PolyU’s Tech Innovation Hub Redefining Boundaries

Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has secured support for 11 projects from the Collaborative Research Fund (CRF) of the Research Grants Council (RGC) in the fiscal year 2023/24. Spearheading this achievement, Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, lauded the university’s prowess in conducting impactful research that resonates with Hong Kong’s innovation and technological advancement agenda. PolyU’s commitment to nurturing a culture of interdisciplinary research excellence was underscored by Prof. Chao’s remarks. He emphasised the university’s dedication to providing a conducive environment for fostering creative and high-quality cross-disciplinary projects aimed at pushing the boundaries of technological advancement. The collaboration-centric ethos at PolyU serves as a catalyst for engaging in forward-thinking research endeavours, aligning with the evolving needs of the technological landscape. Of the 11 projects supported by the CRF, nine received funding from the Collaborative Research Project Grant (CRPG), while the remaining two were backed by the Young Collaborative Research Grant (YCRG). The significant funding allocation of over HK$55.5 million to the CRPG projects underscores PolyU’s leadership among local institutions in securing support for pioneering research initiatives. The breadth and depth of the funded projects reflect PolyU’s strategic focus on diverse technological domains. From edge artificial intelligence to artificial auditory systems, nanomaterials, cancer diagnosis, age-related metabolic diseases, and construction and environment, the projects epitomize PolyU’s commitment to addressing multifaceted challenges through innovative research approaches. Moreover, the YCRG-supported projects focusing on neural networking in psychology and behaviour, and 6G-based sensing technologies, underscore PolyU’s dedication to nurturing young talent and empowering early-stage academic staff to lead collaborative research efforts. One project, led by Prof. XIA Yong from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, in collaboration with CityU, HKUST, and HKU, focuses on leveraging intelligent learning from long-term real monitoring data to enhance the resilience of sea-crossing bridges against future climate challenges. In another endeavour, Prof. YANG Mo, along with collaborators from CUHK and HKUST, is pioneering high-resolution single-cell multi-omics, enabling the simultaneous profiling of multiple biomolecules within individual cells. This breakthrough holds immense potential for advancing biomedical research and precision medicine. Prof. CHEN Jianli, from the Department of Land Surveying and GeoInformatics, in collaboration with CUHK and HKUST, is leading a project aimed at utilizing multi-sensor monitoring and geophysical interpretation to predict sea-level rise in Hong Kong, addressing critical environmental concerns. Dr. TAN Youhua, in collaboration with CUHK and HKU, investigates the roles of mechanically heterogeneous local niches within primary tumours in metastatic organotropism, shedding light on cancer progression mechanisms. Moreover, Prof. CAO Jiannong, in collaboration with HKUST and HKU, is spearheading a project on heterogeneity-aware Collaborative Edge AI Acceleration, enhancing the efficiency and scalability of edge computing systems. Additionally, PolyU researchers are delving into diverse domains, including improving roadside tree health, understanding adipose tissue dysfunction in ageing, developing artificial auditory systems, exploring two-dimensional polymorphic ferroelectrics, and investigating the human frontopolar cortex in decision-making processes. Two projects funded by the Young Collaborative Research Grant (YCRG) initiative focus on modelling the human frontopolar cortex in complex decision-making processes and exploring sensing technologies in 6G cellular networks. Led by Dr. Bolton CHAU and Dr. LIU Liang, respectively, these initiatives represent PolyU’s commitment to nurturing young talent and pushing the boundaries of technological innovation. At the forefront of digital and sustainable innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is spearheading transformative initiatives. Led by Prof. Daniel LAU, Chair Professor of Nanomaterials and Head of the Department of Applied Physics, PolyU researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking electroreduction system. This innovative technology is designed to combat global warming and achieve carbon neutrality by converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into ethylene. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) are rapidly establishing themselves as a thriving hub for agricultural startups, riding the wave of the “Purple Revolution,” a pioneering initiative focussed on lavender cultivation. Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, recently highlighted the success of this agri-tech endeavour, underscoring its impact on the national landscape. As Jammu and Kashmir progress in their digital transformation journey, the integration of critical services into the Public Service Portal aligns with the government’s broader effort to leverage technology for the benefit of citizens. The “Purple Revolution” exemplifies how technological innovation in agriculture can become a catalyst for economic growth, offering a blueprint for inclusive and transparent governance in the digital era. The Republic Day tableau, showcasing lavender farms in Bhaderwah, served as a powerful testament to J&K’s emerging status as an agritech hub. The “Purple Revolution” has garnered nationwide acclaim and is inspiring similar initiatives in other Himalayan states, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. Bhaderwah, a picturesque town in district Doda, has become the cradle of the Agri Startup hub, with lavender cultivation taking centre stage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shed light on the Aroma Mission spearheaded by the Ministry of Science & Technology. This mission, which involves cultivating lavender on a large scale, provides India with an alternative source for economic growth. Over 3,000 lavender entrepreneurs from Bhaderwah are redefining agricultural entrepreneurship, setting an inspiring example for the youth of India. The success of these startups contributes to the realisation of the vision of “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, offering a lucrative avenue for self-employment through agricultural innovation. Dr Singh, addressing a Kisan Sammelan organised by CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine in Hiranagar, Kathua, expressed delight at the recent depiction of Bhaderwah’s lavender farms at Kartavya Path. He celebrated the success of the “Purple Revolution,” noting that states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Nagaland have followed suit, engaging in lavender cultivation inspired by J&K’s Aroma Mission. The lavender revolution has not only garnered attention for its economic potential but has also become a model for promoting India’s ‘Startup India, Stand Up India’ initiative. Dr Singh emphasised that the number of startups in India has surged past 1.25 lakh, showcasing the country’s evolution as a global player in this field. The Aroma Mission’s success lies in the government’s unwavering support, as highlighted by Dr Singh. Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a startup-centric India, coupled with strategic efforts, has transformed the agricultural landscape. Lavender-made products from J&K are now sold in large quantities in states like Maharashtra, generating substantial revenue for producers. Dr Singh urged the youth to embrace the agri-startup ecosystem, emphasising its potential to contribute to economic value addition. The Public Service Portal, an initiative under the Ministry of Science & Technology, is set to become a crucial enabler for budding entrepreneurs, providing them with easier access to information, transactions, and government services. India is committed to fostering inclusivity, serving all communities and regions and empowering women in the tech sector, providing opportunities for skill development in alignment with the country’s digital transformation goals. In a notable celebration of Republic Day 2024, over 250 women workers from leading electronic manufacturing companies participated, highlighting India’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The event, organised by government bodies, recognised the valuable contributions of women in the sector, emphasising their reliability and commitment. The women workers expressed gratitude for the platform provided, showcasing India’s dedication to empowering women in technology. A special training workshop during the celebrations focused on upskilling and reskilling, aligning with Digital India’s goals for talent development in the electronic manufacturing sector. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link The government must secure the trust and backing of Singaporeans and stakeholders in light of global apprehensions about ethics and copyright in AI technology, particularly concerning the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy 2.0. Moreover, fortifying regulations and ethical frameworks before the full implementation of the AI Strategy are imperative for fostering public acceptance and utilisation of AI-powered solutions and platforms. Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-charge of Smart Nation and Cybersecurity, understands the importance of these issues and concerns. Emphasising a commitment to responsible and ethical AI deployment, Minister Teo highlighted Singapore’s practical and risk-based approach to AI governance, which has been previously elucidated in various sittings. Acknowledging the recent challenges posed by generative AI, particularly concerning copyright issues related to model training and AI-generated content, Minister Teo highlighted ongoing efforts. The Ministry of Law and the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore are actively engaging stakeholders to develop a suitable response to these copyright concerns, recognising the need for a comprehensive approach. Minister Teo stressed the dynamic nature of AI development, making a one-size-fits-all regulatory approach impractical. Singapore appreciates the necessity of adapting regulations and governance frameworks to the evolving AI landscape. The continuous review and refinement of these structures align with the commitment to ensuring they remain fit-for-purpose in the implementation of the refreshed AI Strategy. The Singaporean government has taken proactive steps in shaping AI governance, introducing the Model AI Governance Framework in 2019 and AI Verify in 2022. The latter, a toolkit designed to enhance transparency in AI systems, focuses on aspects such as fairness and explainability. In a collaborative initiative, the AI Verify Foundation (AIVF) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) have unveiled a draft Model AI Governance Framework tailored specifically for Generative AI. This extends the existing framework for Traditional AI, last updated in 2020. Acknowledging the transformative potential of Generative AI along with its inherent risks, the proposed framework aims to establish consistent principles for a trusted environment, fostering international dialogues among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the research community. Addressing nine key dimensions, the framework emphasises core principles such as explainability, transparency, and fairness, offering practical suggestions for model developers and policymakers. With a foundation in successful mapping and interoperability between national AI governance frameworks of Singapore and the US, the proposed Model Governance Framework for Generative AI invites international feedback, anticipating finalisation by mid-2024. Furthermore, Singapore engages extensively with international partners on AI governance through platforms like the Global Partnership on AI, ensuring a collaborative and globally informed approach to AI regulation. As Singapore navigates the complex intersections of ethics, copyright, and regulation in AI technology, the government’s multifaceted approach underscores its dedication to fostering responsible AI deployment and maintaining public trust in this transformative technology. Singapore has emerged as a global leader in data-driven decision-making and smart governance, particularly through the strategic application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across sectors like public administration, defence, aviation, maritime, and land transportation. A recent OpenGov Breakfast Insight explored how the nation’s use of AI not only enhances efficiency but also addresses challenges in transportation, traffic, and logistics, offering real-time data analysis to optimise systems and reduce environmental footprints. The nation’s commitment to innovation, coupled with a strategic approach that balances efficiency and safeguards for security and data privacy, positions Singapore at the forefront of digital transformation. The transformative power of AI in Singapore’s governance model serves as a blueprint for other nations grappling with similar challenges.As the global community watches, Singapore sets the stage for a future where AI not only optimises efficiency but also ensures the core tenets of security and privacy in the public sector. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link In a new initiative by the Australian Government, a concerted effort is underway to catalyse technological innovation beyond the confines of major metropolitan areas. Recognising the disparity in access to cutting-edge research and development opportunities, the government has launched the Next Generation Graduates Programme, aimed at nurturing a thriving technology ecosystem in regional Australia. With a major investment, 162 postgraduate student positions have been allocated to universities across the country under this programme. The strategic collaboration between universities and industry giants ensures direct access to industry expertise for aspiring researchers residing outside capital cities. According to Aaron Quigley, Science Director at Data61, the programme stands poised to tackle some of the nation’s most pressing challenges by tapping into diverse perspectives. He stressed the importance of regional insights in addressing distinct challenges faced by non-urban areas. At the forefront of this initiative is Charles Sturt University’s Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Futures Institute (AICF) in Bathurst. Prof Ganna Pogrebna, Executive Director of AICF, underscores the significance of focusing on regional Australia, highlighting the need for collaborative environments across consortium universities. The programme’s regional focus extends beyond theoretical discourse, offering hands-on experiences for students and researchers. By applying cutting-edge technologies to real-world challenges in agriculture, the initiative not only diversifies the talent pool but also revitalises regional business models, creating job opportunities and attracting investments. One notable project, the AgriTwins initiative, harnesses AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity to address agricultural industry challenges. Ganna Pogrebna emphasised its pivotal role in ensuring a cyber-secure future for the agricultural sector while enhancing Australia’s competitive edge in global markets. Dr. Winyu Chinthammit, Research Leader at the University of Tasmania’s Human Interface Technology Laboratory, envisions the programme as a cornerstone for fostering a digital technology industry in regional Australia. His research focuses on leveraging digital technologies to improve worker safety and performance, offering yet another dimension to the programme’s multifaceted approach. The Next Generation Graduates Programme zeroes in on three key areas of digital technology: immersive Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). By delving into emerging technologies, the programme aims to create a more efficient and effective workforce capable of navigating the complexities of the digital age. This round of the programme boasts a diverse array of projects, spanning from AI-enabled secure signal processing to continual learning and adaptation of resilient vision models. These initiatives, backed by a network of prestigious universities and industry partners, seek to redefine the boundaries of technological innovation in Australia. Moreover, the programme’s emphasis on regional development marks a significant departure from previous iterations. By decentralising tech innovation, the Australian Government aims to democratise access to opportunities and empower communities beyond urban centres. The Next Generation Graduates Programme underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and bolstering Australia’s position in the global tech landscape. Through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships, the programme lays the groundwork for a vibrant and inclusive technology ecosystem that transcends geographical boundaries. As the world hurtles towards an increasingly digital future, initiatives like the Next Generation Graduates Programme serve as beacons of hope, promising a more equitable and prosperous tomorrow for all Australians, regardless of their postal code. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link The Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) in Indonesia is fast-tracking the development of the Public Service Portal. In this latest endeavour, prioritising priority services is underway, integrating offerings from the Ministries of Health and Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. “Education and health services are two of the four priority services to be integrated into the Public Service Portal. Today’s meeting is an effort to collaborate on the acceleration of integration for various services that will be incorporated into the Public Service Portal,” stated Yanuar Ahmad, Assistant Deputy for Digital Transformation of Public Services at the Ministry of PANRB. The National Public Service Portal is paramount in realising public service transformation in Indonesia. It is envisioned to be a means to share information and knowledge about public service innovation and inspire public service providers to continue to innovate in providing better services to the public. The framework of the Public Service Portal is being constructed with a focus on three aspects: public access, service access, and support access. Specific criteria must be considered when integrating services, including service targets, business processes and frameworks, application conditions and infrastructure, data and information, and security. This involves adhering to security standards and application testing. The discussions with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology aim to inventory the types of services that will integrate with the Public Service Portal. Additionally, the goal is to identify each service further when combined. The Public Service Portal is a mandate from Presidential Regulation No. 82/2023 concerning the Acceleration of Digital Transformation and the Integration of National Digital Services. On various occasions, Minister of PANRB Abdullah Azwar Anas has emphasised that the government is building government technology (GovTech), encompassing nine priority services that will be transformed into digital platforms. Yanuar explained that through the Public Service Portal, the public is predicted to have easier access to information and conduct transactions efficiently within a single application. “The Public Service Portal can be utilised by public service providers, making it easier for the public to access services. Moreover, this portal emphasises the principle of lifetime services, allowing citizens to receive services from birth to death using only one application effectively and efficiently,” he clarified. Through the Public Service Portal, citizens can submit applications, access data, and obtain information related to public services without having to visit government offices directly. Integrated with various services from central and regional agencies, this portal brings efficiency to the delivery of public services and enhances information transparency for the public. As Indonesia progresses in its digital transformation journey, integrating critical services into the Public Service Portal reflects a commitment to enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and transparency in public service delivery. The government’s push towards GovTech signifies a broader effort to leverage digital technology for the benefit of citizens, streamlining processes and improving the overall citizen experience. “To achieve Governance 5.0 is significant in accelerating service integration, especially in health and education. It is expected that the development of the Public Service Portal will proceed according to the set targets and be accessible to the public later this year,” asserted Yanuar. Organising Public Service Portal in Indonesia represents an innovative approach to achieving more equitable and improved public services. Implementing the Public Service Portal in Indonesia has significantly and positively impacted community public service performance. The anticipation is that this initiative will not only meet its targets but also serve as a model for other nations looking to harness the power of digital technology in public administration. Yanuar concluded that the “government regulating society” transitions to “Government working together with society,” or more precisely.. This concept marks an evolution in how the government interacts with society, creating closer, more inclusive and transparent public services. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link In a significant move towards technological innovation, the central city of Da Nang has officially announced the establishment of the Da Nang Semiconductor and Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Training (DSAC). This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in integrated circuit (IC) design and artificial intelligence (AI). The decision to establish DSAC was revealed on January 26 during a ceremony where Le Trung Chinh, Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, emphasised the centre’s pivotal role in realising the city’s strategic goals. The establishment of DSAC signifies the city’s commitment to concretise political determination in addressing urgent tasks and executing a strategic plan for integrated circuit (IC) design and artificial intelligence. The Chairman believes the DSAC will actively engage in research, design training activities, and technology transfer in the domains of microchips, semiconductors, and AI development. Additionally, it will play a pivotal role in fostering international cooperation in these critical fields. The centre is also assigned the responsibility of collaborating with relevant establishments to develop comprehensive training programmes, materials, and courses. Moreover, DSAC will provide consultation services and facilitate technology transfers, aligning with the city’s overarching strategy for technological growth. The newly formed centre is tasked with conducting research and designing training programmes in microchip development, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, DSAC will actively engage in technology transfer initiatives, facilitating the exchange of expertise with global counterparts. The facility is expected to play a crucial role in coordinating efforts with relevant institutions to develop comprehensive training programmes and educational materials and organising specialised courses. Recognising the importance of collaboration, DSAC will work closely with relevant establishments to create synergies in the development of training materials and programmes. The centre’s commitment extends to offering consultation services and facilitating technology transfers, thereby contributing to the overall growth and competence of the semiconductor and AI sectors. In conjunction with the announcement, the municipal People’s Committee organised a seminar to discuss Da Nang’s policies aimed at attracting investment in the semiconductor and AI industries. The event also provided insights into the city’s strategic orientations for human resources development in these rapidly evolving fields. The seminar served as a platform to engage stakeholders and shed light on the city’s vision for capitalising on emerging opportunities. Industry analysts predict a significant upswing in the semiconductor market in Vietnam. With an estimated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% between 2021 and 2025, the market presents a promising landscape for growth and technological advancement in the region. OpenGov Asia had earlier reported on the plan for a newly established centre, set to operate under the management of the municipal Department of Information and Communications, as a result of the restructuring of the Da Nang high-quality human resources development centre within the Department of Home Affairs. A market research company predicts a significant growth trajectory for the semiconductor market in Vietnam, with an estimated compound annual growth rate of 6.5% between 2021 and 2025. The country’s current pool of over 5,570 IC engineers is concentrated, with more than 85% in Ho Chi Minh City, 8% in Hanoi, and 7% in Da Nang. This distribution underscores the importance of strategic initiatives, like the establishment of the new centre in Da Nang, to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the semiconductor sector. The Da Nang Semiconductor and AI Center is crucial for Vietnam, fostering high-quality engineers for sustainable economic growth. Da Nang’s advancements in microchips and AI signal a promising future in emerging technologies. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link In a groundbreaking initiative, Filipino researchers, led by Dr Erwin P. Enrique from Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU), are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing technologies to advance bone tissue repair. This project, supported by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and in collaboration with international experts from the Vellore Institute of Technology in India, aims to revolutionise bone-related treatments caused by ageing, infections, and accidents. The innovative approach seeks to empower both patients and doctors by offering a more accessible and affordable solution for bone repair materials. By combining AI-assisted design and 3D printing, the researchers are creating tunable bone scaffolds with enhanced performance for complex bone regeneration. The objective is to provide a viable alternative to existing methods, allowing for optimal bone repair based on medical needs and affordability. Now in its second year, the project has achieved significant milestones. The team has developed a machine-learning model capable of analysing factors influencing the effectiveness of bioceramic precursor materials in the 3D printing process. Simultaneously, researchers are exploring polymer-nano clay materials and 3D-printed frameworks to ensure strength and compatibility with the human body. Dr Jaime C. Montoya, PCHRD Executive Director, emphasised the transformative potential of integrating AI and 3D printing in healthcare. He stated, “This collaborative initiative, showcasing the dedication and expertise of our team, holds promise in providing accessible and affordable solutions for bone-related challenges.” In recognising the limitations of traditional transplantation methods, the researchers advocate for a paradigm shift towards regeneration as a more promising solution for damaged tissues and organs. The project, scheduled to conclude in August 2024, focuses on refining additive manufacturing and processing techniques, to significantly reduce fabrication time compared to current technologies. The initiative not only addresses the technical challenges of bone repair but also aims to democratise access to advanced medical solutions. If successful, the project may empower surgeons with a diverse selection of composite materials, custom-tailored to meet the unique medical and financial needs of individual patients. As the team pioneers this convergence of AI and 3D printing, the project stands at the forefront of medical advancements, charting a course toward a future where innovative approaches become the cornerstone of healthcare. With a commitment to accessible and affordable solutions, Filipino researchers are poised to make a lasting impact on the landscape of bone-related treatments, offering hope for a more efficient and personalised approach to bone tissue repair. The Philippines is making significant strides in the realm of technology and information technology to propel digitalisation, empower its citizens, and drive the growth of the digital economy. Recognising the transformative potential of technology, the government has undertaken initiatives to enhance digital infrastructure, expand internet access, and implement e-governance solutions. This comprehensive approach aims to streamline public services, making them more accessible to citizens while fostering efficiency and transparency. In addition to infrastructure development, there is a growing emphasis on digital literacy programmes and skill development initiatives to empower citizens to actively participate in the digital landscape. By equipping the population with the necessary skills and knowledge, the Philippines is fostering a digitally literate society capable of leveraging technology for personal and professional growth. Moreover, the deployment of technology in various sectors, including education, healthcare, finance and agriculture is contributing to the digital economy’s expansion, opening up new avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development. OpenGov Asia reported that the Department of Science and Technology is spearheading a comprehensive initiative to revolutionise agriculture in the Cordillera region, with a primary focus on integrating science, technology, and innovations (STI) to address existing challenges related to vegetable overproduction and marketability. As the Philippines accelerates its digitalisation efforts, it positions itself as a dynamic player in the global digital landscape, harnessing technology to create opportunities and enhance the overall well-being of its citizens. Like Digg Del Tumblr VKontakte Buffer Love This Odnoklassniki Meneame Blogger Amazon Yahoo Mail Gmail AOL Newsvine HackerNews Evernote MySpace Mail.ru Viadeo Line Comments Yummly SMS Viber Telegram Subscribe Skype Facebook Messenger Kakao LiveJournal Yammer Edgar Fintel Mix Instapaper Copy Link Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) is driving transformative digital projects to fuel economic growth, projecting a boost of SG$ 16.4 billion in annual revenue and the creation of 21,500 skilled jobs. Amid global challenges in 2023, the organisation collaborated with a plethora of companies on innovative ventures, leveraging digital solutions and automation. EnterpriseSG has emerged as a catalyst for transformation, facilitating innovative projects expected to amplify annual revenues and thousands of jobs. In the aftermath of the first full year post-COVID-19, EnterpriseSG navigated a complex business landscape, collaborating with 18,000 Singapore enterprises in 2023. Notably, 3,000 companies embarked on transformative projects, leveraging digital solutions and internationalisation efforts to foster growth. Despite headwinds such as manufacturing contractions, higher interest rates, and escalating business costs, EnterpriseSG successfully aided Singapore enterprises. This support extended to 15,000 companies engaged in basic capability building and market exploration projects, with over 85% embracing digital solutions for enhanced operational efficiency and market resilience. As the manufacturing sector anticipates a rebound in 2024, EnterpriseSG gears up to address longer-term structural challenges in a dynamic global economy. EnterpriseSG played a pivotal role in boosting projected annual revenues, involving a strategic focus on globalisation, innovation and enhancing cost competitiveness. The organisation spearheaded 460 overseas projects, providing Singapore companies access to new market opportunities and competencies. Notably, the introduction of new avenues for innovation and collaboration, including Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) nodes, Open Innovation Challenges (OICs), and Centers of Innovation (COIs), contributed to the successful development of 140 new products. With an eye on the future, EnterpriseSG is poised to deploy strategies to help businesses navigate challenges and pursue growth in 2024. As cyclical headwinds ease, the organisation intensifies efforts to assist companies in entering new markets, developing innovative products, and enhancing cost competitiveness. EnterpriseSG anticipates addressing long-term structural challenges, aiming to facilitate market entry, enhance cost competitiveness, and promote collaborative partnerships between SMEs and large enterprises, fostering a resilient and competitive local ecosystem. A renewed emphasis on strengthening the symbiotic relationship between budding, smaller and well-established companies, coupled with sector development initiatives, underscores EnterpriseSG’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for inclusive growth and development. EnterpriseSG’s transformative initiatives stand as evidence of its dedication to driving economic growth, innovation, and sustainability, positioning domestic enterprises for success on the global stage. Singapore stands at the forefront of global digital innovation with ambitious plans to harness cutting-edge technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI). The nation’s strategic deployment of cutting-edge tech is a testament to its commitment to driving efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness across various sectors. Moreover, Singapore prioritises securing its digital landscape, implementing robust measures to safeguard against evolving threats. The nation is intensifying its cyber resilience with the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) spearheading the Online Trust and Safety (OTS) Research Programme. A significant component of the government’s Smart Nation & Digital Economy domain, the SG$ 20 million initiative aims to address emerging online threats like misinformation and content manipulation. A*STAR will host the Centre for Advanced Technologies in Online Safety (CATOS), focusing on innovative tools and interventions to ensure a safer Internet, showcasing Singapore’s commitment to cutting-edge technologies and securing its digital landscape. As part of the OTS programme, CATOS will play a crucial role in developing and customising tools to identify harmful content, address societal vulnerabilities, and test “Trust by Design” technologies. The initiative reflects Singapore’s dedication to technological leadership in online trust and safety, reinforcing its position as a forward-looking player in the digital realm. This dual focus on technological advancement and cybersecurity underscores Singapore’s commitment to becoming a leading digital hub while ensuring the resilience and integrity of its digital infrastructure.