Thailand extends visa waiver for Indians and Taiwanese
Thailand’s cabinet has greenlit a plan to prolong visa exemption initiatives for travelers from India and Taiwan by six months, aiming to stimulate foreign arrivals and bolster the country’s sluggish economy. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced that tourists from these nations can enter Thailand visa-free until November 11, extending the current waiver set to expire this week. Under this scheme, visitors are permitted a maximum stay of 30 days per entry, compared to the usual 15-day allowance granted through the visa-on-arrival program.
This temporary extension builds upon the success of the initial waiver implemented in November the previous year, with Thailand strategically relaxing visa regulations for travelers from key markets such as China and Russia. Notably, the first four months of 2024 witnessed a substantial surge in foreign tourist arrivals, totaling over 12 million visitors, marking a significant 39% increase from the same period in the preceding year. With tourism contributing around 20% of total employment and constituting approximately 12% of the nation’s $500 billion economy, Thailand aims to attract 80 million tourists by 2027 under Srettha’s administration.
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s cabinet has approved a six-month extension of visa exemption for Indian and Taiwanese travelers, aiming to boost tourism and revive the economy. The move follows a notable surge in tourist arrivals, signaling positive momentum for Thailand’s tourism sector.
True Digital Group introduces a green platform to cut costs for companies
True Digital Group, a subsidiary of True Corporation, has launched a pioneering platform-as-a-service named a climate tech platform, strategically leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s AI-driven sustainability solution to tap into Thailand’s green transition among businesses. The initiative aims to facilitate Thai enterprises in slashing energy expenses by an ambitious 300 million baht over the coming three years, as outlined by Ekaraj Panjavinin, True Corporation’s chief digital officer. This collaboration introduces Alibaba Cloud’s Energy Expert software-as-a-service to Thailand, offering sophisticated data analytics and intelligent energy management capabilities crucial for identifying energy efficiency challenges, adopting sustainable technologies, and propelling Thailand’s green evolution.
This endeavor arrives amidst Thailand’s concerted efforts to curtail greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40% by 2030, with aspirations for carbon neutrality by 2050, as highlighted by Mr. Ekaraj. With Thailand’s energy landscape witnessing a 3.4% annual surge in electricity consumption, the platform’s integration of cloud, IoT, big data analytics, and Alibaba Cloud Energy Expert technologies emerges as a comprehensive solution. It enables the digitalization of physical systems, streamlines energy management by connecting diverse energy sources, facilitates real-time energy control with AI-driven insights, and ensures compliance with sustainability objectives. True Digital Group targets various sectors, prioritizing food and agriculture, transport, manufacturing, the built environment, and the circular economy, in its mission to drive sustainable practices across industries, fostering economic growth while mitigating environmental impact. platform to reduce companies’ costs.
Editor’s Note: True Digital Group, a subsidiary of True Corporation, has unveiled a climate tech platform in collaboration with Alibaba Cloud, aiming to help Thai businesses cut energy costs by 300 million baht over three years. Leveraging AI-driven sustainability solutions, the initiative aligns with Thailand’s green transition goals, supporting efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices across industries.
Krungsri hosts “Krungsri ESG Awards” & “Krungsri ESG Academy” for Thai SMEs
Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya PCL) continues its commitment to promoting sustainable business practices through the second edition of the “Krungsri ESG Awards” and the introduction of the inaugural “Krungsri ESG Academy 2024.” Designed to acknowledge and support SME entrepreneurs aligning with the Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, these initiatives aim to empower businesses with the knowledge and tools necessary for sustainable growth. Miss Duangkamol Limpuangthip, Krungsri Head of SME Banking Group, emphasizes the importance of supporting SMEs in their journey towards sustainability, offering financial support and initiatives that promote ESG business development. The Krungsri ESG Academy 2024, in collaboration with esteemed partner organizations highly qualified in ESG practices, provides expert-led training courses to equip entrepreneurs with in-depth ESG knowledge, facilitating the creation of actionable transition plans aligned with sustainability goals.
Partnering with organizations such as the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, and Thammasat University’s Centre for SDG Research and Support, Krungsri aims to recognize excellence in ESG practices through the Krungsri ESG Awards. Over 60 organizations, including SMEs and non-existing Krungsri customers, have been selected to participate in the training program, covering topics such as supply chain management, climate and risk management, and ESG-based business transition planning. Through these initiatives and a target of sustainable finance over 4,500 million baht for SME customers, Krungsri is committed to fostering sustainable business transformation, ensuring every business thrives towards sustainability in Thailand’s evolving economic landscape.
Editor’s Note: Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya PCL) launches the “Krungsri ESG Awards” and inaugural “Krungsri ESG Academy 2024” to support SMEs in adopting sustainable practices, offering expert-led training and financial support. Partnering with esteemed organizations, Krungsri aims to empower entrepreneurs with ESG knowledge and tools for sustainable growth in Thailand’s evolving economic landscape.
Microsoft to establish an AI and data facility in Thailand
Microsoft recently unveiled substantial commitments to bolster Thailand’s data and artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, marking a pivotal step towards fostering a digital-first, AI-powered future in the nation. Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, emphasized the vast potential for Thailand to embrace AI technology, announcing plans to provide AI skilling opportunities for over 100,000 individuals while bolstering support for the country’s burgeoning developer community. This initiative includes the establishment of a new datacenter, reinforcing Microsoft’s longstanding dedication to Thailand and poised to empower organizations across the public and private sectors to drive innovation, impact, and economic growth.
In addition to facilitating AI skilling and infrastructure development, Microsoft is collaborating closely with Thailand’s National Cyber Security Agency to enhance internet safety and cybersecurity resilience in the AI era. Furthermore, partnerships with entities like the Ministry of Finance underscore Microsoft’s commitment to leveraging AI for cross-agency data collaboration, thereby enriching policy creation processes and fostering a financially inclusive economy. With growing demand for cloud computing services and the transformative potential of AI technology, Microsoft’s initiatives not only address immediate needs but also position Thailand to harness significant economic and productivity opportunities, ultimately shaping a digital-first, AI-powered future for the nation.
Editor’s Note: Microsoft has unveiled plans to establish an AI and data facility in Thailand, marking a significant stride towards fostering digital transformation and innovation in the nation. With commitments to provide AI skilling opportunities for over 100,000 individuals and enhance cybersecurity resilience, Microsoft aims to empower organizations and drive economic growth in Thailand’s evolving digital landscape.
EGAT, EDL, Mitsubishi, And Chiyoda Form An Alliance For Green Hydrogen And Ammonia in Thailand
In a landmark move towards advancing green energy, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Électricité du Laos (EDL), Chiyoda Corporation (CYD), and Mitsubishi Company (Thailand) Ltd. (MCT) have forged a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC), signaling a significant step in propelling Thailand closer to its Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero Emissions targets. The agreement aims to explore the utilization of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) across borders, leveraging renewable energy from Laos for the production of green hydrogen and ammonia in potential sites across Thailand. Formalized at the EGAT Headquarters in Nonthaburi Province, the ceremony witnessed by key stakeholders underscores the strategic importance of the collaboration, emphasizing EGAT’s commitment to harnessing hydropower resources to drive down clean energy production costs and enhance competitiveness in domestic and international markets.
Mr. Thepparat Theppitak, EGAT Governor, and Mr. Vongsakoun Yingyong, Managing Director and CEO of EDL, highlighted Laos’ potential as a renewable energy source and the significance of international collaboration in realizing a greener future. With CYD providing technical support and Mitsubishi emphasizing Thailand’s role as a hub for green hydrogen production, the partnership aims to bolster clean energy development and align with global ambitions for Carbon Neutrality. This collaboration signifies a pivotal step towards a sustainable energy future, fostering transformative change in the region and beyond.
https://solarquarter.com/2024/05/07/egat-edl-chiyoda-and-mitsubishi-forge-alliance-for-green-hydrogen-and-ammonia-in-thailand/
Editor’s Note: EGAT, EDL, Mitsubishi, and Chiyoda have formed an alliance to advance green energy in Thailand, focusing on producing green hydrogen and ammonia using renewable energy from Laos. The collaboration underscores the commitment to achieving Carbon Neutrality goals and signifies a significant step towards a sustainable energy future in the region.
HCM City aims to use digital data to propel intelligent urban development
Ho Chi Minh City is ambitiously setting its sights on a digital economy, aiming for significant contributions of approximately 25% and 40% to its gross regional domestic product (GRDP) by 2025 and 2030, respectively. Duong Anh Duc, Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, outlined key initiatives including schemes for transforming the city into a smart city, implementing digital transformation programs, formulating data governance strategies, and launching research and development efforts for artificial intelligence (AI) applications spanning from 2020 to 2030. These strategic measures are not only geared towards achieving set targets but also seek to elevate the city to the ranks of its regional counterparts and other nations with robust digital economies.
Emphasizing the crucial role of databases, speakers at a recent workshop on smart city strategy highlighted the importance of efficient data management and linkage for realizing economic and social value. Dr. Hoang Huu Hanh stressed the necessity of high-quality databases for effective digital models and applications, underscoring their pivotal role in driving digital transformation efforts. Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, Pham Duc Long, emphasized the importance of a common understanding among localities regarding smart urban development, emphasizing the need to address major issues such as transport, environment, energy, and social security. With the ministry actively drafting government decrees on regulations for shared databases, the endeavor towards a digitally empowered future is envisioned as a continuous and long-term process, necessitating substantial resources from the social community.
Editor’s Note: Ho Chi Minh City is pushing forward with plans to harness digital data for intelligent urban development, aiming for significant contributions to its gross regional domestic product by 2025 and 2030. Initiatives include transforming into a smart city, implementing digital transformation programs, and emphasizing the importance of efficient data management and linkage to drive economic and social value.
FPT, Nvidia collaborates on a $200 million AI facility in Vietnam
FPT, a prominent Vietnamese tech giant, has announced plans to establish a US$200 million “AI factory” in collaboration with Nvidia, aiming to fortify Vietnam’s position as an AI powerhouse and accelerate AI adoption throughout the region, notably in Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea. This initiative seeks to create a comprehensive hub for AI and cloud services, encompassing AI products, GPU infrastructure, expert technical support, and domain expertise, providing clients with a one-stop solution for their AI needs.
The partnership also signifies a significant boost to FPT’s AI research and development endeavors, particularly focusing on generative AI, autonomous driving, and sustainability initiatives. By joining the Nvidia partner network and leveraging Nvidia’s programs to enhance its AI workforce, FPT aims to strengthen its capabilities in delivering cutting-edge AI solutions. With a market valuation of US$5.5 billion and a strong track record of growth, including a notable 20.6% year-on-year revenue increase in the first month of 2024, FPT is poised to solidify its position as a leading player in various industries, ranging from telecommunications and education to IT services and retail.
Editor’s Note: FPT, in collaboration with Nvidia, is set to establish a US$200 million “AI factory” in Vietnam, aiming to bolster the country’s AI capabilities and expand adoption across the region. The initiative seeks to create a comprehensive hub for AI and cloud services, positioning FPT as a leading player in various industries with a strong focus on AI research and development.
Indonesia and the UAE aim to lead the world’s Green Aluminium Market
Indonesia is actively pursuing collaboration with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to bolster its aspiration of becoming a leading producer of “green aluminum,” a term denoting aluminum manufactured through processes utilizing renewable energy or recycled materials. With abundant bauxite resources, Indonesia aims to process its natural reserves domestically to drive economic growth and supply green aluminum to global automotive manufacturers. Pradana Indraputra, a special advisor at the Investment Ministry, highlighted Indonesia’s push to attract UAE investment, particularly in the aluminum sector, emphasizing the significance of producing environmentally sustainable aluminum to meet the demands of global automotive giants like BMW.
The Dubai Chambers has facilitated discussions between Indonesian officials and visiting UAE companies, including Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA), to explore investment opportunities in Indonesia’s aluminum industry. Notably, EGA previously signed a deal with Indonesia’s state-owned aluminum smelting company Inalum to conduct a feasibility study for incorporating EGA’s technology at the Kuala Tanjung smelter in North Sumatra. This collaboration aims to enhance production capacity using sustainable energy sources such as solar and hydropower, aligning with EGA’s commitment to producing aluminum using solar power and Indonesia’s reliance on hydropower at the Kuala Tanjung smelter. Despite significant investments like the Cirata floating solar plant in West Java by UAE’s energy giant Masdar, the UAE’s FDI in Indonesia remains modest, underlining the potential for further collaboration in advancing Indonesia’s green aluminum ambitions.
https://jakartaglobe.id/business/indonesia-hopes-to-lead-global-green-aluminum-market-with-uae
Editor’s Note: Indonesia and the UAE are collaborating to position themselves as leaders in the global green aluminum market, leveraging Indonesia’s abundant bauxite resources and the UAE’s expertise in sustainable energy. Discussions facilitated by the Dubai Chambers aim to attract investment from UAE companies like Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) to enhance Indonesia’s aluminum industry with a focus on environmentally sustainable production.
Indonesia and the US Trade and Development Agency Collaborate on Smart City Innovations for the Future Capital City
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has signed a technical assistance grant with Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) to develop priority smart city infrastructure in Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara. This collaboration aims to leverage U.S. technology to enhance the creation of a sustainable, efficient, and connected world-class capital city. The assistance will focus on integrating smart city applications such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and the internet of things to optimize government resources, increase sustainability, and improve the quality of life for residents of the new city. USTDA’s support includes developing detailed designs, technical specifications, procurement documentation, and a capacity-building strategy to aid in the adoption of smart city technologies.
The initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority initiatives, including the Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment. It underscores the commitment of the United States to collaborate with Indonesia in pursuit of shared priorities, such as inclusive economic growth and a just energy transition. U.S. businesses interested in contributing to the development of smart city infrastructure in Indonesia are encouraged to participate by submitting proposals for USTDA-funded technical assistance, further facilitating international collaboration in advancing sustainable and technologically advanced urban development.
Editor’s Note: The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has partnered with Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) to develop smart city infrastructure in Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara, focusing on U.S. technology integration. This collaboration aims to create a sustainable, efficient, and connected capital city, aligning with shared priorities of inclusive economic growth and a just energy transition.
Empowering Malaysia’s digital transformation
MICROSOFT’S plan to invest RM10.5 billion over the next four years to support Malaysia’s digital transformation is poised to develop Malaysia into a hub for cloud computing and related advanced technologies such as generative artificial intelligence (AI).
During a recent visit here, Microsoft president and chief executive officer Satya Nadella said the company aims to develop “world-class infrastructure” for Malaysia that will help local businesses, communities and developers apply the latest technology to bolster economic growth nationwide.
Editor’s Note: Microsoft’s substantial RM10.5 billion investment in Malaysia promises significant benefits, accelerating the nation’s digital transformation and positioning it as a regional hub for cloud computing and advanced technologies like AI. This initiative will enhance infrastructure, boost economic growth, and create vast opportunities for upskilling 200,000 individuals, including underrepresented groups and non-profit employees. With initiatives such as AI Teach Malaysia, Ready4AI&Security, and AI Odyssey, Microsoft is set to cultivate a robust AI talent pool, foster innovation, and elevate Malaysia’s global competitiveness in technology. This partnership also underscores Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing cybersecurity through collaboration with NACSA, ensuring a resilient digital economy.
https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/bots/2024/05/1050016/empowering-malaysias-digital-transformation
Spate of investments in semiconductor signals Malaysia’s shift to high-end manufacturing: Sulaiman Mahbob
KUALA LUMPUR: A series of investments in Malaysia that focused on the semiconductor industry signals the country’s shift to attracting investors in high-end manufacturing. Malaysian Investment Development Authority chairman Tan Sri Sulaiman Mahbob told the NSTP group that Malaysia had shifted from a nation that does assembly to one that manufactures high-end products which require more high-skilled workers.
“If you view it from a structural perspective, we have elevated to a more high-end industry. This can be seen in the technology industry, among which includes the semiconductor sector which has seen an increase in demand for high-skilled workers. “We are not merely in the assembly line anymore. All the investments that were announced showed that we have shifted to producing high-end products,” he said.
Editor’s Note: Malaysia’s shift towards high-end manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor industry, represents a significant economic advancement, fostering the creation of high-skilled jobs and attracting substantial foreign investments. This transition not only enhances the nation’s competitive edge but also ensures sustainable growth through upskilling the local talent pool and promoting innovation. Notable investments like Infineon Technologies AG’s commitment further underscore Malaysia’s potential to become a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, driving economic growth and technological progress.
QR code immigration clearance timely
KUALA LUMPUR: The Quick Response (QR) code-based Immigration clearance system is a move in the right direction that could ease congestion at entry points and enhance security, say experts.
Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia defence and security expert Professor Dr Mohd Mizan Mohammad Aslam said the clearance system was the first step towards creating a holistic regional system in easing congestion and travel in the Asean region.
He said the decision to implement the QR code clearance system would see Malaysia being one of the first few countries to adopt the technology.
Editor’s Note: The introduction of a QR code-based Immigration clearance system at Malaysia’s entry points is a forward-thinking initiative that promises to reduce congestion and enhance security. By adopting advanced technologies like biometrics and real-time data syncing, Malaysia not only streamlines the travel process but also aligns itself with global best practices, fostering greater regional integration within ASEAN. This move reflects a necessary and progressive shift towards modernizing border control, ultimately benefiting both travelers and the nation’s security framework.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/05/1050290/qr-code-immigration-clearance-timely
IBM Malaysia plays major role in country’s aerospace hub aspirations
KUALA LUMPUR: IBM Malaysia has played a significant role to position Malaysia as a hub for aerospace innovation, citing the transformation of Turkish Aerospace Malaysia (TUSAS Malaysia) in Cyberjaya as a recent “success story”.
“From a modest beginning, TUSAS Malaysia has expanded into a major engineering hub specialising in various aerospace projects,” new managing director and technology leader Dickson Woo said in a statement today.
“A prime reason for its rapid growth was the adoption of IBM’s Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) technologies, which significantly enhanced productivity and compliance with stringent international standards,” he said.
Editor’s Note: IBM Malaysia’s transformation of TUSAS Malaysia into a major aerospace engineering hub showcases the benefits of advanced technologies like ELM. This enhances productivity, compliance, and positions Malaysia as an aerospace innovation leader, aligning with national goals for economic resilience and sustainability. Leveraging AI and hybrid cloud, IBM drives digital transformation, boosting economic growth and sustainability.
Pro-Net gets RM200mil loan from CIMB for green mobility efforts
KUALA LUMPUR: Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net) has secured RM200 million in funding from CIMB Bank Bhd to support its green mobility initiative.
The financing will support the importation and distribution of smart #1 electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia.
“The company will also be in charge with fulfilling national carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd’s commitment to its EV agenda and is set to play a pivotal role as it leads the transition towards the production of New Energy Vehicles (NEV) and the development of the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim,” it said.
Editor’s Note: The RM200 million funding from CIMB Bank to Proton New Energy Technology (Pro-Net) significantly boosts Malaysia’s green mobility initiative, facilitating the import and distribution of smart #1 electric vehicles. This financial support accelerates the transition to electric vehicles, aligns with national carbon neutrality goals, and strengthens customer confidence. By enhancing its digital ecosystem and supply chain, Pro-Net is well-positioned to meet the rising demand for EVs, advancing Malaysia’s position in sustainable automotive technology.|