NSW RFS’s Emergency Response Systems to Be Digitally Transformed

New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has entered into a five-year engagement with the Australia arm of an Information and Communication Technology company that will see the company digitise the NSW RFS’s mission-critical systems to help improve fire emergency outcomes in the state.

Under the AU$ 60 million program, the company develop, install and maintain incident response Mobile Data Terminals across the more than 5,000 RFS vehicles. Using a specialised program and AWS-hosted software, the Mobile Data Terminals will be a resilient platform that will provide support to firefighters fighting at the forefront. They will have access to mission-critical information such as satellite and topography imagery and weather updates. The Mobile Data Terminals will also connect firefighters to the NSW RFS Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, which is managed by the company.

Rolling out the Mobile Data Terminals across all NSW RFS fire fighting vehicles advances fire emergency outcomes by enhancing the delivery of briefings and incident information and intelligence to field commanders.

This announcement advances several of the 76 recommendations set out by the independent NSW Bushfire inquiry – which was established in response to the 2019-20 black summer bushfires – and comprises part of an AU$ 192 million NSW grant to improve and provide new emergency infrastructure for firefighters.

The Head of Industry – Public Sector at the company stated that the firm is pleased to be helping the NSW Rural Fire Service improve frontline situational awareness for firefighters, and protect rural communities, people, property, and the environment. They are also proud that their dedicated emergency services practice and experienced teams can deliver transformational innovation that helps our heroic firefighters in life-threatening situations.

The NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner said the 2019/20 bush fire season was the toughest and most devastating fire season ever experienced in NSW. He noted that following the NSW Bushfire Inquiry, the department has been working with the NSW Government and its partners to advance the recommendations set out in the report and ultimately improve how we plan, prepare and respond to bush fires. This partnership is an example of how this is being achieved.

The tech firm has begun building the integration systems, using cloud-based infrastructure to run the Adashi software platform and manage critical incidents safely and efficiently. Installation of the Mobile Data Terminals into NSW RFS vehicles will commence at the end of 2022.

This engagement is an extension of the company’s existing relationship with NSW RFS. The firm currently manages the NSW RFS’s Computer Aided Dispatch system, which it implemented in 2020. The CAD system manages the assignment and deployment of resources to emergency and non-emergency incidents.

OpenGov Asia recently reported that under a new NSW Government program, NSW is working to push forward its place as a world leader in bushfire technology commercialisation and position itself for the international export of innovative bushfire solutions. The region’s Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology stated that the Bushfire Commercialisation Fund will help innovators translate their cutting-edge research into practical solutions that will improve bushfire detection, preparation and response.

A total of AU$ 16 million over three years has been allocated, with the first round of funding offering grants of between AU$ 200,000 and AU$ 8 million to individuals, companies, research institutions and universities, to help them commercialise their research.

Singapore Leading the Way in Cybersecurity Resilience

The mid-year statistics for scams and cybercrime in 2023 released by the Singapore Police Force reveal a concerning surge in online scams, prompting the government to implement a comprehensive set of measures to counter the growing threat and maintain a secure online environment for citizens amidst the digitalisation wave.

Image credits: Ministry of Communication and Information

In a strategic move in 2022, the Singapore Police Force established the Anti-Scam Command (ASCom), bringing together expertise from major banks and law enforcement. ASCom successfully halted over 9,000 bank accounts and recovered approximately S$50.8 million in the first half of 2023.

Close collaboration with banks and the CPF Board led to the introduction of tools empowering victims to mitigate losses, such as a self-service “kill-switch” for compromised bank accounts and a “Money Lock” feature rolled out by banks in November 2023. The government, through the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), initiated proactive measures to block scam calls and SMSes, resulting in the blocking of over 310 million potential scam calls in 2023.

To address the risks associated with high-value transactions, mandatory facial verification through Singpass was implemented in 2022. Legislative amendments in May 2023 increased penalties for those facilitating scammers’ misuse of Singpass or bank accounts, and the new Online Criminal Harms Act, passed in July 2023, outlines requirements for online platforms to protect consumers and take swift action against fraudulent accounts or content.

In collaboration with major banks, efforts to enhance security features for banking applications and design secure-by-design features for user devices have been successful. The Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF), scheduled for implementation in the first half of 2024, will hold banks and telcos accountable for protecting customers from phishing and provide swift recourse for victims.

While the government remains committed to its initiatives, public vigilance is deemed paramount. Public education campaigns, such as the “ACT” against scams, encourage citizens to adopt the ScamShield app, be alert to scam signs, and report incidents to authorities.

Consumer education tools, including the Marketplace Transaction Safety Ratings (TSR) and Internet Hygiene Portal (IHP), play a crucial role in assisting the public in making informed decisions during online transactions. As Singapore actively works towards fostering a secure digital environment, the collective efforts of the government and an informed public are indispensable in the ongoing battle against scams.

Beyond the immediate impact on citizens, the government’s commitment to thwarting online scams enhances Singapore’s global standing as a secure and reliable digital hub, attracting international investments and partnerships. This approach not only fortifies government-citizen trust but also encourages collaboration and reporting of potential threats.

Singapore’s proactive stance in cybersecurity measures positions it as a global leader, setting an example for other nations to emulate. By prioritising individual empowerment through awareness, collaboration, and preparedness, Singapore aims to build collective cybersecurity resilience, ensuring a robust defence against cyber threats in the digital era.

Singapore is actively investing in and prioritising national cybersecurity measures to fortify its digital defences, ensuring resilience against cyber threats and reinforcing its standing as a secure and innovative digital hub globally.

As part of its national cybersecurity efforts, the Cyber Security Agency has introduced the “Safe App Standard” to guide local developers in implementing essential security controls. It aims to safeguard mobile applications against threats like malware and phishing and ensure the security of end-users and transactions, responding to the widespread use of mobile apps highlighted in the CSA’s 2022 Cybersecurity Awareness Survey.

Identifying and Addressing Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Vietnam

A new Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in Vietnam has become the fifth of its kind in the country, joining several others The MVNO plans to optimise resources and integrate services from various partners within its ecosystem to offer convenient and effective packages to customers.

It aims to incorporate advanced technologies like Cloud computing, Chat BOT, and AI for improved service capacity, amid the growing MVNO landscape that comprises approximately 2.65 million subscribers, making up 2.1% of the total mobile telecommunications market, according to data from the Authority of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Information and Communications.

With the recent addition of a new Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in Vietnam, reflecting the expanding mobile landscape, there’s a heightened focus on increased mobile coverage and the imperative to ensure users’ safety.

As the MVNO market grows, encompassing approximately 2.65 million subscribers and constituting 2.1% of the total mobile telecommunications market, it becomes crucial to implement robust safety measures. With a rising number of users engaging with mobile services, there is an urgent need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard users’ privacy, data, and overall digital well-being.

This underscores the importance of regulatory frameworks and proactive measures by both service providers and authorities to create a secure mobile environment for all users in Vietnam.

With security in mind, the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, operating under the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), collaborated with major tech platforms in 2023 to counter the dissemination of toxic information and fake news.

These platforms were required to cooperate in removing content violating Vietnamese law, implementing solutions to prevent and eliminate incorrect or toxic news, resulting in a response rate exceeding 90% for removal requests and a shortened duration of 3-24 hours for handling and blocking violations.

The integration of AI technology by major online platforms facilitated automated scanning, detection, and handling of content in accordance with MIC requests. Notably, in May 2023, the MIC, alongside five relevant ministries and sectors, conducted a comprehensive inspection of operations, leading to the identification of violations and the issuance of directives for enhanced management of cross-border service provision in the country.

Furthermore, the MIC intensified efforts to receive and verify feedback on fake news through the Vietnam Anti-Fake News Centre (VAFC). The VAFC played a crucial role in labelling fake news, disseminating correct information through mass media, and promptly identifying and preventing the spread of numerous false reports on a designated website.

Additionally, the website actively collaborated in blocking and removing more than 800 gambling links, addressing reactionary and malicious content, and publishing articles to caution against large-scale fraud and misinformation.

In the ongoing year, the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information continues its collaboration with ministries, sectors, and localities, working alongside relevant entities to establish a national-scale information processing network.

The National Cyber Security Monitoring Center (NCSC) under AIS has identified five critical information security vulnerabilities in certain software products, raising concerns about potential cyber threats to information systems in Vietnam. These vulnerabilities, disclosed in a software company’s patch list, include risks such as phishing attacks, remote code execution, and exposure of sensitive information.

AIS recommends that governmental agencies, organisations, and businesses assess and update computers using the affected operating systems to the latest patches to mitigate the risk of cyberattacks. It stressed the need for prompt attention to identified vulnerabilities, as overlooking these issues poses immediate risks to the security of agencies and organisations, with historical data indicating a high number of vulnerabilities detected in previous months.

Despite warnings and recommendations, there is a tendency for institutions to neglect or insufficiently address identified flaws, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to secure information systems and prevent potential cyber threats.

Navigating Indonesia’s Smart City Landscape

The notion of smart cities that leverage information and communication technology (ICT) to elevate the overall quality of urban living has evolved globally. At the forefront of this transformative movement, Kurnia Novianti, a researcher from the Regional Research Centre of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), has emerged as a beacon illuminating the path towards embracing and customising the smart city concept. In her insightful exploration, Novianti delves into the intricate mechanisms and strategies of adeptly adapting the smart city paradigm to diverse urban landscapes.

Through her work, she contributed significantly to the discourse on the intersection of technology and urban development, offering invaluable perspectives on how these innovations can be harnessed to address the myriad challenges modern cities face, ultimately paving the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and interconnected urban future.

Speaking at the PRW Forum Discussion on “Adopting and Adaptation: Implementing Smart City in Surabaya, Indonesia” held at the BRIN Science Area Sarwono Prawirohardjo, Jakarta, Kurnia emphasised the widespread adoption of smart city concepts not only in Indonesia but across the world.

Kurnia’s research delved into the dynamics of the Surabaya Smart City 2019 (SSC) competition, investigating the groups of actors involved in the adoption and adaptation of smart city concepts. The competition showcased a top-down implementation of urban development programmes by the city government, providing an opportunity for local communities to create unique innovations that directly benefit their lives.

One notable outcome of the SSC 2019 was the emergence of various innovations, such as vibrant costumes crafted from recycled plastic or other materials, Wastewater Treatment Installations (IPAL), organic charcoal made from coconut shells, barcodes for plant identification, and several other localised innovations.

The researcher highlighted the focus on smart environment, smart society, and smart economy pillars, as promoted by the Surabaya city government during the competition. Many innovations created were simple technological tools, including a diverse range of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) products.

In Surabaya, Kurnia has elaborated on two main concepts used to analyse the Surabaya Smart City 2019 case – governmentality and improvisation. These concepts help explain the dual nature of SSC 2019 as a top-down government programme on one side and, on the other, a source of improvisations in the form of unique responses from Surabaya’s local communities.

Kurnia asserted that this research contributes a unique perspective to studying smart cities in Indonesia. Broadly, the research aids in understanding urban transformations by examining the interactions of cultural, social, economic, and political factors within specific urban communities. The smart city concept, in general, is seen as a solution to urban problems, addressing issues related to infrastructure and the city’s ability to provide a comfortable space for its residents.

According to Kurnia, the effective use of digital technology can help address demographic, economic, environmental, and security challenges. Therefore, the smart city concept becomes an ideal solution for cities to tackle population, economic, social, and security issues.

However, Kurnia emphasised that implementing smart city concepts requires careful consideration of local contexts. He suggested that cities, including Surabaya, should ideally have a strategic city planning strategy developed by academicians rather than relying solely on the city government’s perspective. He argued that this adaptation to local contexts is crucial, considering the unique challenges faced by each city.

From an instrumental perspective, implementing the smart city concept in a city can be intricate due to the diverse actors involved, including various institutions and responses from city residents. Despite this, Kurnia concluded by expressing confidence that all these complexities can be resolved with careful consideration and adaptation, making the smart city concept a viable and effective solution for future urban challenges.

Australia: Virtual Reality Revolutionises Fitness Engagement

University of South Australia researchers have unveiled findings that could revolutionise exercise engagement and chronic pain management. Their study, led by PhD candidate Erin MacIntyre and senior researcher Assoc Prof Tasha Stanton, introduces a cutting-edge approach that combines virtual reality (VR) technology with cycling to enhance the overall exercise experience.

The research, conducted using a novel stationary bike system with a head-mounted VR display, reveals a significant increase in exercise enjoyment by 20% and a 15% longer exercise duration when participants engaged in virtual reality-enhanced cycling.

In a global context where only one in five people adhere to recommended exercise guidelines, the implications of this research are particularly promising. The Australian exercise guidelines recommend 30 minutes of exercise at least three to five times a week, a target often unmet by the majority. Additionally, with 3.4 million people in Australia and one in five people worldwide grappling with chronic pain, finding innovative solutions to overcome barriers to exercise becomes crucial.

PhD candidate Erin MacIntyre emphasises the importance of physical activity for maintaining both physical and mental well-being and managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Recognising the common hurdles such as boredom, perceived effort, and pain associated with exercise, the researchers explored novel ways to overcome these barriers. The study introduces a groundbreaking combination of VR technology with cycling, creating a unique exercise experience that distracts individuals from exertion and enhances enjoyment and engagement.

The study employed a stationary bike system seamlessly integrated with a head-mounted VR display. The VR system was wirelessly connected to a custom VR program, allowing remote control of the stationary bike’s resistance and the ability to monitor participants’ power output in watts. Participants, guided by the immersive VR experience, engaged in up to 30 minutes of cycling, with the flexibility to conclude their session prematurely for any reason.

Senior researcher Assoc Prof Tasha Stanton highlights the significance of the VR bike system as a safe, valid, and credible intervention for improving exercise engagement, especially in clinical settings. The preliminary findings demonstrate the effectiveness of VR in enhancing both engagement and enjoyment of exercise, even for individuals experiencing chronic pain. While acknowledging the need for further research, the researchers express confidence in the broader adoption of VR to support health and rehabilitation goals.

The integration of VR technology with exercise not only addresses the challenge of exercise adherence but also proves to be a game-changer for individuals dealing with chronic pain. Chronic pain often acts as a significant deterrent to regular physical activity, hindering rehabilitation and overall well-being. The distraction provided by the VR experience allows individuals to focus on the virtual environment, mitigating the impact of chronic pain and facilitating their active participation in exercise.

The study’s approach of combining VR with cycling, creating a digital countryside setting, has shown promise in making exercise feel more manageable and enjoyable. The immersive experience offered by the VR headset effectively diverts attention from the exertion of exercise, contributing to increased engagement and a positive exercise experience. This breakthrough could pave the way for a paradigm shift in how exercise is perceived, particularly among those who find traditional forms of physical activity unappealing or challenging.

The University of South Australia’s research introduces an innovative and promising solution to address the global challenge of exercise adherence and chronic pain management. By seamlessly integrating virtual reality technology with cycling, the study demonstrates tangible benefits in terms of increased exercise enjoyment, extended exercise duration, and distraction from chronic pain.

As technology continues to play a pivotal role in healthcare and rehabilitation, the VR bike system stands out as a groundbreaking intervention that could transform the landscape of exercise engagement, offering a viable solution to promote physical activity and well-being.

Thailand Exploring Blockchain Impact on Government

The surge in the adoption of blockchain technology across various sectors in Thailand is becoming increasingly evident, with notable acceleration being gained. The nation is actively embracing blockchain, exploring its applications in diverse areas, and witnessing a collaborative effort from various entities, involving government bodies, private enterprises, and financial institutions to drive its widespread acceptance. This momentum was notably showcased at the Blockchain to Government Conference (B2GC) held in Phuket Province in this January.

The B2GC, a gathering of blockchain experts in Phuket, has marked a significant step for Thailand in its journey toward embracing and integrating blockchain technology. The conference catalysed promoting a comprehensive understanding of the transformative potential of blockchain across government sectors, highlighting the active role played by various entities, particularly the Digital Government Agency (DGA).

Mr Sophon Suwannarat, the Governor of Phuket Province, presided over the opening ceremony, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of blockchain technology’s transformative potential in governance. Mr Nattawat Woranopakul, the Deputy Director of the Digital Government Agency (DGA), asserted to delve into the profound impact of blockchain within government agencies.

“Blockchain technology can transform the government sector by streamlining processes, reducing costs, increasing transparency, and building trust and accountability,” said Mr Woranopakul.

Mr Woranopakul’s presentation, titled “Using Blockchain Technology in Government Agencies,” aligned with the broader conference theme, emphasising the pivotal role of blockchain in enhancing government capabilities for the benefit of citizens. The collaborative effort prevailed, with representatives from other government agencies, such as the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) and the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), joining forces to share their insights.

The DGA’s engagement extended beyond presentations, as it showcased the ME-D and ME-Vote services at an interactive booth. ME-D, a pioneering initiative, focuses on providing efficient and secure digital identification services, while ME-Vote represents a bold step toward leveraging blockchain for secure and transparent electoral processes. The booth served as a focal point for exploring the practical applications of blockchain in government services, attracting both Thai and international participants.

Further, the DGA’s outreach transcended domestic affairs, with services tailored to the needs of international attendees. This underscored the agency’s commitment to fostering global collaboration and showcasing Thailand’s advancements in digital governance, inviting cross-border partnerships.

The conference ambience was characterised by the exchange and collaborative exploration. Attendees, ranging from experts to enthusiasts, engaged in discussions on the challenges and opportunities presented by blockchain in the public sector. Panels and workshops provided a deep dive into specific aspects of blockchain governance, offering practical knowledge and insights from real-world implementations.

As the conference concluded, the DGA emerged not just as a participant but as a proactive contributor to the global dialogue on blockchain integration into government affairs. The insights shared, collaborations forged, and technologies showcased positioned the DGA at the forefront of the global movement toward more efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric governance.

Mr Suwannarat emphasised the importance of embracing innovative technologies to address evolving citizen needs and propel Thailand into a digital future. The B2GC in Phuket marked a milestone, signifying a collective commitment to exploring and embracing the transformative potential of blockchain in shaping the future of governance.

As the echoes of the conference resonate, the DGA’s role solidifies as a trigger for change. The discussions in Phuket are poised to influence the trajectory of blockchain integration in government agencies, not only in Thailand but globally.

The B2GC served as a platform for exchange and a beacon illuminating the path toward a more connected, transparent, and technologically advanced era of governance. Thailand’s proactive stance in this global movement signals its determination to be at the forefront of technological innovation, leveraging blockchain for the betterment of governance and the well-being of its citizens.

Hong Kong Productivity Council Empowering SMEs

In a bid to address the challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Hong Kong’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) recently unveiled key findings on SME Development and Support. The initiative, which included the inauguration of BEE Square (BEE2), serves as a crucial step toward understanding and empowering SMEs in the digital economy.

The BEE2 Inauguration Ceremony featured the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, HKSAR Government, delivering the opening remarks, setting the stage for a significant shift in how SMEs access government support in the digital age.

HKPC’s Chairman highlighted the organisation’s pivotal role as Hong Kong’s leading implementation agent of funding schemes, emphasising a commitment to understanding the evolving needs of SMEs in the tech sector. The inauguration of BEE Square (BEE2) marked a significant milestone, offering a digital platform designed to facilitate regular interaction and the exchange of views among applicants of government funding schemes. This initiative aims to provide timely and relevant information, aligning with the digital aspirations of SMEs and startups.

“The Findings on SME” brought forth crucial insights, revealing that over 70% of SMEs in Hong Kong expressed a desire for government funding schemes related to marketing and promotion. This keen interest underlines the growing emphasis on digital strategies and expansion into Mainland China and overseas markets among SMEs.

A survey commissioned by HKPC Funding Schemes in the latter half of 2023, conducted by the Centre for Communication and Public Opinion Survey (CCPOS) at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), provided valuable insights into post-pandemic challenges and development directions for SMEs. The survey, based on online responses from over 500 SME representatives and six focus group interviews, disclosed that 58% of enterprises had not returned to pre-pandemic business performance.

Looking ahead, the survey identified “profit maximisation” as the top priority for 60% of enterprises, with 51% and 44% aiming for “growth/expansion (outside Hong Kong)” and “increased operational efficiency and productivity,” respectively. These goals underscore the strategic focus on digital transformation, efficiency gains, and expanding market presence, aligning with the demands of the evolving business landscape.

Responding to business challenges, over half of the SME respondents had previously applied for government funding schemes, and an overwhelming 72% expressed their intention to apply within the next 24 months. Notably, the survey highlighted SMEs’ strong desire for government funding schemes related to “marketing and promotion” (72%), “talent recruitment” (49%), and “support for business operating expenses” (49%)—all critical aspects in the digital era.

Professor Clement So from CUHK stressed the crucial role of government funding schemes in SMEs’ business development and digital transformation. The survey underscored the importance of an ideal digital information platform, providing a single sign-on (SSO) account, successful case sharing, and a community for applicants to exchange experiences.

SMEs also expressed hopes for the government to lead initiatives supporting their expansion into Mainland and overseas markets. Suggestions included organising exchange programs, study tours, and exhibitions to enhance SMEs’ understanding of target markets, particularly in terms of local regulations and market information—a clear indication of the digital-savvy SMEs’ global ambitions.

The survey highlighted a lack of awareness among SMEs regarding funding scheme information platforms. Addressing this, the Chief Operating Officer of HKPC announced three major actions aimed at empowering SMEs through updated government support:

Establishing Biz Expands Easy Square (BEE2): This interactive experience-sharing platform brings together government departments, industry associations, and funding scheme applicants, allowing SMEs and startups to obtain relevant government funding information and submit applications digitally.

Launching a New “Government Funding 101” Video Series: Short videos featuring successful government funding application cases will serve as an introductory guide for SMEs, providing insights into the application process in a digital format.

Enhancing BEE ePass Functionality with Integration of “iAM Smart”: By integrating “iAM Smart” with BEE ePass, users can log in conveniently without providing a username and password, streamlining access and management of government funding schemes administered by HKPC in the digital realm.

These initiatives underscore HKPC’s commitment to leveraging technology and creating platforms that empower SMEs, ensuring they can navigate and benefit from government funding schemes effectively in the rapidly evolving digital business landscape. As Hong Kong SMEs embrace the digital economy, these initiatives are poised to play a pivotal role in their success and growth.

Johor-Singapore SEZ: Singapore-Malaysia Collaboration

In a major move aimed at strengthening their economic collaboration, Singapore and Malaysia have solidified their ties by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). This initiative, announced in Johor Bahru, signifies a strategic effort to boost cross-border flows, streamline business processes, and foster mutual economic growth.

The signing ceremony, attended by Malaysia’s Minister of Economy, Mohd Rafizi Ramli, and Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong, demonstrates the commitment of both nations to enhancing economic connectivity between Johor and Singapore. The presence and endorsement of Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, further underscore the enduring partnership and joint determination to bolster economic cooperation.

The MoU, a product of the 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat in October 2023, sets the stage for a comprehensive Agreement on the JS-SEZ, with updates anticipated at the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat. A key focus of this collaboration is the facilitation of cross-border flows of goods and people to create a conducive business ecosystem within the JS-SEZ, thereby attracting investments.

Leveraging the substantial growth in Johor and Singapore’s significant investments in the region, the JS-SEZ aligns with Johor’s impressive RM70.6 billion (S$22.592 billion) worth of investments in 2022. These investments span diverse sectors, including electrical and electronics, medical equipment, food manufacturing, and data centres.

Highlighting the importance of data centres in the digital economy, these facilities play a foundational role in providing the necessary infrastructure and services for businesses to thrive in an interconnected and data-driven world. Singapore, as Johor’s second-largest foreign investor in the first half of 2022, has played a significant role in the region’s foreign direct investment in the manufacturing sector.

Beyond the MoU signing, collaborative efforts between Malaysia and Singapore manifest in a comprehensive strategy encompassing various initiatives to fortify the JS-SEZ. At the forefront is the establishment of a dedicated one-stop business and investment service centre in Johor. This centre is designed to streamline and expedite approval and licensing processes for Singaporean businesses looking to establish a presence within the JS-SEZ, fostering an efficient and business-friendly environment.

Complementary initiatives include the adoption of a groundbreaking passport-free QR code clearance system at land checkpoints, ensuring swift and hassle-free people clearance. Simultaneously, the digitisation of cargo clearance processes at land checkpoints reflects a commitment to modernising and simplifying cross-border logistics.

In a synchronised effort, collaborative endeavours involve co-organising an investor forum to gather valuable feedback, facilitating renewable energy cooperation, developing targeted training initiatives to address talent gaps, and organising joint promotion events. These multifaceted efforts exemplify the shared commitment of Malaysia and Singapore to not only create a conducive business environment within the JS-SEZ but also foster innovation, collaboration, and sustainable economic growth.

These proactive measures underscore the commitment of both nations to fostering economic growth through collaborative efforts. With Malaysia and Singapore ranking as each other’s second-largest trading partners, bilateral trade reached S$153 billion in 2022, marking an 18.9% year-on-year growth. Singapore emerged as Malaysia’s primary source of foreign direct investment, contributing a substantial 20.5% to Malaysia’s total FDI in 2022.

The JS-SEZ initiative is poised to further elevate this robust economic relationship, providing a strategic framework for sustained collaboration and shared prosperity between the two nations. As the details of the JS-SEZ Agreement unfold, it signifies a new chapter in the bilateral economic landscape, underscoring the shared vision of Malaysia and Singapore to drive economic development through strategic cooperation and digitisation. The collaborative efforts in the JS-SEZ pave the way for a more interconnected and innovative economic future for both nations.

January 19, 2024

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NSW RFS’s Emergency Response Systems to Be Digitally Transformed

Singapore Leading the Way in Cybersecurity Resilience

Identifying and Addressing Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Vietnam

Navigating Indonesia’s Smart City Landscape

Australia: Virtual Reality Revolutionises Fitness Engagement

Thailand Exploring Blockchain Impact on Government

Hong Kong Productivity Council Empowering SMEs

Johor-Singapore SEZ: Singapore-Malaysia Collaboration

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