Mega Semadhi is a professional surfer, he grew up in Uluwatu with surfing. All the support he needed, he got from his family, even though he quit school early, but he gave 100%. HE DID IT! We had an interview with Mega Semadhi about his past career and current life as a pro surfer.
Why did you start surfing?
I grew up in Uluwatu, 30 minutes from the beach. My uncle is a surfer and when I was 10 years old, one day my uncle asked me to go to the beach and surf with him. I went there and immediately fell in love…
Since then surfing is my life!
When school was out I went directly to the beach – to surf, on weekends I even slept at the beach – I just wanted to dive into the ocean and ride the waves. Every day. I just wanted to surf.
My uncle took me to a surf contest and I immediately realized that this is my thing. That’s what I wanted to do. One year later I even won a contest. I got my sponsors and the rest is history.
Are you still in the surf circus ?
Not really at the moment. 3 years ago I broke my knee. I had to think about how everything should go on.
I saved money and opened my own surf store and my Airbnb – “The Kubu Bingin”. I have become very picky, so I don’t have to take part in every surf competition anymore but if there are good waves – sure, always! For example, every year there is a big local contest in Padang Padang. I’m often on the road and travel to the best waves – it is more fun.
Did you earn money by surfing ?
Yes and I still do. Surfing is my main job. Rip Curl, Rusty, and Patagonia were my sponsors. But when I had my accident 3 years ago, things changed and I decided to make my own surf brand. DAYA, means power on Indo!
SThat is the name of Mega Semadhi’s own surf brand. At the moment it’s surf fashion for men, but who knows, maybe in the future for surfistas too.
DAYA SURF SHOP – Combining Balinese Hindu way of life and the love of ocean, Daya is a Balinese brand that believe in giving back to the local community. Every piece our clothing is design, made and produced in Bali. We believe in supporting small businesses so from printing to sewing we work with various small family factories in South Bali. Our store in Bingin features all brands that are made in or by Indonesian, we hope to showcase the brilliance of Indonesia through our work & store.
CHECK OUT HIS STORE IN ULUWATU – LINK HERE
How does surfing make you feel ?
In this game with the water, every wave and every spot is different, which makes it even more challenging. When I go into the water, I can feel the ocean and I am immediately connected to it – I am one with it. It is a natural high!
Where have you surfed ?
Australia, England, Hawaii, all over Asia, and around Indonesia. Indonesia is blessed with 17 0000 beautiful islands and great waves thanks to the Indian Ocean.
Do you have a nice house at Bingin Beach for rent?
Yes, my Kubu Bingin, a surf shack, directly at Bingin Beach. I grew up here. I first built this Kubu just for me. A retreat after traveling.
What are Mega Semadhi’s favorite surf spots in Bali ?
- Uluwatu,
- Bingin,
- and Padang Padang.
Not just because I grew up here. 8 months per year, there are world-class waves. I have it right at my doorstep and I don’t have to find a better spot.
What do you do to make yourself happy ?
I go surfing, surround myself with beautiful and positive things. I also make sure that I have a positive mindset and stay away from anything that could bring me down. I keep my life simple. Bali has a lot to offer. As a professional surfer I can say, we have great waves. Also volcanoes, and breath-taking nature. The combination of our culture and our humble ways makes Bali an unforgettable experience.
What other activities do you do besides surfing ?
Fishing and all kinds of sports. I love traveling to find waves and see other cultures, to interact with people and learn how their life is.
What is your heart’s message for the people in the world ?
We live in a strange but exciting time. Make yourselves strong and resilient. It’s better together. Stay healthy, go outside, live, and be happy. Show the younger generations that money cannot buy everything. That the family is important.
We must respect nature. Shift a gear back and enjoy the simple things in life together.
