News In Brief

Welcome to our ‘News In Brief’ column in which we digest all the news releases for you in no more than five paragraphs.
Below are snippets of all the media releases we received from May 20 till the end of the week.
This article updates throughout the week.

Alibaba Cloud’s AI Innovation

Kuala Lumpur, May 20: Alibaba Cloud, in partnership with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), tested its latest AI-enhanced multi-camera replay service at the Olympic Qualifier Series in Shanghai from May 16 to 19. This service will be deployed at various venues during Paris 2024, promising an immersive viewing experience.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with OBS to expand the use of our cutting-edge cloud-based AI technology, aiming to elevate sports broadcasting to new levels of immersion and engagement,” said Selina Yuan, President of International Business at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence.
The system, powered by Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure, uses machine learning and deep neural networks to offer viewers a compelling engagement experience by reconstructing competition scenes in sophisticated detail. This AI-enabled replay system will be implemented at 12 competition venues for events like beach volleyball, tennis, judo, and rugby during Paris 2024.
First introduced at the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, the system aims to enhance the broadcast of the Olympic Games with innovative and inclusive technologies.

Korean Air’s AI Contact Center

Seoul, May 20: Korean Air has teamed up with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to create an AI Contact Center (AICC) platform.
The AICC, using advanced AI technologies, will improve customer service through voice bots and chatbots.
The project kicked off at Korean Air’s headquarters with key executives from both companies in attendance.
Korean Air plans to streamline call center operations by migrating to a single AWS Cloud platform by September 2024, with further AI enhancements expected by February 2025.
“Providing personalized experiences and swiftly resolving issues are key to developing and reinforcing customer trust,” said Kenneth Chang, Korean Air’s Chief Marketing Officer.
“Our partnership with AWS will leverage advanced AI technologies to transform the way we interact with our customers to enhance the customer experience.”

Hisense Expands HVAC Operations

Melbourne, May 20: Hisense Australia, a leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, is enhancing its HVAC operations with the appointment of Peter Rybinski as Executive General Manager of HVAC.
This move will bolster Hisense’s home product suite, including innovations in HVAC and Hot Water, TV, Laser, Refrigeration, Dishwasher, and Laundry, all integrated with the ConnectLife App.
Hisense’s HVAC solutions, tested to withstand Australia’s harsh climate, now feature the new Ducted+ and Ducted Zone+ ranges, which include Hi-Nano air purification and EasySplit indoor units.
These will be showcased at ARBS 2024 in Sydney from May 28 to 30.
“Quality and care are embedded in Hisense’s DNA,” said Peter Rybinski. “Hisense’s team, from the engineers to the leadership, are innovators, not imitators, and I am very excited and honored to lead the HVAC team on our next growth phase.”
Hisense aims to offer premium HVAC solutions at competitive prices and emphasizes sustainability with energy-efficient products like their 8-star refrigerators. Many products are approved for state and territory rebate programs, promoting electrification.
“We want our customers to have access to outstanding Hisense products,” Rybinski continued. “I am confident the team has what it takes to succeed through leveraging our position as a world-leading innovator.”
With 20 years of experience in HVAC manufacturing, Hisense is committed to quality and service, further cementing its position as a market leader in Commercial HVAC.

IAAPA Expo Showcases Innovation

Bangkok, May 20: The global amusement industry will gather in Bangkok for the IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 from May 27 to 30.
Held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, this event will showcase the latest innovations and trends in the attractions industry from over 300 exhibitors.
Despite the pandemic’s impact, the industry has rebounded, regaining 98 per cent of the spending lost in 2020.
Global spending is projected to reach $58.7 billion USD by the end of 2024.
Jack Chan, IAAPA Expo Asia Pacific Executive Director and Vice President, highlighted the universal appeal of entertainment. “Amusement and theme parks are a cultural phenomenon that not only provide entertainment to millions, but also contribute significantly to the region’s and global economy,” he said.
The expo will feature trends such as 5D multisensory attractions, environmental sustainability, personalized guest experiences, and advanced safety technologies. Key speakers will include representatives from Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, Universal Beijing Resort, and more.
“This year’s theme, ‘Shape your evolution,’ reflects our focus on education and growth,” Chan added. The event offers a comprehensive education program and EDUTours, providing attendees with behind-the-scenes insights from top entertainment venues in Thailand.
“Whether you’re part of a multinational corporation or small family-run operation, IAAPA Expo Asia is the premier industry event to connect with manufacturers, suppliers, and business leaders,” Chan concluded.

AICB Advances AI Banking

Kuala Lumpur, May 20: The Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB) is driving the transformation of the Malaysian financial services industry through advancements in AI and green banking.
At the 7th Chartered Banker Conferment ceremony, over 100 individuals received Fellow Chartered Banker and Chartered Banker statuses, and over 230 were awarded Associate Chartered Banker status.
Bank Negara Malaysia Deputy Governor Adnan Zaylani highlighted the importance of human capital development in banking.
AICB Chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim emphasized the critical role of Chartered Bankers in adapting to digital changes and fostering trust.
AICB Chief Executive Edward Ling noted, “AICB is committed to strengthening the competence of bankers through our professional qualifications, nurturing a sustainable pipeline of well-rounded, world-class bankers.”
In July 2024, AICB will launch the Future Skills Framework (FSF) to promote skills mastery and ongoing learning, supporting the Financial Sector Blueprint 2022–2026.
Chartered Banker Institute President Steve Pateman celebrated the long-standing relationship between AICB and the Chartered Banker Institute, UK.
Four distinguished banking leaders were conferred the Fellow Chartered Banker status: Datuk Sulaiman Mohd Tahir, Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir, Datuk John Chong Eng Chuan, and Angus Salim Salleh Amran.
There are now over 800 Chartered Bankers in Malaysia.

Telefónica Tech and Microsoft Partner

Madrid, May 20: Telefónica Tech has signed a new agreement with Microsoft at the RSA conference in San Francisco to bring next-generation cybersecurity services to enterprises globally.
This collaboration will integrate Microsoft’s advanced security and AI solutions with Telefónica Tech’s cybersecurity expertise, providing proactive, integrated, automated, and real-time security management.
The expanded cybersecurity portfolio will include services such as Detection & Response, Identity Access Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, and Data Protection. Managed 24×7 by specialized teams in Madrid and Bogota, the service will utilize Microsoft’s cybersecurity capabilities, including the Microsoft Copilot for Security tool.
María Jesús Almazor, COO of Telefónica Tech for Spain and the Americas, stated, “This global cooperation between Telefónica Tech and Microsoft is a key milestone. Companies around the world will take advantage of all the opportunities that technology offers to digitize processes and jobs, including tools based on generative artificial intelligence, with maximum security.”
Alberto Granados, President of Microsoft Spain, added, “The collaboration between Telefónica Tech and Microsoft will allow us to offer our customers innovative security solutions powered by Artificial Intelligence with the aim of improving their cyber-resilience.”
Telefónica Tech, a top managed security services provider (MSSP), was recognized as 2nd on MSSP Alert’s Top 250 Global MSSP list in 2023 and Partner of the Year in Spain by Microsoft.
The company continues to enhance its capabilities with specializations in Cloud Security and Threat Protection.

Sarawak Launches Resilience Program

Sarawak, May 20: The Sarawak Tourism Board, in collaboration with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), has launched the Tourism Destination Resilience (TDR) Program.
Announced by Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak, this initiative aims to enhance the tourism sector’s recovery, sustainability, and growth post-COVID-19. Targeting 60 participants, the program brings together policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to foster shared responsibility and sustainability.
“Tourism is more than just an economic engine – it is a force for good, a bridge between cultures, and a catalyst for positive change. We must ensure that our tourism practices are sustainable, ethical, and inclusive, respecting both the needs of our visitors and the integrity of our environment,” said Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The program’s objectives include evaluating, mitigating, and managing risks; promoting sustainable tourism; and preserving cultural heritage.
Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board, added, “The TDR programme aims to equip stakeholders with the steps to build resilience and foster greater sustainability.”
The program consists of 12 modules designed to address the unique challenges of Sarawak’s tourism industry.
Participants will engage in immersive sessions over five days to develop a robust action plan for resilience and sustainable tourism growth.

Magma Group Leadership Change

Kuala Lumpur, May 20: Magma Group Berhad (“Magma”), an investment holding and hospitality group, has announced a leadership transition. Dato’ Seri Ismail @ Farouk Bin Abdullah will step down as Executive Chairman, with Datuk Sri Lee Hock Seng, the current Deputy Executive Chairman, taking over the position.
Datuk Seri Ismail @ Farouk Bin Abdullah stated, “It has been an honor to lead Magma Group Berhad through an era of transformative growth and to see it emerge stronger and more resilient. I am confident that Datuk Seri Lee Hock Seng is the right leader for the next chapter of Magma’s journey.”
Datuk Seri Lee Hock Seng added, “I am deeply honored to take on the role of Executive Chairman at such a pivotal time for Magma. I am committed to building on this strong foundation and leading Magma into a future rich with opportunity and growth.”
Datuk Seri Thomas Liang Chee Fong, Group Managing Director of Magma, commented, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to both gentlemen, especially to Datuk Sri Lee Hock Seng as he steps into this pivotal role. We are poised to reach new heights in the coming future.”
Magma remains dedicated to upholding strong corporate governance and ethical business practices under the new leadership.
The company aims to further strengthen its market position and enhance its contributions to the economic and social landscapes.

Proto Axiom’s Biotech Pitch

Sydney, May 22: Proto Axiom, Australia’s first biotech incubator, has launched The Challenger Summit, offering over $250,000 in unencumbered grant financing for innovative biotech solutions.
Researchers from Australian universities, institutes, and public health systems can enter by July 12.
The Summit will be held in October 2024 at the St. Vincent’s Health Innovation Precinct in Sydney.
“We are excited to host The Challenger Summit and look forward to seeing the innovative ideas that will shape the future of biotechnology,” said Anthony Liveris, CEO of Proto Axiom.
For more details, visit protoaxiom.com.

AI Boosts Network Efficiency

Sydney, May 23: A global study by Ciena reveals that 60 per cent of communications service providers (CSPs) believe AI will enhance network operational efficiency by 40 per cent or more. Conducted with Censuswide, the survey included over 1,500 telecom and IT engineers and managers from 17 countries.
Jürgen Hatheier, Ciena’s International Chief Technology Officer, stated, “Understanding emerging technologies like AI is an essential step toward staying competitive in today’s constantly changing digital landscape.” The study underscores the need for strategic planning and investments in infrastructure to maximize AI benefits.
Key findings include that 85 per cent of respondents are confident in CSPs’ ability to monetize AI traffic. Most CSPs see financial services, media, and entertainment as leading sectors for AI-driven revenue. Additionally, 99 per cent believe upgrading fibre-optic networks is essential.
The study also highlights that CSPs favour private cloud deployment for AI services and predict AI will create jobs, particularly in cybersecurity, machine learning, and programming. Confidence in AI’s potential varies globally, with CSPs in India being most confident and those in the U.S. being less so.