HKUST scholars develop rechargeable e-fuel

A cross-university research project led by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has successfully developed an environment-friendly rechargeable liquid fuel that promises to have impact on a global scale.

A demonstration vehicle with a bottle of the e-fuel.

The fuel can fully recharge an electric vehicle in a matter of minutes. This is a great enhancement from existing battery technology which usually takes hours.

This fuel – called ‘e-fuel’ – is carbon-neutral if charged with solar or wind energy. Like fossil fuels, it can be readily dispatched to the power grid, and also rapidly recharged to vehicles.

The research, titled ‘Creation of Rechargeable Electron-fuels for Stationary Power Supplies and Electric Vehicles’, is led by a professor at HKUST and supported by academics from The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

The five-year research project – from 2018 to 2022 – is funded by the Research Grants Council Theme-based Research Scheme to the tune of HK$50 million.

A stable lithium-sulfur battery that promises to be energy-dense and capable of storing energy at low cost has been successfully developed. It can be applied to both electric vehicles and grids transmitting a high fraction of solar and wind energy.

The biggest cause for excitement is that the lithium-sulfur battery can be transformed to a flow system, or e-fuel as it is now called.

Unlike recharging a battery for hours for an electric vehicle, recharging the vehicle with e-fuel takes a matter of minutes. And since it is rechargeable, e-fuel is renewable, unlike fossil fuels, which are no longer useable after consumption.

At the recharging station, the energy-depleted e-fuel is removed from the fuel tank, which then is refilled with fully-charged e-fuel.

The e-fuel system adopts the chemistry of a lithium-sulfur battery for the high capacity of the lithium metal and the low cost of the sulfur cathode.

While the research team made great progress in developing e-fuel, they still had challenges to overcome. First, dendrites forming on the lithium surface may shorten the battery life.

Second, the discharged sulfur will dissolve and diffuse to damage the lithium anode.

A solution is to form a porous lithium anode with surface protection, previously achieved through impractical, strenuous fabrication procedures, the Assistant Professor in the same department who is working on the project, explained.

Thermodynamics is being used to further these technologies. With two spontaneous reactions, the researchers developed a porous lithium anode on a carbon skeleton, and coated it with a protective, composite layer.

This simple yet effective approach led to one of the best performance records ever achieved for a high-loading lithium-sulfur battery.

The loading – meaning the amount of active materials per area of the device – has to be high so that the high performance on paper can eventually translate into a practical, high-performance system.

While the research is still ongoing, selected results have already been published in Nature Communications – one of the world’s most prestigious multidisciplinary journals.

Since the inauguration of the journal in 2010, HKUST has contributed 22 papers, most of which represent major breakthroughs in their respective fields.

This research is indicative of the breakthroughs that are being made by universities in Hong Kong in the field of green technology. As the need to develop and support ideas that mitigate the effects of climate change and fossil fuel consumption grow more pressing, green tech innovations present renewed hope and a chance to diversify the economy.

Beyond Connectivity: Singapore’s 5G Initiative

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) is spearheading an initiative to propel the nation’s capabilities in healthcare, Industry 4.0-driven manufacturing, and supply chain and logistics through the transformative power of 5G. This groundbreaking endeavour, known as the S$30 million 5G Innovation Programme, is not just a step forward but a giant leap into a future where innovation reshapes industries.

Launched in 2021, the 5G Innovation Programme is a testament to Singapore’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies. IMDA has forged strategic partnerships with key enterprises, including the National University Health System (NUHS).

In the healthcare industry, Singapore’s forward-thinking tech innovators, in collaboration with NUHS, have harnessed 5G to revolutionise patient care. The introduction of Mixed Reality-based Holomedicine in operating theatres stands out as a groundbreaking achievement.

This innovative approach not only enhances patient care but also redefines the entire healthcare experience. Announced in 2022, the initiative marks the Asia Pacific’s inaugural deployment of indoor private Enterprise 5G mobile edge computing (MEC) for Mixed Reality and Holomedicine capabilities in health tech.

A significant stride in healthcare also involves a collaboration with Republic Power to deploy 5G-enabled unmanned medical booths. These “Medbots” represent Asia’s first 5G-enabled unmanned pre-screening and teleconsultation medical booths. Equipped with state-of-the-art hygiene and safety systems, these booths support remote health screening and video consultations, offering an enhanced user experience that aligns with the demands of a digital era.

The impact of 5G extends beyond healthcare, permeating the realms of Industry 4.0-driven manufacturing, supply chain, and logistics. Collaborations with ST Engineering and DB Schenker have given rise to groundbreaking applications.

For instance, Singapore’s first 5G-enabled Digital Twin has been implemented for a logistics and supply chain company transforming warehouse and manufacturing operations, quality control, and customer experience. Simultaneously, ST Engineering’s 5G-Enabled Industry 4.0 Smart Factory boasts one of Singapore’s first 5G-enabled collaborative robots, revolutionising manufacturing processes.

Dr Ong Chen Hui, Assistant Chief Executive of the Biztech Group at IMDA, emphasised the agency’s commitment to architecting Singapore’s digital future. The goal is to build capabilities in various sectors powered by emerging technologies like 5G. IMDA’s collaboration with forward-looking companies signifies a concerted effort to unlock the full spectrum of benefits that 5G offers across a wide range of sectors.

As Singapore propels itself into the future, the 5G Innovation Programme stands as a testament to the nation’s dedication to progress. The partnerships with key enterprises underscore a collective effort to reshape, redefine, and transform industries across the country.

Singapore is not merely embracing change; it is pioneering a future where technology catalyses innovation and progress. The journey has just begun, and Singapore is at the forefront, shaping the narrative of a technologically advanced and future-ready nation.

The comprehensive initiative serves as a catalyst, propelling Singapore into a new era of digital prowess. It is not merely an adoption of advanced technologies; rather, it is a strategic alignment with the needs of the future, recognising the pivotal role technology plays in shaping economic landscapes on a global scale.

The 5G Innovation Programme signifies Singapore’s commitment to sustainable economic growth. By embracing technology as a driver of progress, Singapore is not just securing its current standing; it is laying the foundation for a resilient and forward-thinking economy. The emphasis on sustainability in this digital transformation ensures that growth is not just rapid but also enduring, with an eye towards environmental and social responsibility.

Malaysia’s Digital Identity Implementation

The implementation of a National Digital Identity (Digital ID) system in Malaysia is poised to revolutionise the verification and distribution of aid during crises or natural disasters, ensuring swift and precise assistance to those in need.

According to the Chairman of the Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA), Digital ID has the potential to streamline processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and optimising the impact of government subsidies by facilitating the efficient distribution of assistance to targeted groups with greater accuracy and effectiveness.

Digital ID, in this context, serves as a digital means of self-identification and authentication for individuals, designed for use in both public and private sectors to verify user identities during online transactions. The nation’s Prime Minister has conveyed that while the government will not mandate registration for Digital ID presently, civil servants are encouraged to do so, especially as the Rahmah Cash Aid (STR) and other targeted subsidies will be channelled through this system. MIMOS Berhad, Malaysia’s national Applied Research and Development Centre, has been appointed as the implementing agency for Digital ID, with an initial allocation of RM80 million.

The Former Principal Assistant Director at Bukit Aman emphasised the significance of Digital ID in enhancing cybersecurity. The technology relies on digital certificates to bolster security in online transactions, verifying identities by linking cryptographic keys with their owners through cryptography.

Despite its potential benefits, the Former Principal Ass

Image Credits: Picture by BERNAMA via Selangor Journal, Article

istant Director pointed out a critical concern: the possibility of Digital ID being exploited as a ‘mule ID’ by third parties for fraudulent or illegal activities. He stressed the need for the government to establish robust security measures to prevent misuse, safeguard the system’s integrity, and maintain public trust in the initiative.

Addressing potential concerns about the misuse of Digital ID, the Former Principal Assistant Director called for a thorough examination of security measures. The government’s commitment to preventing fraudulent activities and illegal exploitation is crucial for the success of Digital ID. The Former Principal Assistant Director’s experience in cybercrime and multimedia investigations underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of the system.

Furthermore, the Former Principal Assistant Director highlighted the need for comprehensive digital education to ensure that all segments of society benefit fully from Digital ID. A focus on digital education can prevent digital divides and contribute to the long-term success of Malaysia’s digitalisation initiatives. By promoting digital literacy, the government can empower citizens to use Digital ID responsibly and stay informed about potential risks.

In conclusion, the implementation of Digital ID in Malaysia represents a significant step toward modernising and securing online transactions. While the technology holds great potential for enhancing the distribution of aid during crises, it is imperative for the government to address security concerns and invest in digital education to ensure the successful adoption of Digital ID across all segments of society.

The advent of Digital ID in Malaysia represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey toward a more efficient and secure identity verification system. The Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association’s unwavering support underscores the potential benefits of this technological advancement for the wellbeing of Malaysians. However, as the implementation progresses, the emphasis on system integrity, cybersecurity, and public trust becomes paramount.

The call for robust security measures and consistency resonates as a crucial safeguard against potential misuse, ensuring that Digital ID serves as a reliable tool for streamlined aid distribution and government subsidies. As the nation navigates this transformative phase, it is imperative to strike a balance between technological innovation and the preservation of public confidence to fully realise the positive impact of Digital ID on the Malaysian society.

Tech Empowering Inclusive Education in India

The National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020 has ushered in a new era for education in India, advocating for a robust investment in digital infrastructure and technological tools. At its core, the policy emphasises the integration of technology into the educational landscape, embracing online teaching platforms, virtual labs, digital repositories, and assessments.

NEP’s visionary approach highlights the pivotal role of multilingualism and language in transforming teaching and learning methodologies. Para 4.23 of the NEP stresses the acquisition of essential skills, including digital literacy, coding, and computational thinking. These competencies are being actively promoted through a myriad of digital initiatives.

The PM e-VIDYA, launched under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan in May 2020, aims to consolidate efforts in digital, online, and broadcast education, ensuring widespread access to education through multiple modes. Notably, PM eVidya is accessible to students across all states, free of cost, democratising educational resources.

The cornerstone components of PM eVidya encompass DIKSHA, serving as the nation’s digital repository for high-quality e-content tailored for school education across States/UTs. The integration of QR-coded Energised Textbooks, providing a unified platform for all grades, resonates with the ethos of ‘one nation, one digital platform’.

Expanding the horizons of education further, the initiative has scaled up from 12 to 200 PM e-VIDYA DTH TV Channels, enabling states to offer supplementary education in various Indian languages for classes 1-12. Leveraging radio and podcast platforms like Shiksha Vani, PM eVidya embraces a holistic approach to inclusive education, crafting specialised e-content for the visually and hearing impaired.

Driving the agenda of critical thinking and creativity, PM eVidya ambitiously aims to establish 750 virtual labs and 75 Skilling e-labs by 2023. These labs, designed for Science, Mathematics, and simulated learning environments, seek to foster hands-on learning experiences. The creation of a dedicated vertical on Virtual Labs within the DIKSHA platform and comprehensive training via PM eVidya DTH TV channels for educators underscore the commitment to capacity-building.

Moreover, the ICT and Digital initiatives within the centrally sponsored scheme of Samagra Shiksha extend support to Government and Aided schools, focusing on classes VI to XII. Financial aid facilitates the establishment of ICT Labs and Smart Classrooms, enhancing the technological infrastructure within educational institutions.

India is committed to deploying locally designed and made digital tools, platforms and solutions to better serve citizens, more comprehensively and inclusively.

OpenGov Asia reported on India Stack, a set of domestically created digital solutions implemented nationwide. It includes APIs and digital public assets that enable the widespread use of digital identity, data, and payments as fundamental economic elements. Key components include Unified Payments Interface (India’s instant payments system), Aadhaar (the government’s digital identity card), and DigiLocker (a secure document access platform on a public cloud).

India Stack enhances access to and the delivery of public services, with the overarching goals of achieving widespread connectivity, promoting digital inclusion, and ensuring seamless access to public services. Built on open technologies, these solutions are interoperable and crafted to encourage active participation from industry and community stakeholders, thereby fostering innovation.

Addressing the needs of students preparing for competitive exams nationwide, the development of the SATHEE portal in collaboration with IIT Kanpur stands as a testament to India’s dedication to empowering its youth.

The ongoing beta version is actively soliciting feedback from students across the country, aligning with a culture of continual improvement. It provides a comprehensive suite of resources tailored for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) aspirants.

These initiatives mark a significant stride towards a tech-driven educational ecosystem in India. As the nation embraces this digital revolution in education, it sets a precedent for inclusive and innovative learning paradigms.

Bridging Indonesia’s Remote Connectivity Gap

Based on a study conducted in 2018, the Head of the Satellite Division of the Accessibility to Communication and Information Agency (BAKTI) of the Ministry of Communication and Information, Sri Sanggrama Aradea, stated that based, there is a need for internet access to 1Mbps for 150,000 public service points in the fields of education, healthcare, and government in remote, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas.

The Ministry of Communication and Information continues to uphold its commitment to implementing the agenda of equalising the progress of digital transformation across the entire archipelago of Indonesia. This commitment is realised by continuing the contract for Base Transceiver Station (BTS) 4G services, especially for Remote, Frontier, and Outermost (3T) regions.

This action signifies the seriousness of the Ministry in ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation progress are not only felt in major cities but also extend to remote and outermost areas of Indonesia. Continuing the BTS 4G contract for 3T focuses on equalising access and strengthening communication networks, ensuring that communities in previously connectivity-limited areas can enjoy the benefits of the digital revolution.

Minister of Communication and Information Budi Arie Setiadi emphasised, “Strengthening communication networks is the main focus, ensuring that communities in areas that may have been previously limited in connectivity can benefit from the digital revolution.”

Minister Budi Arie Setiadi stated that this aligns with President Joko Widodo’s directive during the handover of the Ministry’s Budget Execution Plan for the Fiscal Year 2024, emphasising that the utilisation of government budget allocations must be focused on results. Minister Budi Arie explained that the signed Operation & Maintenance Contract is intended to continue the operation of the already-built BTS 4G, which has become an asset of the Telecommunication and Information Accessibility Agency (BAKTI).

Arwoto Atmosutarno, Chairman of the Task Force of the BAKTI at the Ministry of Communication and Information, admits that completing the BTS 4G Project is challenging. The diverse topography of Indonesia and its often remote geographical locations create complexities that increase the difficulty in executing this project.

In overcoming these challenges, Atmosutarno highlighted the importance of collaborative and synergistic coordination among Task Force members, involving entities such as the Attorney General’s Office, Ministry of Finance, Supreme Audit Agency (BPKP), Procurement Policy Agency (LKPP), Ministry of Communication and Information, and various related industry stakeholders. This joint effort aims to overcome various obstacles and challenges from complicated geographical conditions.

This indicates that project completion requires technical expertise and active involvement from various sectors contributing to addressing Indonesia’s unique and complex landscapes. Although the task is not easy, the determination and good cooperation among Task Force members ensure the efficiency of the project, even in challenging geographical conditions.

Indonesia is indeed known as an archipelagic country with quite extreme topography. This poses significant challenges for communication networks, especially telecommunication infrastructure projects such as BTS 4G. With widely scattered islands, high mountains, and remote areas that are difficult to access, establishing a network that can cover the entire Indonesian territory requires meticulous planning and execution.

Based on data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the number of internet users in Indonesia reached 292.3 million in 2022, equivalent to 77.02% of the total population. This figure increased by 2.6% from the previous year.

The increase in Internet access is driven by various factors, including economic growth, increased smartphone penetration, and government programmes to equalise Internet access.

Regarding telecommunication infrastructure development, the government aims to achieve 100% 4G network coverage by 2024. This target seems achievable, as in 2023, 4G network coverage in Indonesia has reached 98%.

The progress of telecommunication network development in Indonesia has brought various benefits to the community, including: Improving accessibility to information and communication, Facilitating economic transactions, Enhancing the quality of education and healthcare and Increasing the nation’s competitiveness.

Digitalising Decision-Making Transforming Singapore’s Legal Landscape

In an era where technology increasingly shapes the way we manage daily life, its impact on crucial legal matters is often neglected. A commonly overlooked concern revolves around decision-making in unique situations.

If an individual becomes incapable of making decisions, it’s important to note that their next of kin doesn’t automatically assume legal authority to oversee their affairs. Instead, they’re required to undergo a lengthy and cumbersome court process to gain access to bank accounts or manage insurance payouts.

With this in mind, Singapore offers an option to deal with such circumstances. The Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a crucial legal document allowing individuals to designate someone to act on their behalf if they become incapacitated. Recognising its pivotal role, the partnership between GovTech’s Services team and the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) under the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) in Singapore has led to a remarkable digital transformation in the LPA application process.

The collaborative solution from the Office of the Public Guardian Online (OPGO) is a pioneering platform aimed at simplifying and automating the LPA application process. This digital overhaul not only slashes the processing time from three weeks to a mere 15 minutes but also revolutionises the user experience.

The development of OPGO was not a mere technological leap; it was a carefully curated process. The team embraced design thinking methodologies, engaging stakeholders, conducting usability workshops, and even pilot-testing with various demographics, including medical professionals and legal experts.

The integration of the National Digital Identity platform brought forth Secure Electronic Signatures, eliminating the need for physical signatures and ensuring a secure environment for document verification. Data security measures were rigorously implemented to safeguard sensitive information, offering citizens peace of mind when engaging with the platform.

The OPGO team is eager to explore more avenues to ease citizen’s lives. They’re on a mission to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning into document processing, anticipating even faster processing times and improved user experiences. By employing predictive analysis, they aim to broaden coverage with reduced manpower.

The agile methodology adopted, coupled with technology like low-code platforms, continuous integration and delivery practices, automated testing, and cloud technology, ensured adaptability and quality assurance throughout the project lifecycle. These measures were instrumental in refining OPGO’s usability before its launch and continue to facilitate its evolution.

The journey from manual processing to digitalisation has not only simplified bureaucratic procedures but also empowered individuals to take charge of their future in a technologically advanced, efficient, and secure manner.

In essence, the evolution of LPAs through technology is not just about paperwork; it’s a testament to how innovation can transform legal processes, making them accessible, efficient, and reliable for the benefit of society.

Since its launch in November 2022, over 57,000 individuals have used the OPGO portal to submit their LPA applications. The platform’s success surpassed key benchmarks for customer satisfaction, e-payment integration, digital signatures, and data pre-fill, proving its intuitive interface and functionality were well-received by citizens.

Until March 2026, citizens have the opportunity to benefit from a waived $75 application fee for LPAs, enabling them to use the efficient and user-friendly OPGO platform to secure their future.

Singapore recognises that technology has the potential to better people’s lives. They also understand that all segments of society should be able to understand, access and participate in an increasingly digital world.

OpenGov reported on the government’s commitment to supporting Singaporeans in this quest for perpetual learning. Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How underscored the pivotal role of continuous learning and skills acquisition in navigating the dynamic landscape of the modern world. He shared the Forward Singapore report, a comprehensive guide to the nation’s major developmental shifts, urging those unfamiliar with it to explore its insights.

Unveiling Vietnam’s E-commerce Surge

Vietnam’s burgeoning e-commerce sector is poised to surge to an estimated US$20.5 billion this year, cementing its pivotal role within the national digital economy. A recent conference hosted by the Vietnam E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency shed light on the monumental growth and challenges within this domain.

Deputy Minister Do Thang Hai underscored the transformative landscape of the domestic e-commerce market, highlighting the emergence of a robust secondary service supply system. This system encompasses an array of technology platform services dedicated to fortifying e-commerce transactions, spanning from marketing services to online communications and streamlined delivery services.

Addressing the hurdles impeding the sector’s seamless growth, Hai identified pivotal challenges relating to the traceability of goods, safeguarding personal information, and the optimization of logistics infrastructure. To surmount these challenges, he advocated for the bolstering of initiatives such as Online Friday, a flagship online shopping event aimed at propelling sustainable development within the e-commerce market while staunchly safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers and industry stakeholders.

Hai stressed the necessity of experts collaborating on strategic roadmaps for the sustainable evolution of Vietnam’s e-commerce sphere. He emphasized the indispensable role of both the government and businesses in championing digital technology solutions to augment the e-commerce ecosystem’s vitality.

The conference served as a unifying platform, where regulatory bodies, e-commerce platforms, payment intermediaries, and banking institutions pledged their commitment to fortify the digital landscape and ensure the protection of consumers and stakeholders engaging in e-commerce transactions.

A pivotal segment of the conference encompassed a seminar dedicated to exploring digital ecosystem solutions tailored to bolster the protection mechanisms for consumers and stakeholders navigating the vibrant e-commerce landscape in Vietnam.

The collective commitment displayed at the conference underscores a concerted drive towards fortifying the e-commerce ecosystem, recognizing its pivotal role in propelling the nation’s digital economy forward. As Vietnam’s e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, collaborative efforts and strategic advancements in digital technology solutions are anticipated to shape a resilient and consumer-centric framework, fostering sustainable growth and consumer trust within this burgeoning sector.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) is keen to spearhead initiatives to propel local businesses onto the global stage, while the Ministry of Information and Communications strategies for secure and sustainable digital infrastructure development.

MoIT recently unveiled an ambitious plan to propel Vietnamese businesses onto the global stage through a cutting-edge initiative. At the core of this strategy is the selection of 100 exceptional enterprises for the “Vietnam Pavilion” on a leading B2B e-commerce platform, slated to revolutionise the landscape of international trade.

This innovative programme seeks to champion the diverse array of “Made in Vietnam” products, fuel international trade endeavours, and facilitate seamless access for businesses to tap into the vast customer base of an established e-platform. By leveraging this expansive network, the initiative aims to illuminate Vietnam’s products and the prowess of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to a global audience.

Similarly, other ministries are looking to support national vision and ambitions. Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) is preparing to launch a strategic plan for international fibre-optic cable development, eyeing robust digital infrastructure growth and emphasising the country’s thriving internet economy.

The Ministry is designing a strategy for Vietnam’s international fibre-optic cable development that will soon released. This initiative aims to guarantee the secure and sustainable advancement of Vietnam’s digital infrastructure, according to Pham Duc Long, the Deputy Minister of MIC.

He pointed out that the existing lack of infrastructure presents an opportunity for Vietnam, as there is considerable room to develop it in new innovative and effective ways. He was speaking at the country’s Internet Day 2023 event with the theme “New Spaces, New Opportunities,” in Hanoi.

Indonesia-India Space Collaboration Unveiled

Developing space sector innovation is Indonesia’s primary focus, diligently realised through various strategic partnerships. The successful launch of SATRIA, achieving connectivity milestones by delivering internet speeds of up to 150Gbps, marks a significant achievement for Indonesia in space exploration.

Furthermore, to sustain the progress and advancements in space technology, Indonesia continues its collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This collaboration, initiated in 1995, has evolved into a crucial milestone, enriching knowledge and exploring the latest innovations in the space sector, as highlighted by Mila Kencana, the Head of the Legal and Cooperation Bureau at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).

BRIN plays a central role in fostering this collaboration. Mila Kencana explained that the cooperation began with India’s initiative to establish the Tracking, Telemetry & Command (TT&C) ground station in Biak, Papua, supporting the efficient launch of the Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The Indonesian government welcomed India’s desire to collaborate, marking the beginning of a productive collaborative relationship in the space sector.

Over time, the collaboration between Indonesia and India has continued to evolve. The pinnacle was reached in 2018 when both governments signed the Framework Agreement on Space Exploration and Utilisation for Peaceful Purposes. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to space exploration and utilisation for peaceful purposes, encompassing not only the development of space technology but also scientific research, knowledge exchange, and the utilisation of space-related outcomes for the benefit of both nations.

This collaboration strengthens Indonesia’s position in the global space arena and creates new opportunities for economic growth, technological capacity enhancement, and sustainable scientific collaboration between the two countries. With a strong determination and a solid foundation of collaboration, Indonesia and India continue to explore the potential of space for peaceful purposes and mutual progress.

Mila expressed optimism about this collaboration, emphasising that with BRIN’s consolidation, ample human resources, and substantial infrastructure, Indonesia should be able to take over responsibilities as planned since 1995. Mila mentioned that the Transfer Agreement and IA Further Use are currently in the internal approval stage by the Indian government through ISRO and are envisioned to be signed soon. She believed that Indonesia can prepare human resources capable of acquiring knowledge transfer from experts predominantly from India.

Mila explained that numerous benefits will be gained from this collaboration, including transferring ownership of the Biak ground station from ISRO to BRIN. This is considered fundamental and crucial, signifying the continuity of cooperation and Indonesia’s capability.

Additionally, ISRO will provide satellite launch services using its vehicles. “There are two BRIN-made satellites that are not charged, and, of course, equally important is the enhancement of research and researcher, engineer, or technician capabilities,” added Mila.

Salim Mustofa, Director of Strengthening and Infrastructure Partnership at the Research and Innovation Agency, mentions that the progress of this collaboration has reached the signing stage and is planned to be executed soon.

“Biak is considered strategic for India to facilitate and launch their rocket activities and track launched satellites,” Salim explained. “It is expected that through Biak, satellite data reception activities can cover 20% of the ASEAN region; this is already included in ISRO and India’s grand design for the future,” Salim further elaborated.

Salim emphasised that space development is a crucial step for a country. “The importance of utilising space data for various sectors, including agriculture, the environment, and disaster mitigation. By collectively exploring the potential of space data, Indonesia and ISRO can present innovative solutions to local and global challenges,” he concludes.

Salim expressed optimism that the collaboration between Indonesia and ISRO will continue and develop into a closer and sustainable partnership. He emphasises that this collaboration goes beyond satellite launches or space infrastructure, encompassing knowledge exchange, human resource capacity development, and shared innovation. With a mutual understanding of each country’s needs and potential, this collaboration can have broader and more profound impacts on the space sector and related technological developments.

December 5, 2023

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HKUST scholars develop rechargeable e-fuel

Beyond Connectivity: Singapore’s 5G Initiative

Malaysia’s Digital Identity Implementation

Tech Empowering Inclusive Education in India

Bridging Indonesia’s Remote Connectivity Gap

Digitalising Decision-Making Transforming Singapore’s Legal Landscape

Unveiling Vietnam’s E-commerce Surge

Indonesia-India Space Collaboration Unveiled

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Beyond Connectivity: Singapore’s 5G Initiative

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