Strategic Innovation: Singapore’s Budget 2024 Tech Focus

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 Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong emphasised the theme of ‘Building Our Shared Future Together’ during the presentation of the 2024 Budget statement. This budget marks the beginning of the #ForwardSG roadmap, aimed at propelling Singapore forward amid global challenges and uncertainties, empowered by technology. Budget 2024 strengthens support for Singaporeans across diverse sectors, addressing immediate challenges, fostering growth and employment, enhancing equality and mobility, and ensuring security for families and seniors, laying the groundwork for a resilient shared future. For a comprehensive understanding of how these measures can benefit citizens, individuals are encouraged to visit www.singaporebudget.gov.sg, where they can also find more details about Budget 2024. From a tech/ICT perspective, the Singapore Budget 2024 envisions a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at addressing various issues and opportunities faced by Singapore, spanning areas such as technology, innovation, cybersecurity, sustainability, and energy transition. It unveils plans for an SG$ 1 billion investment over the next five years in AI, alongside diversified investments in NAIS 2.0, RIE 2025, the National Cybersecurity Command Centre, and sustainability efforts including green finance and energy security. Acknowledging the difficulties of the past year due to global instability and economic challenges, Mr Wong noted a mixed outlook for 2024, citing geopolitical risks alongside expectations of receding global inflationary pressures and higher GDP growth. Investment in AI : The government is committing over SG$ 1 billion in funding over the next five years as part of the National AI Strategy 2.0. This investment will focus on AI, talent development, and industry initiatives to advance AI technologies and integrate them into different sectors of the economy. Goals include securing access to advanced chips crucial for AI development, establishing AI Centers of Excellence (CoEs) with industry partners, and fostering innovation and economic growth. Broadband Network Upgrades : Additional resources are being allocated to upgrade the national broadband network to enable faster internet speeds, supporting the adoption of emerging technologies like AI and immersive experiences. Investment in Research and Innovation : There’s a further investment in the Research Innovation Enterprise (RIE) 2023 Fund to promote research and innovation across various national priorities such as advanced manufacturing, sustainability, digital economy, and healthcare. Cybersecurity Fortification : Recognising the increasing cybersecurity threats, there’s a focus on fortifying cybersecurity defences through the establishment of a new National Cybersecurity Command Centre and increased collaboration between industry, academia, and government. Semiconductor Market Niche : Singapore aims to strengthen its position in the semiconductor market by leveraging its connectivity, stable business environment, and existing infrastructure. The focus is on niche areas like speciality chips and NAND flash memory chips, critical for automation and electric vehicles. Sustainability Initiatives : The government is promoting sustainability through initiatives like enhanced support for green loans, expansion of energy efficiency grants, and additional support for companies aiming to reduce emissions. Future Energy Fund : The establishment of the Future Energy Fund with an initial injection of SG$5 billion highlights the government’s commitment to addressing emerging security challenges related to energy transition and cleaner energy. Singapore’s Budget 2024 reflects a strategic response to global challenges while prioritising long-term resilience and innovation. Its acknowledgement of the complexities ahead underscores the government’s commitment to addressing immediate concerns such as cybersecurity threats and economic uncertainties while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. Planned investments demonstrate Singapore’s proactive approach to navigating the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape. With a focus on enhancing infrastructure, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainability, Budget 2024 aims to position Singapore for continued success in an increasingly unpredictable world, looking to address cost-of-living concerns and advance Singapore’s agenda for the future. 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 Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has embarked on a pioneering journey with the introduction of the ‘Sangam: Digital Twin‘ initiative, poised to revolutionise infrastructure planning and design in India. This visionary undertaking invites expressions of interest from a diverse array of stakeholders, ranging from industry leaders and startups to academia and innovators. Anchored in Digital Twin technology, Sangam represents a paradigm shift in infrastructure development, harnessing the power of virtual replicas to optimise planning processes and drive transformative outcomes. At its core, Sangam: Digital Twin represents a convergence of technology, collaboration, and innovation, aimed at reshaping the infrastructure landscape in India. The initiative is structured in two distinct stages, each designed to unlock creative potential and pave the way for practical implementation. The exploratory phase sets the stage for visionary thinking and ideation, while the subsequent demonstration phase focuses on tangible use cases, laying the groundwork for scalable solutions. Sangam draws upon a rich tapestry of technological advancements, spanning 5G, IoT, AI, AR/VR, AI native 6G, Digital Twin, and next-gen computational technologies. This comprehensive suite of tools empowers stakeholders to navigate complexities and uncertainties with precision, leveraging real-time data and simulations to inform decision-making and drive innovation. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, Sangam establishes a solid foundation for future-ready infrastructure planning and design. At its essence, Sangam embodies a spirit of collaboration and inclusivity, transcending traditional boundaries to engage stakeholders across sectors. Public entities, infrastructure planners, tech titans, startups, and academic institutions converge on a unified platform, pooling their collective intelligence to tackle shared challenges and seize emerging opportunities. This holistic approach not only fosters innovation but also nurtures a culture of knowledge-sharing and cross-pollination, propelling the nation towards sustainable development. Beyond theoretical frameworks, Sangam prioritises practical implementation and scalability, with a keen eye on delivering tangible outcomes. Through targeted use cases and pilot projects, stakeholders gain valuable insights into the application of Digital Twin technology across diverse domains, from transportation and urban planning to healthcare and education. By developing scalable models and best practices, Sangam sets the stage for widespread adoption, catalysing a ripple effect of innovation across the infrastructure ecosystem. As Sangam gains momentum, it presents a myriad of opportunities for stakeholders to actively participate in shaping the future of infrastructure in India. Pre-registration and engagement with Sangam’s outreach programs offer avenues for collaboration, networking, and knowledge exchange, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship. However, realising the full potential of Sangam requires concerted efforts to address challenges such as data privacy, interoperability, and regulatory frameworks, ensuring that innovation is balanced with accountability and ethical considerations. The unveiling of the ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’ initiative marks a transformative moment in India’s journey towards sustainable development and technological leadership. By harnessing the power of Digital Twin technology and fostering collaboration across sectors, Sangam paves the way for a future where infrastructure is not only efficient and resilient but also inclusive and equitable. As stakeholders unite behind the shared vision of Sangam, they embark on a collective endeavour to shape a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come. 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 bid to streamline trade processes and bolster economic growth, the General Department of Customs in Vietnam is intensifying efforts towards digitalisation in customs activities in 2024. This strategic move aims to enhance efficiency in customs policies and procedures while laying the groundwork for the deployment of digital customs systems. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Vietnam aims to create a conducive environment for import-export businesses, facilitate trade promotion initiatives, and propel the nation’s economy toward its growth targets. Despite facing challenges stemming from global economic fluctuations, the General Department of Customs is entrusted with a significant state budget revenue target of 375 trillion VND, with a substantial portion of 204 trillion VND expected from import and export activities. To fortify the legal framework essential for implementing customs reforms and modernisation, the customs sector is diligently preparing documents for the electronic and digital implementation of customs administrative procedures. Notably, recent regulatory advancements include the issuance of Circular 33/2023/TT-BTC by the Ministry of Finance, which delineates guidelines for determining the origin of export and import goods. Furthermore, the customs sector is expediting the finalisation of crucial decrees pivotal for administrative reform. These decrees encompass regulations on quality and food safety inspection for imported goods, customs management for e-commerce trade, and amendments to existing customs laws to streamline procedures and enhance efficiency. Emphasising the significance of digitalisation, Nguyen The Viet, Deputy Director of the Division on Customs Supervision and Management at the General Department of Customs, highlights ongoing efforts to develop the digital customs and smart customs project. This initiative aims to seamlessly manage customs activities in the digital realm, spanning the entire process from pre-clearance to post-clearance stages for goods and transportation means. Moreover, the General Department of Customs is actively advocating for reforms in the management and specialised inspection of import and export goods. Efforts are also directed towards optimising the National Single Window and ASEAN Single Window platforms through digital transformation, ensuring streamlined operations and enhanced trade facilitation. Currently, core customs procedures are conducted via the VNACCS/VCIS system across all customs offices nationwide. The General Department of Customs has also expanded online public services to levels 3 and 4, facilitating smoother administrative processes for stakeholders. In 2023, Vietnam’s total goods import and export value amounted to 683 billion USD, albeit experiencing a 6.6% decline from the previous year. Despite market challenges, the General Department of Customs remains proactive in implementing resolutions to support trade activities, alleviate business hurdles, and meet state budget revenue targets. One notable initiative is the issuance of Decision 123/QD-TCHQ, which underscores administrative reforms, simplification of customs procedures, and enhanced trade facilitation efforts. As a result, customs clearance and goods handling times have been reduced by 10%, with a notable uptick in electronic documentation certifying goods’ origin. Moreover, customs authorities are prioritising the swift clearance of agricultural and perishable goods, collaborating with local authorities to streamline customs processes at key border gates. Notably, border gates in Lang Son province have extended customs clearance hours, contributing to a substantial increase in import-export turnover and ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders. Vietnam’s commitment to digital transformation in customs operations underscores its proactive stance in fostering a conducive business environment, promoting trade, and fortifying its position in the global market landscape. OpenGov Asia reported that In Vietnam’s drive towards digitalisation, the nation emphasises the imperative of collective action to propel the nation’s digital transformation agenda forward. Minister Nguyen Manh Hung emphasises the vital role of collaboration in leveraging technology for economic prosperity, mobilising specialised teams to lead transformation initiatives across sectors, and positioning Vietnam as a leader in the global digital revolution. 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 Exploring Nanyang Technical University Singapore’s (NTU) pioneering strides in ultrathin, stretchable electronics unveils a promising technological revolution. Spearheaded by Professor Chen Xiaodong, these innovations bridge fantasy with reality, holding transformative potential across sectors like healthcare and agriculture. Supporting this vision is the NTU Innovation and Entrepreneurship initiative, launched in March last year. As a pillar of the NTU 2025 five-year strategic plan, the initiative aims to accelerate the transition from research to commercialisation for faculty and students, providing mentorship and industry insights. NTU Vice President (Innovation and Entrepreneurship) Professor Louis Phee explained, “In today’s fast-paced global market, accelerating disruptive innovations is not just an advantage, it’s a necessity for maintaining global leadership. NTU’s breakthroughs in soft electronics exemplify Singapore’s role as a frontrunner in advanced technology. Prof Chen Xiaodong’s innovations, borne at the world’s top university for materials science, are a testament to Singapore’s commitment to be a leader in the fields of science and technology.” At the heart of NTU’s innovation lies the development of soft electronics capable of detecting bioelectric signals from skin, muscles, and organs. These sensors, encased in a gel-like skin, are not only soft and flexible but also stretchable, enabling seamless integration with the human body. By harnessing alternative muscle movements and bio-signals, individuals with limb disabilities or mobility impairments can control robotic prostheses, machinery, and motorised wheelchairs with unprecedented ease and precision. Professor Chen Xiaodong emerges as the visionary driving these remarkable advancements in soft electronics. With over 50 patents to his name and prestigious accolades such as the Kabiller Young Investigator Award, Prof. Chen has cemented his position as a trailblazer in the field. His pursuit of scientific excellence has yielded transformative technologies with profound practical applications, earning recognition both locally and internationally. To kickstart the scaling-up process, Prof Chen has established the pilot laboratory which aims to co-develop and produce soft electronic devices with industry partners, including Small and Medium Enterprises. With a strong emphasis on collaboration with industry partners and SMEs, Prof. Chen aims to accelerate the transition from research to commercialisation, “We aim to address some of humanity’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to healthcare advancements. My goal is to establish a new centre of excellence for soft electronics, building a team of industry experts and commercial partners to swiftly bring these technologies to market.” Beyond enhancing accessibility, NTU’s soft electronics hold immense promise in revolutionising healthcare. Recent breakthroughs include the development of biocompatible materials capable of conforming to soft tissues like the heart, enabling real-time monitoring and reducing the risk of implant rejections. This technology not only paves the way for next-generation pacemakers but also heralds advancements in bio-monitoring and personalised healthcare. The impact of NTU’s soft electronics extends far beyond healthcare. In agriculture, soft sensors attached to plants offer unprecedented insights into their health and behaviour, revolutionising crop disease management. Additionally, these sensors find applications in food packaging, enhancing food safety by providing real-time indications of freshness. As Singapore’s economy increasingly relies on manufacturing, the burgeoning sector of soft electronics emerges as a key driver of economic growth and innovation. NTU Singapore’s innovations, supported by government initiatives such as the Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE) plan, position the nation as a leading-edge research and manufacturing hub for soft electronics. NTU’s soft electronics breakthrough marks a pivotal shift in technology, offering vast applications from aiding disabilities to advancing healthcare and agriculture. With visionary leadership and strategic collaborations, NTU is set to shape the future of this field, driving economic growth and fostering innovation worldwide. 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 rapidly evolving technological landscape that fuels innovation and economic prosperity, Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of Telecom and Chairman of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), underscored the crucial role of standards in facilitating technology adoption and securing commercial viability. The commendable efforts of TEC in setting standards for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) were acknowledged, highlighting the significant contribution of such initiatives in pushing forward the boundaries of quantum technology. These points resonated powerfully during the inauguration of the Second International Quantum Communication Conclave. The event served as a common platform for diverse stakeholders – ranging from researchers and academia to industries and government bodies – united in their mission to promote standardisation activities and forge fruitful collaborations. Aligned with the nation’s vision to position India as a global hub for Quantum Technologies, the conclave convened a diverse ensemble of experts from premier academic and research institutions, industries, and startups. As India emerges as a potential leader in quantum technology, fueled by its robust research ecosystem and the innovative spirit of its startup community, a firm commitment from DoT to support and nurture startups in this domain is essential to seize this opportune moment. This commitment was further solidified through a memorandum of understanding with the Pan-IIT USA network, aimed at facilitating global collaboration and mentorship in high-technology projects. Beyond its role as a forum for knowledge exchange, the event sought to catalyse collaborative endeavours in Quantum Technologies and promote the formulation of standardised protocols and frameworks. Notably, participants were treated to an array of demonstrations showcasing cutting-edge solutions, including Quantum Key Distribution Systems, Quantum-safe secure IP phones, Hardware Security Modules, Quantum chipsets, and Quantum Random Number Generators. Dr Mittal reflected on the success of the previous International Quantum Communication Conclave, stressing the need to demystify quantum technology for broader public awareness. He reaffirmed DoT’s dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration in emerging technologies, expressing optimism for future quantum advancements. Apart from its technological implications, the forum served as a platform for envisioning the transformative potential of Quantum Technologies across diverse sectors, including healthcare, energy, finance, telecommunications, and defence. Through concerted efforts and synergistic partnerships between industry players, academia, and government agencies, India stands poised to not only chart new frontiers in the global quantum landscape but also drive ground-breaking innovations that address societal challenges and propel economic growth. In essence, the Second International Quantum Communication Conclave stands as a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to technological excellence and collaborative innovation. As the nation embarks on its journey towards quantum supremacy, guided by the principles of standardisation, collaboration, and inclusive growth, the stage is set for a quantum leap in India’s technological prowess on the global stage. OpenGov Asia reported on the inaugural meeting of the Mission Governing Board (MGB) of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) which marked a significant leap in India’s pursuit of quantum technology advancement. With a budget allocation of Rs. 6003.65 Crore (US$ 722 million) over eight years, the NQM aims to foster scientific and industrial R&D, positioning India as a global leader in Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA) and creating a dynamic ecosystem for quantum technology development. The board extensively deliberated on implementation strategies, including the establishment of a pivotal Mission Coordination Cell (MCC) and four thematic hubs dedicated to Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. The central focus of the discussion revolved around the promotion of manpower development and the empowerment of startups. It underscored the critical need for enhancing human capacity through the empowerment of hubs and stressed the importance of industry engagement in technology and funding collaborations, advocating for the development of indigenous systems. 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 As technology advances, privacy and surveillance concerns are becoming more pronounced. In a recent development, a retail company proposed using facial recognition technology in its North Island stores. They are adopting facial recognition technology to provide employees secure access to business premises, improve the customer experience, and check and monitor store stock popularity and layout performance. However, the use of facial recognition technology in retail environments must be done responsibly, with a commitment to data responsibility principles based on security, privacy, transparency, control, accountability, and integrity to scan and create biometric templates of shoppers, checking them against a watchlist of individuals with a history of harmful behaviours. While this initiative aims to enhance security and deter theft, it has sparked a debate on the ethical implications of such technology. Dr Kate Bower, an AI regulation specialist at the UTS Human Technology Institute in Australia, compared facial recognition technology with DNA data collection. Unlike standard CCTV cameras that capture video footage, facial recognition technology goes further by capturing biometric data, including various data points from a person’s face to create a unique face print. While this technology offers the ability to identify individuals in a crowd and match them to a database, it also raises significant privacy concerns due to its invasive nature and potential for misuse. Bower highlighted the potential for wrongful identification, particularly among people of colour. Studies have shown that facial recognition technology is less accurate for individuals with darker skin tones, leading to a higher rate of false accusations. This raises concerns about racial bias and the risk of innocent people being wrongly identified and accused. Māori data ethicist Dr Karaitiana Taiuru has also voiced concerns about the technology’s accuracy, particularly for Māori and Pacific people, who may be more likely to be falsely accused. He emphasised that it is not a matter of “if” but “when” the system mistakenly identifies an innocent person, leading to distressing situations. Another concern is the storage of biometric information by private companies. Bower emphasised the importance of knowing where and how this information is stored and the ability to request the deletion of data. Questions also arise about the accessibility of this information to law enforcement agencies, both in New Zealand and overseas. The issue of children’s data being stored is also troubling. Bower questioned the fairness of capturing and storing children’s biometric information and raised concerns about the long-term implications of such practices. These concerns highlighted the need for public discussion and oversight of facial recognition technology. Bower urged the public to speak up before this technology becomes more widespread in public spaces. She emphasised the need to consider the implications for us and future generations who may be subjected to constant surveillance. To address these issues, a retail company has engaged with the Privacy Commissioner and enlisted an independent assessor. The company has affirmed that it will promptly delete all customer images unless they are involved in criminal activities or exhibit aggression, violence, or threats toward employees or customers. Images of offenders will be retained for a maximum of two years, while those aiding offenders will be retained for up to three months. Nevertheless, concerns persist regarding the broader implications of this technology and the possibility of its misuse. As facial recognition technology expands, it is essential to balance security needs with privacy rights. Public oversight and transparency are crucial to ensure these technologies are used responsibly and ethically. Regulations and guidelines will likely evolve to address concerns such as data protection, consent, and algorithm bias. Collaboration between governments, technology developers, and civil society will be vital to establishing these frameworks. Additionally, ongoing research and dialogue on the ethical implications of facial recognition technology will ensure its responsible use in various contexts. 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 implementation of the new police case management system, SerPro, has been successfully deployed across the Territory, facilitating the efficient management and recording of policing data. SerPro streamlines various aspects of law enforcement, including custody management, investigations, intelligence gathering, property management, and forensics. Its introduction marks the retirement of PROMIS, an outdated and inefficient system that hindered police operations since its inception in 1999. More than 1200 police officers received comprehensive training, both face-to-face and through online modules, to ensure a smooth transition from PROMIS to SerPro. This training involved personnel from various agencies, including Police, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the Attorney General’s Department (AGD), the South Australia Fire and Emergency Services Commission (SAFENT), and others. The thorough preparation of officers and administrative staff from multiple agencies facilitated a successful switch to the new system. Due to the discrepancies in data reconciliation between the old and new systems, comparisons between crime statistics collected under PROMIS and SerPro are not currently available. However, monthly crime statistics, including geographic data and offence types, will still be published to keep the public informed. While the comparison with the previous year’s data may not be feasible initially, the SerPro system’s enhanced data collection capabilities will eventually enable more detailed reporting to improve safety for Territorians. The Minister for Police Brent Potter emphasised the benefits of SerPro, highlighting its integration and expanded digital functionality. The system increases the information available to police, reduces the need for data input across multiple systems, and automates data linkages, thereby enhancing productivity and assisting law enforcement efforts. Despite the transition, the government remains committed to providing regular crime statistics and data to keep citizens informed about ongoing trends and developments. Minister Potter reiterated the government’s focus on reducing crime, citing initiatives such as strengthening Banned Drinker Orders, establishing the Territory Safety Division, and implementing the co-responder model. These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to enhancing public safety and addressing the diverse challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in the Territory. The introduction of SerPro represents a significant milestone in modernising law enforcement operations in the Territory. While challenges exist in data reconciliation between old and new systems, the government remains committed to transparency and accountability by continuing to provide regular updates on crime statistics and trends. With SerPro’s advanced capabilities, law enforcement agencies are better equipped to fulfil their mission of ensuring the safety and security of all Territorians. OpenGov Asia earlier reported that Monash University and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) collaborated to establish a research centre known as the AI for Law Enforcement and Community Safety Lab (AiLECS). The lab harnesses artificial intelligence (AI) to drive technology-based initiatives that support law enforcement efforts and enhance safety within local and global communities, particularly in the digital realm. The official launch of AiLECS marked a significant milestone in the realm of AI and law enforcement. The event was graced by AiLECS Co-Directors Associate Professor Campbell Wilson from Monash University and AFP Leading Senior Constable Dr Janis Dalins, alongside Monash University Interim Vice-Chancellor and the AFP’s Deputy Commissioner. The AiLECS Co-Director highlighted the transformative impact of emerging technologies on information accessibility and content creation. He underscored that the same technologies that offer tremendous potential for social good can also be misused, leading to a surge in cyber-attacks, identity theft, exploitation, and the proliferation of misinformation. The rollout of this technology reflects broader trends in government modernisation efforts, including the adoption of digital technologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in public service delivery. The emphasis on data management, training, and public safety aligns with the contemporary priorities of many governments, including Australia, where investments in technology and law enforcement capabilities are aimed at addressing evolving challenges and improving citizen outcomes. 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 Vietnam is embarking on a transformative journey towards digitalisation, with the recently approved National Data Strategy setting ambitious goals for the nation’s technological advancement by 2030. The cornerstone of this strategy is the aim to transition all administrative procedure applications online, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency in government services. To support this objective, Vietnam plans to ensure the seamless connectivity of national data centres, regional data centres, and national centres for large data storage and high-performance computing, forming a robust network to facilitate data sharing and processing across the country. Key components of the strategy include the establishment of government cloud computing platforms and Make in Vietnam mobile application platforms, designed to fully meet the nation’s data storage, collection, connection, and sharing needs. By digitalising 100% of the national database, Vietnam aims to lay the foundation for the development of an e-government framework, enhancing accessibility and transparency in governance. Furthermore, the strategy emphasises the importance of open data initiatives, with all ministerial and provincial-level state agencies mandated to provide open data for administration activities. This data will not only facilitate policy dissemination but also fuel the development of artificial intelligence applications, driving innovation across various sectors. Efforts to promote digitalisation extend beyond government services to encompass areas such as land data management, product tracing, logistics, and energy consumption monitoring. By leveraging digital technologies, Vietnam aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability across these domains. Cultural preservation is also a priority, with plans to digitise 90% of cultural heritages, national relics, and special national relics by 2030. This initiative will involve the creation of digital libraries and repositories, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage for future generations. Additionally, the strategy includes provisions for the completion of social insurance databases and the provision of open data on the labour market. By leveraging data analytics, Vietnam aims to accurately predict labour supply and demand, facilitating informed policy decisions and promoting economic growth. The national data strategy for 2030 also places a strong emphasis on the development of data services to spur job creation, particularly for individuals facing disabilities and challenging circumstances. It envisions data as a catalyst for administrative reform, economic growth, and societal benefits outlined in its four key goals. To bolster data infrastructure, the strategy mandates the interconnection of all national and regional data centres, facilitating seamless data sharing and processing. By 2030, government cloud computing platforms and locally developed mobile app platforms will meet 100 % of data storage, collection, connection, and sharing demands while prioritising information security. A cornerstone of the strategy is the use of national databases to drive e-government initiatives and achieve complete digitisation of administrative procedures. State agencies at all levels will provide high-quality open data, streamlining administrative processes and promoting data reuse and sharing, thereby minimising redundancy for citisens accessing online public services. In sectors such as agriculture, industry, trade, and energy, comprehensive data coverage will be ensured, laying the groundwork for informed decision-making and innovation. Furthermore, the strategy aims to digitise at least 90% of information related to cultural heritage and national relics, preserving and promoting Vietnam’s rich cultural legacy through digital libraries and heritage sites. Looking ahead, the strategy sets forth ambitious goals for the development of the data market. Initiatives such as trial data trading platforms and the expansion of data services aim to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the immediate future. Overall, Vietnam’s National Data Strategy outlines a comprehensive roadmap for digital transformation, encompassing government services, cultural preservation, and economic development. With ambitious targets and a clear vision for the future, Vietnam is poised to harness the power of data to drive innovation and propel the nation towards a digital future.