Djohansyah "Johnny" Saleh, head of operations for GolinHarris in Indonesia.

Indonesia is one of the world's most intriguing environments, presenting challenges and opportunities like nowhere else on the planet. To address an audience of 240 million—Asia's third-largest population after China and India—and keep in mind an ultra-diverse culture composed of 365 ethnic and tribal groups, GolinHarris called in one of its veteran Southeast Asian hands, Djohansyah "Johnny" Saleh.

Initially based in Singapore, Saleh began handling one of GolinHarris' key clients in Jakarta in 2004, traveling regularly between Singapore and Indonesia. But as the client's business grew and more opportunities presented themselves, it became apparent that the firm needed a solid presence in that part of the world.

In late 2006, GolinHarris announced its intention to officially open an office in Jakarta, and Saleh was the logical choice to lead the effort. With three active retainer clients and numerous projects on the go, Saleh's team is constantly busy. Along with David Hutagalung (associate director), Kiki Rahardja (account manager) and Sari Soegondo (senior associate), the GolinHarris team in Jakarta has diverse expertise across public affairs, financial, government and healthcare.

Today, changes in the political climate have resulted in a market that is more interested in GolinHarris' expertise than ever before. Before 1997, only Indonesian-owned companies were allowed to undertake import/export activities, wholesaling or retailing. These days, foreign companies (with an approved license) are allowed to engage in wholesaling activities.

Saleh also explained the new prospects for GolinHarris in public affairs and the healthcare industry.

"We spend a fair bit of time on public affairs," explained Saleh. "Since freedom of the press was made official in 1998, Indonesia has become a more open society. In the past, PR just focused on marketing communication; now, PR also plays an important part in public advocacy and shaping public policy whereas in the past this was forbidden."  

Indonesia's vast population also presents opportunities to assist in government campaigns. "As healthcare continues to be a core focus for the Indonesian government, much of our business will revolve around developing public awareness campaigns," said Saleh.

He described how one healthcare company, Baxter International, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Indonesia to provide a framework for future discussions and negotiations related to collaborating and supplying pandemic vaccines. 

"There is enormous potential for us in this space," said Saleh.

Indonesia's tremendous potential, Saleh had found, requires an understanding of the country's cultural characteristics. With a relatively young population, one might assume that this would also mean high numbers of internet users. Saleh says this is not necessarily the case.

"Indonesia's telecommunications infrastructure is not like that of developed countries. If you have the internet set up at home, it is expensive and considered a luxury. Internet users only represent about eight percent of the population. Mobile phones on the other hand are the social media gadget of choice. They're accessible and affordable" said Saleh. 

When asked about some of the challenges of doing PR in Indonesia, Saleh quickly responded, "finding talent," as sourcing quality, senior staff has proven to be difficult. "The PR industry has grown rapidly in the past two years, and senior talent is not easily accessible. It's becoming competitive," explained Saleh. However, with Indonesia's proximity to further developed South East Asian markets like Singapore and Malaysia, more experienced staff, such as Saleh, might not be that far away.

Saleh has also seen promise in educating clients and prospective clients about the value of PR. He reports having noticed a shift in marketing budgets in recent years. "We're seeing advertising budgets being frozen and PR moving to the forefront," he said. "I expect that the PR industry will show tremendous growth in the next couple years. As many international and local companies start to see PR as more than just an event organizer, companies will utilize PR, not just to achieve their business objectives, but also to position their firm in the market."

Now, with GolinHarris operating in Indonesia—and talented individuals like Saleh at the helm—the stage is set to continue the new emphasis on PR in Southeast Asia.

Jacinta Reddan Appointed as Director for Hong Kong's Corporate Practice

Jacinta Reddan, Director, Corporate Affairs, Hong Kong.

Moving to strengthen its already formidable corporate affairs practice, the Hong Kong office recently tapped Jacinta Reddan as director, corporate affairs. Although she hails from Melbourne, Australia, Reddan has a pedigree with GolinHarris in Hong Kong, having previously worked with the firm's predecessor, Forrest International.

Reddan's background is as impressive as it is eclectic. A specialist in corporate communications, issues management and media relations across Asia-Pacific, she was most recently client relationship manager for Australia's leading aged care organization. She has also advised state premiers and senior ministers in previous government relations capacities.

Reddan brings considerable travel and tourism expertise to GH. Her award-winning efforts promoting Brand Australia led the country to be ranked as one of the most popular tourism destinations in key markets. She was also responsible for joint programs with major corporate sponsors in the lead-up to the Sydney 2000 Olympics and managed an ongoing media familiarization program, working with media and airlines across nine countries and helping attract millions of dollars in publicity.

In Hong Kong she has consulted some of the territory's largest corporations, including Cathay Pacific, East Asia Aetna, HKR International, the Jebsen Group, Playmates International, World International and the Wheelock Group. She worked with the Hong Kong Government on a major branding program in the lead-up to the opening of Hong Kong International Airport and major international clients including Business Week, Aetna International and Standard & Poor's.

Andrew Pirie, regional managing director, Asia Pacific, said, "GolinHarris is regarded as having one of the strongest corporate practices in Hong Kong, so we were obviously very selective in our search. Reddan possesses the perfect combination of experience and enthusiasm, and we are delighted to welcome her to the GH family."

Shanghai Recruits New Talent for Growing Client Base

Betty Chan, Senior Account Manager, Shanghai.	Jonathan Axup, Associate, Shanghai.

Two new hires in January reaffirmed GolinHarris' strategy of hiring the best talent to support a growing portfolio of clients in Greater China and deliver strong corporate communications results. 

Betty Chan, senior account manager, brings 10 years of in-house experience in communications with the Jardine Matheson Group. Her expertise includes brand management, internal communications, and community and media relations. 

Jonathan Axup, associate, previously served Dow Chemical at another agency. He now supports this client in Shanghai following their transition to GolinHarris. 

New hires were also made in response to current and future client needs at JCB and Wrigley, demonstrating the firm's long-term focus on its clients and the region.