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Sistem pemerintahan berbasis data sejatinya menekankan pada pemanfaatan data dan analisis terkait pembuatan keputusan dan peningkatan pelayanan publik. Dalam era perkembangan digital yang cepat, keberadaan sumber data yang cukup masif ini dapat menjadi peluang bagi lembaga pemerintahan dalam pemanfaatan informasi dan wawasan demi meningkatakan produktivitas masyarakat.
Melalui sistem tersebut, lembaga pemerintahan dapat memperoleh pemahaman mendalam terhadap permasalahan sosial dan tren. Hal ini dapat menjadi modal untuk mengembangkan kebijakan berdasarkan bukti nyata, menekankan pada aspirasi dan kebutuhan publik melalui pemanfaatan data secara maksimal.
Salah satu keunggulan pemerintahan berbasis data lainnya adalah terkait pelayanan penyediaan informasi yang valid. Sistem pemerintahan konvensional seperti sekarang ini masih bergantung pada intuisi akibat keterbatasan data, sehingga hanya akan menghasilkan informasi yang suboptimal.
Pemerintahan berbasis data juga memungkinkan lembaga pemerintahan untuk dapat memperkuat pelayanan publiknya. Melalui analisis preferensi masyarakat, pemanfaatan pola, dan tingkat kepuasan pelayanan, lembaga pemerintahan dapat menetapkan kebijakan berdasarkan segmentasi masyarakat yang terarah.
Walaupun begitu, dalam pengaplikasian sistem pemerintahan berbasis data, seringkali juga dihadang oleh tantangan ke depan. Penyediaan privasi data dan keamanan menjadi salah satu hambatan. Perlindungan privasi data masyarakat dari pihak yang tidak berkepentingan atau penyelewengan data membutuhkan perlindungan yang kuat dari lembaga pemerintahan.
Kemudahan dalam mengakses data yang berkualitas juga menjadi tantangan selanjutnya. Seringkali, lembaga pemerintahan harus menghadapi permasalahan seperti sumber data yang terfragmentasi, format data yang berbeda, dan ruang data yang terpisah.
Oleh karena itu, untuk memahami potensi sistem pemerintahan berbasis data secara maksimal, lembaga pemerintahan harus mengembangkan kemampuan analitik data dan meningkatkan kebiasaan masyarakat yang berbasis data. Hal ini dapat dilakukan dengan menyelenggarakan edukasi terkait literasi analisis data, menjalin kerja sama dengan akademisi dan pihak swasta, serta mendorong kebiasaan pengambilan keputusan berbasis data di semua sektor dan organisasi.
OpenGov Breakfast Insight yang diselenggarakan pada tanggal 24 Mei 2023 di hotel Shangri-La The Fort Manila bertujuan untuk mendiskusikan integrasi data terbarukan dan kelebihan dari analitik bagi sektor publik Filipina.
Pengantar Awal
Sesi Awal, Mohit Sagar, CEO & Pimpinan Redaksi, OpenGov Asia mengakui bahwa data menjadi sebuah komoditi utama di era digital ini. Keberadaan data melebihi sumber daya lama seperti minyak dan emas. Sebagai bukti sebuah pertumbuhan teknologi yang cepat, dunia mampu menghasilkan kuantitas data yang besar setiap detiknya.
Ia menambahkan bahwa informasi data dapat menjadi sebuah gambaran pemahaman terkait kebiasaan konsumen, tren, dan langkah pembentukan prosedur. Perusahaan dan institusi harus memperhatikan strategis dalam penggunaan data untuk dapat menghasilkan keunggulan yang kompetitif, menunjang pelayanan konsumen, dan memperkuat metode yang efisien.
Mohit menjelaskan, “dikarenakan pendekatan berbasis data mengalami peningkatan yang cukup drastis di berbagai sektor industri, kelebihan untuk mengakumulasi dan memanfaatkan data menjadi kunci utama dalam era modern ini. Data menjadi aset primadona dalam pertumbuhan ekonomi saat ini.”
Lebih jauh, ia menekankan bahwa dengan perkembangan teknologi yang terus berinovasi, data akan meningkat secara terus menerus. Berbagai institusi akan menghasilkan data dengan kuantitas yang belum pernah terjadi sebelumnya secara berkepanjangan. Hal ini disebabkan oleh penyebaran smartphone (telepon genggam pintar), Internet of Things (IoT), dan platform digital yang masif.
Dengan kelebihan tersebut, berbagai institusi dapat meminimalisir risiko kelebihan data yang berulang, menghilangkan silo data, serta meningkatkan kualitas dan konsistensi data dengan pengintegrasian. Bisnis pun dapat menerima pemahaman pasar, tren, dan keterkaitan capaian, sehingga menghasilkan keputusan-keputusan yang relevan ke depannya.
Integrasi data terus mendorong aspek kolaborasi dan efisiensi yang menghasilkan pertukaran data lebih cepat dari banyak pihak, sistem, dan departemen. Lebih jauh, hal ini dapat membangun basis sebagai standar analisis baru, machine learning (ML), dan artificial intelligence (AI), di mana ketepatan dan integrasi data merupakan hal yang penting sebagai modal prediksi yang akurat.
Mohit menekankan bahwa integrasi data memudahkan bisnis dalam memaksimalkan hasil analisis data, mendorong inovasi, dan membangun kebermanfaatan yang kompetitif saat ini. Ketika kebijakan saling komplemen satu dengan lainnya, kolaborasi antar pemerintahan juga akan menjadi sangat mudah untuk dikembangkan. Hasil dari kerja sama tersebut akan berbuah kepada peningkatan efisiensi kebijakan.
Lebih jauh, metode skala layanan dan ruang penyimpanan dalam digitalasasi telah mengalami transformasi sepenuhnya berkat teknologi virtualisasi. Mohit menekankan bahwa virtualisasi membuat kerjasama lebih mudah untuk mengalokasikan dan menggunakan kapasitas sumber penyimpanan secara efisien karena dapat memisahkan perangkat fisik yang biasa digunakan pada umumnya.
Pengaplikasian virtualisasi juga menawarkan fleksibilitas dan kemampuan beradaptasi. Melalui pengaplikasian virtualiasasi data, sebuah bisnis dapat mengembangkan infrastrukturnya secara dinamis sejauh yang dibutuhkan, serta dapat memperbesar layanan dan ruang penyimpanan untuk memenuhi tuntutan kebutuhan data yang berkembang. Hal ini tentu menjadikan bisnis mampu merespon perubahan secara cepat.
“Institusi maupun lembaga dapat memenuhi kebutuhan data dengan mengelola data secara baik, memperkuat skalabilitas, dan mengoptimalkan pemanfaatan sumber virtual,” jelas Mohit.
Setiap agensi nantinya akan bekerja lebih produktif setelah mengakses keseluruhan data. Mekanisme protokol juga akan diimplementasikan dalam kebijakan untuk memastikan bahwa izin dan akses diberikan kepada entitas yang membutuhkannya secara tepat.
Jika digunakan secara kompeten, data dapat membantu pemerintah dalam mengerjakan tugas secara efektif. Pelayanan dan kepuasan publik akan berimbas dikarenakan efisiensi dan keberhasilan kinerja yang efektif. “Pemerintah mampu mendapatkan pemahaman dari pola dan tren yang dikelola dengan maksimal dari analisis sebuah data,” tutupnya.
Salam Pembuka
Menurut Armstrong Mejilla, Senior Director, APJ Presales di Qlik, frasa “Data Everywhere, Data Everything” secara ringkas menggambarkan perluasan data yang masif saat ini. Hal ini menekankan pentingnya menghadapi tantangan dan memanfaatkan peluang yang muncul dari keberlimpahan data. Selain itu, ia juga menekankan pentingnya pengelolaan dan pemanfaatan dalam pengoptimalan potensi data secara efektif.
Kehadiran yang merata dan penggunaan data yang luas dalam dunia digital saat ini menekankan peran integral dalam kehidupan manusia. Hal ini menyebar ke setiap aspek aktivitas pribadi maupun profesional.
Data telah menjadi komponen yang tidak terpisahkan, membentuk dan memengaruhi berbagai aspek kehidupan sehari-hari, mulai dari pengambilan keputusan pribadi hingga ranah profesional. Kehadirannya yang merata menunjukkan dampak signifikan dan ketergantungan masyarakat yang dapat dengan mudah saling terhubung saat ini.
“Data terus tumbuh dengan kecepatan yang mengagumkan, menciptakan peluang menarik bagi sektor publik untuk meningkatkan layanan kepada masyarakat, meningkatkan kinerja keuangan, dan memenuhi misi mereka secara lebih,” tegas Armstrong. “Akan tetapi, ketika datang investasi dalam kecerdasan bisnis dan analitik data, faktor yang menjadi masalah seringkali terletak pada budaya dan kebiasaan.”
Banyak bisnis telah mencoba melaksanakan proyek transformasi digital yang bertujuan untuk menumbuhkan budaya inovasi, namun sering menghadapi kegagalan. Penting bagi bisnis untuk beralih fokus dan menumbuhkan konsep ‘agilitas bisnis digital’.
Alih-alih bertujuan untuk transformasi, organisasi harus memprioritaskan agilitas, yang memungkinkan mereka untuk dengan cepat beradaptasi dan merespons perkembangan lanskap digital yang terus berubah. Dengan mengadopsi agilitas bisnis digital, bisnis dapat membangun pola pikir yang menerima perubahan, percobaan, dan perbaikan berkelanjutan, memungkinkan mereka berkembang dalam dunia digital yang dinamis dan kompetitif.
Dalam melaksanakan proyek transformasi digital yang bertujuan untuk menumbuhkan budaya inovatif, banyak bisnis telah mencoba namun gagal. Maka dari itu, penting bagi bisnis untuk berfokus pada konsep ‘percepatan bisnis digital’. Hal ini termasuk kecepatan beradaptasi dan merespons perkembangan digital yang terus berubah. Melalui kegiatan percepatan bisnis digital, sebuas bisnis dapat membangun pola pikir untuk menerima perubahan, percobaan, dan perbaikan berkelanjutan, memungkinkan mereka berkembang dalam dunia digital yang dinamis dan kompetitif.
Melalui 3 pilar utama dari kelincahan bisnis digital–peningkatan kesadaran, pengambilan keputusan yang terinformasi, dan eksekusi yang cepat–memungkinkan institusi untuk merespons secara tanggap terhadap ancaman yang muncul. Dengan demikian, institusi dapat memanfaatkan peluang pasar baru.
“Hal ini bukan sepenuhnya teknologi yang bekerja,” tambahnya, “melainkan adalah pola pikir yang difasilitasi oleh pemahaman implementasi teknologi yang tepat.”
Sesi Pembicara
Pemerintahan berbasis data di Filipina melibatkan penggunaan data dan analitik untuk mendidik dan membimbing kebijakan pemerintahan, meningkatkan penyampaian layanan, meningkatkan transparansi, dan mendorong pengambilan keputusan berdasarkan bukti di semua tingkatan pemerintahan.
Filipina dapat memanfaatkan potensi data untuk mengatasi masalah-masalah sosial, mendorong pengambilan keputusan berbasis bukti, dan meningkatkan penyampaian layanan publik dengan mengadopsi pemerintahan berbasis data. Ini akan menciptakan manajemen yang lebih efisien, efektif, dan berpusat pada masyarakat. Hal ini pada akhirnya akan berkontribusi pada pembangunan dan kesejahteraan negara dan masyarakatnya.
Menurut Dr. Czar Jakiri Sarmiento, Ketua Departemen Teknik Geodesi di Universitas Filipina, solusi potensial untuk mengatasi tantangan teknologi dalam sebuah organisasi adalah dengan menerapkan proses manajemen data secara terpusat. Pendekatan ini dapat mencapai konsistensi dalam pelaporan hasil yang terstruktur.
Penting untuk mempertimbangkan kebijakan secara nasional dan lokal, seperti pelaksanaan peraturan “Kebebasan Informasi”. Sumber daya juga harus dapat diakses dengan mudah serta perlu adanya penyediaan.
“Ketika bekerja dengan lembaga pemerintah dalam proyek penelitian, keberlanjutan dan kapasitas pembangunan harus dipertimbangkan untuk memastikan keberhasilan jangka panjang,” kata Dr Czar. “Empat faktor – manajemen data terpusat, pertimbangan kebijakan, aksesibilitas sumber daya, dan pembangunan kapasitas – sangat penting dalam mengatasi tantangan secara efektif.”
Memastikan konsistensi dalam kegiatan luar ruangan di wilayah data nasional dan pemerintahan merupakan hal yang penting untuk berkontribusi pada keamanan dan akurasi. Selain itu, integrasi data secara kontekstual sangat penting, karena dapat membantu mengatasi masalah-masalah spesifik dan mendukung pengambilan keputusan.
Integrasi data dapat meningkatkan efisiensi, mempercepat proses, dan mengurangi pembiayaan. Akan tetapi, pertimbangan seperti proses pengadaan kerjasama atau pembuatan kebijakan, serta perekrutan karyawan harus dipertimbangkan bersamaan dengan kemampuan adaptasi karyawan dengan teknologi baru.
Transparansi dan akuntabilitas merupakan hal yang penting, namun departemen harus cukup fleksibel untuk mengadopsi teknologi yang berkelanjutan. Kolaborasi dengan para pemangku kepentingan sangat diperlukan untuk memastikan aksesibilitas dan pemahaman yang komprehensif terhadap konsep-konsep tersebut. Membangun pengetahuan dasar merupakan hal yang penting sebelum melakukan perkembangan berkelanjutan.
Bagi Armstrong Mejilla, selaku Senior Director, APJ Presales di Qlik, menyelaraskan tujuan bisnis dan preferensi pelanggan saat menganalisis solusi merupakan hal yang penting. Mengadopsi teknologi tanpa takut terhadap kegagalan dan keraguan dapat mendorong perubahan perilaku positif dalam organisasi. Hal ini termasuk mendorong pendekatan berbasis data dan memberdayakan para pemimpin.
Meskipun mengelola perubahan sebuah organisasi bisa menantang, namun dampaknya yang mendalam terhadap masyarakat tidak dapat dipungkiri. Penting untuk diingat bahwa teknologi memainkan peran pendukung dalam proses keseluruhan, dan strategi implementasi merupakan kunci kesuksesan.
“Menemukan penyedia yang menawarkan fitur dan kemampuan yang tepat adalah hal yang penting, meskipun contoh-contoh spesifik mungkin telah disebutkan,” tegas Dennis Magsajo selaku Kepala Arsitek Solusi, Perkembangan Pasar ASEAN – Sektor Publik Internasional, Layanan Web Amazon.
Dalam lingkup pemerintahan saat ini, keterlibatan dan kontribusi dari berbagai pemangku kepentingan menjadi hal yang utama. Pentingnya mendorong kolaborasi antarlembaga untuk meningkatkan layanan publik dan memfasilitasi penyediaan informasi adalah hal yang harus ditekankan. Pendekatan kolaboratif ini bertujuan untuk memanfaatkan keahlian dan sumber daya kolektif dari berbagai pihak untuk mendorong perbaikan dalam proses pembuatan kebijakan secara efisien.
Salam Penutup
Armstrong manyatakan bahwa ketika mengambil keputusan, sangat penting bagi individu untuk menilik fakta melalui data dalam proses penelitian dan analisis. “Pemahaman berbasis data membentuk bagian integral dalam sebuah proses pencarian solusi,” ucapnya.
Pendekatan struktural merupakan sebuah metode yang digunakan dalam pemanfaatan kekuatan data dalam pengimplementasian teknologi. Terlebih, penggunaan sistem-sistem lama menciptakan sebuah tantangan tersendiri dikarenakan tidak memiliki kemampuan dalam membaca data dengan baik. Hal ini memerlukan upaya lebih untuk mentransformasikan dan mengintegrasikan data secara efektif.
Armstrong menambahkan bahwa ketika sedang menentukan sebuah keputusan, visualisasi menempati peran penting untuk menunjang keseimbangan kompleksitas informasi dan mengelola pemilihan informasi. Oleh karenanya, keberhasilan sebuah proses integrasi data, teknologi, dan kebiasaan yang menghasilkan pemahaman data adalah sebuah kunci untuk meningkatkan efektifitas pengambilan keputusan dan pemecahan masalah.
Lebih jauh, Mohit meyakini bahwa perubahan dapat menjadi sebuah tantangan tersendiri ke depannya. Pernyataan tersebut menunjukkan pentingnya mengakui tantangan yang terkait dengan perubahan dan mengambil tindakan aktif untuk menghadapi perubahan.
Ia menambahkan bahwa kerjasama dalam bidang teknologi dapat medukung institusi-institusi untuk memanfaatkan kekuatan kolektif, meningkatkan inovasi, meminimalkan potensi kerugian, meningkatkan dan mengakses keahlian spesifik, dan mendapatkan keunggulan kompetitif dalam bentuk dapat mengakses sumber daya di luar institusi.
“Dengan melakukan kerjasama, sebuah kelompok akan menghasilkan capaian yang menguntungkan kedua belah pihak,” tegas Mohit.
Lebih jauh, ia melengkapi pernyataannya bahwa dengan melakukan kerjasama teknologi dalam lingkup institusi, hal ini dapat memungkinkan sebuah organisasi untuk mengakses keahlian secara khusus yang tidak dimiliki secara internal. Kerjasama dengan para ahli teknologi dapat membuka akses terhadap pembaharuan keilmuan, kapabilitas penelitian, dan keahlian teknikal. “Dengan demikian, pengembangan dan implementasi solusi berbasis teknologi dapat ditingkatkan dengan cepat,” tutup Mohit.
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The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) recently unveiled the pivotal insights gleaned from its inaugural Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023. Conducted between May and August of the previous year, the survey canvassed the opinions of 2,036 organisations spanning various sises and sectors.
The objective was to gauge the landscape of cybersecurity readiness across local entities and inform CSA’s strategic initiatives. The importance of bolstering cybersecurity resilience within these organisations cannot be overstated, as they play a critical role in shaping the digital experiences of Singaporeans through their services and products.
The findings unveiled a mixed landscape: while the majority of organisations demonstrated an awareness of cybersecurity imperatives, there remains substantial room for improvement in adoption rates. On average, organisations reported implementing around 70% of essential cybersecurity measures across various categories. Additionally, a significant proportion, approximately 75%, acknowledged CSA’s cybersecurity certification programmes, Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust, which serve as national standards for prioritising cybersecurity measures.
Despite these positive indicators, CSA sounded a cautionary note, emphasising the inadequacy of partial adoption. Without the full spectrum of essential measures, organisations remain vulnerable to unnecessary cyber risks. Alarmingly, only a third of organisations had fully implemented at least three of the five categories outlined in Cyber Essentials. This underscores the urgency for comprehensive adoption to fortify cybersecurity posture effectively.
A prevalent challenge cited by organisations hindering full adoption was a lack of knowledge and experience, echoed by 59% of businesses and 56% of non-profits. This is compounded by the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape, exacerbated by a shortage of skilled cyber professionals. Moreover, a prevailing perception of being unlikely targets of cyber-attacks and resource constraints further impedes progress in bolstering defences.
The consequences of inadequate cybersecurity measures were starkly evident, with over 80% of organisations reporting encountering cybersecurity incidents annually, including prevalent threats like ransomware and social engineering scams. These incidents invariably inflicted a negative business impact, with disruptions, data loss, and reputational damage among the most commonly cited consequences.
While the cost of implementing cyber hygiene measures may seem daunting, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it pales in comparison to the potential financial ramifications of cyber incidents. CSA emphasises the importance of viewing cybersecurity investment as essential insurance against potentially catastrophic losses.
In response to these challenges, CSA has rolled out a comprehensive suite of initiatives aimed at bolstering organisational cybersecurity resilience. These include cybersecurity resources to raise awareness, tailored health plans delivered by cybersecurity consultants, and certification programmes such as Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust. Additionally, the collaboration with the Infocomm Media Development Authority has led to the introduction of the Cybersecurity Health Check, providing organisations with a self-assessment tool to benchmark their cyber hygiene and access remedial resources.
Mr. David Koh, Chief Executive of CSA, stressed the imperative for organisations to prioritise cybersecurity and leverage available resources and funding support. Delaying proactive measures until after an incident occurs, he cautioned, would prove significantly more costly in the long run.
The release of the Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report underscores the urgent need for organisations to fortify their cybersecurity posture comprehensively. By embracing a holistic approach to cybersecurity and leveraging available resources and support, organisations can mitigate risks and safeguard against the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats of the digital age.
The Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023 is available at www.csa.gov.sg/cyberhealthreport and the Cybersecurity Health Check can be accessed at https://www.csa.gov.sg/cyberhealthchecktool.
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In a remarkable leap forward in the field of neuroscience, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) have introduced a groundbreaking algorithm known as the Unique Brain Network Identification Number (UBNIN). This innovative algorithm is poised to revolutionise the analysis of brain connectivity patterns, offering profound insights into both healthy brain function and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD).
The human brain, with its intricate network of neural connections, is a marvel of complexity. Each individual possesses a unique pattern of brain connectivity, akin to a fingerprint of the mind. Recognising the significance of these individualised brain networks, the researchers at IIT Guwahati set out to develop a method capable of decoding and quantifying these intricate patterns.
The UBNIN algorithm represents a paradigm shift in how we understand and analyse brain connectivity. Drawing upon data from structural MRI scans, the algorithm constructs a network model of the brain, with each region of the brain represented as a node. These nodes are interconnected by edges, reflecting the strength of connectivity between different brain regions.
What sets UBNIN apart is its ability to distil this complex network into a single numerical identifier. This unique identifier, akin to a digital signature for the brain, encapsulates the individualised connectivity patterns of each person. By quantifying these patterns into numerical values, UBNIN offers a powerful tool for understanding the structural organisation of the brain.
The implications of UBNIN are far-reaching. One potential application lies in the realm of brainprinting, where individual brain signatures could be used for identification purposes. Much like a fingerprint uniquely identifies an individual, UBNIN could serve as a digital identifier for the brain, with applications in personalised medicine, biometrics, and cognitive neuroscience.
Moreover, UBNIN holds promise as a biomarker for neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. Early detection of Parkinson’s is crucial for initiating timely interventions and improving patient outcomes. By analysing changes in UBNIN values over time, researchers may be able to identify subtle alterations in brain connectivity associated with the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease.
To validate the utility of UBNIN as a biomarker for Parkinson’s disease, researchers conducted a comprehensive study involving structural MRI scans from both PD patients and healthy individuals. The results were promising, with UBNIN values exhibiting distinct patterns in PD patients compared to healthy controls. This suggests that UBNIN has the potential to serve as a sensitive and specific biomarker for Parkinson’s disease, offering new avenues for early diagnosis and disease monitoring.
Furthermore, the researchers explored the impact of age on brain connectivity patterns. Aging is associated with changes in brain structure and function, which may contribute to the development of neurological disorders. By analysing structural MRI data from individuals across different age groups, the researchers found that brain connectivity patterns indeed change with age. Specifically, they observed a decrease in the clustering coefficient—a measure of network connectivity—with increasing age. These findings provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of brain plasticity and aging.
Dr. Cota Navin Gupta, Assistant Professor at the Neural Engineering Lab, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati, commented on the significance of these findings. “UBNIN offers a unique window into the structural organisation of the brain,” he remarked. “By quantifying individualised brain connectivity patterns, UBNIN has the potential to transform our understanding of brain function and dysfunction.”
Looking ahead, the researchers envision further applications of UBNIN in diverse fields, ranging from personalised medicine to cognitive neuroscience. By harnessing the power of UBNIN, researchers may unlock the mysteries of the human brain, paving the way for new insights into neurological disorders and brain health.
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Bushfires represent one of the most formidable challenges faced by firefighters worldwide. With their unpredictable behaviour and rapid spread, combating these blazes demands innovative solutions to ensure the safety of both responders and communities at risk. In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers are harnessing the power of robotics to revolutionise bushfire response, paving the way for more effective firefighting strategies and enhanced situational awareness.
At the heart of this endeavour lies the Silvanus Project, an ambitious international collaboration aimed at developing ground robots capable of navigating fire fronts and gathering crucial data in real-time. Led by researchers from Data61’s Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies, this project represents a pioneering effort to address the inherent dangers associated with traditional firefighting methods.
Bushfires, fueled by factors such as vegetation density and weather conditions, can escalate rapidly, outpacing conventional firefighting techniques. To stay ahead of the inferno, firefighters require accurate information about fire location, direction of spread, and potential hazards. However, obtaining such data often entails placing personnel in hazardous environments, risking their safety in the process.
Drones have emerged as a promising tool for aerial reconnaissance, offering valuable insights into fire behaviour from above. However, their effectiveness is limited by factors such as smoke interference, high winds, and restricted flight times. Recognising these limitations, researchers turned their focus to ground-based solutions, envisioning robots capable of operating in the most challenging of conditions.
The ground robots developed as part of the Silvanus Project are equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems, allowing them to traverse rugged terrain and navigate through smoke and debris. Some robots are designed to move on legs, mimicking the mobility of insects, while others utilise tracks for increased stability and manoeuvrability. These robots venture into the heart of the fire, gathering critical data such as fire intensity, fuel availability, and environmental conditions.
During a demonstration conducted for fire service representatives and researchers, the capabilities of these ground robots were showcased, highlighting their potential to transform firefighting operations. With the ability to transmit data in real-time to a cloud-based platform, these robots provide firefighters with unprecedented situational awareness, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive firefighting strategies.
Senior experimental scientist Tom Lowe emphasises the significance of these ground robots in enhancing firefighter safety and operational effectiveness. By deploying robots into areas deemed too hazardous for human intervention, firefighters can access vital information without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Furthermore, the integration of remote sensing technologies allows robots to assess vegetation density and predict fuel availability, further aiding in fire suppression efforts.
While the technology is still in the developmental stage, researchers are optimistic about its potential impact on future firefighting practices. Navinda Kottege, Cyber-Physical Systems Research Director, underscores the life-saving potential of ground robots, particularly in high-risk firefighting scenarios where human intervention may be impractical or unsafe.
The Silvanus Project represents a collaborative effort involving researchers from across Europe, Australia, Indonesia, and Brazil, united in their mission to develop innovative solutions for forest management and fire prevention. By harnessing the power of robotics and cutting-edge technologies, this initiative aims to bolster preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and protecting communities from the devastating impact of bushfires.
As ground robots continue to evolve and mature, fueled by ongoing research and international collaboration, the vision of leveraging technology to mitigate the impact of bushfires grows ever closer to reality. With each technological advancement, firefighters gain new tools and capabilities to confront one of nature’s most formidable adversaries, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for all.
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Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called upon the youth to take the lead in propelling Vietnam’s digital transformation, emphasising their crucial role in shaping the nation’s future amidst the burgeoning digital economy. The Prime Minister made these remarks during a dialogue held in Hanoi on March 26, where he engaged with 300 outstanding young individuals from various regions of the country.
With the digital economy projected to contribute 30% to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030, PM Chinh underscored the urgency for Vietnam to embrace digitalisation as an indispensable global trend. He highlighted digital transformation as a cornerstone alongside the green economy, circular economy, sharing economy, and intellectual economy, essential for realising the nation’s development objectives of transitioning into a modern, upper-middle-income country by 2030 and achieving developed, high-income status by 2045.
In his address, PM Chinh urged the youth to champion digitalisation by raising public awareness, advocating for policy reforms, driving administrative modernisation through digital technologies, and advancing research and development efforts in the digital domain. Emphasising their role as pioneers, he expressed confidence in the youth’s ability to contribute, innovate, integrate into society, and pursue personal growth.
Moreover, PM Chinh called upon the youth to collaborate with the government in establishing a digital government, digital economy, digital society, and nurturing digital citisenship. This collaborative approach is deemed essential for harnessing the full potential of digital technologies to address societal challenges and drive inclusive growth.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s call, the youth presented recommendations to the government, emphasising the need to refine the legal framework governing digital platforms and establish effective communication channels to engage citisens in the digital transformation process. They stressed the importance of inclusivity and transparency in policymaking to ensure the successful implementation of digital initiatives.
During the dialogue, PM Chinh addressed queries from the youth regarding data protection, cybersecurity measures, integration of public services with the national population database, and strategies to preserve cultural identity in the digital age. Acknowledging these concerns, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding data privacy, enhancing cybersecurity, and promoting cultural heritage preservation in the digital era.
Furthermore, PM Chinh instructed relevant ministries, authorities, and localities to expedite the implementation of the National Digital Transformation Programme, refine existing mechanisms and policies, and create an enabling environment for youth-led initiatives. This concerted effort aims to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy among the younger generation, thereby ensuring their active participation in shaping Vietnam’s digital future.
The dialogue served as a platform for meaningful exchanges between the government and the youth, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in driving Vietnam’s digital transformation agenda. With the youth at the forefront, Vietnam is poised to harness the opportunities offered by digital technologies to achieve sustainable development and prosperity for all.
As reported by openGov Asia, Vietnam is undergoing a digital revolution, characterised by concerted endeavours to advance the country’s digital transformation. With aspirations to attain high-income status by 2045, Vietnam’s digital technology sector focuses on mastering technology, fostering innovation, and developing domestic manufacturing capacities.
In this context, inclusivity and collaboration are essential, serving as key drivers to unleash the transformative power of technology and foster economic expansion, ensuring broad societal participation and contribution to the nation’s advancement.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront of technological innovation, promising transformative solutions to complex challenges across various domains. Recognising its potential to revolutionise industries and improve societal well-being, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has inaugurated the NUS AI Institute (NAII). Led by Professor Mohan Kankanhalli, NAII aims to accelerate AI research and its practical applications, fostering collaboration, innovation, and societal impact.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, AI has emerged as a powerful tool with the capacity to reshape diverse sectors, ranging from healthcare to finance, education, logistics, and beyond. The establishment of NAII underscores NUS’s commitment to harnessing AI for the greater good, addressing critical issues facing Singapore and the global community.
At the core of NAII’s mission is the advancement of fundamental AI research, aimed at pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities and exploring novel applications across various domains. Through foundational research initiatives, scientists at NAII will tackle complex AI problems, spanning hardware and software systems, AI theory, responsible AI, reasoning AI, and resource-efficient AI. By delving into these areas, the institute seeks to develop cutting-edge AI technologies that address real-world challenges and drive innovation.
Moreover, NAII will prioritise research into the ethical and societal implications of AI, aiming to develop robust governance frameworks that ensure responsible AI development and deployment. This includes examining issues related to transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making in AI systems. By fostering dialogue and research on AI ethics and governance, NAII aims to guide the responsible use of AI technology and mitigate potential risks.
In addition to foundational research, NAII will spearhead applied research initiatives, focusing on developing AI-driven solutions for specific application domains. Collaborating with experts from diverse fields, including healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, finance, urban sustainability, and education, the institute will tackle pressing challenges and explore opportunities for AI-driven innovation. From optimising supply chains to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing urban infrastructure, NAII’s applied research efforts aim to deliver tangible benefits to society.
Furthermore, NAII will serve as a hub for AI talent development, providing comprehensive education and training programs for students, professionals, and policymakers. By offering hands-on learning experiences and internships, the institute seeks to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation in AI.
To support its research and educational endeavours, NUS has allocated significant resources to NAII, including external research grants and institutional funding. Moreover, the institute will collaborate closely with government agencies and industry partners to amplify its impact and drive innovation. Strategic partnerships with leading companies such as IBM and Google Cloud will enable NAII to leverage industry expertise and resources, accelerating the translation of research outcomes into real-world applications.
In alignment with Singapore’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise (RIE) strategy, NAII aims to contribute to the nation’s AI ecosystem by fostering collaboration, innovation, and talent development. By positioning NUS as a global leader in AI research and application, the institute seeks to drive positive societal change and economic growth.
The establishment of NAII represents a significant milestone in NUS’s journey towards harnessing the power of AI for societal benefit. Through cutting-edge research, education, and collaboration, the institute aims to unlock the full potential of AI and pave the way for a more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive future. With its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to excellence, NAII is poised to make a lasting impact on Singapore and the global AI landscape.
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The Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) has reached a significant milestone with its artificial intelligence (AI) platform, VNPT eKYC, logging over 1 billion user authentication requests. This accomplishment solidifies VNPT’s position as a pioneer in electronic identification and verification solutions within Vietnam.
Since its inception, VNPT eKYC has been at the forefront of electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) services for over five years, serving a diverse range of clients including banks, financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and e-commerce entities. With over 100 organisations utilising its services, VNPT eKYC has facilitated electronic identification for more than 40 million individuals across the country.
On average, the VNPT eKYC system processes an impressive 600,000 requests daily, with peak days witnessing over a million requests being handled seamlessly. This demonstrates the platform’s robustness and reliability in managing high volumes of authentication transactions efficiently.
The significance of VNPT eKYC extends beyond its technological capabilities, particularly in the context of evolving regulatory requirements. The State Bank of Vietnam’s decision mandating biometric authentication for transactions exceeding 10 million VND (approximately 416 USD) and other significant transactions from July 1, 2024, underscores the critical role of advanced authentication solutions like VNPT eKYC in ensuring compliance and security in financial transactions.
Moreover, the platform’s success highlights the increasing importance of domestically developed solutions in the banking and financial sector. Domestic solutions such as VNPT eKYC offer several advantages, including rapid implementation, cost-effectiveness, adherence to global technology standards, scalability, and high readiness to meet evolving regulatory requirements.
Central to the effectiveness of VNPT eKYC is its advanced AI models, which enable the verification of facial biometric data with an impressive accuracy rate of up to 99.99%. This high level of accuracy not only enhances the security of authentication processes but also contributes to building trust and confidence among users and regulatory authorities.
As Vietnam’s digital economy continues to grow and evolve, the role of advanced authentication and verification solutions like VNPT eKYC becomes increasingly indispensable. Beyond facilitating seamless and secure electronic transactions, these solutions contribute to enhancing the overall digital infrastructure and ecosystem of the country, paving the way for further innovation and economic growth.
Looking ahead, VNPT remains committed to advancing its AI platform and expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its clients and the regulatory landscape. With a strong focus on innovation, reliability, and security, VNPT eKYC is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of electronic identification and verification in Vietnam’s dynamic digital economy.
VNPT’s achievement of logging over 1 billion authentication requests with its AI platform, VNPT eKYC, marks a significant milestone in Vietnam’s journey towards digital transformation.
Amid a swiftly changing global landscape, Vietnam emerges as a frontrunner in a digital revolution, strategically positioned to harness technology’s transformative power for economic progress and societal development.
It is embracing its digital transformation journey, highlighting collaborative efforts to drive the nation’s digital transformation. The nation’s digital technology industry aims to propel Vietnam towards high-income status by 2045 through technology mastery, innovation, and indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
Moreover, the nation is working to harmonise its regulations, streamline laws, and promote consistency in its legal framework to foster a more favourable and appealing cyber environment.
As the country continues to embrace technology-driven solutions to address emerging challenges, VNPT eKYC stands as a testament to the potential of domestic innovation in driving progress and excellence in the digital era.
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In a significant scientific breakthrough in a space sector, Dr Sarah Kessans has developed hardware designed to operate autonomously in orbit, transforming the study of protein crystallisation in microgravity. This technology provides scientists on Earth with unprecedented insights into protein behaviour, with far-reaching implications for developing more effective medicines and vaccines, among other applications.
Minister for Space Dr Megan Collins lauds Dr Kessans’ research as an inspiring example of how space technology can drive innovation on Earth. This achievement follows the recent successful launch of MethaneSAT, a satellite designed to track and monitor global emissions from space, highlighting the significant potential of space technology in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges while bolstering our globally competitive space sector.
The MethaneSAT satellite will be equipped with a highly sensitive spectrometre that can detect concentrations as low as two parts per billion, and it will have high-spatial resolution coupled with a broad, 200-kilometre view path, allowing it to quantify even small emission sources over large areas.
Dr Kessans’ research culminated in successfully launching her hardware on a rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre at Cape Canaveral, USA. This mission also included protein experiments from leading New Zealand universities, including Canterbury, Otago, Victoria, and Waikato, showcasing the collaborative efforts of the country’s academic institutions in advancing space science and technology.
The launch of Dr Kessans’ project results from a strategic agreement between the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and the US commercial space company Axiom Space. This partnership aims to facilitate New Zealand researchers’ advancement in space science and technology, fostering innovation and driving collaboration between academia, government, and private enterprise.
Dr Kessans’ project has also received government funding for further development through the MBIE-administered Endeavour Fund, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation in the space sector. This collaborative effort between academia, government, and private enterprise is a testament to New Zealand’s growing presence in the global space economy, positioning the country as a key player in space research and technology development.
Previously, New Zealand had collaborated with several countries, including Australia, to advance space research, as reported by OpenGov. The collaboration between SmartSat and the New Zealand Space Agency (NZSA) is an important development. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two entities aims to accelerate the growth and technological advancement of the Australian and New Zealand space industries, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of space exploration and innovation in the Australasian region.
This partnership is underpinned by a shared commitment to fostering innovation, driving research and development (R&D), and nurturing a skilled workforce capable of propelling technological breakthroughs in the space sector. The MoU, ceremoniously signed at the NZSA headquarters in Wellington, signifies a strategic alignment between SmartSat and NZSA to leverage their combined resources and expertise.
At the core of this collaboration, it is designated to support joint research initiatives in three key technological domains: Earth Observation, Space Situational Awareness, and Optical Communications. These areas represent the forefront of space exploration, offering immense potential to revolutionise humanity’s perception and interaction with the cosmos.
Minister Judith Collins, New Zealand’s Minister for Space, praised the new agreement as a testament to the enduring collaboration between Australia and New Zealand in space exploration. In a statement on her official website, she reiterated her commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, recognising the transformative potential of space technology in addressing global challenges.
Minister Collins reaffirmed the government’s dedication to developing the country’s space sector, promoting innovation, and strengthening partnerships with the New Zealand research community, international space agencies, and commercial collaborators. These collaborative approaches underscore New Zealand’s commitment to advancing space science and technology to benefit society and the economy, paving the way for future breakthroughs in the field.