American Express launches gold concierge and travel service

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

American Express Bank Ltd. introduced on Thursday its first 24- hour services for its gold charge card holders in Jakarta.

American Express Bank country manager Sylvia-Marie Challita said that the new Amex products -- gold concierge and travel service -- were aimed at assisting card holders get privileges in making reservations for exclusive events, obtaining referrals for medical and legal services, and purchasing gifts in the Asia Pacific region, including Japan and Australia, as well as arranging holiday trips.

"The card members will get help from our professional team and will not be charged an additional service fee. They only need to pay the amount of the transaction," she said.

"We are aiming at setting the standard in the gold card segment in Indonesia and it is part of our strategy for the premium segment in the country," she added.

Apart from the two new products, Amex gold charge card holders are also offered a membership rewards program in which they get points whenever they use their cards for shopping.

To apply for an Amex gold charge card, an applicant should have a minimum income of Rp 150 million (US$16,165) per year and pay a US$120 annual membership fee.

Sjahrial Djalil, an Amex card holder since 1977 who also attended the launching ceremony, said he had never faced any trouble in using Amex services abroad.

Established in 1850, American Express is a leading company in the charge card and credit card fields with 1,700 offices in 130 countries. Currently, there are 55 million American Express cards issued around the world. (004)