LIM FAHIMA JACHJA

Lim Fahima Jachja, 31, founder, director and online strategist, established Virus Communications three years ago.

Indonesia’s leading online business consultant, known for its online-behavior knowledge and technology. In just three years the company has won big business pitches and handled more than 10 blue chip clients, including Hewlett Packard, Toyota, Auto 2000, Telkom, XL, Smart Telco, Lippo Group, Tupperware, and Sosro.

Undeniably, Internet users in Indonesia have grown fast and there are currently more than 32 million users, the largest number in Southeast Asia. “In Indonesia, Internet users consist of many people with high purchasing power. Half of them earn more than Rp 3 million per month, while about 11 percent have an income that exceeds Rp 11 million per month,” said Iim.

ore than 200 people attended a seminar called “Making Your Online Advertising Work” held by Virtual Consulting recently in Jakarta. The attendees were brand owners or marketers of various famous brands as well as managers, directors and CEOs of leading advertising agencies.

“They clearly saw the huge potential of online marketing and advertising and this is very good. Using online communications is a smart move in today’s financial or budget situation where budgets are getting tighter, but strategic steps are still required. This means we should not `dive into the online ocean with an offline insight’, because each is a different world. One wrong step can mean throwing salt into the sea, so there will be no impact and it will be a pure waste of money.”

The finalist for the International Young Creative Entrepreneur Award 2008, held by the British Council, said changing careers at her tender age was not an easy decision. What was required were mental strength, a positive attitude, a good financial plan and most importantly, knowledge, experience and a good business plan. “Riding somebody else’s horse is a smart business principle,” said Iim, who has been working since the age of 21.