Policymakers plan to draft more AI regulations
政策制定者計畫草擬更多人工智慧相關的法規
Policymakers worldwide are increasingly focused on developing new regulations to govern artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to prevent ethical violations while fostering its responsible development. With the European Union’s recent approval of the AI Act, hailed as the world’s first comprehensive AI law, many countries, including Thailand, are poised to follow suit. Legal experts anticipate the emergence of comprehensive AI legal frameworks akin to the EU’s legislation, as nations seek to mitigate the risks associated with AI technologies. In Thailand, the National Digital Economy and Society Commission has already established AI ethic guidelines, with plans to convene a digital economy promotion subcommittee by the end of May. This committee will deliberate on drafting AI regulations aimed at enforcing ethical standards and overseeing AI developers and service providers.
Putchapong Nodthaisong, secretary-general of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission, highlighted the significance of these forthcoming regulations in ensuring adherence to AI ethics. The emphasis on governance and guidelines for generative AI reflects a global shift towards prioritizing responsible AI development while addressing potential risks and ethical concerns.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2781934/policymakers-set-to-prepare-more-ai-rules
小編點評：全球各地的政策制定者，包括泰國的政策制定者，都積極制定法規，以管理人工智慧（AI）的發展和應用。這些努力聚焦於倫理標準和監督，旨在平衡創新與責任，確保負責任的AI前進。
Solar giants want high US tariffs on panels from Asean
美國太陽能巨頭希望對來自東協地區的太陽能板徵收高關稅
Some of the world’s largest solar equipment manufacturers are urging the US government to impose significant tariffs on solar panels and cells imported from four Asian nations—Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. This appeal comes from the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee, comprised of companies worried about protecting their substantial investments in US manufacturing. The group accuses Chinese companies, operating factories in these Southeast Asian countries, of flooding the US market with solar panels priced below production costs. This influx has led to a price collapse of over 50%, posing a severe threat to domestically manufactured solar products. To address this concern, the US-based solar makers are seeking government intervention, requesting investigations and proposing tariffs ranging from 70.4% to 271.5% on imports, which constitute approximately 80% of solar panels used in the US. They argue that these imports unfairly benefit from subsidies, including those from Chinese government entities.
In parallel, policymakers globally are turning their attention to formulating new regulations to govern artificial intelligence (AI) and ensure adherence to ethical standards. This shift follows the approval of the European Union’s groundbreaking AI Act, considered the world’s first comprehensive AI legislation. Legal experts anticipate the development of comprehensive AI legal frameworks in many countries, Thailand included, in line with the EU’s initiative. Thailand’s National Digital Economy and Society Commission has already established AI ethic guidelines, with plans to further bolster regulation through the formulation of AI-specific laws. This proactive approach underscores the importance of governance and planned guidelines in promoting responsible AI development and mitigating associated risks, echoing broader international efforts to address AI ethics and governance concerns.
小編點評：全球一些領先的太陽能設備製造商敦促美國政府對從馬來西亞、柬埔寨、越南和泰國進口的太陽能板徵收大幅關稅。此舉旨在保護美國國內製造業投資，以應對他們認為受到中國企業所帶來的不公平競爭。
Four companies to invest in 15 power plants
四家公司打算在十五個發電廠上投資
Local power and waste management companies in Thailand are embarking on a collaborative effort to invest in waste-to-energy infrastructure, aligning with the state’s bio-, circular, and green economic policies. Together, these companies aim to co-invest in the development of 12 waste-to-energy power plants and three refuse-derived fuel production facilities. This partnership not only seeks to enhance the country’s power generation capacity but also addresses the pressing need for effective waste management within the industrial sector. Supawat Khunvoravinij, acting managing director of Earth Tech Environment, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in tackling waste disposal challenges while contributing to sustainable energy production.
Key players involved in this initiative include Earth Tech Environment, Gulf Energy Development, Waste Tech Exponential, and Better World Green. These companies have come together to combine their expertise in waste recycling, power generation, and waste management to drive forward projects in both power generation and waste disposal. Already, a significant milestone has been achieved with the signing of a power purchase agreement with the Provincial Electricity Authority, signaling a commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions in Thailand. According to Yupapin Wangviwat, deputy chief executive and chief financial officer of Gulf Energy Development, the timeline for the operation of these power plants is within the next two years, indicating swift progress towards achieving both environmental and energy objectives.
小編點評：泰國四個能源與廢棄物管理業者合作投資十五個新基礎設施計劃，包括廢棄物轉能電廠和廢棄物轉化燃料設施。此共同努力旨在強化該國的能源能力，同時解決關鍵的廢棄物管理挑戰，符合泰國的綠色經濟政策和可持續發展目標。
Demand to increase renewable proportion
泰國政府面對增加可再生能源比例的壓力
The Thai government is under pressure to raise the proportion of renewable power generation beyond the target of 50% outlined in the upcoming Power Development Plan (PDP), scheduled for finalization in the second quarter of this year. This call for an increase, from the current level of 10-12% of total power supply, stems from the nation’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Tanachai Bunditvorapoom, chief executive of Absolute Clean Energy, emphasized the necessity of this adjustment, highlighting that while Thailand has plans to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the power sector, efforts in other sectors remain unclear. Thus, increasing the renewable energy target in the PDP becomes crucial in aligning with the broader national goal of carbon neutrality.
Thailand’s announcement at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in 2021 underscored its determination to address climate change seriously. Alongside the pledge to strive for carbon neutrality by 2050, the country also aims for a net-zero target by 2065. This commitment signals a significant shift towards sustainability and underscores the urgency of accelerating efforts to reduce carbon emissions across all sectors. By elevating the renewable energy target in the PDP, Thailand can bolster its position in achieving these ambitious climate goals while simultaneously driving innovation and economic growth in the renewable energy sector.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2779925/call-to-hike-renewable-proportion
小編點評：泰國政府面臨提高可再生能源發電比例的壓力，超越即將公佈的 “電力發展計劃”中規則的百分之五十，以符合其承諾在2050年實現碳中和的目標。這一調整被認為在應對氣候變化以及加速各行業減少碳排放方面至關重要，標誌著可再生能源行業邁向成長和創新的重大轉變。
Somnics of Taiwan co-invests in manufacturing facility
Somnics 公司與台灣合作投資醫療設備廠
The government’s initiative to position Thailand as a medical hub in Southeast Asia has spurred collaboration between Thai and Taiwanese medical equipment companies. Namwiwat Medical Corporation (Nam), a local sterilized medical equipment manufacturer, has joined forces with Zhubei-based Somnics Inc, known for its expertise in developing technologies to treat obstructive sleep apnea. This partnership aims to establish a new factory in Thailand, serving as an export base for various medical products, including those geared towards improving sleep quality. Viroj Chaiturdkiet, CEO of Nam, disclosed that the factory will operate as a joint venture and will be situated on a 10-rai plot of land in Samut Prakan.
Negotiations with the Board of Investment are underway to secure investment incentives for the medical business sector, actively promoted by the government. With plans to conclude the investment arrangement this month, construction of the factory is anticipated to commence shortly thereafter, with an estimated completion timeframe of two years. This collaboration underscores Thailand’s commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the medical industry, leveraging partnerships with international companies to bolster its position as a regional leader in healthcare innovation and manufacturing.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2778349/taiwans-somnics-co-invests-in-factory
小編點評： Namwiwat 醫療公司與台灣的Somnics Inc. 將會在泰國合作建立新的醫療用品工廠。此案由政府主導，旨在將該國定位為東南亞醫療中心。此次合作旨在充分發揮各公司的專業知識，生產醫療產品，包括針對睡眠呼吸暫停症治療的產品，加強了泰國在醫療行業創新和發展方面的承諾。
Apple CEO Tim Cook is seeking to increase investment in Vietnam
蘋果公司的首席執行官 Tim Cook 將提高越南投資額
During his two-day working visit to Vietnam, Apple CEO Tim Cook met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 16 in Hanoi. Cook provided an overview of Apple’s operations in Vietnam, expressing his satisfaction with the achievements made in cooperation with local partners. He emphasized the mutually beneficial nature of their relationship and expressed his optimism for further collaboration in the future, aiming for even greater accomplishments. In response, PM Chinh assured Cook of Vietnam’s commitment to supporting Apple’s investment and expansion efforts in the country. He announced the establishment of a working group dedicated to facilitating Apple’s endeavors, emphasizing the importance of a rapid, robust, sustainable, and enduring partnership.
Cook reiterated Apple’s dedication to enhancing cooperation and investment in Vietnam, particularly in the development of high-tech products and applications for the App Store. He pledged to increase procurement from Vietnamese suppliers and to support the country’s creative innovation initiatives. Cook also acknowledged the significant contributions of Vietnamese application developers to Apple’s global products. Notably, he highlighted Apple’s substantial investment of nearly US$16 billion in 150 Vietnamese suppliers since 2019. Furthermore, Cook proposed potential areas of collaboration in clean energy, digital transformation, and human resource training, underscoring Apple’s commitment to contributing to Vietnam’s socio-economic development goals.
FPT of Vietnam to invest $200 million in an AI using Nvidia chips
越南的FPT公司將投資2億美元於人工智慧研究，並使用Nvidia晶片
FPT, in collaboration with Nvidia, intends to bolster AI research in Vietnam, aiming to develop AI applications and solutions, including generative AI and autonomous driving, at the planned data center factory. FPT Chairman Truong Gia Binh outlined the company’s vision to establish factories not only in Vietnam but also in potential markets like Japan and South Korea. The partnership with Nvidia marks a significant step towards realizing FPT’s ambition of positioning Vietnam as an AI hub, leveraging Nvidia’s support in technology, business development, and talent training. Additionally, the firms signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, solidifying their commitment to collaborative efforts in advancing AI research and development.
Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, expressed the company’s desire to expand partnerships with Vietnam’s top tech firms and support talent development for AI and digital infrastructure. Nvidia’s Vice President of Worldwide AI Initiatives, Keith Strier, highlighted the multifaceted collaboration with FPT, emphasizing tailored agreements and strategies for various operating units within FPT. While Nvidia has already invested over $250 million in Vietnam, it remains uncertain whether the new partnership will lead to further investments. FPT, recognized as Vietnam’s most valuable technology company, boasts a market capitalization of $5.5 billion and offers a range of AI, cloud, and big data services, with total revenues exceeding $2 billion in the previous year.
小編點評：越南FPT公司計劃在使用Nvidia晶片的人工智慧的研究上投資2億美元，旨在開發生成式人工智慧和自動駕駛等應用。此FPT與Nvidia的合作這象徵著將越南定位為人工智慧創新中心的重要一步，得益於Nvidia的技術支持和FPT在技術服務市場上的領先地位。
Apple will ‘look at’ manufacturing in Indonesia: CEO Cook
蘋果公司將調查在印尼製造的可行性
Following a meeting with Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo, Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed the company’s openness to considering manufacturing operations in Indonesia. Cook indicated that the discussion centered on the president’s desire to foster local manufacturing, a prospect Apple is willing to explore. He emphasized the vast investment potential in Indonesia and expressed confidence in the country’s prospects, affirming Apple’s commitment to contributing to its economic development.
Apple’s interest in diversifying its manufacturing base away from China has been evident in recent years, particularly following disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. With operations at its main iPhone factory in China impacted, Apple has accelerated efforts to broaden its manufacturing footprint. Vietnam has emerged as a significant beneficiary, serving as one of Apple’s major manufacturing hubs outside of China. The company’s increased focus on Vietnam is evident, with products like MacBook, iPad, and Apple Watch being manufactured there. Cook’s recent visit to Vietnam underscores Apple’s commitment to expanding its manufacturing presence in the region. Additionally, Apple has intensified its manufacturing efforts in India, with reports indicating a significant increase in iPhone production in the country over the past year.
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/17/apple-will-look-at-manufacturing-in-vietnam-tim-cook.html
Malaysia AI Storage: A new multi-million venture supported by Phison.
馬來西亞人工智慧儲存：由群聯支持的新的千萬美元企業
KUALA LUMPUR: Matrix Connexion (MatrixC) has received the Google 2024 Cloud Sales and Services Partner of the Year Award for Malaysia marking the ongoing spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines the industry. The company was recognised for its achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, supporting global customers throughout its entire cloud journey.
The services partner category helps customers with end-to-end, artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled solutions and services in data, IT infrastructure and application modernisation, security, work transformation and sustainability.Google Cloud corporate vice president of global ecosystem and channels said Google Cloud’s Partner Awards celebrate the transformative impact and value that partners have delivered for customers.
小編點評：MaiStorage的建立為馬來西亞提供了一個機會，可以利用尖端技術並培養當地人才，以應對快速發展的人工智慧儲存領域。MaiStorage不僅通過為學生提供廣泛的培訓和誘人的薪酬來促進創新，還有助於該國在全球科技領域的經濟增長和競爭力。
Masverse unveils platform to “revolutionise” digital ecosystem.
Masverse推出革命性的數位生態系統的平台
KUALA LUMPUR: Blockchain specialist Masverse Sdn Bhd has launched MasChain, a platform to “revolutionise” the digital ecosystem for government, enterprises and industries by enhancing the security and trustworthiness of transactions via Proof of Authority (PoA). Masverse also signed two memorandums of agreement (MoA) with Gambit Group Sdn Bhd for enhanced custodian wallet services and Intelligence Traceability Sdn Bhd for halal compliance and recycling product traceability services. On top of that, it signed five other MoUs namely with Vero AI Sdn Bhd (to establish e-halal ecosystem within Asean countries), Jabo Plantation Sdn Bhd (for smart farming and tokenisation of the Jaboticaba Plantation), JomStay Digital Technology Sdn Bhd, Accelerator Resources Sdn Bhd and Asia Digital Bank Ltd.
MasChain redefines the approach to identity verification, transaction security, and information storage, tailored to meet client-specific needs, thereby digitally transforming Malaysia’s cyber landscape. MasChain was designed to cater to various needs and applications, from financial technology, halal traceability, education, retail and supply chain management to digital identity and beyond, and for authorities and businesses to benefit from a blockchain solution.
小編點評：MasChain的推出以及戰略合作夥伴關係，標誌著馬來西亞數位生態系統中利用區塊鏈技術提高安全性和信任度的重要一步。透過民主化區塊鏈解決方案並解決特定行業需求，如清真食品追溯和智能農業，Masverse有望在各個行業推動創新和效率提升，同時加強馬來西亞作為數位轉型領導者的地位。
Matrix Connexion gets Google accolade for supporting global customers
Matrix Connexion因為支援全球客戶服務獲得谷歌讚譽
KUALA LUMPUR: Matrix Connexion (MatrixC) has received the Google 2024 Cloud Sales and Services Partner of the Year Award for Malaysia marking the ongoing spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines the industry. The company was recognised for its achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, supporting global customers throughout its entire cloud journey. The services partner category helps customers with end-to-end, artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled solutions and services in data, IT infrastructure and application modernisation, security, work transformation and sustainability.
MatrixC chief executive officer Sean Tay said the company has pivotal projects, including its partnership with the Ministry of Education under the Digital Learning Initiative which has been the highlight of MatrixC’s journey. He added that implementing Google Workspace for 5.5 million users has revolutionised digital education in Malaysia, enhancing the capabilities of students and educators across the country. This monumental achievement, completed in a record three months, marked the largest single commercial deal for Google Workspace in the non-education sector, and underscored our position as a leader in the industry. Tay noted that MatrixC will remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, delivering unparalleled service, and creating lasting impacts in the world of Google Cloud solutions.
小編點評：Matrix Connexion被評為2024年Google雲端銷售和服務合作夥伴年度獎，凸顯了其在數位領域的卓越貢獻，特別是在改革教育和促進政府遷移至Google Workspace方面。通過在創新和服務交付方面突破界限，MatrixC不僅提升了自身地位，也加強了馬來西亞作為利用技術推動社會進步的領導者的地位。
CGS International unveils new brand and vision following purchase of CGS-CIMB Securities
CGS International在收購CGS-CIMB證券後，揭開了新的品牌和願景
KUALA LUMPUR: CGS International Securities Malaysia (CGS MY) has introduced its new brand and vision following the complete acquisition of CGS-CIMB Securities (Malaysia) by China Galaxy Securities (CGS) on Dec 29, 2023. This rebranding includes a new corporate name and updated logo that reflects the company’s heritage while signaling its growth trajectory. According to CGS MY, its new name builds upon the positive brand equity of the CGS-CIMB joint venture and its capabilities, both locally and regionally through its network. The acquisition is expected to enhance CGS International Securities Pte Ltd’s networks in China and Asean, specifically in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.
CGS MY chief executive officer Azizah Mohd Yatim said Malaysia is in a unique position to offer the region and the world, products and solutions that meet with the social and ethical values of many investors and businesses, such as Islamic finance and sustainability. These include enhancing our platforms, customer service and experience, whilst broadening our advisory and equity capital market capabilities and wealth management solutions,” she said at CGS MY rebranding launch event today. Azizah also noted that the company has plans in the pipeline to grow its private equity and venture capital business. She said by tapping into group-wide capabilities, it will be able to transform CGS MY into a formidable player in the highly competitive financial services sector.
小編點評：CGS International Securities Malaysia在收購後重新定位的品牌意味著一個戰略性舉措，以利用其擴展後的能力和區域網絡，使馬來西亞和東盟各地的客戶和投資者受益。CGS MY聚焦於增強平台和擴展到私募股權等新領域等增長支柱，旨在加強其在競爭激烈的金融服務行業中的地位，同時提供創新解決方案並民主化投資機會的諮詢。
Smart#1 one of Malaysia’s most preferred premium EVs
Smart#1成為馬來西亞最受歡迎的的高品質電動車之一
KUALA LUMPUR: Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net)’s flagship electric vehicle (EV) model, smart#1, is ranked third in the local EV SUV category for cars worth more than RM180,000, making it one of the most preferred premium EVs in Malaysia. smart#1 was designed by Mercedes-Benz and built on Geely’s sustainable electric architecture. The smart #1 sold 100 units within a month, setting a new sales record.
The Malaysian EV market saw exponential growth in recent years, with EV sales volume surging from 3,079 units in 2022 to 11,624 units in 2023, accompanied by a significant increase in market share from 0.43 per cent to 1.45 per cent. Against this backdrop of rapid electrification and shifting consumer preferences, the company said it emerged as a frontrunner, capturing the hearts and minds of Malaysian consumers with its commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. Additionally, smart Malaysia’s collaboration with key stakeholders and expansion of its dealer network from 10 to 13 locations. This includes the establishment of the first-ever community-centric hub in East Malaysia, underscores its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Malaysian consumers and driving EV adoption across the country.
小編點評：Proton New Energy Technology在智能#1電動車方面的成功突顯了馬來西亞對電動車的日益增長的需求，並標誌著該國向永續交通過渡的重要里程碑。隨著該公司繼續創新和擴大產品，其承諾滿足消費者需求並推動電動車的普及具有進一步加速馬來西亞轉向更環保的移動解決方案的潛力。