Indonesian PHS Forum (IPF) was founded in November 1997 by eight “pioneer members,” including PT Industri Telekomunikasi Indonesia (INTI), PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia (TELKOM) and PT Indoprema Mikroselindo (PRIMASEL). Spearheaded by Chairman Soehartono, IPF has vigorously pursued its activities in the three Working Groups, namely Technology & Standardization WG, Business WG, and Education & Public Relations WG. Nine representatives from IPF participated in the PHS MoU Group General Assembly held in Tokyo on July 14 , 1999 and exchanged their views actively.

With the aim of deepening mutual understanding and coming to share common interests, PHS MoU Group sent “Indonesia Mission,” a group of six people led by Chairman Kashiwamura of PHS MoU Group’s Technical WG, to Indonesia from November 1 through 2. The Indonesia Mission delegates and 23 representatives from IPF held a joint meeting at Hilton International Hotel in Dempasar City.

Following a welcome address by Chairman Soehartono, IPF representatives thoroughly explained the current status and problems of Indonesia concerning issues of business, marketing, promotion plus technology, and of those involving the “next generation.” They then presented their requests regarding these issues. The Indonesia Mission, on the other hand, explained PHS MoU Group’s current overall activities.

In Indonesia, five companies have been granted a license for PHS service operation. However, these companies have some problems in setting detailed system specifications toward the introduction of PHS, as well as in making their own concrete business plans and securing funds for PHS service launch.

This meeting greatly helped both sides deepen mutual understanding. With the public PHS service launch in Thailand just a couple of weeks away, both sides affirmed their shared recognition that “Indonesia is the next crucial target for PHS service deployment.” The Indonesia Mission promised that PHS MoU Group will extend as much support and cooperation as possible to IPF, aiming to realize PHS service in Indonesia.