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The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore has announced plans to allocate more radio frequency spectrum to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity in the country. This will involve allocating 500 MHz of spectrum in the 6 GHz band specifically for Wi-Fi use.
The lower segment of the 6 GHz band, ranging from 5,925 MHz to 6,425 MHz, has been identified globally as suitable for Wi-Fi use. This additional spectrum will enable the deployment of the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology, which supports wider Wi-Fi channels, including 160-MHz channels. These channels are 2 to 8 times wider than the current 20-MHz to 80-MHz channels in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
The availability of wider 160-MHz channels will offer faster theoretical maximum speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps, doubling the current maximum speeds of up to 4.8 Gbps. Additionally, it will support lower latency use cases, providing an improved experience for bandwidth-intensive and low latency applications.
The allocation of more spectrum in the 6 GHz band is essential to meet the growing demand for data-intensive and low latency use cases, such as interconnected devices, robots with autonomous mobility, generative AI, and augmented or virtual reality experiences. It will reduce contention over Wi-Fi and maintain a good user experience as these applications become more prevalent.
Furthermore, this allocation will ensure a seamless experience for end-users as they transition between different connectivity options in Singapore. While the Nationwide Broadband Network (NBN) provides high-speed fibre broadband connectivity, Wi-Fi serves as the primary connectivity medium for in-unit or in-building wireless connectivity. Wi-Fi technology needs to keep pace with NBN developments to deliver the full potential of the next-generation technology upgrade.
For enterprises, the enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity will enable greater digital innovation, improving efficiency and productivity. It will support augmented and virtual reality experiences at scale, workplace training, and Industry 4.0 innovations like robotics and high-definition video monitoring.
For consumers, the improved Wi-Fi connectivity will enhance home connectivity for bandwidth-intensive activities like remote working, home-based learning, and entertainment. It will also ensure a seamless experience as devices transition between Wi-Fi and 5G connectivity.
IMDA plans to amend its regulations to allocate the 5,925 MHz to 6,425 MHz spectrum for Wi-Fi use. Commercial availability of Wi-Fi 6E-enabled equipment and devices in Singapore is expected by the third quarter of 2023.
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According to a recent IDC report titled, IDC Asia/Pacific (Excluding Japan) Trust and Resilience Update, the topic of digital trust is becoming increasingly important. The report also found there is an increased emphasis on consumer faith in cybersecurity, data privacy, and responsible artificial intelligence (AI).
This IDC report explores how security technology buyers across Asia/Pacific are addressing their digital trust concerns and challenges for 2023. This report also aims to help technology vendors better understand how macroeconomic factors are changing how organizations in the region view and deal with digital trust necessities.
“Trust, in its basic form, is a condition that enables decisions to be made between two or more entities with a level of confidence and quantifiable risk and subjective reputation for an exchange of mutual benefit to occur,’ says Christian Fam, Research Manager, Cybersecurity Services, IDC Asia/Pacific. “Yet, digital trust can only be borne out of transparency. To foster a trusted, long-lasting partnership, vendors must be transparent in validating and verifying the trustworthiness of their services, products, internal processes, and business operations,” added Fam.
At the foundational level, establishing trust and robust risk management processes are interlinked and interrelated so much that organizations in the region are heavily investing in creating trust throughout their organization, with their partners, and with their customers. According to IDC’s FutureScape: Worldwide Future of Trust 2022 Predictions – Asia/Pacific (excluding Japan) ( APeJ ) Implications, by 2026, 25 per cent of APeJ organizations will replace net promoter score-like metrics with trust indices in request for proposals (RFPs) to align traditional security risk solutions with customer success, brand, and reputation.
At the aggregate level, erosion of trust is the biggest concern for organizations in the region, followed by financial loss, and reputational damage. But there is little consistency across the region regarding primary concern. Even though businesses are adopting more security solutions to counteract the evolving threat landscape, organizations continue to struggle with the frustration of managing disparate tools and chasing false positives. Without integration, security teams spend too much time making sense of data across the siloed tools and platforms, creating a hurdle for businesses wanting to establish trust, internally and externally.
“Digital trust is the confidence that users and customers have in the ability of people, process, and technology to create a secure digital world. With the rise in cybersecurity attacks, security hygiene, cyber resilience, and trust indices will be key demands from service partners,” ends Fam.
Digital transformation has expanded the availability, velocity, and mission-critical need of data. Enterprises need to be prepared to respond to any cyberattack, data breach, and privacy concerns. IDC’s Asia/Pacific Security Opportunities: Trust and Resilience provides a comprehensive look at the full breadth of the security market that includes hardware, software, services, and people. This research program examines security market trends, vendor performances, strategies, customer preferences, and buying behaviours for the Asia/Pacific region. It highlights unique perspectives in the Asia/Pacific region around cyber resilience, compliance, and digital trust issues. The service also provides an analysis of technology advancements, emerging trends, players, and best practices for the Asia/Pacific security market.
Tags: Asia Pacificdigital trustIDC
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Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has launched a free program to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the growing health and medical technologies sector to develop new products and services.
Applications are now open for the 10-week Innovate to Grow program, which provides SMEs with the knowledge and tools to better identify and understand their research and development (R&D) opportunities, plus develop actionable business plans to advance their innovative idea.
Dr Susie Nilsson, Biomedical Manufacturing Research Director at CSIRO, said the health and medical technologies sectors play a pivotal role in growing Australia’s economy thanks to our aging population, disruptive technologies and COVID-19 driving local manufacturing capabilities.
“Australia is home to more than 1,000 companies working in the medtech and pharmaceutical sector alone, and many of these are small and medium enterprises who we know can sometimes struggle with the transition from R&D to a viable product,” Dr Nilsson said.
“Supporting these businesses as they pursue new treatments and technologies boosts not only our economy but most importantly helps people live healthier and more productive lives.”
Michelle Armistead, CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow Coordinator said the program is a great opportunity for businesses looking to turn an idea into a viable research and development opportunity and provides invaluable connections to industry experts.
“With assistance from experienced researchers and innovation experts, participants in the program will work with a mentor to examine their technical and business challenges, explore their research and development opportunities, learn tips for partnering with research organisations and develop strong funding applications,” Ms Armistead said.
“After completing the program, eligible participants may be able to access continued support through CSIRO, such as being connected to national research expertise or dollar-matched R&D funding to keep moving their ideas forward.”
Innovate to Grow: Health and Medtech is open to SMEs working in the following sub-sectors:
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According to Gartner, Chief Supply Chain Officers (CSCOs) are increasingly recognizing the opportunity to invest in new technology to drive growth in supply chain management. A survey of supply chain leaders revealed that 65 per cent of respondents believe it will be easier to fund new technology investments, with 73 per cent of supply chain IT budgets allocated to growth and performance enhancements.
Gartner has identified the top eight supply chain technology trends that will likely receive significant investment:
These trends reflect the evolving landscape of supply chain management, driven by the need for growth, resilience, and scalability. Organizations that stay informed about these technology trends and make strategic investments can enhance their supply chain capabilities and drive competitive advantage.
Tags: GartnerSupply chain IT
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]]>The Ministry of Communications and Informatics (MCI) and the National Digital Literacy Movement (GNLD) Siberkreasi have organized the Digital Literacy Week in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, as part of the #MakinCakapDigital campaign. The one-day workshop, held on May 9, 2023, aimed to promote digital literacy to support digital transformation in the region.
The Ministry recognizes the integral role of the Internet in Indonesian society, including East Nusa Tenggara. The workshop aimed to educate the community and various groups in Ende Regency and other areas of the region about digital literacy and increase internet penetration rates in the country.
The importance of digital literacy was highlighted by Suprianto, Acting Head of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics in Ende Regency. He mentioned that many social media users are exposed to issues related to ethnicity, religion, race, and hoaxes due to a lack of understanding of the consequences of their actions. Thus, the Digital Literacy Week aimed to raise awareness among the communities in Ende.
Dr. Laurentius D. Gadi Djou, an Accounting Lecturer at Flores University, emphasized the importance of fundamental aspects in the digital world, such as respecting cultural norms, maintaining ethical conduct, and prioritizing personal and others’ safety online.
Indonesia’s digital literacy has been improving each year, with the Digital Literacy Index 2022 indicating a moderate level of digital literacy in the country. The index measures digital skills, digital ethics, digital safety, and digital culture. Initiatives by the Ministry have helped bridge the gap between digital literacy levels in urban and rural areas, leading to more even development of digital competitiveness in Indonesia.
Fernando Watu, the Head of West Detusoko Village in Ende Regency, emphasized the importance of collaboration between universities, villages, and the use of appropriate technologies to achieve the desired future. Digitalizing villages focuses on empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enhancing their competitiveness by leveraging the right technology. Digitalization provides benefits such as broader marketing, direct consumer communication, and 24-hour availability, eliminating barriers related to education, age, physical condition, and location.
To promote digital competitiveness, various initiatives have been undertaken, including accelerating ICT infrastructure, fostering digital talent competitiveness, and promoting financial literacy. The workshop in Ende Regency involved diverse groups, including the Waste Bank Community, Mobile Legend Community, and MSMEs, showcasing the enthusiasm of the local communities. The event concluded with performances by local bands, stand-up comedians, and exciting door prizes.
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]]>HANCOM, a company led by CEO Sung-Jun Byun and Yeon-Soo Kim, has recently sent a letter to its shareholders for the first half of 2023. The company had previously promised continuous communication with its shareholders, and this letter fulfills that commitment.
In the letter, HANCOM highlights its transition from an installation software-focused business structure to a cloud Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. The company plans to restructure its portfolio to expand its cloud SaaS projects and take a leading position in the domestic and international AI editor markets through AI development.
To improve product competitiveness and cater to customer needs, HANCOM will incorporate generative AI technology into its HANCOM Office software. This move aims to establish a growth engine for expansion in overseas markets. Additionally, HANCOM Office Editor will be integrated with robotic process automation (RPA) through partnerships with domestic and international entities, adopting a SaaS model to generate new revenue streams across various industries and services.
Last year, HANCOM achieved its largest-ever cashable assets through the sale of HANCOM MDS. The company plans to utilize these assets to aggressively expand into overseas markets by investing in and acquiring companies with growth potential as part of its global strategic initiative called ‘HANCOM Alliance.’
Furthermore, HANCOM intends to enhance the quality of its businesses and lay the foundation for long-term growth. This includes actively supporting the growth of its subsidiaries with high growth potential, such as genetic analysis and digital healthcare company HANCOM Carelink, and travel start-up MadX Company. The company also plans to actively restructure the business portfolios of its subsidiaries.
CEO Yeon-Soo Kim expressed the company’s commitment to business innovation, financial improvement, and the transformation of corporate and organizational culture. Despite the challenging market environment, HANCOM aims to achieve continuous growth through these efforts.
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The partnership between Domino’s Indonesia and Netcore Cloud highlights the pizza restaurant chain’s commitment to improving customer engagement and retention through advanced SaaS solutions. By leveraging Netcore Cloud’s AI-powered capabilities, Domino’s will gain a comprehensive understanding of its customers and enhance its marketing and product strategies.
Netcore Cloud’s Customer Engagement platform enables Domino’s to create a unified profile for each customer by analysing data from various online and offline channels. This allows marketers to gain insights into customer behaviour at every stage of their conversion journey, leading to more informed decision-making and real-time adjustments to marketing strategies. The platform provides a dashboard with key metrics such as revenue, daily active users, app stickiness, and user flows, allowing Domino’s to measure the effectiveness of its campaigns and optimize user experiences.
In addition, Netcore Cloud’s Product Experience platform enables Domino’s to guide users through its app or website using contextual nudges and walkthroughs. These features help users navigate the platform more intuitively and drive goal-driven actions, ultimately improving conversion rates. By combining these capabilities, Domino’s can create personalized customer journeys that are more relevant and engaging, leading to increased customer satisfaction and repeated engagement.
Siddhesh Sawant, Regional Vice President of Netcore Cloud in Indonesia, expressed confidence in empowering Domino’s Indonesia with contextual nudges and walkthroughs, providing one-on-one suggestions for customers while ordering pizzas and beverages through the app and website. This partnership is expected to enhance customer satisfaction and drive sales for Domino’s.
Mayank Singh, Chief Digital Officer and VP of Marketing, Digital Business, and IT at Domino’s Pizza Indonesia, emphasized the brand’s commitment to delivering the best customer experience and engagement. By partnering with Netcore and leveraging their customer engagement platforms, Domino’s aims to further improve its order conversion rate and provide unparalleled value to its loyal customers.
Netcore Cloud, with over two decades of experience and a presence in 22 global markets, serves more than 6,500 clients worldwide, including prominent companies in Indonesia such as CIMB Niaga, FWD Life, Bluebirdgroup, Panorama JTB, Bussan Auto Finance, Qerja, and Capital Life. Their expertise in consumer engagement positions them as a trusted partner for Domino’s Indonesia in driving customer-centric strategies.
Tags: DominosIndonesiaNetcore CloudPrnasia
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The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong, recently launched the refreshed Infocomm and Media (I&C) Industry Transformation Map (ITM) in Singapore. The ITM aims to develop a strong and resilient I&C sector to drive the growth of the Digital Economy and reinforce Singapore’s position as a hub for leading tech companies and talent.
The refreshed ITM builds upon the strategies set out in the previous ICM ITM launched in 2017, which contributed to the robust growth of the sector. Despite the impact of COVID-19, the I&C sector rebounded and achieved a nominal growth rate of 7.9 per cent from 2015 to 2021, surpassing the initial target of 6 per cent. As of December 2020, the sector employed over 245,000 workers, with 30,000 being new resident PMETs (Professionals, Managers, Executives, and Technicians), exceeding the initial target of 210,000 workers and 13,000 new PMET jobs.
The refreshed ITM, developed by Digital Industry Singapore (DISG), focuses on the I&C sector, including sub-sectors such as software, IT services, online services, and telecommunications. The strategies outlined in the refreshed ITM aim to achieve a real Value Added (VA) Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5 per cent to 7 per cent and a real VA per worker CAGR of 1.5 per cent to 3 per cent from 2020 to 2025. The goal is to create 80,000 well-paying jobs in the I&C industry by 2025, offering opportunities for Singaporeans.
Key initiatives and strategies under the refreshed ITM include:
To achieve the objectives of the refreshed ITM, collaboration among industry players, institutes of higher learning (IHLs), and trade associations is crucial. Co-designing and co-delivering curriculum.
Tags: digital economyIMDASingapore
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According to the UOB Business Outlook Study 2023, both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprises in the ASEAN and Greater China regions are eager to expand internationally to boost their revenue and profits. The study surveyed over 4,000 businesses in Asia, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Mainland China, and Hong Kong SAR.
Key findings of the survey include:
To address these challenges, UOB, a leading bank in Southeast Asia, aims to support companies in their transition to sustainability and provide access to sustainable financing options. The bank offers tools like the Sustainability Compass to help companies overcome barriers and kickstart their sustainability journeys.
The UOB Business Outlook Study 2023 aims to understand the business outlook and expectations among SMEs and large enterprises in ASEAN and Greater China. It has been conducted annually in Singapore since 2020 and was expanded this year to include the ASEAN and Greater China markets.
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Microsoft Corp. has introduced Microsoft 365 Copilot, a generative AI tool, to its suite of applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. The company is expanding access to the Copilot preview and introducing new features. In conjunction with this announcement, Microsoft released insights from its 2023 Work Trend Index report, titled “Will AI Fix Work?”
The Work Trend Index report surveyed 31,000 individuals across industries in 31 countries, including 14 Asia Pacific markets, and analyzed trillions of signals from emails, meetings, chats, and labor trends on Microsoft 365 and LinkedIn. The findings indicate that the pace of work has outstripped human capacity, affecting innovation. The report suggests that next-generation AI can alleviate the burden of work, leading to increased creativity and productivity.
Vinod Muralidharan, General Manager Modern Work at Microsoft Asia, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in the workplace. He emphasized the need for leaders to leverage AI to remove mundane tasks, foster creativity, and develop AI skills among employees.
The report offers three key insights for business leaders:
To support businesses in the AI era, Microsoft is launching the Microsoft 365 Copilot Early Access Program for select enterprise customers. They are also introducing new capabilities to Copilot and Microsoft Viva, such as Copilot in Whiteboard, Copilot in PowerPoint with DALL-E integration for custom image creation, Copilot in Outlook for email writing guidance, Copilot in OneNote for drafting plans and organizing information, and Copilot in Viva Learning for personalized learning journeys.
Additionally, Microsoft is rolling out the Semantic Index for Copilot to all Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 customers, aiming to assist customers in becoming AI-ready.
Tags: MicrosoftPrnasiaWork Trend Index
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