Despite this, Asia Pacific and Japan as a region still grew more than the others in 2008, as it reported 23% software revenue growth (€594 million)(US$766.9 million) while software and software-related services grew at 24% (€1.192 billion).Refusing to disclose country-specific figures, Datta said the Philippines did well in 2008, despite the economic crisis.

With Singapore in recession and with Thailand's current unhealthy political situation, Datta said they are looking at, and will be happy with, a flat growth this year because 2008 was actually good. Datta is optimistic that their business in the Philippines and Indonesia would further grow this year, counting on more demand from local companies in the Philippines.

"This is a good time for SMEs and local companies to be more competitive," Datta said. Datta further said he sees a major boost coming from what they call the "business user" unit,part of which is their business intelligence offering out of SAP's acquisition of BI firm, Business Objects.

In 2008, SAP Philippines registered more than 200 customers, securing new and additional licenses from the likes of San Miguel Corporation, Ramcar Incorporated, Lufthansa Teknik, along with some SME customer wins, such as BioLink Pharmaceuticals, Julie's Bakekshop, Manila Ocean park, Mariwasa Sian, Metro Oil, RBX Rice in a Box, and Marca Piña, among others.