As a result of this partnership, XES will be able to issue certificate-based authentication to its customers for use in high-value e-commerce transactions, based on Netrust’ Public Key Infrastructure platform.

In this relationship with Netrust, XES will assume the role of an Organisational Registration Authority (ORA) where it undertakes face-to-face verification with the customer before the latter is able to receive a digital certificate issued by Netrust. When the customer makes use of this digital certificate and digitally signs the electronic business document before transmission to a business partner, the other transacting party can be assured that the online transaction is as secure as one where both parties are physically present.

Through this initiative, XES’ customers which include corporations, global enterprises and e-Marketplace operators can significantly reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions while encrypting sensitive business documents so that they are securely transmitted over the Internet.

Brandon Teo, the CEO, and founder of XES said, "With necessary development tools and technical assistance from Netrust, we are determined that our customers will be ensured of complete security. This alliance further strengthens XES' commitment to focus closely on network security, which in turn addresses Singapore's increasing needs for protection in the field of electronic commerce and communications via computer networks."

He added, "We are excited about this alliance between our companies and believe both our commitment to e-business, and our comprehensive capabilities, and competencies will result in a tremendously successful on-line services.”

"B2B security is an ever increasing concern as B2B commerce usually involves transactions of greater value than B2C transactions. Netrust's range of security products coupled with its established technical expertise will certainly provide B2B players like XES and their customers with the right security tools to confidently identify themselves online and conduct trusted e-commerce with one another." Said Mr Foo Jong Ai, CEO of Netrust.

This strategic tie-up with Netrust is yet another move by XES to deliver seamless global services to its customer.

XES, a recent home-grown start-up has emerged as one of the leading ASPs in the B2B marketplace. Offering solutions across industries, XES has attracted major players as partners and clients in the automotive industry, information technology, industry, manufacturing industry, electronics industry, and the entertainment industry.

XES also offers a broad range of supply chain and procurement services, and other integrated solutions for e-commerce. This includes among others, electronic catalogue management and intelligent e-procurement systems.

For media inquiries, contact Simon Tan, eXtended Enterprise Systems at (65) 6843 4237 or simon@extendedsys.com

About XES

eXtended Enterprise System Pte Ltd (XES) is a leading provider of XML-based solutions for crucial business-to-business transactions.

XES recognizes the necessity to enhance business efficiency and reduce operating costs through automation. As a result, it has developed a range of XML-based software that aims to help businesses simplify the processes of electronic catalogue creation, request for quotations, submission of purchase orders, procurement, and B2B integration.

These solutions, applicable across industries, have the potential to help convert cost centres to service centres, promoting a positive step towards improving the business's bottom-line.

About Netrust

Netrust is the pioneer and leading Certification Authority in Singapore for government organisations, business enterprises and individuals to conduct trusted and secure electronic commerce and communications over the Internet, Intranets and Extranets.

Netrust is authorised to issue public key certificates (similar to a passport concept) used to identify users over the Internet. In the passport analogy, Netrust acts like a Passport Office, which verifies the user's identification, creates a trusted document, which certifies the users and then issues this document to the user.

Besides verifying the identities of the parties involved and protecting their interests, Netrust certificates (through the use of digital signatures) maintain the integrity of users' messages while ensuring transacting parties will not be able to repudiate their actions.

Netrust Public Key Infrastructure provides the security assurance to enable e-commerce sessions in a trusted environment without the risk of fraudulent identities among the transacting parties.

Netrust is a joint venture between Keppel Telecommunications & Transportation Ltd and Network for Electronic Transfer (Singapore) Pte Ltd (NETS).