his siblings provided private tutoring for elementary school children to earn pocket money. At night, he worked as a writer for polkas, a popular lottery during Suharto’s regime.
After graduating from college, Jonie and his siblings started a cosmetic shop in Asemka. They realized that foreign products were highly sought after, even without BPOM certification. This motivated them to learn how to make soap themselves. Through hard work and with the help of their mother, who researched soap making methods, they successfully created the Papaya Soap formula in 1999.
“Papaya Soap is the first and best papaya soap in Indonesia. This product has been tested since 1998 and has now become a globally recognized local product,” Jonie said. The advantages of Papaya Soap lie in its affordable price and its benefits of brightening and softening the skin. This product has become the top choice for middle to lower-class consumers who seek the best quality at an affordable price.
For 25 years, PT SJA Global Cosmindo has continued to grow, not only producing body care products but also skincare. With the support of an experienced R&D team, the company has expanded its reach to international markets and now offers cross-country OEM services.
Jonie also founded PT Nutraceutical Biotech Indonesia, which focuses on powdered drinks for slimming, collagen, and meal replacement. This company further strengthens Jonie’s position as a successful entrepreneur in the cosmetics and nutraceutical industry.
“We hope consumers will be smarter in choosing products. Choose products that are of high quality and stand the test of time. Allow us to help you in the field of body care and personal care,” Jonie advised the public.
Jonie Yap’s inspiring story proves that hard work and perseverance can change one’s destiny. From living in hardship to becoming the leader of major companies, Jonie remains committed to providing the best for his consumers. Papaya Soap is tangible proof that local products can compete in the global market.
