Umar Patek, Former Bali Bombing Explosives Maker, Launches New Coffee Venture
Surabaya, Indonesia – June 10, 2025
Umar Patek, widely known as the mastermind behind the explosives used in the tragic 2002 Bali Bombings, has embarked on a fresh chapter in his life by launching his own coffee brand, Ramu Kopi. The brand’s official debut took place at Hedon Estate in Surabaya on June 3, 2025, marking Patek’s return to entrepreneurship after a long and difficult journey toward redemption.
From Infamy to Entrepreneurship
Patek, whose real name is Hisyam bin Alizein, was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in the deadly bombings. After spending over a decade behind bars, he was released on parole in December 2022. Since then, he has faced considerable challenges reintegrating into society, including struggling to find legitimate employment due to his notorious past.
“I used to be known for things that hurt the world. Now I concoct a peaceful brewing taste,” Patek told DetikNews in an exclusive interview. “The bitterness used to destroy; now this bitterness heals through coffee.”
The Story Behind Ramu Kopi
The name Ramu Kopi is a creative play on Patek’s own name—“Ramu” is his name spelled backward—symbolizing his desire to start anew. The coffee brand features four distinct blends: traditional Arabica, robusta, a signature blend crafted by Patek himself, and a unique spiced coffee inspired by a recipe handed down from his mother.
Patek’s foray into the coffee business was made possible through the support of Dr. David Andreasmito, a cafe owner and dentist who saw potential in Patek’s coffee-making skills following a visit to his home. “Dr. David came to my house, and I served him coffee. He liked it and suggested I consider selling it,” Patek recounted.
Though initially hesitant due to fears of public backlash, Patek accepted Dr. David’s guidance. He has since been training in roasting coffee beans and mastering professional coffee machinery at facilities in Bondowoso, East Java. His blends are now available at Hedon Estate and sold widely in Surabaya and Banyuwangi.
Dr. David emphasized that his involvement was motivated by compassion rather than profit. “If I don’t help Umar, there is a possibility he might return to his old ways,” he said. “This cooperation was born out of compassion.”
Community Reactions and Wider Response
The launch event was attended by local community leaders and Chusnul Chotimah, a survivor of the Bali Bombings who has publicly forgiven Patek and voiced her support for his rehabilitation efforts.
However, reactions outside Indonesia remain mixed. In Australia, home to 88 of the bombing victims, some officials and members of the public have expressed skepticism regarding the sincerity of Patek’s rehabilitation, particularly following his early release in 2022, after serving 11 years of a 20-year sentence.
Despite this, Patek remains committed to moving forward. “This is not just coffee; it’s about choosing a new path in life,” he stated, expressing hope that his new venture will not only provide for his livelihood but also contribute to healing the wounds of the past.
Looking Ahead
Ramu Kopi is more than just a new business; it represents a symbol of second chances and transformation. Umar Patek plans to donate a portion of his coffee business’s earnings to support survivors of the 2002 Bali Bombings, reinforcing his message of reconciliation.
As he brews a new life for himself, the journey of Umar Patek serves as a powerful reminder of the complex nature of justice, forgiveness, and societal reintegration.
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