NEW YORK, May 18, 1998  - American Express is providing additional emergency support services to assist customers who remain in Indonesia and those who have had to leave the country.

The American Express Travel Office in Jakarta has continued to provide services throughout the current difficulties. Extra security measures have, been put in place to ensure the maximum protection for both staff and customers.

The customer tele-servicing center has been continuing to operate on a 24-hour basis with backup support from the company's regional operating centers across Asia. Additional customer services facilities have been set up in a hotel in Jakarta to assist Cardmembers, travelers and other customers with all inquiries relating to traveler's cheques, travel and hotel accommodation arrangements and other Cardmember services.

American Express has also chartered a number of aircraft for the timely evacuation of Cardmembers, travelers and some non-Indonesian employees.

Marek H. Luba, Vice President, Head of Travel Services for Asia Pacific said: "Over the past few days we have moved fast to step up our emergency service support to provide our customers with the best possible service in such difficult circumstances.

"We have been able to maintain service to customers in Indonesia by mobilizing additional resources in Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and around the region. There is a lot of continuing emergency support that needs to be provided, including new accommodation and on-going travel arrangements.

"We will continue to do everything possible to honor our service commitment to customers whilst ensuring the safety and welfare of our people in Indonesia."

American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the American Express Company -- a diversified worldwide travel and financial services company founded in 1850. It provides card, Travelers Cheque, travel and financial services in over 160 countries.