Global tyre company enhances cybersecurity to protect business-critical communications and data

With R&D centres in Korea, China, Japan, Germany and the United
States, a total of seven large-scale production facilities in Korea, China,
Indonesia and Hungary as well as offices in 31 different countries, Hankook
Tire is a global power player in the tyre industry.

Founded in 1941, Korea-based tyre company Hankook Tire has been a
growing business with products now available in more than 180 countries around
the world. It produces superior quality, high performance radial tyres for
passenger cars, 4x4s, SUVs, light trucks, campers, trucks, buses and motorsport
vehicles with approximately 21,000 employees around the world. The large number
of tires produced by Hankook Tire makes it one of the top 5 companies in the
mass production of tyres.

Challenge

IT security has been a top priority for Hankook Tire in securing its
innovations and business-critical data.

Hankook Tire is famous for its extensive involvement in motorsports,
sponsoring and supplying tires for numerous touring car, rally, endurance and
single seater championships and events. It also has various records of
developing and testing innovative high-concept technology and products that
ultimately find their way into the mass market.

Hankook Tire’s global headquarters and main research and development
centre are located in South Korea, along with a substantial operational network
around the world to meet the needs of its fast-paced domestic marketplace.

Besides, Hankook Tire is heavily reliant on IT to stay connected and
productive in a fast-moving and highly competitive sector. Employees work from
both offices and remote locations, with employees accessing data 24/7, on PCs,
laptops and multiple devices in the office, at home and on the move. Its
electronic activities are all vulnerable to viruses, spam, hackers, and other
attacks, bringing significant risk of interruptions to business continuity and
potential damage to the performance, income and reputation of the company.

Soon it became clear that the existing anti-virus software was no
longer adequate, and that a much more comprehensive, robust, and flexible IT
security solution was required.

“A major attack could have severe consequences for Hankook Tire,
with our entire network potentially being infected, so it is vital that we have
robust protection for our network, files, mail and devices,” explain Mr Kim Hui
Jeong of Hankook Tire’s emFrontier Technology team.

Acknowledging the importance to protect confidential,
business-critical communications and data constantly flowing between employees,
offices and third parties, Hankook Tire began looking for a partner capable of
providing the products, services and infrastructure necessary to meet its
increasingly complex business requirements.

Solutions

The company found Kaspersky Lab its partner for
cybersecurity solution. Hankook Tire selected Kaspersky’s multi-layered, fully
integrated IT security solution, citing its ability to provide robust
protection both within and outside the company’s corporate boundaries.

“We selected Kaspersky both for the quality of its products and for
their excellent service record. There’s no doubt that Kaspersky’s anti-virus
software is the global standard, and the company’s central platform management
console is very easy to use,” said Mr Kim.

The solution combines powerful endpoint controls with security for
workstations, along with file servers and provisions for rigorous mobile
security. At its heart is Kaspersky’s market-leading, advanced anti-malware
software, which constantly assesses threats and delivers automatic updates for
a rapid response to new threats.

There are separate web, device and applications controls and a
centralised management platform which makes it easy to administer security
tools across desktop, portable, mobile and virtual endpoints, providing
advanced visibility and IT security control for managers. IT security platform
in Korea delivers benefits for global operations

“In addition, we receive in-depth quarterly inspections by Kaspersky
technical engineers who check the status of entire network, review policies,
and investigate error logs to see if there are any underlying problems,” Mr Kim
added.

Results

Five years later, Hankook Tire is proud to renew its successful and
productive long-term relationship, describing Kaspersky’s anti-virus software
as “the global standard”.

“We particularly appreciate Kaspersky’s hacking sensing and deletion
as well as its worm-blocking capabilities. We always have ready access to help
and advice from Kaspersky’s experts, and that makes our job much easier,” Mr
Kim said.

“We’ve been working with Kaspersky for a long time now. We see them
as our partners, so communication between our two organizations is open and
supportive. We fully trust them to protect us and our interests.”

All information in this case
study is provided by Kaspersky Lab.

Hong Kong: OpenAPI Platform Revolutionises Insurance Industry

The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) announced a partnership with the Hong Kong Insurance Authority (IA) to spearhead the Open Insurance movement. This initiative is being realised through the launch of the OpenAPI Platform for the Insurance Sector, often referred to as the Central Register.

Open insurance revolves around the concept of facilitating the exchange of insurance-related information among insurance companies and third parties using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), thus fostering innovation in insurance products and services.

The OpenAPI Platform for the Insurance Sector serves as a trusted repository that houses open insurance APIs. Its primary function is to connect authorised insurers, licensed insurance intermediaries, and their third-party service providers, allowing them to seamlessly display and manage their product and service information. By granting public access to this valuable data, this central hub serves as a catalyst for enhanced connectivity, further fuelling the development of groundbreaking insurance products and services.

The Head of the STP Platform at HKSTP expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating that it is a significant step toward the realisation of Open Finance. By harnessing the potential of open APIs, businesses can unlock new avenues for growth through enhanced connectivity, collaboration, and innovation. The OpenAPI Platform for the Insurance Sector empowers both insurance companies and tech ventures to leverage open APIs, thereby delivering transformative financial experiences to the industry.

The Associate Director of the Policy and Development Division at the IA urged the insurance industry to embrace the OpenAPI Platform as a driver of innovation and collaboration. He emphasised that the establishment of this platform underscores IA’s unwavering commitment to fostering greater cooperation among market players, while also promoting the application of Insurtech both within and beyond the insurance sector. IA remains dedicated to working in tandem with HKSTP and other stakeholders to nurture a dynamic Insurtech and Open API ecosystem.

HKSTP has been at the forefront of catalysing Hong Kong’s thriving API ecosystem by enabling businesses to undergo transformative changes through data and technology. The recent introduction of the API Hub further solidifies its role as a dependable source of data and functional APIs for a wide range of industries.

Enterprises now have easy access to a vast array of market-ready data and digital solutions, while technology enablers can seamlessly connect with partners and customers. Additionally, HKSTP has established partnerships with 27 banks, providing access to over 1,200 Open Banking APIs, thereby enriching the API landscape and promoting further innovation in the financial sector.

The collaboration between HKSTP and the IA to launch the OpenAPI Platform for the Insurance Sector marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Open Insurance. This innovative platform is poised to reshape the insurance landscape by facilitating the seamless exchange of information and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders.

As businesses and tech ventures embrace open APIs, the insurance sector is set to experience a wave of innovation and transformation, ultimately leading to more impactful financial experiences for all stakeholders involved. The dedication of both organisations to nurturing a vibrant Insurtech and Open API ecosystem further underscores their commitment to driving positive change within the industry. With the groundwork laid by this partnership, the future of insurance in Hong Kong looks brighter than ever.

The partnership between the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and the Hong Kong Insurance Authority (IA) to launch the OpenAPI Platform for the Insurance Sector aligns with key goals of the HKSAR Government. It promotes innovation and technology development in the insurance industry, enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of financial services while fostering the growth of Insurtech.

The platform also contributes to financial connectivity and regulatory cooperation, supporting Hong Kong’s status as an international financial hub. Furthermore, it exemplifies the government’s commitment to digital transformation across industries, collectively positioning Hong Kong for sustained economic growth and global competitiveness.

OpenGov Asia earlier reported that Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) soft-launched the FintechHK Community Platform, a centralised fintech platform to connect local and global fintech companies with Corporate, Investor, and Service Champions.

The platform is fully supported by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and curated by InvestHK; the initiative comes as an extension of the Global Fast Track Programme, which garnered great industry participation in 2022.

India: GPU Cluster Empowers AI Start-ups

In a bid to support startups struggling to train AI models in the country, the government plans to establish a major graphics processing unit (GPU) cluster. The move will also encourage investments in the field of chip design for AI applications, enhance domestic intellectual property, and improve the country’s global standing in the AI and semiconductor industries.

A GPU cluster is a network of computers with GPUs on each node to train neural networks for image and video processing. According to the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekar, the GPU will be set up under the India AI programme. The government will help startups and foreign enterprises interested in developing domestic intellectual property in chip design for AI applications through the IN₹ 11 billion (US$ 132 million) – IN₹ 12 billion (US$ 144 million) design-liked incentive systems.

Chandrasekar noted that presently, most conversations about AI revolve around applications such as ChatGPT. However, the project’s main aim is to develop practical AI applications for the real world. The emphasis will be on developing AI-specific integrated circuits for real-use cases in healthcare, governance, and education.

Alongside this announcement, the Minister mentioned that construction for a semiconductor packaging and assembly plant has been started by a leading American semiconductor manufacturing company in Sanand, Gujarat. The project has a total investment of US$ 2.75 billion. The project will receive significant support, including 50% fiscal backing from the central government, along with additional incentives representing 20% of the overall project cost from the state of Gujarat. The facility will encompass 500,000 square feet of cleanroom space and will commence operations in late 2024.

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unveiling of the semiconductor vision and the intended investment of IN₹ 760 billion to stimulate and develop India’s semiconductor ecosystem, significant advancements have been achieved in the past 18 months. The Sanand plant represents a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a leading semiconductor industry.

The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) is a distinct and autonomous Business Division operating within the Digital India Corporation. It aims to cultivate a dynamic semiconductor and display ecosystem, positioning India as a worldwide leader in electronics manufacturing and design. Spearheaded by international experts in the semiconductor and display sectors, ISM serves as a central hub for the effective and coordinated implementation of the Program for the Development of the Semiconductor and Display Ecosystem. This is achieved through close collaboration with government ministries, departments, agencies, industry partners, and academic institutions, ensuring a comprehensive and streamlined approach.

ISM is developing a comprehensive and long-term strategy to nurture sustainable semiconductor and display manufacturing facilities. It promotes the implementation of secure microelectronics and cultivates a reliable semiconductor supply chain, including raw materials, speciality chemicals, gases, and manufacturing equipment.

ISM will also provide essential support through Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, foundry services, and other suitable mechanisms for early-stage start-ups. It will enable cutting-edge research, including evolutionary and revolutionary technologies, through grants, global partnerships, and mechanisms involving academia, research institutions, and industry stakeholders. It actively promotes collaborative initiatives with national and international agencies, industries, and institutions. These efforts accelerate commercialisation and skill development, enabling the transfer of technologies (ToT) to foster innovation and growth.

Vietnam Preparing Workforce for AI Ecosystem

The Minister of Science and Technology, Huynh Thanh Dat, has highlighted the need to develop a workforce skilled in artificial intelligence (AI) to actively support the growth of Vietnam’s AI ecosystem and ensure its long-term sustainability.

The building of this skilled workforce aligns with the objective of positioning Vietnam as a leading innovation and AI hub within ASEAN and globally. This vision is outlined in the national strategy on the research, development, and application of AI till 2030, according to Dat who was addressing the opening of the Vietnam Artificial Intelligence Festival 2023 (AI4VN) in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) is keen on establishing connections among government officials, experts, scientists, businesses, and potential investors in the field of AI, both domestically and internationally.

Throughout the two-day event, the showcased solutions effectively showed the advancement of Vietnam’s technology sector, highlighting the active participation of numerous enterprises. The event served as a valuable platform for promoting the practical applications of AI in various aspects of daily life.

The theme this year was: “AI: Power for Life”. The plenary session delved into crucial topics aimed at enhancing the community’s and businesses’ comprehension of AI technology applications in everyday life. Additionally, it was a bridge to facilitate discussions between government agencies, departments, and businesses, enabling them to collaboratively shape policies for the development of AI in Vietnam.

Furthermore, the event included a technology-focused conference for business leaders, encompassing discussions on AI trends in finance, as well as the application of AI and big data in healthcare. Additionally, there was a dedicated showcase area where nearly 30 exhibitors from both domestic and foreign backgrounds introduced cutting-edge AI products.

AI4VN has been an annual programme organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology since 2018. These series of events serve as a platform to bring together a diverse array of stakeholders in the AI community, including policymakers, technology corporations, researchers, and university students.

Vietnam has been actively addressing the challenge of a shortage of skilled human resources in the field of AI over the past few years. As per data from the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) last year, it was noted that there were over 1,600 individuals in Vietnam who were either studying or engaged in AI-related fields. However, the actual number of professionals actively working in AI within Vietnam was relatively low, with only around 700 individuals, including 300 experts, involved in this specialised work. Considering the substantial IT workforce of nearly 1 million employees in Vietnam, the availability of AI human resources remains relatively limited.

To address this challenge, businesses have several strategies at their disposal. They can consider recruiting AI experts from overseas or collaborating with domestic and international training institutions to “upskill” existing talent. It’s important to note that only approximately 30% of IT graduates are immediately equipped to work in AI roles, while the majority require additional training and development. Experts suggest the implementation of a specialised and comprehensive AI training programme to bridge this skills gap effectively.

Enterprises must cooperate with universities to train people for master’s and doctoral degrees in data science and AI for the existing engineering workforce. This approach seeks to create a strong synergy between academic institutions and industry needs. Additionally, there’s a need to broaden the scope of AI training to encompass a more diverse pool of participants, extending beyond individuals with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics or programming.

To facilitate the broad application of AI across various domains, universities should prioritise teaching students statistics and skills in using data. Additionally, there should be a shift in perspective where AI is not solely treated as a subset of information technology faculties. Instead, dedicated undergraduate and graduate training programmes specialised in AI and data science should be established and developed.

UC Berkeley Tackles Criminal Justice Inequities with Data Science

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, technological proficiency is no longer a mere advantage but a necessity. Industries across the board, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and entertainment, rely on technology-driven solutions to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and deliver innovative products and services. Consequently, the demand for a highly skilled workforce capable of navigating this digital terrain has never been greater.

From primary schools to universities and vocational training centres, educational institutions are responsible for equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in this technology-driven era. This preparation encompasses technical expertise, digital literacy, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.

At the core of this educational paradigm shift is the recognition that technology is not a standalone entity but an integral part of nearly every aspect of modern life. As such, educational curricula must evolve to reflect this reality. Students must be exposed to coding, data analysis, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and other relevant subjects early on.

UC Berkeley has introduced a groundbreaking interdisciplinary training initiative, Computational Research for Equity in the Legal System (CRELS), combining criminal justice and computer science to address deep-rooted systemic inequities in the criminal legal system. CRELS brings together social sciences, computer science, and statistics experts, preparing a diverse cohort of PhD students to confront issues at the intersection of inequality, criminal legal systems, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data.

This programme leverages UC Berkeley’s social sciences, data science, and AI expertise, ushering in a transformative approach to studying criminal justice systems. Principal investigator David Harding, Chair of UC Berkeley’s Department of Sociology, envisioned training doctoral students to harness the potential of large-scale data to create innovative interventions to reduce disparities within criminal justice systems and promote a more equitable society.

CRELS, initiated by a multidisciplinary research team encompassing various Berkeley entities such as the Division of Social Sciences, Social Science Matrix, D-Lab, College of Computing, Data Science, and Society, Berkeley Institute for Data Science, Institute for the Study of Societal Issues, Human Technology Futures group, Possibility Lab, Eviction Research Network, and EPIC Data Lab, aligns with the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Big Ideas. These Big Ideas encompass Harnessing the Data Revolution, Growing Convergence Research, and Transforming Education and Career Pathways. CRELS aims to bridge the gap between these ambitious goals and UC Berkeley’s faculty expertise in social sciences, criminal legal systems, data science, and AI’s ethical and societal ramifications.

Berkeley’s Social Sciences Dean, Raka Ray, expressed his optimism about pioneering this vital convergence of disciplines. The CRELS programme represents a commitment to deploying data science and technology to address pressing societal challenges, particularly the criminal justice system reform. “This underlined the opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge creation, and capacity building within this initiative,” he asserted.

CRELS is designed to scrutinise the application and misapplication of AI within justice institutions, a critical exploration contributing to a broader comprehension of AI’s societal implications. Given the increasing pervasiveness of AI technologies, this research assumes significant importance. The programme’s objectives extend to generating novel scientific insights and crafting innovative tools for large-scale data aggregation and analysis.

Additionally, CRELS aspires to cultivate a workforce capable of addressing societal challenges with cutting-edge resources. It strongly emphasises diversifying the scientific community by recruiting and training a more inclusive representation of graduate students in these critical fields while actively integrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging values into its programme design.

By deliberately incorporating these values into the programme’s fabric, CRELS aspires to enrich the data science workforce. This includes creating inclusive intellectual environments and broadening opportunities for traditionally underrepresented students. Ultimately, CRELS’ innovative framework is poised to redefine the landscape of graduate training programmes and foster enduring interdisciplinary collaborations among faculty, lasting impacting the future of research and social change.

RescueAI: Smart City Disaster Management

A group of talented young engineers and researchers from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has achieved international recognition for their groundbreaking innovation, RescueAI: Smart City Disaster Management System with AI and Aerial Robotics. They won a Gold Medal at the 12th World Invention Creativity Olympic (WICO) 2023.

The Turkish Inventors Association (TÜMMİAD) bestowed the Gold Medal Award upon RescueAI, further affirmed by recognition from the Toronto International Society of Innovation & Advanced Skills (TISIAS). WICO 2023, held in Seoul, South Korea, was organised by the Korea University Invention Association (KUIA) and sponsored by the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea.

Image credits: Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation

RescueAI is the culmination of efforts by a team of experts and students from APU’s School of Engineering (SoE) and the Center for Research and Development of IoT (CREDIT). This project was led by Dipl-Ing. Ir. Narendran Ramasenderan, Mr. Krishna Ravinchandra, Ng Joo Kiat, Cajun Tai Ka Joon, Ang Jia Ze, and Cheng Yi Heng. Their prototype stands as a beacon of progress in the realm of disaster management.

The system’s core capabilities lie in its use of artificial intelligence (AI) and aerial robotics to gather real-time environmental data, encompassing critical factors like weather conditions, structural damage, and the precise location of individuals and assets. This data forms the foundation for the creation of a digital twin of the disaster-stricken area, enabling the simulation of diverse scenarios and the formulation of optimal response strategies.

The team is engaged in the commercialisation of RescueAI, and their aim is to make the system accessible to governments and enterprises worldwide, underscoring the global impact of their innovation.

While RescueAI is at the forefront of its achievements, APU is also making its mark in other arenas. Ng Joo Kiat, Chang Kah Boon, and Cheng Yi Heng, representing APU’s Team Delta, participated in the DB-SNUbiz Global Startup Challenge 2023. This competition featured RescueAI as a project addressing the challenges posed by climate change-induced extreme weather events such as heatwaves and floods.

In a significant departure from conventional 2D dashboards, Team Delta conceptualised a 3D Digital Twin model, offering a more intuitive representation of flood and fire disasters. This innovative model facilitates precise flood simulations, anticipating the spread and impact of floods on various locations with accuracy.

Drones equipped with sensors and pre-trained YOLOv8 models play a pivotal role in recording real-time data, which continuously updates the Digital Twin model to ensure data accuracy. Furthermore, the team is in the process of developing a mobile app designed for reporting flood and fire incidents. This app boasts AI detection and alarm functions, streamlining the reporting process and expediting emergency responses.

The achievements of the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) team with RescueAI closely align with the Malaysian government’s larger goals. Malaysia aims to enhance disaster resilience and management, and the innovative Disaster Management System exemplifies this commitment.

Furthermore, by garnering global recognition and showcasing Malaysia’s technological prowess, RescueAI contributes to the government’s agenda of promoting innovation and technology as drivers of economic growth. The project’s success underscores Malaysia’s capacity for innovation, augments economic opportunities in AI and robotics, and positions the nation as a player on the global innovation stage, aligning with the government’s overarching development objectives.

OpenGov Asia reported earlier that a robotics company that provides intelligent unmanned delivery solutions for global enterprises recently forged a strategic partnership with the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU). This collaboration is poised to be a significant driver of academic, technological, and industry-sharing initiatives, with the ultimate aim of reshaping the field of robotics and automation.

The partnership was formally solidified through the robotics company’s Malaysian representative and distributor. The representative holds the exclusive distribution rights for service robots in Malaysia, and it also supplies a range of health and wellness products locally and internationally. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at APU’s state-of-the-art campus situated in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur.

αLab Advancing AI and Biotech in Hong Kong

A partner company under and in collaboration with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) has unveiled αLab, a cutting-edge laboratory situated within the Hong Kong Science Park. αLab is designed to serve as a dynamic hub for advancing artificial intelligence (AI) research and development (R&D) and fostering innovation in biotechnology within the Greater Bay Area. Leveraging Hong Kong’s unique strengths in innovation and technology (I&T), αLab is set to expand the global footprint of the partner company while accelerating biotech progress.

During the inauguration of αLab, notable attendees included the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry of the HKSAR, the Head of the Institute for Translational Research of HKSTP, and other key figures. The Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry emphasised the alignment of this initiative with Hong Kong’s strategic focus on becoming a global I&T centre and promoting industries such as life and health technology, AI, and data science.

Image: MGI’s αLab officially opened at Hong Kong Science Park
Image Credits: HKSTP, Press Release

The Head of the Institute for Translational Research of HKSTP underscored the significance of the partner company joining the HKSTP’s extensive I&T ecosystem, highlighting the potential for αLab to facilitate data analysis, machine learning, and AI applications in gene sequencing and precision medicine, thus attracting top research talent and reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a premier biotech hub.

The President of the partner company spoke about αLab’s role in their global strategy, particularly in fields like population genomics, single-cell omics, and spatiotemporal omics. The laboratory’s Smart Lab component, a sophisticated life information system, was introduced to streamline lab operations, ensuring compliance, automation, and intelligentisation, ultimately freeing lab technicians from repetitive tasks.

Furthermore, αLab houses the partner company’s inaugural AI laboratory, dedicated to R&D in cutting-edge AI technologies and industry applications, including data processing, machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. This focus on AI innovation aims to revolutionise business models, enhance efficiency, and address industry challenges.

In the pipeline, αLab plans to launch its second-phase DCS Lab, which will pioneer advancements in population genomics, single-cell omics, and spatiotemporal research, introducing state-of-the-art equipment for these endeavours. With a global presence in over 90 countries and regions, the partner company seeks to consolidate its position as a leader in high-end life sciences tools, while αLab’s establishment at Hong Kong Science Park contributes to its mission of growth and global impact within the Greater Bay Area.

The creation of αLab in collaboration with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) by the partner company aligns closely with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s goals. Situated in the Hong Kong Science Park, αLab focuses on AI research and biotech advancement, supporting the government’s vision to be an international innovation and technology hub.

It contributes to key industries like life and health technology and AI, attracts top talent, enhances global connectivity, and expedites biotech development in the Greater Bay Area, aligning with the HKSAR Government’s objectives for economic growth and innovation in the region.

OpenGov Asia earlier reported on the inauguration of the Hong Kong Science Park’s Shenzhen Branch in Futian, accommodating around 150 enterprises. This move aims to strengthen the connection between innovation ecosystems in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, facilitating technology ventures’ access to the Mainland market and global expansion opportunities.

In line with the Central Government’s “Development Plan for Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone” within the Greater Bay Area, HKSTP, with support from both the Central and HKSAR Governments, actively assists local and global enterprises in attracting investments and expanding their reach.

The Shenzhen Branch serves as a two-way gateway for technology ventures, fostering collaboration, accessing global talent, exploring new markets, and connecting with investors to transform the GBA into an international innovation and technology hub.

Australia’s Digital Identity and AI Initiatives

The Minister for Finance, Minister for Women, and Minister for the Public Service of Australia provided updates on technology and digital identity-related legislation. The Minister delved into the topic of Digital ID and its significance for Australia’s future.

The primary focus of the address was the introduction of the draft Digital ID legislation, marking the commencement of consultations for the exposure draft. She highlighted that Digital ID is akin to an online version of presenting one’s passport or driver’s license to verify their identity but without relinquishing the physical document. It aims to provide a secure and convenient way to verify identity online.

The draft Digital ID legislation, now open for consultation, represents a significant milestone in Australia’s efforts to create a national Digital ID system. The Minister outlined four guiding principles for this system: security, convenience, voluntariness, and inclusivity. She stressed that Digital ID would remain voluntary, ensuring alternate channels for those who prefer not to use it.

Moreover, Digital ID is seen as a means to enhance inclusion by bringing government services online and extending their accessibility to underserved communities, including individuals with disabilities. However, the Minister emphasised that those unable or unwilling to obtain a Digital ID would still have access to government services through traditional channels.

The current system, which operates without legislation, allows individuals with Digital IDs to verify their identity without repeatedly providing sensitive documents. Nevertheless, it has limitations, as it is not yet a nationwide system and private sector providers cannot verify individuals against government-issued ID documents. The government envisions a national Digital ID system as an important economic, productivity, and security reform, and efforts are underway to address these shortcomings.

To ensure trust, data protection, and choice in the Digital ID system, the draft legislation establishes governance arrangements, a regulator (with the ACCC as the interim regulator), and privacy safeguards. Senator Gallagher emphasised the need for explicit consent for sharing identity information, the secure deletion of biometric data, and the prohibition of using identity data for direct marketing purposes.

Additionally, the Minster announced the formation of an AI taskforce, in collaboration with colleague Ed Husic, to ensure responsible and safe usage of AI across government agencies. AI has the potential to improve productivity within the APS and enhance government services, but it also requires careful management to mitigate risks.

The government is committed to creating boundaries and safeguards for emerging technologies like AI. The AI Taskforce will assess the risks and benefits of different AI systems within the public service.

The upcoming release of the first Long Term Insights Brief on AI and trust in public service delivery was also mentioned. Four key findings from the brief highlighted the importance of designing AI with integrity, preserving empathy in service design, enhancing public service performance, and investing in AI literacy and digital connectivity for all Australians.

The Minister expressed her determination to see the establishment of an Australian Digital ID system through legislation, despite the challenges and opposition. She acknowledged that it has been an eight-year work in progress, but she believes it is a worthy project with significant benefits for individuals, businesses, and the economy as a whole.

The address highlighted the importance of Digital ID legislation and AI governance in shaping Australia’s technological future. These initiatives aim to enhance security, convenience, and inclusivity while safeguarding individuals’ privacy and ensuring responsible AI usage within the public service.

Efforts to advance digital identification in Australia align with the country’s broader initiatives to establish a national Digital ID system, as discussed by the Minster. The focus of one pilot program, reported on by OpenGov Asia earlier, was on enabling individuals to prove their identity without the need for multiple physical documents corresponds to the principles of Digital ID outlined by the Minister, emphasising secure digital verification over physical information exchange.

Additionally, student volunteers from Deakin University demonstrated practical applications of digital identity within the education sector, mirroring the efficiencies mentioned by Senator Gallagher in her speech. These developments reflect Australia’s growing interest and innovation in the digital identification ecosystem.

September 28, 2023

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Global tyre company enhances cybersecurity to protect business-critical communications and data

Hong Kong: OpenAPI Platform Revolutionises Insurance Industry

India: GPU Cluster Empowers AI Start-ups

Vietnam Preparing Workforce for AI Ecosystem

UC Berkeley Tackles Criminal Justice Inequities with Data Science

RescueAI: Smart City Disaster Management

αLab Advancing AI and Biotech in Hong Kong

Australia’s Digital Identity and AI Initiatives

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