EXCLUSIVE – Safeguarding Malaysian cyber space (Part I) – Protecting critical infrastructure and inculcating public awareness

Cybersecurity is a vital concern for countries moving towards a digital government and economy. Every step forward in technology adoption brings its own set of risks.

CSM is the national cyber security specialist agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). OpenGov conducted an interview with Dato’ Dr. Haji Amirudin Abdul Wahab, Chief Executive Officer, CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM) to learn about areas of focus and key ongoing initiatives at CSM (OpenGov previously interviewed Dato’ Dr. Haji Amirudin in March 2016) .

We will be publishing the comprehensive interview in two parts, with the first part covering CSM’s Business Transformation Program which aims to achieve 20 per cent self-sustainability for CSM by 2020, protecting Critical National Information Infrastructure and improving general public awareness of cybersecurity and best practices. In the second part, Dato’ Dr. Haji Amirudin tells us about multilateral cooperation and the challenges of changing mindset and culture.

Could you tell us about your role as the CEO of CSM (CSM)? What are the short to medium term areas of focus and key ongoing initiatives at CSM? (SM)

Since taking over the role as Chief Executive Officer in 2013, I have been overseeing CSM’s initiatives that are implemented to realise its vision to become a globally recognised national cyber security reference and specialist centre by 2020.

CSM has successfully rolled out programs and projects under its Centre of Excellence (COE) initiative that was introduced in 2013 to provide leadership and specialised services delivery to the country’s Critical National Information infrastructure (CNII) sectors. COE is a comprehensive strategic long term plan, which lays out CSM’s vision for 2020 and provides a roadmap on how to achieve it.

There are eight selected expertise areas under COE as listed below:

Digital Forensics and Investigation
Cybersecurity Responsive Services
Cybersecurity Strategic Studies
Cyber Rapid Action & Intelligence
Cybersecurity Acculturation & Capacity Building
Information Security Certification
Cybersecurity Governance, Risk Management & Compliance
Cybersecurity Assessment and Assurance

Each of CSM division or department for the above eight focus areas has been tasked to identify potential cyber security services ready for commercialisation.

CSM’s key ongoing initiative is its Business Transformation Program (BTP), which kicked off in 2016.Currently, I am closely monitoring BTP, which requires revision of both the agency’s corporate and organisation structures.

Central to the BTP is the commercialisation of cyber security training, consultancy, certification and technical services. The BTP has been outlined with the aim of achieving 20 per cent self-sustainability through own revenue generation by 2020.

The overall objectives of BTP are to:

Achieve technical excellence and national leadership in the eight selected focus areas;
Drive commercialisation efforts to generate alternative revenue sources;
Reorganise corporation to be more market or commercially oriented;
Enhance service delivery effectiveness and visibility of impact;
Develop strategic partnerships and collaborations with leading industry players;
Engage stakeholders to safeguard and enhance relevance and positioning; and
Transform people mindset and corporate culture

BTP integrates various strategic initiatives which encompass people, process and technology elements namely:

Domain Expertise Areas under COE – in terms of technical/supply
Product Development and Marketing – product packaging
Industry Development – industry collaboration program
Change Management – supply and demand of employees
Account Management – internal supply, account and project management

These days a cyber attack on critical infrastructure or even an important private company, such as a major bank, can cause significant damage. What is CSM doing to provide cybersecurity support to industry and for protecting infrastructure assets?

To safeguard the nation cyber space from cyber threats, the Government through CSM has taken steps including to:

Implement the National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP) under the supervision of the National Security Council. NCSP is a comprehensive initiative to tackle cyber threats, especially in the protection of CNII. NCSP focuses on the use of cyber security technology towards the development, usage and production of local technologies to reduce dependence on foreign technologies. This policy also emphasises capacity building in the field of cyber security, research and development, as well as initiatives in dealing with cyber threats.
Assist in implementing the certification of Information Security Management System (ISMS) based on ISO 27001 International Standard for the CNII organizations.
Enact the National Cryptography Policy under the supervision of the National Security Council in order to protect the nation's critical information assets in terms of confidentiality, integrity and authenticity through the implementation of a trusted cryptographic infrastructure. National Cryptography Policy has outlined the methods and strategic approach in the use of cryptography, the cryptography products and research and development for government agencies to protect information.
Strengthen cyber security cooperation at the international level such as the ASEAN Regional Forum, the Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team (APCERT) and the Organisation of The Islamic Cooperation – Computer Emergency Response Team (OIC-CERT). Malaysia, through CSM, was appointed as the Permanent Secretariat of the OIC-CERT in 2013. CSM has also been appointed to be the Deputy Chairman APCERT for years 2016-2017.
Identify the level of preparedness of the CNII agencies in facing the various threats and cyber-attacks, the National Security Council in collaboration with CSM has organized National Cyber Drill (X-MAYA) periodically since 2008. The cyber drill is specifically aimed at testing the effectiveness, identifying gaps and improving communication procedures, response and coordination of National Cyber Crisis Management. In addition, the exercise also plays an important role in increasing awareness among organizations and CNII agencies on the impact of cyber incidents on national security. To date, X-MAYA has been held 6 times from 2008 until 2017.

Regarding cyber threats to the financial sector especially in the banking sector, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has set up Internet Banking Task Force (IBTF) in 2004 to develop best practices for the banking industry and cooperate with respective agencies to address cyber security incidents. It is also a platform to discuss the latest trends or issues to deal with Internet banking and online financial criminal activity. CSM is a key member in providing technical advice and support to IBTF members.

Chaired by Bank Negara Malaysia, IBTF consists of: 1) All commercial banks in Malaysia (banks provide Internet banking services in Malaysia) that carry out the transaction in either a local bank or a foreign bank; 2) The Law Enforcement such as the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and other relevant agencies with cyber security such as Telco and technical agencies like CSM.

The IBTF’s main role is to develop best practices for the entire banking industry and to cooperate with relevant agencies in dealing with cyber security incidents and intrusions.

What is CSM doing to improve public awareness of cybersecurity and best practices?

As part of its initiatives to strengthen the field of cyber security, CSM is continuously carrying out various programs to inculcate awareness amongst internet users on technological and social issues, particularly online danger.

CSM has introduced a dedicated program known as Cyber Security Awareness for Everyone (CyberSAFE) aimed at increasing awareness and nurturing best practices on safe and positive ICT usage amongst internet users.

Activities that have been carried out by CyberSAFE include:

Awareness Talks & Open Seminars
Training of Teachers/Ambassadors
Onsite Awareness Days/Week
Awareness Activity Kits
Awareness Roadshows and Competitions
Consultation with the Community and various interest groups
National ICT Security Discourse (NICTSeD)
Safer Internet Day (SID)
Cyber Discovery Camp
CyberSAFE Mentor program for Institute of Higher Learning Centres
CyberSAFE Treasure Hunt / Explore Race
CyberSAFE Performing Arts

Amongst the issues highlighted are:

Good Online Chatting and Social Networking Habits
Safe Internet Banking & Online Shopping
Online Investment Scams, Identity Thefts, Online Fraud and Phishing Scams
Protecting Your Computer against viruses, worms and other Malware Infections
Cyber Stalking, Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
Good Email Account Management and Dealing with Spam
Protecting privacy and personal information online

The initiatives under CyberSAFE place emphasis on the importance of safeguarding internet users’ safety and assets including personal information when surfing the internet especially social media sites.

How is CSM working with other Malaysian government agencies to create a safer and more secure cyberspace?

As I mentioned earlier, NCSP is one of the most important measures taken to secure the cyberspace and forms the foundation of Malaysia e-Sovereignty. Formulated by the Ministry of Science Technology and Innovation in 2005 and it was endorsed by the Cabinet in May 2006, objectives of the NCSP is aimed at addressing the risk to the CNII sectors, ensure that the critical infrastructure is protected as well as develop and establish a comprehensive program and a series of framework. Collectively, such cyber security posture will promote productivity, national sustainability, social harmony and well-being, as well as wealth creation.

In support of NCSP and through the National Security Council (NSC) of Malaysia CSM is working together with other government agencies and lead sectors f
rom the 10 Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) sectors in Malaysia to safeguard the country’s cyberspace. The 10 critical sectors are: Defence and Security, Transportation, Banking and Finance, Health Services, Emergency Services, Energy, Information and Communication, Government, Food and Agriculture and Water.

Malaysia also implements X-Maya, a National Cyber Crisis Exercise or Cyber Drill conducted by CSM in collaboration with the National Security Council to assess and improve the National Cyber Crisis Management Plan together with CNII's readiness against the threat of cyber-attacks on a yearly basis.

The second part of this interview will be published on April 26, 2017.

Singapore to Introduce Passport-Free Departures

Departing from one of the busiest airports in the world is about to become a remarkably hassle-free experience. Singaporean ministers have just unveiled plans for an automated immigration clearance system that promises to revolutionise travel with no passport required. This groundbreaking development at Singapore’s Changi Airport is set to launch in 2024.

According to Communications Minister Josephine Teo, this ambitious project intends to eliminate the need for tourists to “repeatedly present their travel documents.” Instead, biometric data gathered from fingerprint scans and facial recognition technology will take the central stage.

While Changi Airport already employs biometric technology in its automated immigration lanes, these upcoming enhancements will take convenience to a whole new level. The goal is to make the entire airport experience smoother and more streamlined for passengers.

Singapore’s Communications Minister, Josephine Teo, proudly announced that Singapore is set to be among “the first few countries in the world” to implement such a groundbreaking system. The first phase of this transformative scheme is expected to roll out early next year, featuring QR code scanning points that will pave the way for the biometric revolution.

These innovations are made possible by recent amendments to Singapore’s immigration laws, which facilitate the widespread adoption of biometric clearance at airports and various other checkpoints. The result will be a travel experience where your personal information seamlessly verifies your identity at every stage, from check-in to boarding.

This monumental shift in travel procedures brings with it a multitude of benefits. Firstly, it eliminates the stress and anxiety associated with keeping track of physical documents throughout the journey. No more worrying about losing the passport or having it stolen, hence, the identity is in the hands, quite literally.

Additionally, using biometric data enhances security measures, making it even more challenging for unauthorised individuals to access restricted areas. It’s a win-win situation for both passengers and airport authorities.

Singapore’s Changi Airport is on the cusp of transforming the way of travelling. The introduction of an automated immigration clearance system powered by biometric data promises a future where passports and boarding passes become relics of the past.

Instead, a simple fingerprint scan or facial recognition will grant access to a seamless, stress-free journey. Singapore is leading the charge into this new era of travel, and the world will be watching closely as the innovation unfolds.

The New Clearance Concept (NCC) and Services Centre Next Generation (SCNG) are two initiatives that the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) implemented to enhance border clearance and registration services, as well as automated immigration clearance and digitalisation.

The Automated Clearance Initiative (ACI), which takes effect in May 2022, allows passport holders from 51 countries to use designated automated immigration lanes without prior enrolment. Over four million international visitors have been enrolled through ACI to date. The electronic visit pass (ePass) contains information on eligible foreign visitors’ enrolment.

During the pandemic-induced slowdown, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), in collaboration with Changi Airport Group and ground handling partners, has accelerated trials of autonomous vehicles (AVs) at Changi Airport’s airside. This time period was used to direct resources and capabilities towards technological and innovative developments.

Advanced robotic systems and adaptive platforms are also being developed to resist varied weather conditions and work well outside. These developments are intended to make aircraft turnaround operations and baggage handling easier, especially in inclement weather. CAAS is committed to strengthening its capabilities in order to manage the anticipated increase in air traffic, with a focus on both safety and efficiency in its operational approach.

Investment Fuels Malaysia’s Innovation Hub Ambitions

A leading U.S.-based global player in the realm of advanced technology and innovation is embarking on a significant expansion venture into Malaysia. The CEO of the enterprise unveiled an ambitious strategy during a meeting with Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry in New York City, aiming to invest a substantial sum exceeding RM2 billion over the span of seven years.

The construction of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility is already underway, which will serve a dual purpose as a global research and development hub, focusing on pioneering technology platforms. By the year 2024, this organisation foresees a pivotal role in augmenting production capacity and accommodating the ever-evolving demands of its expansive worldwide clientele.

The Minister offered a warm reception to the global expansion, accentuating the organisation’s initial investment commitment of RM500 million. This commitment dovetails seamlessly with Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030, underlining the importance of nurturing an investment-friendly environment and swiftly assimilating technology into the manufacturing sector.

It solidifies Malaysia’s stature as a global epicentre for technology and innovation, fostering collaboration between the organization and local industry stakeholders, all while promising a surge in quality employment opportunities for Malaysians.

The CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority conveyed his excitement regarding this significant commitment, recognizing its potential to catalyse mutually beneficial partnerships with domestic industry players, particularly in high-value, high-growth sectors. The organization’s long-term presence in Malaysia is poised to make a substantial contribution to the nation’s economic growth and development, with MIDA pledging unwavering support.

The President and CEO of the company expressed a sense of pride in expanding its global footprint and elevating its operations in Malaysia through the establishment of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Johor Bahru. This facility is slated to become the linchpin for catering to global customers across diverse sectors and holds the promise of swift market entry. The suite of incentives offered by various government entities, spanning federal, state, and local levels, coupled with robust infrastructure support, make this expansion a judicious and strategic investment.

OpenGov Asia recently reported that the substantial investments pouring into Malaysia during the first half of 2023, totalling RM132.6 billion (US$28.4 billion) and expected to generate over 51,853 job opportunities, are a clear testament to the nation’s attractiveness to global investors. These investments align perfectly with Malaysia’s vision of becoming a prominent hub for technology, innovation, and economic growth.

The Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) expressed his satisfaction with Malaysia’s performance, emphasising the nation’s consistent efforts to attract high-quality investments and drive economic growth. Importantly, Malaysia managed to secure an impressive 60.3% of its annual investment target within the first half of the year, reflecting its ability to execute on its investment plans effectively.

A significant portion of these investments, 52.2%, came from Domestic Direct Investment (DDI), totalling RM69.3 billion (US$14.8 billion). DDI’s remarkable growth, a 58.2% increase compared to the previous year, was driven by investments in services and the primary sector, notably real estate. This surge in domestic investment showcases the confidence of Malaysian businesses in the nation’s economic prospects.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) also played a pivotal role, contributing 47.8% of total approved investments, equivalent to RM63.3 billion (US$13.6 billion). Notably, Singapore emerged as the leading source of FDI with RM13.7 billion (US$2.9 billion), followed closely by countries such as Japan, the Netherlands, China, and the British Virgin Islands. This international investment inflow underscores Malaysia’s global appeal and its ability to attract funds from diverse sources.

Malaysia’s ability to attract significant investments, coupled with its supportive policies, strategic positioning, role as a supply chain hub, and growing innovation capabilities, reflects the nation’s commitment to becoming a global technology and innovation hub while fostering economic growth and job creation.

India Transforming Agricultural Data Governance

A representative of the country’s think tank, the National Institute of Transforming India (NITI Aayog), Ramesh Chand, formally introduced the Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics (UPAg Portal). This marks a significant step in tackling the complex governance issues in India’s agricultural sector. It is designed to optimise and elevate data management within the agricultural sphere. It will contribute to a more efficient and responsive agricultural policy framework.

The portal standardises data related to prices, production, area, yield, and trade, consolidating it in a single location. This eliminates the necessity to compile data from multiple sources. The portal can also conduct advanced analytics, providing insights into production trends, trade correlations, and consumption patterns.

Furthermore, the portal will produce granular production estimates with increased frequency, improving the government’s capacity to respond swiftly to agricultural crises. Commodity profile reports will be generated using algorithms, reducing subjectivity and providing users with comprehensive insights. Users also have the flexibility to use the portal’s data for crafting their own reports, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making.

The portal was developed by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW). During his speech, Chand hailed the platform as an investment and a monumental leap forward in the field of agricultural data management. He encouraged the audience to embrace a shift in mindset within agriculture, aimed at bringing about transformative changes. Research suggests that US$ 1 invested in data generated a US$ 32 impact, he said.

The portal empowers stakeholders with real-time, reliable, and standardised information, laying the foundation for more effective agricultural policies. He also asserted that when data is more objective, the room for subjective judgment in policy-making diminishes, resulting in more stable, transparent, and well-informed decisions. He advised that the portal should prioritise data credibility to maximise its effectiveness.

Secretary of the DA&FW, Manoj Ahuja, underscored the various ongoing initiatives by the department, such as the Krishi Decision Support System, the farmer registry, and crop surveys. He articulated that the UPAg Portal is envisioned as a public good, aiming to provide users with reduced search costs, minimised obstacles, and access to trustworthy, detailed, and impartial data. According to a press release, the UPAg portal tackles the following challenges:

Lack of Standardised Data: At present, agricultural data is scattered across multiple sources, often presented in diverse formats and units. The UPAg Portal’s objective is to centralise this data into a standardised format, making it easily accessible and understandable for users.

Lack of Verified Data: Reliable data is crucial for accurate policy decisions. UPAg Portal ensures that data from sources like Agmarknet is vetted and updated regularly, ensuring policymakers receive accurate information on agricultural prices.

Fragmented Data Sources: To construct a comprehensive understanding of any crop, it is necessary to consider multiple variables such as production, trade, and prices. The portal consolidates data from various sources, enabling a holistic assessment of agricultural commodities.

Inconsistent Frequency Variables: Data updates at different times, causing delays and inefficiencies. The portal offers real-time connectivity with data sources, reducing the time and effort required for monitoring and analysis.

The UPAg Portal is expected to play a pivotal role within the Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture, focusing on harnessing the diversity of the agriculture sector and leveraging data as a catalyst for growth.

Machine Learning Unlocks the Potential of Antibodies

The University of Michigan has developed machine-learning algorithms technology. This new technology can identify problematic areas in antibodies, making them less susceptible to binding non-target molecules. This innovative development, led by Peter Tessier, the Albert Mattocks Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at U-M and the study’s corresponding author in Nature Biomedical Engineering, presents a ground-breaking solution to enhance the effectiveness of antibodies in fighting diseases.

“Antibodies play a crucial role in our immune system’s defence mechanism by binding to specific molecules known as antigens on disease-causing agents, such as the spike protein on the COVID-19 virus,” Tessier expressed, “Once bound, antibodies either directly neutralise harmful viruses or cells or signal the body’s immune cells to take action.”

However, there’s a challenge associated with antibodies designed to bind strongly and rapidly to their specific antigens. These antibodies may also bind to non-antigen molecules, leading to their premature removal from the body. Moreover, they can interact with other antibodies of the same type, forming dense solutions that do not easily flow through the needles used for delivering antibody drugs.

Tessier highlighted the importance of antibodies that can simultaneously perform three critical tasks: tightly binding to their intended target, repelling each other, and disregarding other substances within the body. Antibodies failing to meet all three criteria are unlikely to be successful drugs. Unfortunately, a significant number of clinical-stage antibodies fall short in this regard.

In their recent study, Tessier’s team assessed the activity of 80 clinical-stage antibodies in the laboratory. It made a startling discovery – 75% of these antibodies interacted with the wrong molecules, with each other, or both. To address this issue, the team turned to machine learning.

By making subtle changes to the amino acids that make up an antibody, they can alter the antibody’s three-dimensional structure. This modification helps prevent antibodies from behaving improperly, as an antibody’s structure determines the substances it can bind to. However, making changes without careful consideration can introduce more problems than they solve, and the typical antibody contains hundreds of amino acid positions that could be altered.

Fortunately, machine learning offers a streamlined solution. Tessier’s team created models that are trained using experimental data collected from clinical-stage antibodies. These models can precisely identify how to modify antibodies to ensure they meet all three criteria mentioned earlier, with an impressive accuracy rate of 78% to 88%. This approach significantly reduces the number of antibody modifications that chemical and biomedical engineers need to produce and test in the lab.

Tiexin Wang, a doctoral student in chemical engineering and a co-author of the study, emphasised the pivotal role of machine learning in accelerating drug development. This advanced technology is already attracting attention from biotech companies, which recognise its potential for optimising the development of next-generation therapeutic antibodies.

Tessier concluded by mentioning that some companies have developed antibodies with desirable biological activity but are aware of potential challenges when using these antibodies as drugs. In such cases, Tessier’s team steps in to identify specific areas within the antibodies that require modification, offering valuable assistance to these companies.

Singapore to Boost Deep Tech Start-ups

The National University of Singapore (NUS), Temasek, and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to begin a collaborative S$75 million pilot programme that intends to hasten the development of profitable deep tech start-ups from NUS and NTU research pipelines.

Additionally, a shared Intellectual Property (IP) licencing framework between NTU Singapore and NUS would speed up the licencing and translation of university innovations for spin-off businesses. In contrast to the typical process, which can take up to five months, the outcome will be a shorter one-month process.

“The collaboration sees us synergising our expertise and resources to create opportunities for applications of emerging technologies and empower start-ups and companies to create positive societal impact and economic growth through innovation,” said Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS.

He added that NUS is excited to leverage its rich expertise and experience in entrepreneurship and innovation to help mature its deep tech ecosystem and facilitate and accelerate IP commercialisation through the framework.

NTU and NUS will each contribute S$5 million to the deep tech start-ups, with Temasek contributing S$65 million. In order to start and develop globally competitive businesses with tremendous potential to address significant global market opportunities in areas including the energy transition, biotechnology, and the future of computation and cognition, Temasek and a deep-tech company will work with NTU and NUS.

To build and refine their go-to-market plans, the deep tech founders will work with the university technical and intellectual property teams. The start-ups will also have access to the networks of firms and mentors offered by Temasek, NTU, and NUS. Every year, at least two start-ups will be introduced, and to help them position themselves for long-term success on a global scale, they will get investment, support, and entrepreneurial mentoring.

Temasek makes investments in cutting-edge innovation to pinpoint and develop skills that are future-focused. By investing in and developing future deep tech champions, its Emerging Technologies division helps to scale Singapore’s deep tech ecosystem and finds disruptive technology investment possibilities that address market nuances.

To give prospective licensors a one-stop shop where they may find and choose IPs from both universities that meet their business needs, NTU and NUS will also create a single online portal.

Advanced materials, biotechnology, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) are among the cutting-edge topics that deep tech businesses frequently concentrate on. By helping these entrepreneurs, Singapore can encourage ground-breaking inventions that could revolutionise whole sectors of the economy and enhance human welfare.

The nation acknowledges that deep tech companies can boost economic growth, add to the GDP of a nation, and generate high-value jobs. These firms frequently draw talent and call for certain talents, which helps to create new sectors and grow ones that already exist.

Numerous deep tech startups are tackling urgent global issues like cybersecurity, healthcare, and climate change. By helping these firms, technology that tackles these important problems may be developed.

Investing in the development of deep tech startups can provide nations and regions with a competitive edge in the global technology market. Through the promotion of creativity and enterprise, they can establish themselves as pioneers in developing technological domains.

The benefits of nurturing deep tech businesses are not limited to the technological and commercial spheres; they also include wider societal advantages. These businesses frequently tread new ground in ways that improve people’s quality of life and promote environmental sustainability.

HKSTP and French Biotech Leaders Collaborate for Healthcare Innovation

The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) participated in the “Think Business, Think Hong Kong” symposium organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) on September 19th at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris.

HKSTP, Hong Kong’s largest innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem and incubator, will led a group of leaders in the health and biotech sectors to discuss how Hong Kong can support biotech startups and major pharmaceutical companies in France to expand successfully and tap into the vast potential of Asia’s healthcare markets. In turn, French expertise and talent will contribute to Hong Kong’s aspiration to become a global hub for biotech and innovation technology.

Key figures like France’s Minister for Foreign Trade, Economic Attractiveness, and French Nationals Abroad, and the Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will join prominent business leaders at the event, including the Chairman of HKTDC, and the CEO of HKSTP to explore collaborative opportunities between the French and Hong Kong I&T ecosystems.

The Asia Pacific region is poised to be the world’s fastest-growing biotech hub, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 16.9% from 2022 to 2030, according to Vision Research. This region is witnessing improvements in healthcare infrastructure, supportive government policies, and the increasing challenge of an aging population. Hong Kong’s strategic location makes it an ideal gateway to both the substantial North Asian markets and the rapidly expanding Southeast Asian economies.

To address these opportunities and challenges, HKSTP is hosting a biotech-focused session and pavilion at the “Think Business, Think Hong Kong” symposium. Four prominent executives from thriving Hong Kong-based biotech companies will showcase the city’s capacity to drive innovation on a global scale.

In parallel, French startups, fuelled by record funding in 2022, are seeking expansion opportunities, aligning with the French government’s Healthcare Innovation 2030 plan. This plan, with a substantial budget, aims to position France as a leader in biotech innovation in Europe.

The CEO of HKSTP emphasised that Asia, and Hong Kong in particular, provides diverse opportunities for French biotech companies to scale up and venture into global markets. French expertise will also play a crucial role in Hong Kong’s ambition to become an international innovation hub.

Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s leading biotech funding hub is reinforced by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange’s biotech-friendly Chapter 18A listing policy. Additionally, it ranks 12^th in the World Index of Healthcare Innovation, surpassing countries like the United Kingdom and Canada. The government’s support includes the InnoHK initiative, featuring 14 research clusters dedicated to biomedical and health tech, situated at Hong Kong Science Park.

HKSTP has established a thriving, fully integrated biotech ecosystem that guides ventures through every stage of the startup-to-scale-up journey. It hosts around 250 biotech ventures, benefiting from incubation programs such as the dedicated Incu-Bio program, subsidies, and supportive government policies. Hong Kong boasts world-class talent, with five universities ranked in the top 100 globally, and China’s projected annual output of 77,000 STEM PhDs per year by 2025, surpassing the US.

Moreover, HKSTP has fostered significant collaborations with global pharmaceutical leaders and healthcare institutions, facilitating expansion into the Greater Bay Area (GBA), China, the Asia Pacific, and global markets.

Hong Kong already boasts a substantial French presence, with 800 French businesses, including subsidiaries and regional headquarters, according to the French Embassy. Interested parties can participate in the HKTSP biotech pavilion and hear from leaders in biotech innovation, as well as other experts in the innovation ecosystem, at the “Think Business, Think Hong Kong” symposium.

Singapore Pharmacists’ Role in Telemedicine

In Singapore’s healthcare landscape, Prof Kenneth Mak, Director-General of Health at the Ministry of Health, emphasised the significance of the theme “Reimagining Possibilities – The Pharmacist’s DNA” at this year’s congress which underscores the adaptability and crucial role of pharmacists in healthcare.

Prof Kenneth stated that like DNA’s unchanging core, pharmacists must uphold their fundamental values while adapting to challenges like an ageing population and increasing healthcare expenses. Telemedicine emerges as a pivotal avenue through which pharmacists are driving the transformation of patient-centred care.

“As we journey towards Healthier SG and beyond, pharmacists are at the forefront of digital innovation in healthcare,” said Prof Kenneth. They are embracing telemedicine, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, and continually evolving to meet the challenges of a changing healthcare landscape. The pharmacist’s DNA remains rooted in patient-centred care, but it also incorporates innovation and adaptability, making pharmacists an essential part of the future of healthcare.

Telemedicine, the remote delivery of healthcare services using digital technology, has gained momentum globally, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has revolutionised the way patients access medical care, allowing them to consult with healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes. The integration of pharmacists into telemedicine initiatives holds immense promise in improving healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

One significant step towards this future is the Healthier SG campaign, launched by the Ministry of Health in July 2023. This campaign underscores the importance of preventive care in the communities, emphasising healthier lifestyles and overall well-being.

Pharmacists, deeply embedded in their communities, play a crucial role in educating the public on medication management, health screenings, and vaccinations. They also collaborate with family doctors, supporting patients in their journey towards healthier lives, including smoking cessation and adopting healthier behaviours.

Innovations like Pharmaceutical Care Services (PCS) exemplify how pharmacists are empowering patients. PCS, initiated in senior care centres, equips patients and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to manage medications independently. Feedback indicates increased patient confidence in medication management, aligning with the goals of Healthier SG. Expanding PCS to primary care settings like general practitioner clinics and retail pharmacies will make this service even more accessible.

The collaboration between community pharmacies and telemedicine providers represents another leap in healthcare innovation. Pharmacies partnering with telemedicine providers enable them to triage patients, conduct history-taking, and refer them to teleconsultations with doctors. This seamless integration of services ensures patients receive comprehensive care at their convenience, bridging the gap between pharmacy and telemedicine.

The role of digital technology in telemedicine is pivotal, as it enables the delivery of healthcare services remotely, bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care.

Telemedicine platforms serve as comprehensive digital ecosystems that support various aspects of virtual care. They offer features like appointment scheduling, secure video conferencing, electronic health records (EHR) integration, and billing. These platforms streamline the telemedicine workflow for both patients and healthcare providers.

Additionally, digital technology plays a crucial role in the development and use of specialised telemedicine devices, such as telemedicine carts equipped with cameras and medical instruments. These devices are used for remote examinations and diagnostics.

AI-driven algorithms and machine learning models assist healthcare providers in diagnosing conditions, predicting outcomes, and personalising treatment plans. AI can analyse large datasets to identify patterns and trends that might not be readily apparent to humans.

In partnership with the Ministry of Manpower, the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore (PSS) is contributing to healthcare workforce development. Customised training programmes are being developed to upskill healthcare associates, enabling them to play essential roles in areas like medication management and patient inquiries, particularly in caring for migrant workers.

September 22, 2023

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EXCLUSIVE – Safeguarding Malaysian cyber space (Part I) – Protecting critical infrastructure and inculcating public awareness

Singapore to Introduce Passport-Free Departures

Investment Fuels Malaysia’s Innovation Hub Ambitions

India Transforming Agricultural Data Governance

Machine Learning Unlocks the Potential of Antibodies

Singapore to Boost Deep Tech Start-ups

HKSTP and French Biotech Leaders Collaborate for Healthcare Innovation

Singapore Pharmacists’ Role in Telemedicine

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