The Dell Technologies Innovation Catalyst Research is based on responses from 6,600 IT and business decision makers across 40 countries, of which 200 of those responded are from Singapore. Although this Dell research suggests that while there is broad optimism for AI and GenAI, how well the organisations are prepared for the rapid pace of change coming from AI and GenAI, that’s another story.

87% say they are well position competitively and have a solid strategy. At the same time, over a third (36%) of the respondents are uncertain what their industry will look like in the next 3 to 5 years and nearly half (43%) report struggling to keep pace. They cite data privacy and cybersecurity concerns (44%), lack of right talent (38%), and outdated technology environments (28%) as challenges the organisations face in driving digital innovation and digital transformation.

GenAI Significant Potential – Moving from Ideation to Implementation

What is GenAI significant potential – Moving from Ideation to Implementation? 49% of the respondents cite GenAI’s transformative or significant potential to improve IT security posture. 48% of the respondents on streamline processes through improving customer experience, and provide productivity gains or ability to do more (47%).

They are also aware of challenges to overcome: 66% fear GenAI will introduce new security and privacy issues and 77% agreed that their data and IP is too valuable to be placed in a GenAI tool where a 3rd Party may have access.

From a broad perspective coming out from the Dell Technologies Innovation Catalyst Research, the responses suggest that organisations are working through GenAI practicalities as they are transiting from ideation to implementation. 47% said that they have begun implementing GenAI.

As organisations increase adoption, concern centres around understanding where risks reside and who is responsible for them. 81% agree that the organisation, rather than the machine, the user or the public, is responsible for any AI malfunction or undesired behaviour.

“Singapore stands out as a prime location for AI adoption and development. Its leading role in the global AI landscape, coupled with the government’s strong commitment and investment, creates a fertile ground for innovation. Many businesses are taking action to harness the transformative potential of technologies like GenAI and bringing AI to their data to unlock value and drive growth,” shared Andy Sim, Vice President and Managing Director, Singapore, Dell Technologies. “Seizing the opportunity requires a strong ecosystem of trusted partners to create secure and scalable technology foundations for innovation, designed with sustainability in mind. In Singapore, success, innovation, and progress are intertwined.”

Cybersecurity – How are organisations rising to the challenge of current Threat landscape 

In a broad context, organisations continue to find cybersecurity to be a pain point for them. These concerns are well-founded, as 75% of respondents say that have been impacted by a security attack in the past 12 months. Majority of the respondents (88%) are pursuing a Zero Trust deployment strategy and 80% say they have an Incident Response Plan in place to recover from a cyberattack or data leakage.

The top 3 cited issues included phishing, data breaches and malware. On the issues with phishing, they are indicative of a wider problem highlighted in the report, which is the role employees play in the threat landscape. For example, 75% of respondents believe some employees go around IT security guidelines and practices because they delay efficiency and productivity, and 68% say that insider threats are a big concern. This indicates a need to focus on training as employees are the 1st line of defence.

Having Right Technology Infrastructure will help Organisations to Succeed

Having Right Technology Infrastructure will help Organisations to Succeed. From this Dell Technologies Research, it reveals the critical role of modern data infrastructure especially as GenAI gather pace and data volumes increase. This was cited as the no. 1 area of improvement for businesses to accelerate innovation – Adopting a data-driven approach to capture and realise innovation projects across the organisation.  Most IT decision makers (81%) say they prefer an on-premises or hybrid model, to address the challenges they foresee with implementing GenAI.

A key part of the digital innovation puzzle cited by the respondents, with close to 1 in 3 (32%) – The ability to share data across the business. They can turn data into real-time insights today to support innovation efforts. However, responses from the respondents suggest that organisations are acting on this challenge, with 91% saying that the data is the differentiator and their GenAI strategy must involve using and protecting that data. Almost half (51%) also claim that they anticipate that the bulk of their data will come from the edge in the next 5 years.

Other research findings include:

• Skills: Three-quarters (75%) claim there is currently a shortage of talent required for innovation in their industry. Logic, critical thinking & complex decision-making, learning agility and desire and AI fluency rank as the top skills and competencies for the next five years.
• Sustainability: 33% believe “driving environmentally sustainable innovations” is an important improvement area. Energy efficiency is high on the agenda, with 82% experimenting with as-a-Service solutions to manage their IT environment more efficiently and 81% using alternative cooling solutions to reduce energy use in data centres.
• Making IT a strategic partner: Currently, 77% of business decision makers have reasons to exclude IT decision makers from strategic conversations, yet both departments ranked a stronger relationship as the second most important improvement area.

Dell Technologies Innovation Catalyst Research

The Dell Technologies Innovation Catalyst Research was conducted by Vanson Bourne, commissioned by Dell Technologies. This study surveyed 6,600 respondents from organisations with more than 100 employees from across North America, LatAm, EMEA, APJ and Greater China, ranging from private and public sectors.

If you like to know and read more in-depth on Dell Technologies Innovation Catalyst Research, please visit https://www.dell.com/en-us/dt/perspectives/innovation-catalyst.htm

* Information courtesy of Dell Technologies and BCW *

The post Dell Technologies Research on AI and GenAI transforming industries in Singapore appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

Upgrade Your Networking Infrastructure

Investing in modern networking equipment, such as routers, switches, and access points, can greatly enhance connectivity within your office. Upgrading to gigabit Ethernet and utilizing the latest Wi-Fi standards can provide faster and more reliable connections for your employees. Additionally, implementing network redundancy measures, such as failover systems and backup connections, can ensure uninterrupted connectivity even in the event of network failures or outages.

Implement a Unified Communication System

Incorporating a range of communication tools like email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and VoIP into a unified system can streamline communication procedures and enhance connectivity among team members. This allows for seamless collaboration regardless of physical location. Moreover, investing in a comprehensive communication platform that offers features like presence indicators and integrated calendars can further enhance connectivity and facilitate real-time communication and collaboration.

Invest in High-Speed Internet Connection

In the contemporary workplace, a dependable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for uninterrupted communication and productivity. Consider upgrading to a reputable provider like Frontier fiber internet, known for its fast and stable connection speeds. With Frontier fiber internet, your office can experience low latency and high bandwidth, facilitating smooth video conferencing, file sharing, and online collaboration. Moreover, opting for a dedicated business internet plan with guaranteed uptime and prioritized support can further enhance connectivity and ensure uninterrupted access to critical business applications and services. By investing in a high-speed internet connection, your office can stay connected and productive, enabling your team to collaborate effectively and achieve their goals.

In addition to improving connectivity within the office, a high-speed internet connection also enables flexibility for remote work arrangements, allowing employees to stay productive from anywhere. This flexibility not only enhances work-life balance but also enables businesses to tap into a larger talent pool by recruiting remote employees. Furthermore, with the increasing reliance on cloud-based services and the adoption of digital tools for day-to-day operations, a robust internet connection is essential for maintaining competitiveness in today’s digital economy. By investing in high-speed internet, your office can stay ahead of the curve and thrive in an increasingly connected world.

Optimize Office Layout for Wi-Fi Coverage

Ensure that your office layout is conducive to good Wi-Fi coverage throughout the workspace. Strategically placing access points and minimizing interference from physical obstacles can help maximize signal strength and reduce connectivity issues. Additionally, conducting regular site surveys and performing wireless network optimizations can further improve Wi-Fi coverage and performance. Moreover, educating employees about Wi-Fi best practices, such as avoiding overcrowded channels and minimizing interference from personal devices, can help maintain optimal connectivity in the office environment.

Utilize Cloud-Based Services

Embracing cloud-based services for file storage, project management, and collaboration can improve accessibility and connectivity among employees, regardless of their location. Cloud platforms offer real-time synchronization and seamless integration across devices, enabling efficient workflow management. Moreover, utilizing cloud-based solutions for data backup and disaster recovery can improve data security and guarantee business continuity in the face of unexpected disruptions. Additionally, integrating cloud-based productivity tools, such as office suites and collaboration platforms, can further enhance connectivity and streamline workflow processes.

The post Ways to Improve Connectivity in Your Work Office appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

Tech Mahindra  x IBM Synergy Lounge in Singapore 

The best practices gained here in Singapore will be shared with Tech Mahindra’s existing Synergy Lounge in Bengaluru and other Centres of Excellence to co-innovate and co-develop unique enterprise offerings and solutions.  This is built on the Hex-I concept, consisting of six stages: Ignite, Inspire, Ideate, Innovate, Infuse and Implement. The Synergy Lounge will feature different experience zones focusing on various technologies that will help enterprises solve complex business problems, improving customer experiences, reducing operational costs, and enhancing workforce efficiency.

Kunal Purohit, Chief Digital Services Officer, Tech Mahindra, said, “We believe in infusing AI and GenAI into every aspect of businesses and democratizing it responsibly. In our continuous endeavour to help customers embrace a digital-first future, the Synergy Lounge will function as a co-innovation and co-development center specifically focusing on AI, GenAI and next-gen technologies.”

The Synergy Lounge will be open to enterprises and businesses worldwide to explore joint solutions, testing out prototypes and proof of value (PoV) designed to drive innovation in various industries, such as communication, media and entertainment, automotive, manufacturing, transportation, banking and financial services and utilities, and healthcare, among others.

Chetan Krishnamurthy, Vice President, Ecosystem and Digital Sales, Asia Pacific, IBM, said, “Building on the success of the Synergy Lounge in Bengaluru and driven by our common vision to bring advanced technology like watsonx AI and data platform to solve complex business challenges, the opening of the new Synergy Lounge in Singapore will continue to help companies  improve productivity and competitiveness while bringing together the right talent, technology, and best practices for clients in Asia Pacific.”

There will be a dedicated team working out of the Synergy Lounge to maximise synergies between Tech Mahindra and IBM. They will be developing unique solutions based on both organisations’ strengths to drive technological innovation in APAC. The Synergy Lounge aligns with Tech Mahindra’s continuous endeavour to transform enterprises with advanced next-generation led offerings and solutions.

* Information and picture courtesy of Tech Mahindra and IBM Singapore *

The post Tech Mahindra and IBM announce opening of Synergy Lounge to accelerate digital adoption in APAC appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

Impact of Cybersecurity and AI on the 2024 election season

A survey “Impact of Cybersecurity and AI on the 2024 election season”, were recently announced by Yubico, the leading provider of hardware authentication security keys, and Defending Digital Campaigns (DDC), a nonprofit and nonpartisan organisation committed to bringing free cybersecurity tools and resources to federal election campaigns.

This survey is conducted by OnePoll, a leading provider of international market research and data communication solutions, this survey polled 2,000 registered voters in the U.S. to better understand how voters perceive cybersecurity ahead of the 2024 U.S. elections, the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the concerns they have about the cybersecurity of political campaigns, regardless of party affiliations.

“Given the sudden advancement and uncertainty of AI technology, it’s not surprising that over 78 percent of respondents are concerned about AI-generated content being used to impersonate a political candidate or create inauthentic content, with Democrats at 79 percent and Republicans at 80 percent,” said David Treece, vice president of solutions architecture at Yubico. “Perhaps even more telling is that they believe AI will have a negative effect on this year’s election outcomes (42 percent Democrats and 49 percent Republicans).”  

Key Findings from Impact of Cybersecurity and AI on the 2024 election season

What are some of the key findings from the survey of “Impact of Cybersecurity and AI on the 2024 election season”? What roles could AI play in this 2024 election season?

The threat of AI and deep fakes spreading misinformation is present, 85% of respondents don’t have a high level of confidence that political campaigns effectively protect their personal information.

Cybersecurity is now a top focus, if not campaigns run the risk of being breached, exposing personal data, experiencing a financial impact and more, all of which could have a negative effect on the entirety of the election campaign.

42% of those who have donated to a campaign said their likelihood of donating again would change if the campaign was hacked and 30% report his would even change the likelihood of a candidate receiving their vote.

“Campaigns are the heart of our democracy and every campaign must adopt basic cybersecurity protections. This year’s election is particularly risky for cyber attacks directed at candidates, staffers, and anyone associated with a campaign,” said Michael Kaiser, president and CEO of Defending Digital Campaigns. “Having the right cybersecurity in place is not an option — it’s essential for anyone running a political operation. Otherwise, campaigns risk not only losing valuable data, but losing voters.”

Additional key findings

• 43 percent of respondents believe that AI-generated content will negatively affect the outcome of the 2024 elections.
  • When an audio clip with an AI voice was played, 41 percent believed the AI voice was authentically human.
• 52 percent of respondents have received an email and/or text message appearing to be from a campaign that they suspected was actually a phishing attempt.
• From a data security perspective, 85 percent of respondents don’t have a high level of confidence that political campaigns effectively protect the personal information they collect.
• Registered voters would like to see campaigns and candidates:
  • Take precautions to prevent their websites from being hacked (42 percent)
  • Use strong security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) on their accounts (41 percent)
  • Have policies in place and train staffers and key volunteers on cybersecurity for the campaign and protecting personal information (38 percent)
• Over a quarter of respondents (26 percent) indicated they have not completed a transaction making a campaign donation because of concerns about the security of the transaction or how their personal information would be handled.

Importance of cybersecurity and authentication security

“Because campaigns are built on trust, potential hacks like fraudulent emails or messages sent out impersonating them via their social media accounts, where they are directly interacting with their audience, could be detrimental to campaigns,” added Treece. “It’s imperative that candidates take proper steps to protect their campaigns and more importantly, to build trust with voters by adopting modern cybersecurity practices like phishing-resistant authentication. Adding a layer of protection with a physical hardware security key, like a YubiKey, to online accounts is a crucial component to ensuring that campaigns remain secure.” 

Since 2020, Yubico has donated tens of thousands of security keys to DDC on behalf of its philanthropic initiative–Secure it Forward–where the company donates YubiKeys to journalists, human rights activists and organisations that work to preserve democratic integrity, further diversity in tech and protect human rights.

“Collaboration is one of the most important ways to strengthen cybersecurity,” said Kaiser. “At DDC we are extremely grateful for our partnership with Yubico, whose generosity allows us to provide free security keys to campaigns, enabling them with the strongest account protection possible. The keys allow a computer user to protect cloud, social, and financial accounts on the campaign, as well as personal accounts and all primary targets of bad actors.”  

What can election campaigns do to protect themselves and build trust with voters?

2024 election season is underway, what can election campaigns do to protect themselves and build trust with their voters?

Even though cybersecurity attacks are becoming more sophisticated with tools like AI, there are simple ways to help mitigate these risks, including using strong, unique passwords and storing them in a password manager, along with enabling multi-factor authentication whenever possible using physical security keys like those available from Yubico and the DDC.

DDC, a nonprofit and nonpartisan organisation, is committed to bringing free cybersecurity products, services, training, and information to federal political campaigns and committees and down-ballot candidates in a growing number of states. It has an extensive network of partners and resources to prepare political campaigns with the tools they need to stay secure. In partnership with Yubico, they provide YubiKeys at no cost to political campaigns regardless of party affiliation.

What would be the impacts and changes that AI is going to bring in 2024 and beyond?

Part of my ongoing TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on Artificial Intelligence (AI) that I started in 2023, I am have recently kickstarted my AI research/learning series for 2024. From the technology side of things, to the hardware powering AI, I am now entering into how AI comes into play into our society and daily life, beyond Generative AI powered apps/software answering your queries.

Although the AI threat to election is a U.S context, other countries holding elections this year 2024 and beyond 2024 will definitely study and observe how the power and impacts of AI could be on elections in their home country. There are still a lot of lessons and experiences that need to be learn, understand, review, tweak and improved for the future of AI technology, whether it’s in elections, or machines, devices, software and in our daily work and living.

As more AI related technology is launched, more hardware and gadgets using AI technology, the world might just be starting on a new journey ahead on utilising the full potentials and impacts of AI.

In my personal opinion, we still have a lot to learn about using and implementing AI. This elections season in 2024 is just one of the many real life scenarios to come that we can and must learn on implementing and using AI, as well as the good and bad of using AI technology.

* Information courtesy of Yubico *

The post Biggest threat to 2024 elections season – Artificial Intelligence (AI) appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

My TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on Artificial Intelligence was launched in 2023 when I started going deeper into the world of AI, mainly from the technology writer and everyday user perspectives. From Q&A interviews to AI technology news coverage, it was a learning and enlightening journey, from both as a technology writer, as well as a photographer/creative perspective.

What do I feel and think about AI? Here are my personal thoughts and views on AI – This technology has huge potential and impacts that can help us better in our work/profession and daily life, yet this AI technology can (and already have) take away some of our work/jobs, on top of disruptions and changes.

Key AI articles published in 2023

Here are some of my in-depth articles that I published till date on the subject of AI

• Q&A on the impacts of AI, the human side of AI and fear of AI
• Q&A on the impacts of AI on photography and creative industries
• Fireside Chat with Temus and Qlik on 8th May 2023 – Key Takeaways on AI

In 2024, I would be working to expand on those two areas further, along with other AI research interests as I engage and work with major technology companies on AI discussion topics.

Other AI articles coverage include:

• IBM-SMU AI-based Supply Chain Risk Optimisation Models Saves Millions of Dollars
• Acronis launch first ever AI-powered Cyber Protection Software
• Temus and AI Singapore sign MOU to accelerate AI innovation and adoption
• Hive 2.0 – High Tech Retail Innovation Hub by Stellar Lifestyle

ChatGPT 3.5 – Can you do a bio write up for Tan Geng Hui?

Before I begin on this, have a look at what ChatGPT 3.0 wrote my bio write up for my TGH Photography and Travel portal/blog inside my About page. As I am began to kickstart, relaunch and continue on my in-depth learning, understanding, analysis, coverage and documentation of AI in year 2024, I decided to mark this start by asking ChatGPT 3.5 to do a bio write up for me.

Here’s the conversation between ChatGPT 3.5 and what they wrote about me:

You

Can you do a bio write up for Tan Geng Hui?

ChapGPT

Sure, here’s a bio write-up for Tan Geng Hui:

Tan Geng Hui is a multifaceted individual with a passion for photography, technology, and business. Based in Singapore, Tan Geng Hui has established himself as a prominent figure in these fields through his diverse interests and expertise.

With a keen eye for detail and a creative vision, Tan Geng Hui has made significant contributions to the world of photography. As a skilled photographer, he has captured the beauty of various subjects, including landscapes, architecture, and portraits. His work reflects a deep appreciation for aesthetics and storytelling, earning him recognition and acclaim within the photography community.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Tan Geng Hui is deeply involved in the realm of technology. With a strong background in tech-related fields, he stays abreast of the latest developments and trends in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and consumer electronics. His insights and analyses are valued by professionals and enthusiasts alike, and he often shares his thoughts through his writings and online platforms.

Furthermore, Tan Geng Hui is an entrepreneur and business enthusiast. He has demonstrated a knack for identifying opportunities and navigating the complexities of the business world. Through his ventures and initiatives, he seeks to drive innovation, create value, and make a positive impact on society.

Overall, Tan Geng Hui is a dynamic individual who thrives at the intersection of photography, technology, and business. His passion, expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire others and contribute to the advancement of these fields.

Note: Non-edited or proof read by any of my human friends trained in communications and public relations. I would leave it as it is for now, as my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog About Me page.

Kickstarting TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on AI for 2024

Kickstarting my TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on AI for 2024, I would work on my earlier AI conferences/webinars that I attended online or in-person, with IBM and Dell Technologies.

As I pick up my pace, writing and coverage on AI, I reckon that would be more topics of more in-depth learning and understanding for myself and for my readers as well. I am planning to work closer with technology companies that I have engagements with over the years, to write and publish more insights and learning articles on AI, its impacts and potential.

The world of AI technology has tremendous potential, giving both positive and negative impacts along with disruptions to the world. All parties have to play a role to play, from the supply side of technology providers, to the demand side of companies/industries and last but not least, the everyday person on the streets.

Come along with me as I continue to navigate the world of AI from various hats, as a technology writer, as a visual storyteller/creative and as a daily user, sharing my knowledge, learning and experiences with you, through my TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on AI for 2024.

The post Kickstarting TGH Technology Research/Learning Series on AI for 2024 appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

This multi-million dollar R&D facility will pioneer the development of advanced chemical engineering processes that are more precise, more efficient and use less energy. These processes range from recycling hard-to-recycle items such as polystyrene, EV batteries and lubricant oils, to the production of bio-based goods like Polylactic Acid (PLA) which is a plastic derived from renewable sources such as corn starch or sugar cane.

Sulzer R&D facility playing a part in SG Green Plan 2030

Singapore, while it’s a small country in land size, they recognise the need to take actions to tackle climate change, giving rise to the areas of sustainability, recycling and renewable sectors, as well as how we want to work and live, known as the SG Green Plan 2030.

Sulzer R&D facility is playing their part in SG Green Plan 2030, as they will boost Singapore’s efforts to become a leading regional centre for R&D into new sustainability solutions under the SG Green Plan 2030.

Clients in Asia would benefit greatly with the location of Sulzer InTecH R&D facility in Singapore, in the past, they would have to work with Sulzer’s R&D facility in Switzerland to develop new chemical engineering processes. Now, they can speed things up with the InTecH R&D facility in Singapore. Sulzer has invested over S$10 million into the facility and aims to grow its local team of 150 by 20 to 30 staff over the next 3 years.

Sulzer is a leader for chemical engineering within this region. With the presence of InTecH R&D facility in Singapore, it further cements their standing, as well as supplementing their 39 year long history in Singapore of supplying engineering components, polymer production equipment and distillation equipment for industries like oil & gas power generation.

Revolutionising the Green Tech landscape in Southeast Asia

The Green Tech landscape in Southeast Asia has gained significant momentum over the years with the world economy recognising the urgent need to address climate change and taking the necessary actions in this area, giving rise to sustainability, recycling and renewable sectors of change and growth.

Dr Suzanne Thoma, Chief Executive Officer of Sulzer, said: “InTecH Chemical Processes Singapore is poised to revolutionise the Green Tech landscape in Southeast Asia. Our state-of-the-art R&D facility provides unparalleled access to cutting-edge technologies, empowering manufacturers and processors to innovate and produce eco-efficient, high-quality products. This opening marks a significant step in shaping the future of sustainable technology in the region.”

Sulzer InTecH is located within Singapore’s advanced manufacturing Jurong Innovation District, JTC CleanTech Three. The InTecH R&D facility features state-of-the-art equipment, including a 9-storey high fractional distillation tower – It’s the tallest for a research facility in Asia! This R&D facility was built over 10 months and will help drive the growth of companies that are planning to enter into economically non-viable recycling and higher-yield, bio-based production.

The infrastructure at Sulzer InTecH R&D facility is equipped with a comprehensive suite of fluid separation facilities and analytical equipment. They are featuring Sulzer’s proprietary technologies for thermal separation of chemical components, including liquid-liquid extraction and falling-film crystallisation, integrated with advanced chemical analysis techniques to identify and measure compounds after processing.

Sulzer can offer end-to-end services to a broader client base in Asia with its InTecH R&D facility and capabilities, including those companies in the pharmaceutical and biofuel industries. They can offer development and stress-testing of new cutting-edge solutions, chemical analysis, as well as the consultancy for engineering, and construction of a new processing plant.

World is changing and Sulzer is ready for the challenge ahead

At the recent media conference for the opening of Sulzer InTecH in Singapore, we gained knowledge and insights into Sulzer’s expertise in chemical engineering, technology and innovation, and the R&D it has, combining together to provide chemtech business models and solutions for there clients from various industries.

The area that caught my attention was on Sulzer areas of renewable solutions to address the crucial challenges that world is facing, on sustainability challenges, catering to a rise and demand in the renewable, recycling and sustainability areas.

World is changing and Sulzer is ready for the challenge ahead, with its chemical engineering leadership, expertise and knowledge, its technology and innovation, and in their R&D to meet the changing world’s needs and changes on sustainability and new energy sources.

The post Sulzer opened latest Innovation Technology Hub (InTecH) in Singapore appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

While Singapore is a small island state that many people won’t think too much about her manufacturing sector, this is Singapore’s most significant driver of nominal GDP (21.6%) [1]. The topic of sustainability is getting even more important and significant. Companies in the manufacturing sector need to start reporting emission numbers or risk losing out to competitors, as many of them are suppliers for international partners who will soon need to submit reports about their carbon footprint fo their supply chain.

The topic of sustainability has been on my key topics of interest that I am working to write and cover more in-depth over the past few years. Some of the sectors that I have been looking at are the travel and tourism sectors. My previous local SME working experiences (and in some parts related to the manufacturing sector) came in handy as I was listening to the launch of CSOaaS with great interest. The topics of sustainability, SME solutions and technology coming together during this media launch announcement of the CSOaaS programme.

SMF is the largest national organisation representing the interests of manufacturing organisations, they are working closely with their members to address the challenges that SME manufacturers face on their sustainability journey. Costs are a major concern for local SMEs, they cannot afford to hire dedicated staff to plan and oversee sustainability initiatives due to limited resources and, as a result, the local SMEs are unsure about where to begin.

CSOaaS programme

The CSOaaS programme will adapt from the Green CompassTM for the local manufacturing sector. This programme will handhold SMEs through their sustainability transformation, assessing their sustainability gaps and prioritising improvements based on financial and strategic impacts.   

The Green CompassTM was first developed by A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), TÜV SÜD and JTC, and has been highly subscribed to date. SMF-appointed Sustainability Consultants attached to the companies will translate the findings into actionable decarbonisation roadmaps to reduce carbon emissions.

Upon implementation of Green CompassTM programme, the Sustainability Consultants will also help companies submit the relevant data, that includes greenhouse gas emissions (GHG Scope 1 and 2) [2], to Gprnt.ai.

The CSOaaS programme uses Gprnt.ai, the Gprnt.ai environmental, social and governance (ESG) data platform [3] to simplify the sustainability reporting process. Importantly, Gprnt.ai aligns with international reporting standards like the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), ensuring global compliance and recognition.

Mr Lennon Tan, President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, said, “SMF is at the forefront of leading local manufacturers into the next industrial era — Industry 5.0. We work with partners to keep a pulse on shifting trends so that we can help our members navigate a fast-paced global market. CSOaaS, the AMTA Playbook, and the APAC Green Alliance (APAC-GA) are key initiatives driving this larger vision. With CSOaaS, our goal is to help strengthen the resilience of Singapore’s manufacturing industry, which will, in turn, drive tomorrow’s innovations.”

SMF is also proud to be a founding member of the APAC-GA alongside the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), and the China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

SMF will play an active role in advocating and promoting Green Excellence for both Manufacturing (GEM) and Non-manufacturing SMEs (Green Excellence in Business, GEB), future-proofing small businesses through capability development, standards development, tools such as carbon accounting, sustainability reporting etc. Other roles include advisory support and forging industry recognition. SMF’s objective is to collectively strive towards a net-zero goal and be ready for Industry 5.0.

APAC-GA will also assess the the post-implementation progress of the companies that undergo the CSOaaS programme and confer a Green Excellence for Manufacturing (GEM) Mark [4] according to their progress. The APAC-GA is also joined by Knowledge Partner, A*Star to support standards development and share industry best practices.

Why was CSOaaS developed?

The CSOaaS programme was developed and launched to meet the looming deadlines for sustainability compliance worldwide, as well as the need to support local manufacturing companies needing help to do so.

In Singapore, listed companies start reporting from 2025, as for large non-listed companies, they start from 2027. These companies must also report their supply chain’s carbon footprint, including emissions from SMEs.

Although non-listed SMEs are not required to report their carbon footprint, if they are suppliers to companies, local or international, they are obligated to comply, or they risk losing that business. Therefore, SMEs are particularly vulnerable.

According to a 2023 survey [5] of 115 manufacturing companies, of which 82% are SMEs, only 21% report on sustainability, while 45% have no plans to do so within the next 1 to 3 years.

Another study [6] of primarily SMEs indicates that the lack of expertise is a sizeable problem, with 34% of companies finding it challenging without an ESG specialist, 31% struggling to understand reporting standards, and 29% lacking technical know-how to plan and execute. Only 37% have a clear roadmap, and 72% need to hire skilled talents to run ESG projects.

Companies with well-documented ESG metrics makes them working with MNCs and other large corporations easier and will open doors to green loans and grants, that can be instrumental in spurring growth.

A spokesperson for XCEL said, “SMF CSOaaS helps us to develop new methodologies and framework with collective data for analysis, which strengthen our business strategy and continuity plans towards a more sustainable entity.”

Information on APAC-GA and CSOaaS

The Trade Association and Chamber (TAC) members of the APAC-GA are responsible for

1. promoting the GEM / GEB Mark along with its associated tasks
2. advisory support / consultancy to help companies embark on sustainability information
3. training of certified consultants and auditors

The CSOaaS programme fee is between S$10,000 to $30,000 depending on the scope, and companies may tap into the following funding support:

1) Mentorship Support Grant (70-90%), through:

• Singapore Polytechnic – Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

2) Career Conversion Programme (CCP), a company who applies for CSOaaS may also tap on the CCP to have an existing or new staff undergo the on-the-job training to become a Sustainability Lead / Facilitator in the future for their company, through:

• SMF-CCL
• Nanyang Polytechnic

Notes:

1. [1]  https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/economy 
2. [2] SMEs are not required to report GHG emissions (Scope 1 and 2). However, the companies SMEs supply to (who need to comply with reporting) require this information to fulfil Scope 3.
3. [3] https://www.mas.gov.sg/news/media-releases/2023/mas-launches-digital-platform-for-seamless-esg-data-collection-and-access 
4. [4] Companies that underwent CSOaaS and implemented their strategies will be evaluated and awarded a GEM Mark Gold, Silver or Bronze according to their progress.
5. [5] https://isca.org.sg/resource-library/sustainability/sustainability-transformation 
6. [6] https://sponsored.bloomberg.com/immersive/dbs/catalysts-of-sustainability 

The post SMF launches CSOaaS decarbonisation programme to help SMEs in Singapore appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

Mr Tony Heng, President of Stellar Lifestyle, said, “Hive by Stellar Lifestyle continues to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) by introducing and validating innovations. This year, Hive 2.0 will leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and connected networks to help our merchant partners become more operationally resilient. We designed these innovations to leverage our extensive rail network, allowing us to create new in-store experiences where consumers can enjoy greater convenience and enhanced retail experiences. What you see here today could scale across the train network in the future, as SMRT is committed to Moving People, Enhancing Lifestyles.”

Hive 2.0 – Future of Retail Innovation

Hive 2.0 is Stellar Lifestyle’s showcase of how they are envisioning the future of retail innovation through the usage and implantation of technology in our Future Cities, Future Living and Future of Work. Hive 2.0 enhances the vibrancy of retail space, the surroundings and creating new commuter experiences. Commuters at Hive 2.0 can experience about 10 unique retail concepts, mostly developed by up-and-coming local startups, within the 3,200 sq feet innovation space daily.

Hive innovation hub was first launched in 2022, connecting Stellar Lifestyle and hundreds of tenants with partners in the technology eco-system. Hive 2.0 features a new lineup of startups and partners, including selected startups from Stellar Lifestyle’s Stellarate Innovation programme.

Hive 2.0 in action

Prior to the official launch event, I had a preview of the Hive 2.0 in action during a media session. This gave me the opportunity to check out the Hive 2.0 retail and technology partners. While I didn’t manage to speak to all of the participating retail and technology partners at Hive 2.0, I had a few chats with some of them, getting to know more about them, what they are doing and their future business plans.

I have a keen interest in chatting with startups in the technology industries, and also relating to SME industries. Those chats allowed me to understand first hand on understanding and seeing Hive 2.0 in action. Here are some of my stories from my interactions and conversations with some of the retail and technology partners at Hive 2.0.

First-of-its-kind robo-delivery by QuikBot

For those working at South Beach Development, they will be able to use a first-of-its-kind robs-delivery service from Esplanade MRT station to their office building. They can order items from Esplanade MRT station’s 7-Evelen through the QuikBot app. For the first time in Singapore, QuikBot’s delivery robots will autonomously transport purchases, consolidating orders on larger robots with a fleet of smaller robots. The robots can seamlessly navigate lifts, gantries and multiple buildings to deliver items directly to office floors. Those robots will exchange items with each other to optimise logistics efficiency, they will also be the first to self-navigate on common corridors as they travel between Esplanade MRT and South Beach Tower.

During the media session, we were given a demonstration of the robo-delivery by QuikBot from Esplanade Xchange to South Beach Development. I reckon this robo-delivery by QuikBot has the potential to expand and grow in business districts e.g. Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar.

Robot bubble tea store from JAVIS

In the coming months, if you are a bubble tea lover, you would love this idea that you can order bubble tea while they are commuting on the train, picking it up from JAVIS, a robot tea store when they arrive at Hive 2.0.

Even though I am not a bubble tea fan, I still occasionally have my bubble tea drink. Chatting with JAVIS, understanding more about their technology expertise and future developments, watching a video of how they are preparing and dispensing their bubble tea as compared to the robotic arm coffee making machine that I saw previously at other technology conferences/events.

Considering that there are many bubble tea fans in Singapore, I would be looking forward to witness the robot tea store by JAVIS in action at Hive 2.0.

Robotic detail dispensing machine by Mr. R Robotics

A robotic retail dispensing machine that is approximately the size of a room. Place your order on the touch screen panel, make the payment and watch the robotic arm collects and delivers your product to you. When you see the number of different items that they can be pack inside and seeking Mr. R Robotics in action, the regular vending machines that you see on a regular basis may not spark you joy anymore.

Showcase of local Singapore brands curated by Yzel

Yzel is a local space aggregator that showcases local Singapore brands curated by them, a pop-up sampling solution that allows merchants to offer their products to customers on a short-term basis in curated retail spaces. Great to see local Singapore businesses, artists in action, displaying their works.

As an arts and craft supporter, and also a fan of going flea market or arts and craft market, I feel that Yzel local space aggregator business concept would fit in nicely at curated retail spaces such as Hive 2.0.

7-Eleven Shop & Go

The first self-checkout retail store where commuters can tap their credit card to enter. They are leveraging AI, smart cameras, deep learning and multi-sensor fusion technologies. This 7-Eleven Shop & Go store provides a frictionless retail experience to shoppers with a seamless Tap, Shop and Go process. The first automated self-checkout store in an MRT Station in Singapore.

IncuBaker

As a technology writer covering technology startups, fin-tech startups, and also a travel/food writer covering travel and tourism related startups over the years, I have yet to come across food/food technology startups in my media/writing coverage. At Hive 2.0, I was introduced to IncuBaker, I met two food startups incubated under them that were showcasing their innovative food products – LadleDrops and Tais’ Kitchen. Do check out and find out more about them!

In my personal humble opinion, IncuBaker incubating F&B startups/entrepreneurs to test and sell their products at Hive 2.0 is a great fit for both parties.

Hive 2.0 Retail and Technology Partners

Who are the Hive 2.0 retail and technology partners? The list below gives a short writeup and insights into each of them:

• 7-Eleven Shop & Go: The first ever autonomous store in Singapore to enable the seamless tap, shop and go process. Commuters only need to tap their credit card to enter, shop what they need and leave the store. Their purchases will automatically be charged to their card as they walk out.
• QuikBot: Leading with its “Autonomous Final-mile Delivery Platform-as-a-Service’’ (AFMD), QuikBot is transforming Singapore’s urban infrastructures into “SMART’’ systems integrated with robotics and IoT. Set for a January 2024 launch with partners like Stellar Lifestyle, South Beach Consortium, and 7-Eleven, South Beach Development office workers can conveniently order from the Esplanade MRT station’s 7-Eleven from the Quikbot app, after which its autonomous robots will transport these orders directly to their office floors, self-navigating along common corridors as they move between Esplanade MRT and South Beach Tower.
• Mr.R Robotics: Singapore’s first adaptive robotics retail store, serving frozen, chilled and ambient products concurrently.
• Yzel: An AI-powered, pop-up sampling solution that helps local brands access complementary physical spaces for product display, sampling and sales.
• IncuBaker: An F&B Incubator offering a co-working kitchen workspace and studio to help aspiring F&B entrepreneurs test and sell their products.
• The Gym Pod: An on-demand fully-private state-of-the-art gym to help health-conscious commuters hit their fitness goals.
• Le Tach Vending: An intelligent vending machine operator that stocks traditional and non-traditional products, ranging from herbal teas to bak kwa (sweetmeat) and fresh fruit.
• Tap Tiles: Tap Tiles is a startup that designs kinetic floor tiles which can harvest clean energy in the form of electricity and data from footsteps while engaging the users in the process..
• BuzzAR: An AI-powered virtual assistant that provides shopping guidance and recommendations to Hive customers.
• JAVIS: An upcoming fully automated bubble tea store that can brew freshly made bubble tea tailored to customers’ preferences.
• NOYES: For retailers, a fully automated nano-warehousing storage solution to support re-stocking and self-collection.

Hive 2.0 – Technology Innovations and the Future of Retail, Future Cities, Future Living

Hive 2.0 features technologies that are used to help retailers improve business efficiency and deal with teething issues that they are facing such as rising costs in workforce and logistics, yet concurrently providing commuters with unique retail experiences.

Hive 2.0 demonstrates Stellar Lifestyle’s continuous improvements to developing solutions that support its retail partners, benefitting the local community and transforming retail spaces at MRT stations into vibrant lifestyle destinations. This goal is achieved through a series of innovations, changes and place-making, by incorporating new technologies, creating new experiential experiences for commuters, and reimagining the use of existing spaces.

Other exciting commuter experiences by Stellar Lifestyle include the sprawling 22,000 sq ft Timezone at Orchard Xchange and the bustling bazaar at Dhoby Xchange with its eclectic range of F&B and lifestyle outlets.

Hive 2.0 encompasses technology innovations into the future of retail, how our future cities and future living could be envisioned, transformed and coming to life in an eco-system and a vibrant community supporting local Singapore SMEs and startups. All these have the potential to be expand further into the heartlands of Singapore, beyond the business and downtown hubs.

The post Hive 2.0 – High Tech Retail Innovation Hub by Stellar Lifestyle appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

Reflecting Year 2023

How was my Year 2023 like? If you like to read about year in review, you can visit the two articles that I wrote – Reflecting Year 2023 (Technology | Business | Personal) and Reflecting Year 2023 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage). The Year 2023 is a mixed bag of results and outcomes, some worthy points to note, as well as challenging, volatile and difficult economic conditions for running a business. Although 2023 is like the first full year of recovery from the global pandemic (2020 to 2022), it’s anything but a bed of roses for many of us in my personal opinion. Year 2023 is not my best year, however I learned a lot.

Yearly Theme 2024

My approach to using a yearly theme is slightly different from the old school style of goal setting and objectives. This approach gives and sets the directions for my year 2024, I might share a bit more on some aspects of my goals and objectives inside my articles.

Here are my Yearly Themes 2024 below, I would like to share them with you, in case you have missed them.

• Yearly Theme 2024 (Technology | Business | Personal) – “Transcend”
• Yearly Theme 2024 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) – “Ignite”

Key areas

At the start of a fresh new year 2024, first up are working on my key areas. My TGH Photography commercial photography services packages and suite of services are currently reviewed and updated for year 2024, that would be completed by end January 2024. Curation of portfolio is currently underway, uploading and adding new photography works into my portfolio.

Partnerships and Collaborations

I am also establishing new partnerships and collaborations, and I hope to add more of them into my lineup in this year 2024.

Media Kits 2024

This is also time to review my media kits for both my TGH Photography and Travel, as well as my TGH Technology and Business, in my content creation, digital marketing and writing suite of services.

Scheduling (Backlogs and Current News)

As I am preparing to embark on covering and writing in those areas that I am interested in (heritage projects, visual storytelling, sustainability and AI) for this new Year 2024, I am also going to strike a balance and clear my key backlogs.

Ready for Year 2024? Let’s kickstart!

A new set of different challenges, uncertainties, fears and economic difficulties are looming around us in this new Year 2024, from economic challenges of the world economy, to local Singapore economy, international and regional geo-politics, adding in technological advancements and disruptions.

Just like this cover photo, the AI image was generated by Microsoft Designer, merged onto a explorer template and edited into this cover photo on Canvas. How would AI, content creation , social media marketing and visual storytelling play their different roles and functions for me In Year 2024?

Are you ready for Year 2024? Let’s kickstart! Join me on my adventures in 2024!

The post Ready for Year 2024? Let’s Kickstart! appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.

Technology

First and foremost, kickstarting off on one of my key sectors, technology writing and coverage, under two main categories of consumer technology and enterprise/business technology. Before I go share more on those two technology sectors, I would like to apologise for those articles coverage that I promised to complete in Q4 2023. I am going to work on them in January 2024 as I kickstart my technology writing and media news coverage for Year 2024.

Consumer Technology

This sector has been pretty much stable and consistent, I will always remind myself not to be complacent, continuously keep in touch and be relevant to consumer technology trends, growth and changes (although they can be quite a handful to take in at times).

Whether I would expand, it would be depending on new media engagements with new brands or reconnecting with previous brands that had somehow dropped me off the radar. As I finally enter into the database of some agencies, there might be new areas of expansion and interests such startups or fin-tech related industries.

Enterprise/Business Technology

This sector has been growing and expanding at a comfortable pace, due to the complexities and technical expertise required for some of those enterprise technology sectors. I have to be selective as some enterprise technology areas are beyond my technology expertise and knowledge.

Year 2023 was significant for me conducting In-depth interviews and discussions on the topic of AI and technological impacts. Therefore, I am going to do more in-depth interviews and discussions for this new Year 2024.

Business

Digital Marketing / Social Media Marketing

I have yet to fully diversify this sector fully into other business interests or industries. While I am working on my own content creation side of things and photography, I have been and still looking out for new opportunities in other business that I can bring this into play.

Startups industry 

I have a keen interest in this sector for a few years, in Q3 and Q4, I had chats with some startups and followed developments in the startups industry. The startups industry is an industry of greater interest, I do not mind working or partnering with startups through my content creation, social media marketing, photography, videography and writing.

Media Relations

In the field of media relations with brands and agencies, the status quo is usually pretty good for those agencies and brands that I work closely with, some brands and agencies have been engaging for a period of time. As for the agencies that I recently engaged and worked with in the past 1-2 years, they would take a bit more time to build up the working relationship.

Personal

On a personal note and observations from a personal basis and perspective, there were a few recurring frustrating things that had been bugging me over the years. They seemed to have escalated in recent times. Here are a brief summary of them without going too deep into details and explanations:

• People don’t read
• People don’t want to understand you, they want you to understand them instead
• Passing judgement is getting more common, uncalled for at times
• People assume things
• Sometimes you are more on social on social media than me and you say I am very busy on social media
• Human communications are getting worse
• Communications and friendships are strained by social media, egos and narcissism
• Human memory is like becoming more like goldfish and they blame it on brain fog arising from the global pandemic period
• FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is getting stronger and worse

Yearly Theme 2023 – Transform

My Yearly Theme 2023 (Technology | Business | Personal) was “Transform”, looking back at year 2023 in review and reflection, I did manage to transform my enterprise/business technology sector. This was growing and expanding at a comfortable pace, something that I expected since this sector is not the easiest to cover and write about. My in-depth interviews and discussions on key technology topics gave me an area that I would expand further in 2024, more interviews and in-depth discussions.

I have yet to fully transform my digital marketing/social media marketing into my business services along with my content creation and commercial photography. On entering into the startups scene, there were some small headways, I am planning to make more in-route into this field in 2024, part of diversification of my business, and where I can bring my content creation, writing, photography services and technology experiences into startups field.

Reflecting Year 2023 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage)

My year 2023 in reflection and review for my photography, travel, creative and heritage sectors are  written and published separately on my TGH Photography and Travel website. Since the two websites are operating in distinct fields, there are quite a fair bit of review and reflections written inside them too.

Looking ahead in 2024 (Technology | Business | Personal)

Looking ahead in 2024 (Technology | Business | Personal), I would be sharing more information and details in my Yearly Theme 2024 (Technology | Business | Personal), this approach is unique and can be very different as compared to the goals and objectives approach that I learnt previously.

Wishing all a Happy New Year 2024! Thank you for your support and encouragement!

The post Reflecting Year 2023 (Technology | Business | Personal) appeared first on TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog.