B8bn in funding for researchers
Thailand is making a significant investment in bolstering its supply of young researchers with an 8 billion baht allocation for fiscal 2025, primarily to support S-curve industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), and quantum technologies. Sirirurg Songsivilai, chairman of the National Commission on Science, Research and Innovation, emphasized the urgent need for more researchers to enhance the country’s competitiveness in science and innovation. The initiative aims to equip 100,000 employees for the semiconductor industry, leveraging opportunities from geopolitical shifts. Additionally, the plan involves expanding research infrastructure, acquiring new equipment and laboratories, increasing research funding, and fostering a collaborative research network. This “frontier” research is expected to drive new discoveries and advance Thailand’s scientific capabilities, contributing to the development of the country.
The government has set a target to increase the number of researchers to 420,000 by 2027, from the current 250,000, necessitating a budget of 30 billion baht. Patamawadee Pochanukul, president of TSRI, highlighted the need for 160,000 annual graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by 2027, up from 110,000 at present, to support this growth. The focus on semiconductors as a strategic industry is crucial, with the geopolitical tensions between the US and China prompting the relocation of semiconductor plants to Southeast Asia. Thailand aims to attract significant investment in this sector by providing 100,000 high-skilled workers. Furthermore, the initiative recognizes the importance of multidisciplinary research to address environmental issues like PM2.5 pollution and includes a strong emphasis on developing social scientists and environmental researchers to tackle the country’s pressing challenges.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2808540/funding-of-b8bn-for-researchers
Editor’s Note: Thailand is embarking on a bold initiative with an 8 billion baht investment aimed at cultivating a robust cadre of young researchers by fiscal 2025. Focused on advancing S-curve industries such as AI, EVs, and quantum technologies, this funding will expand research infrastructure, equip workers for the semiconductor industry, and bolster STEM education to meet ambitious targets for researcher and graduate numbers by 2027. The initiative underscores Thailand’s strategic pivot towards innovation-driven growth amidst evolving global dynamics, positioning itself as a key player in Southeast Asia’s technological landscape.
Semiconductor industry crucial for future foreign investment
The Thai government is set to establish a national semiconductor board to develop investment and development strategies for this critical industry, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced. Following a meeting of economic ministers chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, Pichai emphasized that this board aims to attract foreign investments and drive economic growth to achieve an annual expansion goal of 5%. He acknowledged that Thailand has been lagging behind other regional countries in having a dedicated national committee for the semiconductor sector, which is pivotal to future investment plans. To address concerns about the lack of advanced skills among Thai workers, the meeting proposed partnerships with Taiwanese factories and universities to train Thai students in electronics, enhancing their skills to meet market demands immediately upon graduation.
Additionally, Pichai highlighted a report from the Board of Investment (BOI) that underscores the promotion of investment in the electronics industry, particularly in response to the trend of production base relocation due to geopolitical conflicts. The BOI reported significant investments in the electric vehicle and semiconductor sectors, urging the government to create supportive ecosystems for these industries. This involves attracting entrepreneurs in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, including chip production, electronics design, subcontract manufacturing, and advanced chip testing, to establish their facilities in Thailand. Such initiatives are expected to enhance the industry’s value and generate high-skilled jobs for Thai workers. The BOI noted that negotiations with global companies are already in progress to support this move. The government’s decision to hold weekly meetings of economic ministers comes in response to disappointing economic growth of only 1.5% in the first quarter of this year.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40038708
Editor’s Note: Thailand is intensifying its focus on the semiconductor industry with the establishment of a national board aimed at enhancing investment strategies and economic growth. Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira highlighted efforts to attract foreign investments and foster partnerships with Taiwanese entities for skills development in electronics. With a concerted push to create supportive ecosystems and attract global semiconductor manufacturers, Thailand aims to capitalize on industry relocations and bolster its technological capabilities to drive economic expansion.
July will see a VAT on cheap imports
The Royal Gazette has announced that starting July 5, the Finance Ministry will begin collecting value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods, including those priced below 1,500 baht. This measure, effective until December 31, 2024, aims to ensure fairness for domestic entrepreneurs who already pay VAT and to comply with international agreements. The policy addresses the issue of unfair competition from cheap imported consumer goods that previously were not subject to VAT. The announcement, signed by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, stipulates that the Customs Department will handle VAT collection until the end of 2024, after which the Revenue Department will take over, necessitating amendments to the Revenue Code.
This initiative, approved in principle by the cabinet on June 4, is part of a broader effort to prevent the influx of cheap imported goods, particularly from China, that undermine the domestic market. The new VAT policy replaces the previous regime in place since 2018, which only applied to imported goods valued at more than 1,500 baht. The government’s decision responds to complaints from local businesses about the negative impact of cheap online products on their income. By implementing VAT on all imported goods, the government aims to create a level playing field for both importers and local producers, supporting the domestic economy and ensuring fair competition.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2815640/cheap-imports-levied-vat-from-july
Editor’s Note: Beginning July 5, Thailand will enforce a value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods, including those priced below 1,500 baht, until December 31, 2024. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira’s initiative aims to address unfair competition for local entrepreneurs and align with international trade norms. This policy overhaul replaces the previous threshold-based VAT system and seeks to bolster the domestic market by ensuring equitable conditions for both local producers and importers.
Thailand names leading smart cities
Phuket has been ranked as the top province-based smart city, while the Wang Chan Valley in Rayong province has been named the leading city-based smart area in Thailand, according to the Thailand Smart City Competitiveness Index 2023. This index, which assessed 30 cities across 23 provinces, aims to raise awareness among leaders and residents about the progress, strengths, and weaknesses of smart city development. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, president of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa), stated that the initiative seeks to inspire the development of smart cities by showcasing successful examples. In the 2023 rankings, the top city-based smart areas were Wang Chan Valley in Rayong (83.6%), Samyan Smart City in Bangkok (79%), and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem in Bangkok (74.6%). For province-based smart areas, the top three were Phuket (83.6%), Chachoengsao (76.8%), and Khon Kaen (53.8%).
The index categorizes cities into city- and province-based rankings, utilizing data and performance reports from city developers. It evaluates five components: vision and goals, physical and digital infrastructure development, data and security systems, seven aspects of smart city services, and sustainable investment and management strategies. According to Depa, the report aims to raise awareness about the progress and challenges of smart city development, inspire further growth, and foster positive competition among smart cities. This competition encourages cities to improve their plans and practices to enhance their local and international reputations while ensuring sustainable development. Nuttapon emphasized that the Thailand Smart City Office is responsible for creating master plans, action plans, and driving smart city development in alignment with national development goals. The master plan 1 (2024-27) targets the development of 105 smart cities in 77 provinces by 2027, aiming for direct and indirect investments totaling 200 billion baht. Depa is currently proposing master plan 2 to the national smart city development board, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2815356/thailand-crowns-leading-smart-cities
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s Smart City Competitiveness Index 2023 has identified Phuket as the top province-based smart city and Wang Chan Valley in Rayong as the leading city-based smart area. This initiative, overseen by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa), aims to showcase successful examples of smart city development across 30 cities and 23 provinces. The rankings highlight advancements in vision, infrastructure, data systems, service delivery, and sustainable management, promoting competition among cities to enhance local and international reputations while driving economic and social progress.
Thailand climbs five spots in the index of competitiveness
The International Institute for Management Development (IMD) has released its World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, revealing that Thailand’s competitiveness ranking has improved by five positions from the previous year, now standing at 25th out of 67 economies worldwide and second in ASEAN, behind Singapore. Thailand’s advancement is notable across several criteria used to assess overall economic competitiveness. Specifically, the country has shown significant progress in Economic Performance, rising to fifth place from 16th last year. Business Efficiency has also improved, with Thailand now ranked 20th compared to 24th in 2023. Government Efficiency saw a slight decline, dropping to 24th from 23rd, while the Infrastructure ranking remained steady at 43rd.
Within the ASEAN region, the competitiveness rankings place Singapore at the top, followed by Thailand at 25th, Indonesia at 27th, Malaysia at 34th, and the Philippines at 52nd. This regional comparison highlights Thailand’s strong performance and improvement in global competitiveness, positioning it as a key player in the ASEAN economic landscape.
Editor’s Note: Thailand has significantly enhanced its global competitiveness, moving up five spots to 25th in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024. The country’s strides in Economic Performance, where it now ranks fifth globally, and improved Business Efficiency underscore its growing economic strength. Despite a slight dip in Government Efficiency, Thailand’s overall advancement solidifies its position as a leading economy within ASEAN, trailing only Singapore in regional rankings.
Shopping centers support the net-zero objective
The Thai Shopping Centre Association (TSCA) is advocating for sustainable policies that encompass economic, environmental, and social dimensions to bolster the economy. As a crucial player linking various industries from upstream to downstream, shopping centres provide vital opportunities for entrepreneurs, farmers, and communities, according to Chanavat Uahwatanasakul, TSCA president. The association has committed to supporting Thailand’s net-zero goal by encouraging member centres to raise air-conditioning temperatures by 1°C to conserve energy and urging public sector involvement in energy-saving initiatives. In waste management, TSCA has partnered with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to launch the “This shopping centre separates waste” campaign, focusing initially on food waste management and setting a model for other large retail operators. Additionally, the TSCA aims to develop 18 new projects worth over 152 billion baht by 2030, with its members operating 90 malls nationwide, which comprise 50% of Thailand’s shopping sector and employ approximately 500,000 people.
Furthermore, the TSCA is promoting energy management measures among its members, who have already reduced energy consumption by 25 million units per year, saving 113 million baht annually and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 12,527 tonnes of carbon dioxide, equivalent to planting over 1.3 million trees. Chanavat highlighted that if the entire industry collaborates, energy consumption could be reduced by 53 million units, saving 238 million baht annually. The association also endorses the use of clean energy in the service sector by installing rooftop solar panels, with a total production capacity of 66 megawatts, surpassing the Ubonrat Dam’s combined hydro and solar power capacity by 34%. TSCA members’ solar power systems generate 86 million units of electricity, representing a total investment of 1.7 billion baht. The TSCA consists of 12 prominent shopping centre operators, including Central Pattana, The Mall Shopping Complex Co, Siam Piwat Co, and others, all contributing to the sector’s sustainability and economic strength.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2813574/mall-operators-back-net-zero-goal
Editor’s Note: The Thai Shopping Centre Association (TSCA) is actively promoting sustainability initiatives among its members, including energy conservation and waste management campaigns. Their efforts aim to support Thailand’s net-zero goal while driving economic growth through large-scale retail operations across the country.
Third floating solar project to be launched by Egat
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) has announced plans to outsource engineering, procurement, and construction firms for the development of a third solar floating project on the Srinagarind Dam reservoir. According to Thidade Eiamsai, the deputy governor for power plant development and renewable energy, this new project is expected to generate 140 megawatts of power. This will be Egat’s third solar floating project, following the 44MW floating solar plants at Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani and Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen. The Srinagarind Dam project will integrate with the existing hydroelectric power system, creating a hybrid power generation model that enhances the stability and reliability of the power supply, particularly during off-peak hours to support agricultural activities.
This project is part of a broader government-approved initiative to install a total of 2,725MW of floating solar power by 2037, contributing to Thailand’s goal of achieving 20 gigawatts of renewable energy generation from both Egat and private investors. This initiative is outlined in the revised National Power Development Plan for 2024 to 2037. The integration of floating solar panels with hydroelectric plants optimizes the use of water resources and significantly supports the country’s renewable energy targets, improving the overall energy security and sustainability of Thailand’s power supply system.
Editor’s Note: The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) is advancing its renewable energy portfolio with plans for a third floating solar project at Srinagarind Dam, expected to generate 140 megawatts of power. This initiative aligns with Thailand’s ambitious renewable energy targets, leveraging hybrid power generation to enhance energy security and sustainability across the country.
Delta to discuss Sustainability for Business Competitiveness with Industry Leaders at the Bangkok Post-ESG Conference in 2024
Delta Electronics (Thailand) PCL showcased Thailand’s advanced electronics manufacturing sector at the Bangkok Post ESG Conference 2024, held at Centara Grand CentralWorld in Bangkok. As a keynote speaker, Delta, represented by CEO Mr. Victor Cheng, underscored its 35-year success built on sustainable development principles. Highlighting initiatives like eight power electronics and automation labs at top universities, workforce upskilling programs, and a localized supply chain, Delta outlined its commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy in operations by 2030. Cheng emphasized that Delta’s robust ESG strategy has been pivotal in attracting world-class customers and partners, serving as a cornerstone of their competitive edge.
The conference, themed “Greening the Future: ESG Leadership in the Sustainability Revolution,” convened industry leaders, including H.E. Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, who addressed global sustainability regulations, climate FinTech, and biodiversity. Delta was featured alongside leaders from Thailand’s retail, industrial estate, energy, banking, and property development sectors. As a leader in Thailand’s electronics industry, Delta remains committed to advancing ESG practices and collaborating with industry peers to foster a low-carbon society. Notably, Delta is the sole Thai electronics manufacturer listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices’ World Index (2022-2023) and has earned the Supplier Engagement Leader 2022 recognition from CDP for its supply chain sustainability efforts.
Editor’s Note: Delta Electronics (Thailand) PCL showcased its sustainable leadership at the Bangkok Post ESG Conference 2024, emphasizing a 35-year legacy built on eco-friendly principles and innovative practices. CEO Victor Cheng highlighted Delta’s strides towards 100% renewable energy by 2030, supported by initiatives like university partnerships and localized supply chains. Positioned among Thailand’s foremost electronics firms, Delta reaffirmed its commitment to ESG excellence, fostering collaborations across sectors to drive sustainable business practices and enhance global competitiveness.
Auto sales in May increased by 6%
In May, Vietnam’s auto sales showed a 6% increase compared to April, reaching 25,794 units, driven by stimulus measures implemented by dealers to boost consumption, as reported by the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA). Passenger car sales rose by 6% to 18,235 units, while commercial vehicle deliveries grew by 7% to 7,292 units. However, sales of special-purpose vehicles saw a slight decline of 4%, totaling 267 units for the month. Over the first five months of the year, VAMA members collectively sold 108,309 vehicles. Notably, sales of domestically produced autos fell by 14% year-on-year, contrasting with an 8% increase in imported vehicle sales.
Several international brands such as Audi, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Volkswagen, Volvo, and Haval did not disclose their sales figures. Vinfast, a prominent Vietnamese automaker, also did not report sales results, citing its quarterly reporting schedule starting from August 2023 as mandated by the U.S. stock market regulations.
Industry experts attributed the stronger growth in completely built-up units (CBUs) compared to domestically produced vehicles to incentives such as zero tariffs for imported vehicles with a localization rate of 40% or higher under Vietnam’s free trade agreements. Additionally, Vietnamese dealers initiated various promotional campaigns, including discounts, support for registration fees, and gift offers, which proved effective in attracting more buyers to imported units during the period.
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/data-speaks/may-auto-sales-inch-up-6-4757795.html
Editor’s Note: Vietnam’s auto market saw a 6% increase in sales in May, reaching 25,794 units, driven by dealer stimulus measures aimed at boosting consumer demand. Passenger car sales rose by 6% to 18,235 units, while commercial vehicle deliveries grew by 7% to 7,292 units. Despite a slight decline in special-purpose vehicle sales, the overall performance reflects ongoing promotional efforts and favorable incentives that have supported the market’s recovery.
Smaller enterprises might cut corporate income tax to as little as 15%
The Ministry of Finance in Vietnam has proposed significant amendments to the Law on Corporate Income Tax aimed at bolstering the private economic sector, particularly small and micro-sized enterprises (SMEs). A key highlight of these proposed changes includes a potential reduction in corporate income tax rates for SMEs from the current standard rate of 20%. Under the new proposal, SMEs could benefit from reduced tax rates ranging between 15% to 17%, contingent on their previous year’s revenues. This initiative is designed to stimulate the transition of business households into formal enterprises and foster overall economic growth.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the rationale behind lowering tax rates for SMEs is to align with global practices where many countries impose lower tax rates on small businesses to facilitate their growth and competitiveness. Currently, Vietnam’s corporate tax rate of 20% is on par with countries like Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, but higher than regional counterparts such as Singapore (17%) and Brunei (18.5%), while lower than others like the Philippines (30%), Myanmar (25%), and Indonesia (22%). With nearly 94% of Vietnam’s 900,000 enterprises classified as small and micro-sized, these tax reforms aim to create a more favorable business environment, incentivize formalization, and ultimately enhance revenue generation for the State budget in the long term.
In addition to proposing lower tax rates, the Ministry emphasizes the importance of supporting SMEs, which are vital to Vietnam’s economic landscape. By encouraging their development through favorable tax policies, the government aims to boost employment, innovation, and productivity within the private sector, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth and prosperity. The amendments signify a strategic move towards nurturing a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem that can adapt and thrive amidst evolving global economic challenges.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance has proposed amendments to lower corporate income tax rates for small and micro-sized enterprises (SMEs) as part of efforts to bolster the private economic sector. The proposed rates could potentially range between 15% to 17%, aiming to stimulate formalization and enhance competitiveness among SMEs. By aligning with global practices and reducing tax burdens, Vietnam seeks to foster a more supportive environment for SME growth, employment generation, and long-term economic stability.
Indonesia’s “dirty” nickel growth driven by the EV transition
Indonesia’s nickel industry has experienced rapid expansion in recent years, positioning itself as a crucial global supplier essential for electric vehicle batteries. This transformation was spurred by President Joko Widodo’s policy banning the export of raw nickel ore, prompting significant investments from Chinese companies to establish domestic processing plants. While this has bolstered Indonesia’s exports and attracted record foreign direct investment, critics have raised concerns over the environmental toll. They accuse the government of prioritizing nickel extraction at the expense of rainforest conservation, pointing to deforestation, water pollution from processing plants, and heavy reliance on coal-fired power for nickel smelting.
The country, already dominating global refined nickel production with a 57% share, aims to increase this to 69% by 2030 despite recent global price fluctuations. Pressure from Western markets demanding cleaner practices has pushed Jakarta to announce a “decarbonisation road map” for the industry by 2025. However, transitioning to greener energy sources like renewables remains a long-term challenge due to infrastructure limitations and cost considerations, particularly in remote mining areas. Indonesian officials acknowledge the need for balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, proposing potential shifts to natural gas as an interim step towards reducing emissions, albeit acknowledging current infrastructure gaps.
The industry faces complex decisions ahead as it navigates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) expectations while maintaining cost competitiveness. While some companies are exploring renewable alternatives, the broader shift away from coal is expected to be gradual, contingent upon infrastructure development and economic feasibility. As Indonesia charts its course towards a more sustainable nickel sector, balancing these competing demands will be critical in shaping its future as a global leader in the supply chain for green technologies.
https://www.ft.com/content/149f1153-d745-4b51-ba5e-7c118d30cf23
Editor’s Note: Indonesia’s nickel industry has surged due to its pivotal role in supplying batteries for electric vehicles, fueled by a ban on raw nickel ore exports and investments in processing plants. However, this growth has raised environmental concerns, including deforestation and pollution, amid heavy reliance on coal for processing. As Jakarta aims to increase its global market share in refined nickel production, pressures from Western markets for cleaner practices are prompting Indonesia to strategize a decarbonization roadmap while grappling with infrastructural challenges and economic considerations.
Finland and Indonesia increase their collaboration in smart cities and green energy
Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi met with her Finnish counterpart Elina Valtonen in Helsinki to bolster bilateral ties, emphasizing collaboration in green energy and smart cities. Marsudi highlighted Finland’s expertise in renewable energy, citing agreements between private sectors like Medco Group and Valmet Technologies to construct a biomass-to-energy plant in Merauke, Papua. This initiative aims to reduce diesel oil consumption by 27.5 million liters over five years, underscoring Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Marsudi expressed optimism for expanding these efforts and exploring further partnerships in green energy.
Additionally, Marsudi discussed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital Authority and Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, focusing on enhancing cooperation for Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara. She underscored Finland’s role as a key trading partner, noting a significant increase in trade volumes that surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching US$713 million in 2023. Both ministers affirmed their intent to foster greater investment, particularly in green energy and smart cities, and expressed hopes for concluding Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations. Educational cooperation was also a priority, with plans to expand exchanges, joint research endeavors, and scholarships between the two nations. In the context of celebrating 70 years of diplomatic relations, Marsudi and Valtonen reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting shared aspirations for sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
Editor’s Note: Indonesia and Finland are strengthening their collaboration in green energy and smart city initiatives following a meeting between Foreign Ministers Retno Marsudi and Elina Valtonen in Helsinki. Discussions centered on renewable energy projects like the biomass-to-energy plant in Merauke and enhancing cooperation for Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara. Both countries also aim to boost trade and educational exchanges, underscoring their commitment to sustainable development and mutual economic growth as they mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.
Proton launches new EV brand e-MAS
KUALA LUMPUR: National carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd has unveiled its electric vehicles (EV) brand, named e.MAS, for its upcoming EV models, symbolising Malaysia’s move towards electrification.
Proton said the acronym represents the goal of electrifying Malaysia, combining the ‘e’ symbol for EVs with the widely recognised MAS abbreviation for the country, reflecting its mission to electrify mobility for Malaysians through its upcoming EV models.
The carmaker also unveiled the logo for its new EV brand, featuring a 2D interpretation of the current ‘uncaged’ design showcasing a tiger’s head held high, symbolising its forward movement towards success.
Editor’s Note: Proton’s launch of the new EV brand e-MAS marks a significant milestone for the Malaysian automotive industry. This initiative is expected to boost the local electric vehicle market, contributing to sustainability efforts and reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, it positions Proton as a key player in the evolving global EV landscape, potentially attracting more investment and fostering innovation within the industry.
Website: https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/06/1062766/proton-launches-new-ev-brand-e-mas
MKS Instrument to build Super Centre factory in Penang
KUALA LUMPUR: MKS Instruments, Inc today announced that it will build a Super Centre factory in Penang, Malaysia to support wafer fabrication equipment production in the region and globally. MKS provides foundational technology solutions for leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial applications.
In a joint statement by Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), InvestPenang and MKS said the development plan is to construct the new facility in three phases, with groundbreaking expected to start in early 2025. Chief Minister of Penang Chow Kon Yeow said Penang, with its well-developed industrial ecosystem, has the capacities and capabilities to support the needs of industrial players in next-generation technologies and growth strategies.
Editor’s Note: The decision of MKS Instrument to build a Super Centre factory in Penang is highly beneficial for the local economy. It will create numerous job opportunities, fostering economic growth and providing a boost to the manufacturing sector. Additionally, this investment underscores Penang’s growing reputation as a hub for high-tech industries, potentially attracting more international investments in the future.
Sustainable Brands KL Conference 2024 to focus on role of AI in sustainability agenda
KUALA LUMPUR: Sustainable Brands Kuala Lumpur Conference 2024 (SB’24 KL) will focus on the themes of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in service of sustainability and regeneration. The event which will be held on August 13 and August 14 at Sime Darby Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur will have hands-on workshops, in addition to plenary and panel sessions.
Jointly hosted by Acacia Blue and Sime Darby Property, the conference will highlight how brands and organisations are utilising technology and AI to support and advance their sustainability initiatives. It will also showcase technology and tools available from tech providers, that can assist organisations in getting started and progressing on their sustainability journeys.
Editor’s Note: The Sustainable Brands KL Conference 2024 focusing on the role of AI in sustainability is a crucial development. This emphasis on AI can drive innovative solutions for environmental challenges, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in sustainability initiatives. Such conferences can foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, ultimately accelerating the integration of advanced technologies into sustainability efforts.