CREATING A FUTURE-PROOF TECHNOLOGICAL ERA
In an age where digital transformation is escalating faster than ever before, Synnex Metrodata asserts itself as the frontrunner in delivering advanced technologies relevant to society. Heng Lie, Technology Solution Group – Director, tells us more about becoming a world-class distributor with local knowledge
Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Kyle Livingstone
Like many kids fascinated by science fiction and electronics, I learned to assemble PCs during the i386 era when I started hacking games, such as Romance of the Three Kingdoms, using hexadecimal editors.”
This excitement and passion exemplified by Technology Solution Group - Director, Heng Lie, is one of the key characteristics that has built the foundation of Synnex Metrodata, the largest and most comprehensive ICT products and services distributor in Indonesia.
Having travelled across the world for his career, gaining experience from a variety of technology-centred positions, Lie’s enthusiasm for the
industry has only continued to grow.
“Given my extensive experience and passion for technology, I frequently write short articles on the Indonesian technology landscape and technology analysis and have participated in numerous events as a speaker, panellist, judge, mentor, moderator, and attendee, which have provided me with a holistic understanding of the industry,” he expands.
This dedication and enthusiasm directly aligns with Synnex Metrodata’s mission to bring worldclass operational excellence to technology distribution, leveraging its experience in the local market to forge the best and most proven
partnerships with stakeholders.
As a joint venture between Synnex Technology International Corporation and PT. Metrodata Electronics Tbk., the company boasts nearly a 50-year history of playing an essential role in enabling the country’s digital transformation.
“Since our inception, we have experienced accelerated growth across all aspects of the business, positioning us as the largest technology distributor in Indonesia,” prides Lie.
Today, Synnex Metrodata boasts a broad portfolio of over 100 vendors, with the most expansive geographical presence and coverage in the sector and a leading position in technology distribution.
“Innovation is a key driver and core value for us. We not only bring the best global technology to our market but also continuously innovate in our go-to-market framework with new business developments, services, and offerings. This commitment to innovation ensures we remain at the forefront of the industry,” asserts Lie.
A WORLD-CLASS DISTRIBUTOR
Synnex Metrodata’s proven credibility as an industry pioneer stands as a testament to its commitment to business excellence and sustainable practices, highlighting the company’s dedication to delivering exceptional
value and support to vendors, partners, and customers alike.
“To provide unparalleled support, we leverage our robust financial strength, ensuring stability and growth potential for all our stakeholders,” informs Lie.
“Our extensive national geographic coverage enables us to reach every corner of Indonesia, ensuring our services and solutions are accessible to a wide range of businesses and communities.”
The company’s reliable distribution system, coupled with its technology solution centre, ensures that it can
effectively manage and deliver cutting-edge products and services, while the advanced logistics infrastructure promises timely and accurate delivery, further enhancing service reliability.
Additionally, Synnex Metrodata’s professional team, equipped with deep industry knowledge and
“WE FOCUS ON EMPOWERING BUSINESSES TO INNOVATE AND THRIVE IN THE DIGITAL AGE, REINFORCING OUR POSITION AS THE LEADING TECHNOLOGY DISTRIBUTOR IN THE REGION”
– HENG LIE, TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION GROUP –
DIRECTOR, SYNNEX METRODATA
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expertise, is dedicated to supporting digital transformation initiatives across Indonesia.
“By combining financial strength, comprehensive coverage, reliable systems, and a skilled workforce, we ensure our business practices are not only sustainable but also poised to drive significant growth and transformation for our partners and customers,” affirms Lie.
As he considers the current state of the industry, Lie is excited about the immense potential and capabilities it possesses.
He is particularly thrilled about Indonesia’s digital transformation journey. With over 278 million people, rich natural resources and biodiversity, ongoing government
reforms, and a vision for a golden age of sovereignty by 2045, the country is on a path towards a bright future.
“We are ranked sixth globally for the number of start-ups, whilst we are developing a new capital city, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN). The burgeoning start-up ecosystem, combined with the government’s forward-thinking policies, is fostering an environment ripe for innovation and technological advancement,” prides Lie.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE’S REVOLUTIONARY IMPACT
The technology industry is noticeably undergoing a massive transformation. Countless experts and leaders have stated that artificial
intelligence (AI) will change the world more than any other technology in human history –surpassing even electricity.
Industries across the board will increasingly utilise AI as it integrates with all aspects of human life, either directly or indirectly, becoming ubiquitous.
“As the leading technology supplier in Indonesia, we fully embrace AI and continuously learn from various vendors about their innovations,” explains Lie.
The technology’s potential to revolutionise industries is undeniable, from enhancing cybersecurity to improving healthcare, optimising manufacturing, and advancing financial services.
APAC OUTLOOK: CAN YOU EXPAND UPON THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SYNNEX METRODATA’S VALUES OF INTEGRITY, PROFESSIONALISM, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP?
Heng Lie, Technology Solution Group - Director: “These values were instilled within the company by our founders, shaping the great organisation we are today. Our core value of integrity ensures that we uphold our business commitments and maintain the trust of our customers and team. This dedication to integrity has been proven over our 49-year history, earning us a solid reputation for credibility and reliability.
“Professionalism is another cornerstone of our values. We ensure our team possesses the right skills and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively and continuously improve through training and certification. We conduct 360-degree reviews of our team members and regularly engage in talent mapping and development to support their career advancement.
“Entrepreneurship is a unique value at Synnex Metrodata that drives us to think and act like entrepreneurs. This spirit encourages high drive, innovation, and dedication to everything we do for our business. It empowers us to seize opportunities, adapt to changes, and continuously seek ways to improve and grow.
“These values of integrity, professionalism, and entrepreneurship are the foundation of our success, guiding our actions and decisions as we strive to deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders and lead the industry.”
However, with these advancements come issues and concerns around complexities that require robust technological solutions.
“We are committed to addressing these challenges head-on by leveraging our expertise, resources, and partnerships. By fostering innovation and collaboration within the AI community, we aim to navigate these complexities and harness the technology’s full potential for the betterment of business and society at large,” dictates Lie.
Synnex Metrodata’s proactive approach to learning, implementing, and innovating with AI ensures it stays ahead of the curve, ready to tackle future challenges and maximise its opportunities.
Alongside the evolutionary power of AI, the company is working to assist technological innovation and progression in other ways by collaborating with vendors, associations, academic institutions, venture capitalists, and other stakeholders.
“By fostering these strategic partnerships, we aim to drive technological advancements and support the growth of the Indonesian economy,” highlights Lie.
SYNNEX METRODATA MILESTONES
1983 – The company is established as PT Sarana Hitech Systems.
1996 – The business opens branches in major cities across Indonesia.
2000 – The official name is changed to PT Metrodata e-Bisnis.
2011 – The company enters into a joint venture with Synnex Technology International Corporation.
2012 – The name is changed to Synnex Metrodata Indonesia.
2014 – The company serves more than 120 cities in Indonesia and distributes over 25 branches of ICT products.
2018 – Synnex Metrodata introduces the cloud and a business-to-business platform, having served more than 150 cities and introduced over 70 brands, including new categories such as IoT and surveillance.
2019 – The company launches its central logistics centre supported by modern systems and technologies.
2021 – Synnex Metrodata achieves a milestone revenue of USD$1 billion.
2024 – Synnex Metrodata Indonesia appoints Mrs. Surhang Aiwan as the President Director and Mr. Agus Honggo Widodo as the Commissioner and announces the second phase of the company’s central logistics centre expansion.
Additionally, the business actively supports numerous Indonesian start-ups by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and market insights to help them bring innovative ideas to fruition, ensuring they have the support needed to thrive and contribute to the broader technology ecosystem.
Synnex Metrodata’s commitment to innovation and collaboration ensures it not only contributes to technological advancements in Indonesia but also to overall economic development.
“The future looks incredibly promising for our nation, with AI and other emerging technologies poised to drive economic growth, enhance cybersecurity, improve healthcare, optimise manufacturing, and elevate quality of life. As we embrace these technological advancements, Indonesia is well positioned to become a global leader in the digital era,” insights Lie.
INSPIRING A DIGITAL FUTURE
Synnex Metrodata actively engages in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, reflecting the company’s commitment to giving back to its community.
“In 2023, we focused on various charitable activities, including financial support for several worthy causes. Additionally, we enhanced our independent internship programme by providing allowances that ensure young talents receive the support they need to grow and succeed,” prides Lie.
In 2022, the company donated technology equipment to numerous charities and schools, aiming to bridge the digital divide and empower educational institutions with the tools necessary for modern learning.
“Through these initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact on society, fostering a culture of care and responsibility that aligns with our corporate values.”
“AS INDONESIA EMBARKS ON ITS DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY, SYNNEX METRODATA IS DEDICATED TO LEADING THE WAY, DRIVING PROGRESS, AND CREATING A SUSTAINABLE, TECHNOLOGICALLY-ADVANCED FUTURE”
–
HENG LIE, TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION GROUP – DIRECTOR, SYNNEX METRODATA
Alongside Synnex Metrodata’s focus on giving back to the communities in which it operates, the company is continuing to look towards the future and how it can ensure success, longevity, and top-ofthe-line innovation.
Its key priorities for the upcoming year include enhancing capabilities across five solution pillars, market expansion, and driving collaboration initiatives.
Specifically, its five solution pillars centre around cloud solutions, cybersecurity, Internet of Things
(IoT), data analytics and AI, and sustainability.
“Regarding market expansion, we are highlighting global technology solutions by broadening our market reach. We are integrating and promoting leading global technologies to ensure our portfolio remains competitive and comprehensive,” expands Lie.
“Additionally, through national industry advancements, we are supporting the growth and market penetration of local technology solutions, fostering innovation and
economic development within the country.”
Finally, Synnex Metrodata is driving collaboration initiatives by fostering relationships across various sectors to enhance its collective capabilities and support digital transformation nationwide by leveraging its expertise to drive efficiency and development.
“By focusing on these priorities, we aim to solidify our position as a leader in the technology sector, deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders, and contribute significantly to the digital advancement of Indonesia,” concludes Lie.
Tel: (+62) 21 - 29345800
ContactUs@metrodata.co.id
https://www.synnexmetrodata.com/