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U.S. cities can expect to save $280 billion by 2030 with the deployment and use of digital twins, according to a new report. A digital twin is a simulated model of a physical process, product or service that can increase efficiency.
A digital twin uses the best available models, sensor information, and input data to mirror and predict activities/performance over the life of its corresponding physical twin. According to research, this technology is the ultimate tool for urban planners and city governments to design and build their infrastructure in a cost-effective way.
Digital twins allow cities to design buildings more accurately so as to avoid expensive modifications after the initial build, find more resilient ways to improve physical infrastructure to reduce the cost of emergency response and incorporate green design choices to yield long-term energy savings.
Cost savings can be obtained in key areas, such as energy and utilities, transportation, safety and security, and infrastructure. However, urban digital twins also offer many other advantages in terms of supporting and improving sustainability, circularity, decarbonisation, and the overall quality of urban living.
Digital twin technology is a valuable asset for smart city initiatives due to its ability to run simulations based on large datasets. For instance, researchers at the Energy Department’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and National Renewable Energy Laboratory from the U.S. Department of Energy partnered with Chattanooga on digital twins to increase energy efficiency while also optimising drivers’ travel time, speed and safety.
The Navy is using digital twins of its ships to ensure combat readiness without the need to dock and conduct shipboard repairs and maintenance at sea. The Air Force has seen the benefits of digital twins first hand, with its ability to create synthetic equivalents of data – without any of its private, sensitive or classified information – that can be shared with research partners.
While the cost-saving advantages of digital twins allow cities to achieve fast Return on investment (ROI), the increasingly complex nature of connected and smart urban infrastructure, especially in view of future smart urban concepts, will simply mandate the deployment of digital twins as critical, holistic management tools, similar to the role they play in other industries like manufacturing
U.S. government agencies have been using data to make informed decisions in various areas as data-driven organisations deliver better outcomes, as reported by OpenGov Asia. A new report found that four out of five local government officials in the U.S. say they have improved their use of data in the past six years to drive better outcomes for residents.
Two key areas that have seen improvement are performance management and taking action, according to “Closing the Data Gap: How Cities Are Delivering Better Results for Residents. The report is based on a survey of 44 officials in the What Works Cities (WWC) network, an initiative to increase cities’ use of data.
Cities with crucial data skills and practices in place were able to pivot quickly to respond to the ever-evolving challenges the pandemic presented. The challenges include leaning on existing infrastructure, culture, and staff knowledge to immediately stand up crucial data command centres and public information dashboards in the early months of the pandemic and make critical decisions affecting public health, safety, and well-being. COVID-19 has illustrated the importance of investing in and building foundational data skills and practices that enable a city to respond quickly in the face of disaster.
Getting to more effective local government and better outcomes for residents requires the hard work of adopting foundational data practices, developing data skills across a broad swath of city staff, and putting in place critical data infrastructure.


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The consultative committee of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs was briefed by Hardeep S. Puri, the Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, about the progress made in the Smart Cities Mission. Minister Puri highlighted the significant advancements taking place within the 100 smart cities and their positive impact on India’s urban future. He underscored the vital role played by Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV) in effectively managing and implementing the mission at the city level, thus maximising its potential.
The Smart Cities Mission, launched in June 2015, seeks to enhance the lives of citizens by implementing “smart solutions” that focus on core infrastructure, a clean and sustainable environment, and a high quality of life. Under the initiative, 100 cities were selected through a two-stage competition to be developed as Smart Cities. According to the government, the regions are showcasing satisfactory advancements.
The Smart Cities Mission is overseen by an Apex Committee led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. They regularly provide updates on the implementation status of projects through the Real-Time Geographical Management Information System (GMIS). According to the Smart Cities Mission Statement and Guidelines, each city establishes a Smart City Advisory Forum (SCAF) at the local level to facilitate collaboration and provide guidance. The SCAF comprises various stakeholders such as Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, the Mayor, the District Collector, local youth, technical experts, and other relevant parties. So far, the Smart Cities have convened more than 756 SCAF meetings.
In addition, at the state level, a High Powered Steering Committee (HPSC) chaired by the Chief Secretary has been established. This committee plays a crucial role in overseeing the Smart Cities Mission within the state. Furthermore, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs appoints Nominee Directors to the Boards of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) who actively monitor the progress of projects in their respective cities.
The Committee conducted visits to various project sites in Goa, including the ‘Mandovi Riverfront Promenade’, ‘Flood Mitigation Works’, and the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC). During these visits, the status and progress of the projects were discussed as of 1 May 2023. It was highlighted that the Smart Cities Mission comprises approximately 7,800 projects with a total value of INR 1.8 trillion (US$ 21 billion). Out of these, more than 5,700 projects (73% by number) worth INR 1.1 trillion (US$ 13.3 billion) (60% by value) have already been completed. The remaining projects are expected to be completed by June 2024. Also, INR 38,400 crores (US$ 4.6 billion) have been released under the Smart Cities Mission as of 1 May, out of which INR 35,261 crores (US$ 4.2 billion) has been used.
The Ministry maintains regular communication and engagement with the states and Smart Cities through video conferences, review meetings, field visits, regional workshops, and more. These interactions occur at different levels and serve multiple purposes, including assessing the performance of cities and providing necessary support and guidance for their improvement.
An official said that ICCCs play a crucial role in enhancing situational awareness through the utilisation of advanced technologies. These centres provide comprehensive visualisations that enable civic officials to effectively address various urban functions and handle daily tasks, issues, and emergencies following detailed standard operating procedures. ICCCs have evolved into the central hubs of these smart cities, showcasing the effective application of technology in fortifying urban management.
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The Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry officially launched the Malaysia Aerospace Centre of Excellence (MyAERO Centre) in collaboration with the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO Malaysia). The launch coincided with the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 (LIMA’23). Additionally, the “AS9100 Certification by SIRIM QAS International” was also unveiled during the event.
The importance of creating a conducive ecosystem to attract greater high-quality aerospace investments to Malaysia and stimulate domestic direct investment (DDI) was emphasised. In addition to enhancing the local supply chain, there is also a need for a strategic implementation plan to continuously develop highly skilled talent in line with the industry’s latest requirements. Comprehensive digitalisation is necessary for the aerospace industry in Malaysia to remain competitive on a global scale, the Deputy Minister said.
NAICO Malaysia, the recently established agency, will play a pivotal role in fostering industry collaborations in aerospace talent development, supply chain management, and Research & Technology (R&T). Its flagship initiative, MyAERO Centre, will serve as a catalyst to further strengthen Malaysia’s competencies on a global scale. Additionally, MyAERO Centre will be positioned as the primary repository of knowledge in the domains of talent development, supply chain management, and R&T.
The MyAERO Centre will be acknowledged as a platform that facilitates strategic partnerships between local entities, global players, and relevant organisations. Through this platform, partners will have the opportunity to explore avenues for enhancing market access and venturing into new business areas. Recognising the significance of digital technology, the centre will also champion initiatives focused on digital transformation and advancements within the aerospace community.
In the meantime, SIRIM QAS has received accreditation from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) as a Certification Body for the Aerospace Quality Management System (QMS) Scheme. This accreditation empowers SIRIM QAS to support local entities in expediting their AS9100 certification procedures. The timing of this initiative is particularly opportune for SIRIM QAS, considering the rapid growth and expansion of Malaysia’s aerospace industry ecosystem.
MITI remains committed to supporting other segments of the aerospace industry, including the development of locally assembled seaplanes and commercial drones for diverse operations. These endeavours not only aim to reduce reliance on imported aerospace equipment but also seek to expand aerospace exports beyond commercial aircraft parts and components.
In addition, MITI envisions Malaysia venturing into aerospace-grade material production for the global market and becoming a vital supplier of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). By pursuing these initiatives, MITI aims to further strengthen Malaysia’s presence in the aerospace industry and contribute to its sustainable growth.
The Deputy Minister, witnessed exchange of documents which involved various agencies of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), industry players, and aerospace cluster developers. The documents centred around areas such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and professional development, Research and Technology (R&T), enhancement of the local supply chain, aerospace quality certification, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and the development of the seaplane ecosystem.
MITI plays a crucial role in positioning Malaysia as the preferred destination for high-quality investments and elevating the country’s status as a globally competitive trading nation. With its focused objectives and responsibilities, MITI aims to facilitate rapid economic development and contribute to Malaysia’s goal of attaining developed nation status.
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Khon Kaen University, the oldest and largest university in northern Thailand, had virtually has embarked on a virtual transformation to honour and celebrate the rich heritage of Molam culture. The initiative by the public research university in Khon Kaen aims to provide a new learning zone where everyone can tour the Molam world through the Metaverse.
By leveraging technology, Khon Kaen successfully made culture education more inclusive and accessible. Users can reach the learning resources of Molam cultural capital from anywhere and anytime.
Molam is a traditional folk music and dance style that originated in the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isan. It is an integral part of the Isan culture and often reflects the local people’s daily life, struggles, and joys. Molam performances typically feature energetic singing accompanied by various traditional musical instruments and dynamic dance movements. Over the years, Molam has gained recognition and popularity in Thailand and internationally, representing the unique cultural heritage of the Isan region.
The Molam Metaverse represents a digital breakthrough originating from the cultural hub, providing an accessible gateway for both newcomers and enthusiasts of Molam. Extensive research has been conducted, specifically focusing on exploring group Molam performances and Molam poetic narratives within the virtual realm.
Molam World is divided into two zones. The first zone is a central hall where the audience can observe the Molam stage. Upon entering this zone, avatars who are unfamiliar with Molam will experience a virtual projection of the authentic Molam world. The second zone is an exhibition area that provides knowledge about Molam. Avatars in this zone will have the opportunity to experience Molam by engaging in lively dance movements.
The Molam Metaverse zone has the capability to link with the Cultural Map platform, which serves as a network for the Supply Chain involved in the Molam Cluster’ Cluster’s business activities. This integration will play a significant role in promoting and enhancing the visibility of Molam. It will not only become a source of learning and education, but it can also enhance business-related endeavours.
For example, the Molam Metaverse has the potential to offer significant exposure to artists, benefiting both Molam enterprises and the talented individuals who contribute to this vibrant art form. Moreover, its recognition and support by the government can empower and inspire a new generation of artists, leading to the creation of extraordinary artistic masterpieces and fostering a promising era for emerging talents.
The concept of Molam Metaverse originated from a question posed by Assistant Prof Sirisak Laichankham, PhD, the Project Head. Considering the rise of the digital society and the influence of the Metaverse, he wondered how Molam could enter the virtual realm. This query sparked the development of Molam Metaverse, aiming to integrate the traditional Molam culture with the digital world.
Laichankam ‘s objective was to merge technology and culture in order to foster inclusivity and introduce the rich Molam culture to a broader audience. Initially, he has some concerns about the viability and feasibility of the project. However, as his main intention was to experiment and test it out, he went ahead.
“We did not know what the result would be, but we just tried the experiment,” Laichankam said. “We wanted to use this platform to help us form new concepts and innovations that will drive Molam into the digital age.”
In the future, when new technologies emerge, the Molam Metaverse can be extended to encompass other activities. It is truly enhancing the use of modern digital tools for Molam entrepreneurs and, at the same time building new experiences for the user group and enlarging the customer base who are the audience of Molam both in the country and abroad, especially the group not knowing about Molam before.
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Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, Pham Duc Long, highlighted the country’s recent focus on developing digital infrastructure, including significant investments in data centres and cloud computing. These efforts are aimed at driving national digital transformation and enabling the delivery of digital services to advance the digital economy and society.
At the 31st meeting of the Asia Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Wireless Group in Hanoi, Long emphasised that the world is currently confronted with a range of complex issues in the era of wireless devices. APT, in response, is committed to collaborating with member countries to address these problems and effectively overcome the associated challenges.
During the discussions, participants delved into various significant management-related topics. These included potential frequency bands for 6G technology, the effective management of broadband satellite beams, expanding wireless internet coverage through band extensions, and the advancements and implications of 5G technology.
The event serves as a forum for management agencies, organisations, and businesses in the fields of frequency and wireless to discuss and update research activities in the region and around the world. Among the topics discussed, Vietnam is particularly interested in the implementation of new technologies, frequency planning, and trends in the selection of appropriate bands and technologies.
The meeting was held in a hybrid format. The event saw the participation of more than 500 delegates who are leading experts in the field of wireless in the region and the world from member countries, corporations, and large domestic and international telecom enterprises.
In April, the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) announced an auction for frequencies in the 2300-2400 MHz waveband, which will enable network operators to advance their 4G and 5G technologies. The starting price for this waveband was VND 12.88 billion (US$ 548,481) per MHz per annum, and each company had the opportunity to bid for 30 MHz. The companies are allowed to use the wavebands for 15 years for 4G and 5G purposes.
Both mobile service providers and other telecommunication companies were able to participate in the auction if they met the requirements. This means that new players using 4G and 5G technologies entered the mobile market. Companies that do not currently possess licenses for telecom services were also permitted to submit applications to the MIC for consideration and evaluation of their eligibility to participate in the auction.
As OpenGov Asia reported, upon successfully winning the auction and paying the fees in full and on time, the businesses were awarded licenses to use frequencies and offer telecommunication services. Companies that participated in the auction for the right to use radio frequencies in the 2300-2400 MHz waveband were able to establish networks and provide telecommunication services that use IMT-Advanced (4G) or IMT-2020 (5G) technologies.
5G technology offers several benefits that can transform communication, work, and life overall. With its faster data transmission speeds, lower latency, and higher network capacity, 5G can provide seamless connectivity for a wide range of applications, from virtual and augmented reality to autonomous vehicles and smart cities. Digital infrastructure is among the government’s top priorities. Vietnam has set a target to be among the top 30 nations with the most advanced and robust digital infrastructure by 2025. Vietnam’s next wave of socio-economic development will come from innovation, science, and technology, driven by the digital economy.
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The digital economy of China has long played a significant role in enhancing work prospects, streamlining the employment hierarchy, and generating fresh approaches to resolving labour market challenges.
The recent publication “Research Report on China’s Disability Care (2023)” made note of the fact that the emergence of the digital economy era has given rise to the prospect of changing the job structure for the disabled.
Reports cited that with the rise of the Internet, the digital economy has created a lot of new jobs, and the ability of related businesses to take on workers has grown quickly. This has also made it easier for college students with disabilities to find work.
On one side, it illustrates the significance of the digital economy for high-quality employment. The digital economy has currently given rise to a substantial number of new industries, formats, and business models, as well as a significant number of new employment types.
The number of jobs supported by the digital economy will reach 449 million in 2030, according to the report “2023 Frontiers of China’s Digital Economy: Platforms and High-Quality Full Employment” published in February of this year.
The digital economy is inextricably linked to the actual economy. Through the coordinated growth of the digital industry, production efficiency is increased, scale expansion is supported, and old occupations and positions are endowed with new implications, such as online doctors and online vehicle drivers. Workers’ freedom of choice opens additional opportunities for different groups to find work.
At the same time, there are some issues that the nation has addressed immediately in the process of promoting employment in the digital economy. For example, there is a significant shortage of digital talent, inadequate protection of labour rights and interests for new types of employment groups, and employment services that adapt to labour mobility and diversification of employment methods must be improved.
In this regard, it is critical to capitalise on the digital economy’s potential to create new jobs, update the labour structure, and encourage higher quality and fuller employment of relevant talents.
Also, encourage the rapid development of the digital industry and the development of digital skills. Continually promote new formats and models of digital production, cultivate new economic growth points, and create more emerging employment opportunities in emerging industries such as the Internet, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI).
For China, promoting the deep integration of the Internet, big data, AI, and the real economy, encourage the digital transformation of traditional industries, and encourage more workers to switch careers to increase employment. In addition to promoting digital knowledge and skills education at all school levels and establishing and enhancing a multi-level and multi-type digital talent training system.
Alternatively, strengthen the construction of digital employment service platforms and enhance the employment security system that conforms to the laws of the digital economy. Through legislation that clarifies the labour relationship identification mechanism for new employment forms of workers, improves their labour rights and interests protection measures, and adapts the social insurance system to the characteristics of digital work.
Also, making detailed regulations on standard working hours and social insurance payment for digital practitioners, solving problems such as account transfer connection issues and risk compensation issues faced by flexible employees, and strengthening social security for new employment forms.
The nation also implemented “Internet +” public employment and entrepreneurship services that resulted to strengthen the construction of national public employment information service platforms, enhancing mobile terminal applications, developing an intelligent service system that combines policy interpretation, business management, and consultation as well as enhancing digital public employment and entrepreneurship service capabilities.
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The ASTRI Technovation Centre (ATC) was launched in the presence of the Secretary for Security; the Commissioner of Police; the Director of Crime & Security, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF); the Commissioner of Correctional Services; the Director of Fire Services; the Deputy Commissioner of Customs & Excise (Control and Enforcement); and the Assistant Director (Information Systems) of Immigration Department.
The event showcased the collaboration between ASTRI and the disciplined services, as they join forces to advance research and development initiatives, with the ultimate goal of establishing Hong Kong as a leading international smart city.
The opening events of the state-of-the-art ASTRI Technovation Centre (ATC) brought together the Security Bureau and Disciplined services, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of the smart city agenda. ASTRI has consistently demonstrated its dedication to transforming Hong Kong into a globally recognised smart city, while disciplined services play a vital role in shaping the city’s fabric.
Through this collaborative effort, both entities aim to leverage their respective strengths effectively. By combining the disciplined services’ extensive experience in law enforcement with ASTRI’s expertise in technology development and transfer, a comprehensive range of smart research and development applications will be introduced. This joint endeavour will undoubtedly contribute to the accelerated development of Hong Kong as a smart city.
ASTRI presented joint projects developed in collaboration with the disciplined services, showcasing remarkable accomplishments that have received prestigious recognition. One such achievement is the 5G communication technology. Another is the “HoneyNet – Early Threat Hunting and Anticipation Network,” aimed at enhancing proactive threat detection capabilities.
Additionally, ASTRI has developed a state-of-the-art speech-to-text recognition engine named “飛謄,” specifically designed to handle voice records of the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF). Furthermore, a document processing system has been implemented to streamline administrative procedures, resulting in increased efficiency.
Moving forward, ASTRI and the disciplined services are committed to further strengthening their research and development collaborations, with a particular focus on key areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, Internet-of-Things (IoT), and blockchain.
Through the delivery of advanced, efficient, and accurate R&D applications, their joint efforts aim to simplify complex work procedures and empower law enforcement officers to effectively tackle future challenges. This collaborative approach will enhance operational efficiency, elevate service quality, and comprehensively improve the safety and stability of Hong Kong as a smart city.
The Chairman of ASTRI emphasised that the essential element of building a smart city is ensuring the safety and convenience of its citizens. In response to the increasing challenges, it is commendable to witness the disciplined services allocating resources towards the development of new technologies, aiming to enhance law enforcement efficiency and service quality. ASTRI is committed to sustaining its partnership with the Security Bureau and disciplined services, striving to deliver innovative solutions that effectively tackle societal challenges.
The CEO of ASTRI highlighted the past achievements resulting from the collaborative research and development efforts with disciplined services. Looking ahead, both ASTRI and the disciplined services will concentrate on addressing technological requirements related to manpower allocation and law enforcement.
By jointly exploring and developing cutting-edge technologies, their aim is to bolster the law enforcement department’s capabilities and enhance service efficiency through the implementation of smart applications. This endeavour aligns with the goal of transforming Hong Kong into a safe and globally recognised smart city, providing its citizens with an optimal environment for living and working.
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A seminar aimed at providing IT Security knowledge to public health groups, schools, and government sectors was inaugurated by Mr Siraphop Maneerat, Manager of Central Region Sales and Operations at the National Telecommunication Public Company Limited (NT), and Mr Sanae Kamphaeng, Telecommunications Officer of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.
The objective of this seminar is to equip IT officers from government agencies, schools, and local government organisations in the province with the necessary knowledge and understanding to safeguard data and mitigate cyber threats.
NT is prepared to offer a range of services and provide guidance in developing plans and budgets to prevent cyber-attack risks that could significantly impact organisational operations and management.
As the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) reported, Thailand witnessed a significant surge in cybersecurity threats, from 135 incidents in 2021 to over 772 incidents in 2022. The majority of these incidents involved data breaches, particularly through educational and public sector websites.
According to Mr Sanae, a Prachuap Khiri Khan Province Telecommunications representative, many organisations often neglect the regular maintenance of database security and lack proper protocols for handling cyber threats. In such cases, they require dedicated professionals to manage their systems, as threats continuously evolve, and new vulnerabilities emerge.
The Thai government has been concerned regarding the effectiveness of their organisation’s security protocols in mitigating data leaks. They acknowledge that insufficient personnel can result in significant damage. Seeing this, Thai government legislation, namely the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) and some Thai enterprises, passed the Cybersecurity Act in 2019.
The Cybersecurity Act aims to establish legal protections and measures to safeguard cyberspace security. One significant aspect of this act is implementing a cybersecurity risk assessment plan to prevent and address cybersecurity threats that could potentially jeopardise national security and public welfare. These threats encompass the economy, healthcare, international relations, and other governmental functions. The act aims to ensure the stability and integrity of these areas in the face of cybersecurity challenges.
Additionally, the Cybersecurity Act gives the Thai government the authority to monitor and access digital data if it determines that cyber threats pose a risk to the critical digital infrastructure of the country. Private organisations operating in sectors such as national security, financial services, and public services are obligated to provide the names and contact details of key stakeholders who own, use, or possess computer systems, comply with the code of conduct and cybersecurity standards as mandated by law, conduct comprehensive risk assessments, and notify stakeholders about any incidents involving cyber threats.
Basic protection needs to be improved in the current digital landscape, where online threats come in various forms. A comprehensive defence system is crucial. This law and issue is truly new for Thailand itself, so NT allows institutions or even individuals to dig for information regarding cyber security further. “Interested agencies can reach out to the National Telecommunication Company for inquiries and guidance regarding IT Security services,” said Sanae.
Thailand is more serious about bolstering its cybersecurity systems to create a safe environment in a digital era. Supporting this, NT has introduced IT Security services to provide system and equipment security for government and private sector agencies.