Singapore announces first research institute dedicated to green finance research and talent development (2024)

• Alita Sharon
• March 12, 2024

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) urges the public to safeguard their SingPass credentials. Scammers have been posting fraudulent job offers online, requesting SingPass details under the guise of job screening. Since January 1, 2024, at least 47 individuals have fallen victim to such schemes, often encountering these offers on platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp.

Victims are instructed to change their SingPass email and phone number, provide their password, and share NRIC screenshots. Scammers then exploit this information to register multiple bank accounts or obtain profile data for illicit purposes.

Despite a nearly 50% rise in scam cases to 50,376 in 2023 from 33,669 in 2022, proactive cybersecurity measures by the Singapore Police Force against scams and cybercrime are yielding positive results and there is good news financially. Despite more cases, the total amount lost decreased slightly by 1.3% to $651.8 million in 2023 from $660.7 million in 2022, marking the first decline in five years and indicating progress in scam prevention efforts.

Additionally, the average amount lost per scam case dropped significantly, from $20,824 in 2022 to $13,999 in 2023, a decrease of about 32.8%. Notably, 55.6% of scam cases reported losses less than or equal to $2,000, suggesting improved resilience against scams among the populace.

This positive trajectory can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of various agencies and stakeholders, including the Singapore Police Force (SPF), the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), Smart Nation Group (SNG), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and private sector partners. Their coordinated actions aimed at preventing scams and raising public awareness have contributed significantly to mitigating losses and empowering individuals to protect themselves.

While challenges persist, particularly in scams involving social engineering and deception via social media platforms, individual vigilance remains crucial. By staying informed, exercising caution, and leveraging the resources provided by government agencies and stakeholders, individuals can fortify their defences against evolving cyber threats.

The breakdown of scam types reveals a concerning trend, with job scams, e-commerce scams, fake friend call scams, phishing scams, and investment scams dominating the landscape. However, heightened awareness and concerted efforts are driving progress in scam prevention, offering hope for a safer digital environment for all.

Singapore Police Force has significantly escalated its efforts to counter the rising threat of scams and cybercrime, employing a multifaceted approach encompassing enforcement, engagement, and education. SPF’s strategy relies on strong public-private partnerships, particularly through the Anti-Scam Command (ASCom), collaborating with over 100 institutions like banks, fintech companies, and e-commerce platforms. This facilitates swift freezing of accounts and fund recovery, reducing victim losses. Additionally, SPF conducts targeted enforcement operations against scam tactics, resulting in the termination of thousands of phone lines and the apprehension of fraudsters.

SPF collaborates with foreign law enforcement agencies to dismantle transnational scam syndicates, leading to successful joint operations and arrests of perpetrators. Participation in internationally coordinated operations like INTERPOL’s Operation First Light and Operation HAECHI showcases SPF’s global commitment to combating scams.

Alongside enforcement, SPF proactively prevents scams through initiatives like Project A.S.T.R.O., which sends SMS alerts to potential victims, helping them recognise and avoid scams. Outreach programs target various groups, like migrant workers and the elderly, raising awareness and empowering communities to report scams.

Education is vital in SPF’s anti-scam efforts. The Scam Public Education Office (SPEO) leads public awareness campaigns and shares anti-scam resources. Platforms like the ScamShield app and the Add, Check, Tell framework empower individuals to protect themselves against scams. Additionally, collaborative efforts with content creators and organisations enhance anti-scam messaging, fostering a collective response against scams.

SPF’s holistic strategy underscores its commitment to protecting the community from scams and cybercrime. Through collaborative cybersecurity initiatives, there’s been a decrease in financial losses despite an increase in scams, demonstrating improved resilience and public safety through multifaceted approaches in compliance, caution and awareness.

• Samaya Dharmaraj
• March 12, 2024

In a groundbreaking move toward advancing research and development in extra-terrestrial manufacturing, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has forged a collaboration with an Indian space start-up.

This collaboration signals a significant stride in orbital ‘Microgravity Research’, with the start-up slated to receive a Technology Development Fund from IIT Madras to showcase its miniature space laboratory, named the ‘AsteriX Lab’, in orbit.

As the pilot customer for the start-up’s in-orbit demonstration mission, the IIT Madras research centre, known as ‘Extra-Terrestrial Manufacturing’ (ExTeM-IITM), is poised to play a pivotal role. The AsteriX Lab, set to undergo space qualification during its demonstration, will focus on conducting biological experiments, particularly long-duration cell culture under Lower Earth Microgravity. The space demonstration is anticipated to occur by 2025.

Professor Sathyan Subbiah, Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras and Coordinator of ExTeM-IIT Madras, underscored the project’s significance, stating, “This demonstration lays the groundwork for biomanufacturing in space, potentially revolutionising cell culture and drug development processes, leading to enhanced pharmaceuticals and improved human health outcomes.”

ExTeM-IITM, a consortium of researchers at IIT Madras, is dedicated to developing technologies for space manufacturing, both for space applications and for terrestrial use.

Professor G.K. Suraishkumar, Department of Biotechnology at IIT Madras and Co-Principal Investigator of Phase 02 of ExTeM, emphasised the satisfaction of contributing to the capability demonstration of biological experiments in space. He noted the potential for superior product development in space for use on Earth or during space flights, citing advancements in understanding microgravity’s effects on biological systems and innovations in drug development processes.

The Founder and CEO of the start-up highlighted the strategic alignment of expertise and resources in the partnership, expressing confidence that the joint effort would drive scientific advancements and open avenues for future endeavours in In-Space Manufacturing.

The IoE Research Centre on Extra Terrestrial Manufacturing (ExTeM) at IIT Madras fills a crucial gap in space-related manufacturing research. While current technologies focus on manufacturing launch vehicles and satellites, future requirements demand technologies for producing products and assemblies in space for both space and terrestrial applications.

The collaboration embodies innovation and vision, poised to unlock the full potential of space technology and propel humanity into a new era of exploration and discovery.

IIT Madras has long been at the forefront of fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives. With a focus on commercialising cutting-edge research and facilitating the growth of start-ups, the institution is dedicated to translating academic excellence into real-world impact.

Through incubators, accelerators and technology transfer offices, IIT Madras provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary resources, mentorship, and infrastructure to transform innovative ideas into viable commercial ventures. By nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, IIT Madras aims to drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and contribute to societal development.

OpenGov Asia covered IIT Madras’ move to bolster India’s startup ecosystem through its ‘Investor Information and Analytics Platform’. This innovative platform, crafted by researchers at the Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST), serves as a comprehensive resource hub for startups, providing seamless access to networks of Venture Capitalists (VCs), investors, government schemes, and various other facets of the startup landscape.

Minister Chandrasekhar praised the platform’s role in illuminating the diverse startup innovation ecosystem and highlighted its value for researchers and policymakers alike. With features like “StartupGPT,” an AI-driven conversational interface, the platform aims to streamline information access for users, enhancing engagement and fostering growth in emerging sectors like semiconductors, microelectronics, AI, and HPC.

• Azizah Saffa
• March 12, 2024

Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) successfully conducted a trial application of the first-generation prototype of the ITS Al-Air Battery on a motorbike at the ITS Research Centre Building. This achievement, supported by Pertamina and the ITS Kedaireka Matching Fund, marks a pivotal step towards accelerating the use of Battery-Based Electric Vehicles (KLBB) in Indonesia.

Prof Dr Ir Heru Setyawan MEng, the head of the research team, described the metal-air battery in his research as a metal fuel engine that utilises aluminium.

This technology promises to expedite Indonesia’s energy and technological independence. One of the key advantages of these metal-air batteries is their ability to prevent dendrites or lithium metal crystallisation, a common issue in batteries that can lead to critical problems. The collaboration between Prof Heru and undergraduate (S1), master (S2), and doctoral (S3) students from the ITS Chemical Engineering Department underscores the interdisciplinary nature of this research effort.

The research team’s innovative approach involved the electrodeposition of a Zn and Mn metal alloy to address dendrite formation. The specially designed air battery features a slim and three-dimensional surface, enabling the uniform extraction of aluminium ions and resulting in a longer battery life, lasting up to 140 hours. Additionally, the battery is environmentally friendly, using an aqueous electrolyte with the addition of Sodium Chloride (NaCl) salt, a common household item that poses no harm to humans. Furthermore, concerns such as leakage and thermal runaway are mitigated, making the battery a safe and sustainable choice.

Despite the substantial electrical current requirements for motorbikes, Indonesia’s abundant aluminium resources have motivated the ITS research team to adopt this battery for KLBB. Moreover, aluminium batteries are more cost-effective than lithium-ion batteries, making them a viable option for widespread adoption.

The development of the ITS Al-Air Battery has been ongoing since 2013. However, the battery still requires further development to become a viable option for KLBB. Currently, the battery is primary, meaning it can only be disposed of after use. Plans include developing a secondary battery, making it rechargeable, and reducing its size for easier integration into vehicles.

Bambang Pramujati, ST MScEng PhD, ITS Vice Rector IV for Research, Innovation, Cooperation, and Alumni, expressed his appreciation for the support from Pertamina and Kedaireka, highlighting the importance of industry collaboration in advancing KLBB development. He emphasised the potential of the ITS Al-Air Battery to contribute to Indonesia’s energy independence and expressed hope for further advancements in this field.

In conclusion, the ITS Al-Air Battery represents a significant leap forward in battery technology, with the potential to revolutionise the use of Battery-Based Electric Vehicles in Indonesia. With ongoing research and industry collaboration, ITS aims to further refine this technology, paving the way for a more sustainable and energy-independent future.

This innovative breakthrough in battery technology underscores the importance of research and development in advancing Indonesia’s digital economy. As the country strives to achieve energy independence and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, initiatives like the ITS Al-Air Battery play a crucial role in driving technological innovation and sustainable development.

The successful trial of the ITS Al-Air Battery on a motorcycle demonstrates the feasibility and potential of this technology for powering electric vehicles. The ability to prevent dendrite formation and ensure a longer battery life addresses key challenges in battery technology, making it a promising solution for Indonesia’s transportation sector.

Furthermore, the environmentally friendly nature of the battery, using an aqueous electrolyte and common household salt, highlights its potential for widespread adoption without posing harm to humans or the environment. This aspect aligns with global efforts to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

The collaboration between Prof Heru and students from the ITS Chemical Engineering Department also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research in tackling complex challenges. By combining expertise from various fields, the research team was able to develop a novel solution that could have far-reaching impacts on Indonesia’s energy landscape.

Looking ahead, the development of a secondary battery that is rechargeable and smaller in size will further enhance the usability and practicality of the ITS Al-Air Battery for electric vehicles. This, coupled with the ongoing support from industry partners like Pertamina and Kedaireka, bodes well for the future commercialisation and implementation of this technology.

In conclusion, the trial application of the ITS Al-Air Battery represents a significant milestone in Indonesia’s quest for energy independence and technological advancement. With continued research and collaboration, innovations like this battery have the potential to reshape the country’s energy landscape and contribute to a more sustainable future.

• Alita Sharon
• March 12, 2024

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) applauds the successful conclusion of the 2024 National People’s Congress (NPC) and its forward-looking developmental plans, aligning with the HKSAR Government’s policy agenda. With a focus on technological innovation and green initiatives, the council aims to drive sustainable growth and enhance competitiveness in the region.

Embracing the national strategy of modernising the industrial system and advancing new-quality productivity, HKPC is poised to bolster Hong Kong’s journey towards becoming a global innovation and technology hub.

Founded in 1967, HKPC stands as a statutory body aimed at spearheading productivity advancements through cutting-edge technology and pioneering services. Championing the realms of Industry 4.0 and Enterprise 4.0, HKPC is steadfast in propelling Hong Kong’s new industrial revolution and positioning it as a global innovation centre and smart metropolis.

Chairman of HKPC, Mr Joshua Chan, underscores the significance of new quality productivity in propelling national and regional development, emphasising Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a central city within the Greater Bay Area.

Mr Chan revealed that “new quality productivity” has emerged as a pivotal concept during the two sessions, driving rapid development in the country, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and the HKSAR.

He underscored how the national strategy provides Hong Kong with continuous momentum for growth, urging the city to leverage its unique position. Hong Kong must fulfil its role as the central city of the Greater Bay Area, serving as a core engine for regional development, and becoming a crucial gateway for the country’s advancement in new quality productivity tailored to local circ*mstances.

Leveraging its unique position and strengths under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle, Hong Kong is poised to spearhead the development of new industrialisation, reducing dependency on external supply chains and fostering homegrown innovation. With a focus on emerging sectors like artificial intelligence and big data, HKPC aims to support mainland enterprises in their global expansion endeavours.

The essence of new quality productivity lies in innovation, high quality, and sustainability. Combining new technologies and processes, HKPC envisions a future where smart micro-factories play a central role in Hong Kong’s industrial landscape. These micro-factories, powered by advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT), enable highly flexible and efficient production methods while optimising space utilisation.

As the council continues to champion technological innovation and industrial development, it aims to position Hong Kong as a global leader in new quality productivity and new industrialisation.

Secretary for Productivity underscores the government’s commitment to driving technological innovation and enhancing productivity through new quality productivity initiatives. With a focus on intelligent production, the government has facilitated over 1,200 industrial intelligence projects in the Greater Bay Area, spanning various industries from advanced materials to traditional sectors like food.

Based on past experiences and technological advancements, HKPC is dedicated to supporting local industries in adopting smart production practices and fortifying their cybersecurity defences.

Looking ahead, HKPC is poised to deepen collaboration with government, industry, academia, and research institutes to foster innovation and talent development. By leveraging its networks and resources, the council aims to attract top-notch scientific research talent and facilitate technology exchanges to capitalise on emerging opportunities.

OpenGov Asia reported that the 2024-25 Budget was well received with its focus on advancing Hong Kong’s innovation and technology sector and support for I&T ventures, talent, and economic diversity. Agencies focussed on deploying tech to advance Hong Kong all align with government policies, fortify the ecosystem, cultivate talent, and enhance the city’s I&T competitiveness.

Through initiatives like technology study tours and talent exchanges, HKPC seeks to position Hong Kong as a leading platform for new quality productivity and industrialisation, driving forward the nation’s development agenda in the digital age.

• Samaya Dharmaraj
• March 12, 2024

The evolution of digital technology has revolutionised information and communications infrastructure, with the postal network increasingly intertwined with e-commerce and logistics. Consequently, the postal market witnessed remarkable value escalation, skyrocketing from 28.3 trillion VND (1.15 billion USD) in 2019 to nearly 59 trillion VND in 2023. The parcel delivery volume also surged from 715 million to 2.5 billion parcels, with e-commerce parcels alone constituting approximately 75% of the total in 2023.

By the end of 2020, the expansive postal network boasted 21,600 points nationwide, yet it lacked optimisation for modern business needs. Postal services and delivery companies have traditionally developed separate networks, neglecting integration with the public postal system and each other. Meanwhile, logistics networks have primarily focused on cost minimisation through outsourced transport partnerships, lacking cohesive integration strategies.

Recognising these inefficiencies, the postal network is undergoing a transformative redesign to address existing challenges and leverage its potential as a cornerstone of the digital economy. With a focus on enhancing stability and facilitating the uninterrupted flow of goods, the reimagined postal infrastructure aims to cater to the evolving needs of e-commerce and logistics sectors, emerging as a vital component of modern infrastructure.

At the heart of this transformation lies the principle of bridging the physical and digital realms through robust information and communications infrastructure planning. The redesigned postal network is poised to ensure seamless supply chain operations under all circ*mstances, facilitating efficient and reliable delivery services.

Vietnam Post, a key player in this evolution, highlighted the significance of information and communications infrastructure planning in preparing the postal sector for future trends and technological advancements.

Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, Phan Tam, emphasised the importance of major postal service companies pooling resources to develop comprehensive postal infrastructure coverage tailored to e-commerce requirements. This modernised network will leverage cutting-edge technology and foster seamless connectivity, with an emphasis on infrastructure sharing to drive down logistics costs.

Planned upgrades aim to increase postal network capacity to handle 93,000 tons daily and achieve five-day delivery for inter-provincial and international shipments, signalling a concerted effort to modernise postal systems and enhance logistics efficiency in an increasingly digital landscape.

The exponential growth of the postal service industry, with an average revenue surge exceeding 20% from 2019 to 2023, has intensified market competition, sparking concerns about unhealthy market practices. This surge was further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which propelled online shopping to new heights, solidifying it as an integral part of consumer behaviour.

In response to the burgeoning e-commerce landscape, many platforms began integrating postal services into their ecosystems, leading to the rapid expansion of affiliated postal enterprises. These enterprises swiftly ascended to the top ranks of the market, leveraging their synergistic relationship with e-commerce platforms to capture significant market share within a remarkably short timeframe.

The rapid competition surge raises concerns about e-commerce giants and cross-border delivery firms’ influence, potentially distorting the market. While short-term price wars may bring quick gains, they could harm market integrity and all players in the long run.

La Hoang Trung, Director of the Department of Posts, urges amendments to postal laws to enforce stricter regulations on licensing and the conduct of dominant market players, emphasising the need for a robust legal framework to govern competition, including penalties for pricing, promotions, and market dominance violations.

Moreover, safeguarding postal service user data is crucial, necessitating strict regulatory oversight. The ministry vows to enhance supervision and disclose the performance rankings of the top 20 postal enterprises, while taking firm action against repeat violators, including license revocation, to uphold regulatory integrity.

• Azizah Saffa
• March 12, 2024

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and its collaborators have made significant strides in timing technology by developing compact chips that convert light into microwaves. This advancement could have far-reaching implications for various technologies that rely on precise timing and communication, such as GPS, phone and internet connections, radar systems, etc.

One of the key benefits of this technology is the reduction of timing jitter, which refers to small, random changes in the timing of microwave signals. These fluctuations can impact the performance of various systems, much like a musician trying to maintain a steady beat in music. The researchers have reduced timing jitter to a tiny fraction of a second—15 femtoseconds, to be exact—making the signals much more stable and precise. This improvement could lead to increased radar sensitivity, enhanced accuracy of analog-to-digital converters, and more explicit astronomical images captured by telescope arrays.

The team’s work highlights the compact design of the components that produce these signals. Previously, such systems were tabletop-sized, but researchers have managed to shrink them to a chip roughly the size of a digital camera memory card. This size reduction reduces power consumption and makes the technology more accessible for everyday devices.

While several components of this technology are currently located outside the chip for testing purposes, the ultimate goal is to integrate all parts—such as lasers, modulators, detectors, and optical amplifiers—onto a single chip. This integration would further reduce the size and power consumption of the system, making it easier to incorporate into small devices without requiring excessive energy or specialised training.

Frank Quinlan, a physical scientist at NIST, emphasised the significance of this research in making microwave signals more accessible. He noted that the current technology requires several labs and many PhDs to produce microwave signals, highlighting the complexity and specialised knowledge required. By shrinking the size of components and making them more accessible, researchers aim to leverage the advantages of optical signals in a more practical and user-friendly way.

The technology relies on a semiconductor laser, which is a stable light source. The light from the laser is directed into a reference cavity, where it bounces around to match specific light frequencies with the cavity’s size. This process helps stabilise the laser’s frequency. The stable light is then converted into microwaves using a frequency comb, which changes high-frequency light into lower-pitched microwave signals. These precise microwaves are essential for navigation systems, communication networks, and radar systems, as they provide accurate timing and synchronisation.

In navigation systems like GPS, accurate timing is crucial for determining location. Similarly, precise timing and synchronisation ensure that data is transmitted and received correctly in communication networks. For instance, in busy cell networks, accurate signal synchronisation allows for the simultaneous transmission of multiple phone calls without significant delays or drops.

In radar systems, precise timing is essential for accurately measuring the time signals bounce back, which is used to detect objects like aeroplanes and weather patterns. The technology also has applications in astronomy, where low-noise signals and clock synchronisation are critical for imaging distant astronomical objects like black holes.

The development of this technology is a collaborative effort involving researchers from various institutions, including the University of Colorado Boulder, the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the California Institute of Technology, the University of California Santa Barbara, the University of Virginia, and Yale University. This interdisciplinary collaboration underscores the importance of teamwork in driving technological progress and revolutionising how we use light and microwaves for practical applications.

This advancement in timing technology has the potential to impact various industries and technologies significantly, making communication systems more reliable, radar systems more accurate, and astronomical observations more precise. As researchers continue to refine this technology and integrate it into everyday devices, its benefits will likely become even more apparent, ushering in a new era of precision and efficiency in the digital age.

• Azizah Saffa
• March 11, 2024

The SolarWinds Transform Partner Program at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nusa Dua Bali on 4-6 March 2024 emerged as a crucial forum for it’s business partners and the whole APJ team to explore the dynamic digital landscape, particularly amidst ongoing global disruptions. The event attracted senior executives from the SolarWinds global team to complement the APJ’s team.

The event provided an opportunity for OpenGov Asia to share invaluable insights on “Digital Terraforming: Reshaping APJ’s Landscape in the Digital Age”.

Mohit Sagar, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of OpenGov Asia delivered a keynote address that set the tone for the event. Recognising the transformative potential of technology, particularly in reshaping the economic terrain of APJ, he elaborated on crucial concepts such as digital terraforming socio-cultural transformation, environmental resilience in the digital age and navigating ethical and regulatory frontiers.

In recent years, the transformative power of technology has transcended geographical boundaries, democratising access to information, resources, and opportunities on a global scale. This digital revolution has become a stimulus for innovation and growth, empowering nations to leverage their talents and resources in unprecedented ways.

As a result, more nations are increasingly better positioned to thrive in the digital era, with technology playing a pivotal role in reshaping the global landscape and levelling the playing field for all.

Mohit acknowledged the disruptive impact of COVID-19, emphasising how it accelerated the adoption of digital technologies across industries. The pandemic served as a catalyst, compelling businesses to swiftly embrace digital solutions to adapt to changing circ*mstances and navigate unprecedented challenges, thereby restructuring traditional business models and practices.

“COVID-19 accelerated digital transformation across sectors and industries. Citizen services, healthcare, remote work tools, e-commerce platforms and video conferencing witnessed significant adoption and transformed life and work,” Mohit acknowledges. “Companies that embraced digital technologies were able to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic more effectively, showcasing the power and potential of the technology.”

The APJ region, like other parts of the world, boasts numerous positive factors, ranging from burgeoning internet penetration and widespread mobile adoption to the emergence of tech hubs and government initiatives driving AI and automation. Of course, alongside these prospects come pressing concerns such as data privacy and security, influenced by the shift to cloud computing, remote work and rapid urbanisation.

In the face of these challenges, the evolution of technology emerges as a pivotal factor, driving tech innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and facilitating skill upgrades that collectively shape the digital landscape.

Be that as it may, the world continues to grapple with volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. Escalating geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions emanating from ongoing conflicts mean there are unprecedented challenges compounded by political confusion and an ever-shifting global landscape.

In fact, Mohit is strongly convinced that 2024 and the following years are poised for the Asia-Pacific-Japan region to lead the charge in the upcoming economic resurgence. While other parts of the globe may be struggling, the region is not.

“America may sneeze and Europe have a cold, but the Asia-Pacific-Japan region remains robust. Despite the S&P500 hitting record highs, its ascent has been largely driven by the prowess of seven tech giants – Meta, Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple Tesla, and Nvidia. Now is the time for APJ to shine, and we must be prepared to seize the opportunity.”

However, there was a hint of concern in his tone. While high connectivity and growth hold immense promise, they may also carry a price tag, and it’s imperative for the world to remain vigilant and mindful of this reality.

“Beyond a doubt, the next cyber phase of the Russia-Ukraine war will echo in Asia[i],” he says, “The impact will be profound, but only 49% of organisations globally have a business continuity plan[ii].”

The growth in the region can be credited to most businesses being focused on customer needs. Personalisation, using a vast amount of digital tools at speed, has seen growth in the region. But who is monitoring all these tools? Have businesses bolted too many without having visibility across their entire network?

In this milieu, technologies such as AI, robotics, blockchain, and IoT devices are playing pivotal roles in reshaping industries, enhancing efficiency, and adapting to new challenges, illustrating the profound impact of technology on our response to global crises.

AI continues to revolutionise enterprises with applications like chatbots, disrupting traditional workplace dynamics and significantly enhancing customer service. Moreover, in healthcare, AI-powered disease prediction systems are transforming early diagnosis and treatment strategies, significantly impacting patient outcomes and public health.

Additionally, AI’s integration with the Internet of Things (IoT) is turning homes and cities into smart hubs, offering residents improved efficiency and convenience. This interconnectedness enables seamless communication and data sharing among devices, fostering a connected ecosystem for enhanced living experiences.

Similarly, in the finance industry, Mohit observes, the pivotal role of blockchain technology is revolutionising finance and supply chain management, “Blockchain’s decentralised and secure nature is streamlining transactions, reducing fraud, and improving transparency in these sectors.”

While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI and blockchain, Mohit also highlights the sustainability and regulatory challenges intertwined with these innovations. Expressing concerns about the environmental impact of AI and IoT devices, he emphasises the imperative for robust regulations to safeguard user data and ensure ethical AI development.

Mohit advocates for a comprehensive approach to technological advancement, emphasising sustainability and ethical considerations alongside accessibility and inclusivity. This mindset encompasses ethical expansion, equal access, and risk management in the development and implementation of new technologies. In this context, collaboration and awareness are crucial in ensuring the equitable distribution of the benefits of technological progress across society

“External factors like global conflicts, natural calamities and supply chain disruptions have a significant impact on businesses worldwide, leading to an increased demand for advanced observability solutions,” Mohit asserts. “Improved visibility enables companies to effectively mitigate risks and navigate these challenges.”

In this precarious landscape, the pivotal role of cutting-edge is evident, offering vast potential for innovation and efficiency, yet also presenting significant risks, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity.

He pointed out eight crucial factors that will help leapfrog APJ. These are the rise of AI and Automation, Internet Penetration and Mobile Adoption, E-Commerce Boom, Rapid Urbanisation and Infrastructure Development, Shift to Cloud Computing, Data Privacy and Security Concerns, Changing Consumer Behaviour, Remote work and Digital Collaboration, and Government Initiatives. Each one of these pillars is accelerating change in the region.

He cautioned that this surge in growth will inevitably breed regional competition. As an illustration, he pointed to Taylor Swift’s exclusivity to Singapore, leaving neighbouring countries in dismay, showcasing how the nation effectively ring-fenced her presence within its borders.

The boom in internet connectivity also designates the region as the next target. While it’s true that everyone is getting connected, with billions of regional openings, it undoubtedly carries a price. The lingering question is: who is responsible for educating these billions that cybersecurity begins at home?

Mohit remarked that the region is undergoing a Terraforming phase, shaping APJ to exemplify the future in both physical and virtual dimensions, with a focus on sustainable development technological advancement, inclusivity and safety at its core.

Mohit urges policymakers and organisational leaders to harness the capabilities of Generative AI effectively in countering cyber threats, stressing the importance of ethical AI development. He suggests a balanced approach that not only enhances cybersecurity measures but also upholds ethical principles, ensuring the responsible use of AI technologies to safeguard digital ecosystems and protect user privacy.

Maximising the deployment of security tools offers a solution to the shortage of staff, enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture. These tools not only empower existing professionals but also promote a more proactive and effective security stance.

Concerns regarding AI in cybersecurity encompass potential privacy breaches, undetectable phishing attempts, and an overall surge in attack volume and velocity. To leverage AI technologies more efficiently, Mohit proposed consolidating AI tools to streamline integration and deployment for businesses.

He recommends implementing advanced observability solutions for all systems to optimise their performance, identify issues, and support continuous improvement. Observability platforms offer elevated visibility and flexibility, substantially strengthening the organisation’s working posture. By leveraging these platforms, businesses can promptly identify and address potential threats with enhanced accuracy and effectiveness, thus enhancing their overall cybersecurity resilience.

“We are fine but vulnerable,” is Mohit’s caveat. “The future of technology lies in the hands of those who prioritise ethical growth, equitable access, and risk mitigation in their endeavours.”

Despite the adverse effects of technology, including job displacement and cybersecurity vulnerabilities, organisations can respond by investing in upskilling their workforce, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and promoting ethical AI development to mitigate risks effectively. By prioritising these initiatives, all sectors can navigate the challenges posed by technological advancements while ensuring responsible and sustainable integration of technology into their operations.

Mohit also advocates strongly for partnerships, urging each partner to become a change agent, spreading awareness and explaining technology as it remains misunderstood by many. He urges them to actively disseminate knowledge and demystify technology, recognising that its complexities are often difficult to embrace and adopt by a significant portion of the population.

Mohit believes that platforms, like the SolarWinds Transform Partner Summit, underscore the imperative of responsible and ethical technology use, echoing his advocacy for harnessing technological advancements for societal betterment. It acknowledges the importance of collaboratively tackling sustainability and regulatory hurdles, stressing the necessity of proactive measures to address potential adverse effects.

The significance of fostering collaboration among governments, industries, and civil society cannot be overstated when it comes to establishing environments that both encourage innovation and mitigate potential risks associated with emerging technologies.

By working together, these stakeholders can develop comprehensive regulatory frameworks that strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding against potential harm. This collaborative approach not only builds trust in AI technologies but also lays the foundation for their long-term success by ensuring they are deployed ethically and responsibly.

“Innovation and regulation must work together hand-in-hand to guarantee that technologies are not only developed but also utilised responsibly,” Mohit is convinced. “This symbiotic relationship ensures that advancements in technology are guided by ethical principles and legal frameworks, fostering a safer and more equitable digital landscape for all stakeholders involved.”

As APJ embraces digital terraforming to reshape its economic terrain, collaboration, and strategic partnerships emerge as key drivers in charting a sustainable and secure future in the digital age. Through collective action and forward-thinking strategies, APJ stands poised to harness the power of technology for societal betterment and economic prosperity in the years to come.

The SolarWinds Transform Partner Summit APJ serves as a beacon of hope amidst global uncertainties, providing an opportunity for industry leaders to navigate the complex digital landscape with resilience and innovation.

[i] The Diplomat, Feb 2023

[ii] invenioIT, July 2023