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)