Our associate and good friend John Lee made it through launching several intersting initiatives in Malaysia - the core place of business for his company - Epsilon. Here are some excerpts ot the interview he gave for malaysian-entrepreneur.com:
“What gave you the idea of going into this business?
John: I knew it was in demand because bridging the language gap is an age old thing. Plus when I read that this is a business that is thriving so well in the US and Europe, I took the plunge and decided to go full blast. Moreover, I was really good in the Malay language. I made good money just serving clients from two universities, so I ventured out and served nationwide before going international.
What challenges did you face while you were starting off?
John: While starting off, the purpose was to be known by others and also to get funds. I used up all my savings and also my pay when doing my internship. I partnered the media and that was how business got better.
What is the trend of the market in this industry, both in Malaysia and globally? What do you do to compete with other companies?
John: In Malaysia, its still very new and has lots of room for growth. From the local standpoint, most people never heard of it (including bank managers who queried me on my bank transfers to abroad - for paying translators). From an international standpoint, many of the top 20 language providers have offices worldwide including Singapore andn Thailand, but never Malaysia. Local vendors here in Malaysia (my competitors) are not many and are mostly focused on local markets. On the other hand, EpsilonTranslation is thinking of international markets for robust long term growth.
If competition rises, I’ll make sure I stay three steps ahead - get international coverage (which I already enjoy through various partnerships with businesses worldwide). Get ISO certified. And commit to R&D so I can always be in front and be the one who sets the tone for the market.
In today’s world, it is rather hard to start our own businesses without having substantial capital upfront. What advice do you have for today’s young and inspiring technopreneurs who have little capital?
John: My advice would be to start small but think big. Always pump back profits to grow and eventually, seek out small personal loans. Give it a try first. If the business is really doing well and keeps you going and happy, then take the full plunge by seeking venture capitalists or angel
investors.
We understand that Epsilon Translation is a typical Malaysian company that has enjoyed growth both locally and abroad. In your opinion, what type of advertising would be most suitable and cost effective to expand a homegrown business to a big business with international clientele?
John: Best advertising is the website itself ! Unlike traditional businesses that need a real marketplace, most businesses today can depend on the virtual marketspace - let the website do the talking and e-marketing Use Google Adwords…. And always partner not only the local media, but also the international media. And, team up with a big name to improve your visibility in the market.
What’s next for Epsilon Translation? Where is the company heading to?
John: For Epsilon, this year is geared towards positive growth in the international market. I’ll be off to Spain for an international translation conference this month end and then to Switzerland for a CEO Summit. It’s all about networking and to be known.
We are trying to capture more markets from Eastern Europe and will participate in trade missions.
My book published by Azizi Ali will hit the stores as early as end of June - entitled “Great by 24!” It’s my first foray into writing. The book should be able to open up a new clientele base for me as well.
Any personal dreams?
John: I am quite happy at the moment. Personal dreams this year was to get a PA and the book published. Both dreams have already been realised :)”
Congratulations, John! We are very glad to see your company growing up. It’s so nice to have proactive partrners like you! Best of luck with your upcoming book release! 
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