Malaysia: CIE Corp target schools in a big way

Currently, 230 schools nationwide are using CIE Corporation's solutions which comprise hardware, software, content, applications and peopleware.

Chief executive officer Chin Nyaw Chook said the latest school to use CIE solutions was Chinese vernacular school SJKC Sepang. The school's electronic learning center (ELC) will be the delivery channel for these solutions. Some of the schools using CIE solutions are SK Bukit Damansara in Kuala Lumpur; SK Taman Alam Megah (Shah Alam) and SK Convent Infant Jesus II (Malacca).

The CIE system delivered through the ELC provides sound, video and animation, to complete a multimedia educational experience for students, he said.

Chin said the company also helps maintain the hardware and software applications besides training teachers to use the solutions effectively.

CIE Corp is projecting revenues of between RM6 million and RM8 million (US$1.58 million and US$2.11 million) from the sale of CIE solutions to various schools.

The company charges between RM4 and RM8 (US$1.05 and US$2.11) per user. Chin said there were about 180,000 users, adding fees vary according to different requirements.

CIE Corp is also setting its sights on Putrajaya where an estimated 40 technology-equipped schools are expected to be ready by 2005.

"We are finalizing discussions with about five "strategic systems integrators" to provide CIE applications to three to five schools in that area," he said.

The company hopes to make some headway in the educational markets around the region. Chin said CIE Corp has an office in Thailand and is looking at the Japanese and Taiwanese markets.