Worldwide Internet service launched

Worldwide Internet service launched

JAKARTA (JP): PT Signet Pratama, a subsidiary of the
privately-owned PT Sigma Cipta Caraka, yesterday launched their
new Internet service, claiming to be the first that offers
international roaming.

"Users registered in Indonesia, who are traveling to the
United States, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong
Kong, Switzerland and Britain will be able to reach Signet by
dialing local numbers, without paying high additional fees," said
Company Managing Director Sudjiwo Husodo yesterday.

He stated providers must offer something innovative in the
increasingly competitive competition of the rapidly expanding
Internet sector.

"I believe other Internet service providers may soon follow
Signet's step, in offering international roaming facilities," he
said.

At least 30 firms have won licenses to provide Internet
services in Indonesia, but less than 20 are currently in
operation.

Husodo said Signet, set up in 1995 as an information
technology company, would also offer its expertise in providing
inter-networking and multi-protocol solutions.

"Due to Signet's background as a solution provider, our target
market comprises only corporate customers," he said, adding the
company expected to net some 50 customers by 1997.

He said Signet offered a 512-kilobyte band width, with 200
telephone lines.

Signet's service, reachable at http://www.sig.net.id, is also
available in 14 areas across Indonesia, including Yogyakarta,
Semarang, Central Java, Palembang, South Sumatra, Manado, North
Sulawesi, Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan and Denpasar, Bali.

The company has set monthly subscription charges between US$40
and $1,200 for the Internet service. (icn)