Female Malaysian Women Success Stories


Female Magazine, August, 2003

Fione Tan,25
President & CEO, eOneNet.com S/B
Achievements World's Top Internet Marketing Coach, Shiseido/
The Star Clove Tribute to True Beauty Awards 20
Malaysia CEO Awards nominee (refer www.eOneNet.com for full list).

How did your interest in business and the Internet come about? 

My interest in the Internet started when I was studying in the USA. Even at that point, I realized the tremendous opportunity for doing business globally over the Internet. However, I did not know how to start since I didn't have any business experience, nor the technical knowledge to create and manage a website. After working for more than two years, I finally made the decision to pursue this Internet dream and quit my job (in an insurance firm).

EoneNet.com has now grown from a young Internet company in 2000, to an e-business and e-marketing solutions company targeted towards multinational corporations, small businesses as well as entrepreneurs.

What was your biggest influence in deciding this career?

The most important criteria for me was my passion for the Internet. I believed that the Internet was an industry that I would enjoy and yield many benefits-such as the flexibility of working anywhere, anytime, an opportunity allowing me to create automated businesses that can sell globally.

How would you assess the Internet industry in Malaysia?

The Internet is definitely growing and changing the way we live and do business. In Malaysia, the growth is quite healthy with the main Internet population being in major cities of Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. While more Malaysians are open towards the idea of doing business online, making online purchases, we're still lagging behind compared to the other Asia Pacific countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia.

You're in a predominantly male field of business. What prejudices did you face?

I was initially doubted because of my age and gender; they were also amazed to see how I could run an Internet business with just my degree in Management & Marketing. However, with determination and upgrading of knowledge, I was able to convince them that I would be able to bring the company to greater heights.

What made you pursue your dream even when faced with obstacles?

I knew  my goals well and it was worth all the time and effort achieving my goals regardless of the obstacles. As I'm very passionate about the Internet, the dream became apart of me, and I pour in all my energy towards pursuing this. Sometimes, when you look at an obstacles from a different viewpoint, it might even be a blessing in disguise.

What achievement are you most proud of?

My proudest achievement was when I was represented Malaysia in the Confederation of Asia - Pacific Chambers of Commerce & Industry (CACCI)- as the youngest representative and the only woman in the IT Committee among the other 22 member countries! It was truly satisfying when businessmen from all over Asia Pacific accepted my suggestions and presentation based on the effectiveness of my solutions, not my nationality, gender or age.

What would you give other aspiring women out there?

Allow yourself the chance to fulfill your dream! No matter how difficult it seems or how lost you might get in the process, seek advice. Take action, and live your passion!!.