Conversations with Rahmat Sarlis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rahmat Sarlis

Rahmat, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Growing up, you were just a regular kid who loved to have fun and enjoyed life like any other child. But life had some tough challenges in store for you early on. You lost your father when you were still in elementary school, a time when kids are supposed to feel safe and carefree. It was a heavy loss, but you kept pushing forward, holding onto the happiness that childhood brings.

As I entered my teenage years, life tested me again with the heartbreaking loss of my mother. This time, the pain was even more profound, as you were older and understood the weight of the loss. Despite these unimaginable hardships, you didn’t let them define you. Instead, you found strength within yourself, determined to survive and become someone your parents would be proud of.

Amid my struggles, I found solace and purpose in street basketball. It wasn’t just a game; it was an escape, a way to channel all your energy and emotions. I rose in the ranks through dedication and passion, becoming a pro athlete in the street basketball scene. My talent and hard work caught the attention of celebrities, leading to exciting collaborations on YouTube channels. It was a thrilling time, filled with opportunities I had once only dreamed of.

Now, I’ve channeled all those experiences—joys and pains—into something even more meaningful. As a physical education teacher, personal coach, and private coach, I travel across Indonesia, offering coaching clinics and inspiring young kids who, like I once did, dream of something bigger. I am not just teaching them basketball; I am showing them that they can overcome it and achieve greatness no matter what life throws at them. I have turned my story into a beacon of hope for others, and in doing so, you’ve found happiness and fulfillment in a way that honors the memory of your parents.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No struggle is real

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Being a physical education teacher at the elementary level is incredibly rewarding because it’s where you get to lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits. It’s fun because you’re working with young kids who are full of energy and curiosity, eager to try new things. You get to introduce them to the joy of movement, helping them develop essential motor skills while also fostering a love for physical activity.

The challenge lies in keeping lessons engaging and inclusive, catering to different abilities and interests. But that’s what makes it so fulfilling—seeing a child’s confidence grow as they master a new skill or watching them learn the importance of teamwork and perseverance. As a PE teacher, you’re not just teaching sports; you’re shaping their overall development, which makes the role both impactful and deeply satisfying.

I specialize in basketball handling development for pro athletes and anyone eager to enhance their skills. As a national pro athlete in streetball from 2007, I was honored to be selected as one of the top street basketball players in Jakarta, a distinction that marks me as a prominent figure in Indonesia’s basketball scene. Beyond basketball, I’m a black belt in Taekwondo, training youngsters and little kids, and a licensed swimming coach, teaching all levels from kids to adults. What sets me apart is my exceptional rapport with kids, especially pre-kindergarteners. I quickly adapt and make a great first impression as a fun and inspiring role model. My ability to connect and motivate young athletes makes me uniquely suited to help them achieve their best.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Risk-taking is an integral aspect of personal and professional growth. In my view, taking calculated risks is essential for achieving progress and innovation. One notable example of a significant risk I undertook was transitioning from being a national pro athlete in streetball to focusing on coaching and training across multiple sports. This shift involved stepping away from a successful athletic career to invest in building a new path as a coach, which required both financial and personal commitment.

Embracing this risk allowed me to leverage my expertise in basketball, Taekwondo, and swimming to make a broader impact by inspiring and developing young athletes. While risk-taking involves uncertainty, I believe that thorough planning and a clear vision can mitigate potential downsides and turn risks into valuable opportunities for growth.

Overall, my approach to risk is grounded in careful assessment and a readiness to embrace change. I see risk as a chance to challenge myself and achieve something greater, rather than a mere gamble.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rahmatsarlis.weebly.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxsarlis/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/max.sarlis.7
• Twitter: https://x.com/maxsarlis77?t=mwnH45srgS435ACEPahWAg&s=08
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mekscas
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE23rs3mYuTLRC6KhRHTpEg