Mar Vin Foo

Southeast Asia has become a hotspot for climate change. The El Nino phenomenon continues to cause erratic weather and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which is projected to climb significantly over the next two decades. Given that Southeast Asia is one of the most vulnerable regions to the effects of climate change, the region must expedite its sustainable development to safeguard its future. Decarbonisation is a natural first step because it directly targets carbon emissions. However, implementing decarbonisation initiatives can be complex, especially as we struggle to understand how our industrialised societies can rapidly reduce the energy demand that has driven prosperity and wealth in the region.

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The recent hot topic in Indonesia, due to the ransomware breach at Pusat Data Nasional (PDN) that happened last week, back on 20th June 2024 accentuates the critical importance of having robust cybersecurity measures. It’s fair to say that data is now considered as the world’s most valuable resource. Data is the core of nearly all business operations and decision-making. Organizations must prioritize proactive defense and preventive strategies to safeguard sensitive data, and ensure that there is a comprehensive Backup strategy and Disaster Recovery plan in place, in order to be able to ensure business continuity. Now, what can we do to prevent such event from happening in our organization? First of all, personal security awareness is fundamental to be applied in every organization, at least on an annual basis as a refresher for all employees. Secondly, having a cyber protection tools in place, ­­an integration of data protection and cybersecurity to safeguard your business operations. Not only as a reactive action when threats or disasters is happening but also as a preventive act for attacks. On a daily basis, I help partners (service providers and system integrators) and customers improve their tech stack and am committed to ensuring peace of mind through robust backup, disaster recovery, and security platform. Protecting valuable data is not just a priority for Acronis, it is our mission. If you want to know more, you can check our latest and hottest offering for cyberprotection. https://lnkd.in/g-TCQHri

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In Microsoft's latest Cloud Cultures series, we deep dive into stories of innovation in Malaysia. Discover how PETRONAS is harnessing technology to power sustainable progress, how Chop Cheong Bee transitioned from a traditional poultry farm to a pioneer in sustainable agriculture through smart farming, and ways we are empowering Malaysians to unlock their potential and achieve more through our skilling initiatives.   These stories are not just about technology; they're about people, progress, and the planet. See how Malaysians are embracing new technologies and using #MicrosoftAzure to innovate with confidence—ensuring the benefits extend to all. Watch now: https://lnkd.in/gyFF54Bg Ahmed, Andrea, Corey, Laurence, Sharifah Shereeta, Azizah, Andrew, beewah, Ellian, Millie, Gwendolynn, Mike, Sheikh, Adilah, Jasmine, Oniel, Sher May, Mei Yan, Dashika, Celeste

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Unleashing the Power of CNAI: 🌐 In today's ever-evolving technological landscape, two key players stand out: Cloud Native and Artificial Intelligence. These cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the way applications are developed, deployed, and scaled, ushering in a new era of innovation and efficiency. Let's embark on a comprehensive exploration of Cloud Native and Artificial Intelligence to uncover their profound significance in the digital age. 🌩 Cloud Native: As the digital ecosystem continues to shift towards cloud-based solutions, the emergence of Cloud Native architecture has been nothing short of revolutionary. Characterized by its emphasis on containerization, microservice design patterns, scalability, reliability, and modular development practices, Cloud Native offers a paradigm shift in how applications are built and operated in the cloud. 🤖 Artificial Intelligence: Meanwhile, the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence has unleashed unprecedented possibilities across various industries. From enhancing user experiences to driving business insights, AI has become an indispensable tool in modern applications. Understanding the evolution of AI alongside cloud computing, including the emergence of Public, Private, and Hybrid Cloud deployment models, is essential to grasp its transformative power. ☁️ Cloud Native Infrastructure for Artificial Intelligence: Delving deeper, we explore how Cloud Native Infrastructure (CNI) serves as the backbone for AI applications, providing the necessary resources, scalability, automation, and load balancing capabilities required to support AI workloads effectively. By leveraging CNI, organizations can unlock the full potential of AI and drive innovation at scale. 🔚 Conclusion: In conclusion, Cloud Native and Artificial Intelligence stand at the forefront of technological innovation, shaping the digital landscape in profound ways. As technology continues to advance, understanding the key concepts and functionalities of these transformative technologies is essential for developers and businesses alike. By embracing Cloud Native and AI, organizations can unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and stay ahead in an ever-changing digital world. Stay tuned for more insights into the realm of Cloud Native and Artificial Intelligence in tomorrow's session. Here is a video for this explanatory article: https://lnkd.in/dhx4b_fh

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CNAPP - a growing security solution to address Cybersecurity attacks through centralized cloud risk visibility. With the growth and cost of Cybersecurity attacks, CNAPP is a growing solution arena to help enterprises manage the threats on multiple levels. Exploding Topics shard CNAPP trends this week, in addition to several other solutions (listed below) to help you mitigate and manage security threats. A CNAPP (Cloud-Native Application Protection Platform) is a security solution that provides centralized cloud risk visibility.   Specifically, CNAPPs act as a comprehensive security platform that enables businesses to “shift left” to implement security measures throughout the application lifecycle and “shift right” to respond to security threats in real time.   Fewer than 15% of enterprises utilized industry cloud platforms in 2023, but by 2027, Gartner predicts that number will jump to 70%.   Increased cloud usage means increased spending on cloud security. Predictions say that cloud security spending could increase by 24% this year.   In 2023, 40% of organizations were already utilizing a CNAPP. An additional 45% say they’ll be using a CNAPP by the end of 2024.   What's Next CNAPP is part of the Cybersecurity Stack meta trend.   There were 3,205 reported data breaches last year.   And the average cost of a data breach reached an all-time high in 2023: $4.45M. That’s a 15.3% increase over 2020.   This has led to increasing investment in cybersecurity tools.   A recent survey showed a 60% increase in cybersecurity budgets between 2023 and 2024. Large enterprises are now spending an average of $26M on cybersecurity investments.   Here are three other cybersecurity tools that are trending right now:   Snyk is a developer security platform that aims to find and fix vulnerabilities throughout the software development lifecycle.   Hoxhunt uses AI and behavioral science principles to help mitigate employee behaviors that could enable cyber attacks.   Abnormal Security is an email security company that uses AI to recognize phishing and socially-engineered cyber threats. #Cybersecurity, #CyberSolutions  

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Besides businesses, even governments face a tough decision when hit with ransomware attacks. Paying may not mean recovery, while it may encourage more attacks. Not paying may mean losing vital data and creating a plethora of new risks. Proper management of data security aspects is a must. https://lnkd.in/dTE65TAq

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KADOKAWAグループが6月に受けたランサムウェア攻撃により、25万人以上の個人情報が漏洩する重大な事態が発生しました。本記事では、この事件を受けてWeb3技術やAIを活用したシステム強化の重要性について解説し、さらに企業が取り組むべき情報公開のルールや経営のあり方について考察しています。再発防止に向けた具体的な対策と制度改革の必要性を示し、今後の企業のあり方について提言しています。 詳細はこちらをご覧ください。https://lnkd.in/gPYTD5qq In June, KADOKAWA Group experienced a significant ransomware attack, leading to the leak of personal information affecting over 250,000 individuals. This article discusses the importance of strengthening systems using Web3 technology and AI in response to such incidents. It also explores the need for companies to review their information disclosure policies and management practices. The article presents concrete measures and institutional reforms necessary to prevent future occurrences, providing recommendations for the future of corporate governance. All Content：https://lnkd.in/gPYTD5qq #サイバーセキュリティ #Web3技術 #AI活用 #CyberSecurity #Web3Technology #AIImplementation

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A very insightful discussion today with Ms. Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment. Some thoughts: recycling economy or circular economy, what's the difference? Singapore is making significant strides in recycling and waste management. Yet, let's not forget that the principle of circularity is to support the (re)use of products and move away from a waste-based model. Repurposing plays a crucial role in creating a truly circular economy by extending product lifecycles, thus reducing waste drastically, and saving on carbon footprint. Exciting challenges and opportunities lie ahead to "close the loop", and Singapore is already taking a leadership role in the region! Thanks to French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS) #SustainableSG #TowardsZeroWaste #CircularEconomy #SGGreenPlan

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Sustainability and agrifood sectors are leading Singapore's startup ecosystem, performing strongly in funding and incorporations. In 2023, sustainability startups saw more funding events, closing 16 deals from 12 in 2022. Sustainability was also the sole vertical to record a year-on-year (YoY) increase in funding events and amounts since 2021, according to SGInnovate. Average Seed round sizes in the sector have grown by nearly 4x between 2022 and 2023

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Only 7% of decision-makers at SMEs cite sustainability as a top challenge - a startling fact from  a new report by the World Economic Forum . The report, titled "Future Readiness of SMEs and Mid-Sized Companies", was developed with the National University of Singapore. Its message is loud and clear: SMEs urgently need to adopt circular economy practices. Not just for the planet, but for their own economic resilience and innovation. The report provides pragmatic pathways for SMEs at different stages of maturity to make a "sustainability pivot", from initial quick wins in energy efficiency to bold business model transformation. The report's critical findings expose several key issues that SMEs must address to remain competitive and environmentally responsible: 🔵SMEs contribute significantly to global pollution, with manufacturing SMEs accounting for a substantial portion of air pollution. The transition to circular economy models is not just necessary but urgent. 🔵By adopting circular principles, companies can drastically reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and open new revenue streams that were previously unexploited. 🔵Integrating digital technologies can streamline operations, enhance material traceability, and optimize resource usage—all core tenets of the circular economy. Ation Steps for SMEs the report recommends: 🔴Embrace Digital Transformation: Use technology to improve process efficiency which is crucial for tracking, managing, and reducing waste. 🔴Innovate Business Models: Consider service-based models or develop products designed for longevity, repairability, and recyclability.

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“A digital solution is only as good as its usability, which is why businesses must always keep end-users in mind when they design their decarbonisation solutions. For instance, businesses can sync their natural capital monetisation solutions to agricultural land registries in the region. This can empower farmers and other members of the agriculture industry to accurately assess their lands’ conditions, which is especially important because agriculture generates 10 to 12 percent of greenhouse gas emissions globally. Moreover, with their solutions’ effective tracking and data transparency, businesses can also broaden the admission of agricultural participants into the carbon credit ecosystem – further boosting decarbonisation.” In his opinion piece published in Tech Collective Southeast Asia today, Temus’ Srijay Ghosh examines the potential #industryimpact of digitalisation on our region’s green transition. Ideas centred on experience and practical applications relevant to our circumstances, rather than textbook economics and theories, should drive the ethos of our green transition. Read more about these ideas in Srijay’s op-ed.: https://lnkd.in/gXApU9q3

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#AI has tremendous potential to transform businesses, including playing a pivotal role in advanced #manufacturing. Globally-leading manufacturers are already adopting AI as part of #Industry 4.0 and Singapore wants to do more to help all manufacturing companies level up. The AI Centre of Excellence for Manufacturing (AIMfg) is our latest initiative to strengthen Singapore’s manufacturing sector and be a global hub for AI-driven manufacturing. It will help companies harness AI innovations to augment existing capabilities, streamline operations and enhance productivity. 13 companies have come on board AIMfg. Join us on this journey to drive adoption of AI-enabled solutions for manufacturing!

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Is hydrogen electrification a facade deployment? Embracing yet another breakthrough in hydrogen innovation, this transformative technology represents a profound shift towards sustainable energy solutions for micro-grid in Sarawak, Malaysia.

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As digital adoption accelerates, cybersecurity becomes increasingly critical: 1. Rising Cyber Threats: • Cybercrime costs in Southeast Asia estimated to reach $120 billion annually by 2025 (AT Kearney). • 54% of organizations in SEA experienced a successful cyber attack in the past 12 months (Palo Alto Networks). 2. Data Protection Regulations: • Singapore's PDPA amendments introduce mandatory data breach notifications. • Thailand's PDPA came into full effect in 2022, aligning with GDPR principles. 3. Cloud Security: • 58% of APAC organizations cite security as the top challenge in cloud adoption (IDC). • Multi-cloud environments are becoming norm, with 76% of enterprises using 2+ clouds (Flexera). 4. AI in Cybersecurity: • AI-powered security solutions market in APAC to reach $46.4 billion by 2024 (IDC). • 71% of enterprises are already using AI for threat intelligence (Capgemini). 5. Cybersecurity Skills Gap: • Southeast Asia faces a shortage of 1.42 million cybersecurity professionals (ISC2). • 76% of organizations in APAC report that cybersecurity skills shortage impacts their operations (ISC2). #Cybersecurity #DigitalSecurity #TechSafety #AIinSecurity

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The "Singapore Cyber Landscape 2023" report reveals a 49% global increase in ransomware victims, with manufacturing and construction being the most affected industries. Phishing attempts rose by 30% compared to 2021, with a growing threat from AI-generated phishing emails. Ransomware groups are using double-extortion tactics, and hacktivist activities have become more sophisticated. AI is being used in cyber attacks, with tools like WormGPT and FraudGPT emerging. In Singapore, 132 ransomware incidents were reported, with a 14% decrease in infected systems, though numbers remain high. The CSA is enhancing cybersecurity with initiatives like the ransomware task force and AI-based solutions. Individuals and organizations should maintain good cyber hygiene by using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and regularly updating software, and should have comprehensive incident response plans. For more insights, visit the [Singapore Cyber Landscape 2023](https://lnkd.in/g3KBTtCc). #Ransomware #Phishing #AI #CyberSecurity #Hacktivism #CyberHygiene #GovernmentInitiative #CyberAwareness

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This had my interest mainly because I used to work in the construction industry. Most companies in said industry, especially SMBs, pay, at best, scant attention to Information Technology. To be honest, I don't blame some of them. Margins were low, and most of the profit went into wages and acquiring or hiring equipment for works in progress. Things may have changed after I left the industry close to a decade ago, but I doubt if the situation has improved. I am therefore not at all surprised that the construction industry is the second most-affected sector by ransomware! The statistics are alarming too, to say the least! • 64% of Singaporean firms paid ransoms during cyberattacks in 2023 • 36% of ransom-paying companies shelled out at least US$500,000 I still pay attention to the industry on and off, and I hope this statistic will jolt construction companies, big or small, to really consider beefing up their cybersecurity. After all, considering the amount of ransom paid, the investment in cybersecurity may actually be lower, really. My suggestions: 1. Invest in hiring a cybersecurity team, no matter how small, even on a retainer basis, or have a third-party cater to cybersecurity needs 2. Get external parties to educate staff about best cybersecurity practices 3. At the very least, implement 2FA (yes, hackers can get past 2FA today, but not having one in place is worse!) 4. Have the IT/Cybersecurity Team ensure that all software patches are applied 5. Backup! Backup! Backup! 6. Review IoT access and secure them! There's more that can be done, but the above are just some starting suggestions with the consideration of lower IT budgets at construction companies.

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The Global IT outage struck last week just after QED's session on 'AI & The Workforce,' reminding us that humans are still the ultimate backup system... no fear! 🤖💼 At our latest session, we teamed up with our friends from Workforce Singapore and LinkedIn to dive into implications, risks and support for the workforce resulting from the rise of AI. This time, we shifted our focus and conversation to a more Human and Business view. Our star-studded ✨ panel featured business leaders from both private and social services sectors that gave us a lively discussion with plenty of insights from all sides! With the help of our panelists with the attending business leaders and owners, here are some nuggets of insights we uncovered: 1️⃣ Operational Efficiency & Automation: Turns out, AI’s biggest impact will be making our operations smoother and automating tasks, rarely revolutionizing business models or creating shiny new products. 🤔 2️⃣ Susceptible Roles: The most vulnerable jobs? Data entry, processing, patter recognition, and data analysis. Surprisingly, high touch work like chefs, drivers, and care-giving roles seem safer for now. So, start developing some cooking skills 😅 3️⃣ Help Wanted: Leaders are all for AI handling repetitive tasks and analysis, but not so hot about AI making decisions just yet 😉 Guess we’re ready to delegate the work, but not the responsibilities just yet! 4️⃣ Value Creation: AI brings the most value by boosting efficiency, but it’s not exactly a revenue growth machine nor able to significantly enhance customer experiences. Back to our global IT outage last week. This reminded us of one crucial fact: when tech fails, it’s the humans who save the day. This underscores the need for a symbiotic 🤝 relationship between AI and our (human) workforce. Moving forward, we need to harness the best of both worlds—leveraging AI for efficiency while cherishing the irreplaceable human touch that keeps everything running smoothly. 💪 Our utmost thanks to our wonderful panelists - Kwang Cheak Tan, Anand Sachdev, Goki Muthusamy, and Ann Ann Low! Not forgetting my ultimate backup, Natasha Z., who adapted better than AI and took on three roles to see the session to fruition! Thank you for taking over when I came down with fever... 🤒 Elsie Ng for opening your lovely venue and our session with your valuable insights for us to mull over 🙏 Finally, on behalf of the human workforce in Singapore, thank you Workforce Singapore for all supporting of our careers! 🙌

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