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“Singapore is a major hub for data centres. Cybercriminals know that…many attacks globally are starting out of Singapore,”
This is from Stephan Neumeier, Managing Director APAC Kaspersky Lab. He shares this alarming fact with OpenGov Asia in a recent interview. Stephan is joined by Vitaly Kamluk, Director of GReAT (Global Research and Analysis Team) APAC Kaspersky Lab. Together, they share with us how in times like these, even the most tech savvy of organisations is susceptible to cyberattacks. Kaspersky is working with customers to improve their cybersecurity infrastructure and providing education on how to invest in cybersecurity.
All Enterprises Vulnerable to Cyberattacks?
Enterprises have become easy targets of attack. Vitaly notes that two key trends this year that has made businesses susceptible.
First, the attribution game this year has changed significantly with the appearance of Olympic Destroyer. Vitaly said it tricked the world. The malware caused mass disruption during the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeonchang, targeted financial organisations in Russia and attempted to attack biochemical threat prevention laboratories in Europe. Highly malicious, Olympic Destroyer was elaborately planned. Researchers could not easily attribute the source of attack since it bore close resemblance to other malwares. Investigations were severely slowed down since they needed to verify with multiple sources.
Second, supply chain attacks and the creation of a fake supply chain have also become commonplace. The financial industry has been especially susceptible.
Vitaly explained that the remotely managed ATMs have multiple backdoors for threat actors to enter. What’s worse is that the backdoors come from vendors and they are unaware of it. Attackers can easily enter and inject malicious code.
Even if a supply chain vendor is highly secure and cannot be breached, attackers create a fake supply chain. A cryptocurrency business suffered this fate. The attacker created a fake company using a software which looks and acts legitimately, resembling the business. Apart from the billions stolen in bitcoin, the reputational damage far outweighs.
“There is a hidden backdoor which is hard to discover. Fake vendors and supply chains are tricky and hard to discover,” explained Vitaly.
Another example Vitaly provided is an infected EDM. Hiding behind the veil of what seems like a legitimate company, a fraudulent product could be advertised through email. Although the product is not fully developed, the promotional material is attractive enough for end users to download it. In the process, they unknowingly open a backdoor.
Vitaly said, “Even if it is a temporary solution, once you download it, it opens doors to your organisation.”
Reminiscent of alligators staking out their preys near water bodies in the Savanna, these are known as a watering-hole attacks in the virtual world. Legitimate websites are compromised without the need for a malicious server. Attackers are confident that targeted users will fall prey.
Proving watering-hole attacks are common, Vitaly offers the example of how a highly secure and tech-savvy bank in Poland was breached by the malware Lazarus, a North Korean state actor. Although many of the bank’s applications were conducted offline – a precaution many would consider fool proof – attackers managed to break into the system.
A leeway was presented when a regular system update for an installed Flash Plugin failed. Typically, the plugin would fetch the update from an online source. However, given the bank’s security protocol, a proxy with the relevant credentials was needed to validate the process. No one in the organisation had followed up to check if the software update was conducted regularly. This slip allowed attackers to inject malicious code into the Flash Player, exploiting a selected group of visitors.
“Even if you are technically savvy, it is easy to overlook such things,” said Vitaly.
However, there is little consolation for those who want to protect themselves. When asked how an individual could protect themselves from well-disguised threats, Vitaly said, “That’s the problem – there is no chance.”
“You need the expert’s eyes. Not on the interface, but on the backstage.”
Where to Invest for Cybersecurity
Hence all organisations should consider Stephan began by explaining that traditional threat prevention methods such as endpoint security is insufficient today. Since cyberthreats are becoming more sophisticated, organisations need to diversify their investments.
“Of an organisation’s IT budget, 10% should be invested in cybersecurity.”
“In the past, many companies invest 80% of their IT budgets in endpoint protection and the rest in some other aspect. But this should shift. 40% should go into prevention. 60% needs to be invested in detecting, responding and predicting,” suggests Stephan.
However, beginning the journey or selecting the best combination of services might be a daunting one. Hence, Vitaly explained that Kaspersky Lab arranges meet-ups between businesses and their security experts. Businesses are briefed on the latest threats in the region or industry, and how best to respond.
Even for enterprises which do not subscribe to their services, Kaspersky Lab offers a heads up. The aforementioned cryptocurrency company is a beneficiary.
Kaspersky Lab offers a portfolio of these required solutions in its Enterprise Portfolio. The combination of technologies and services helps the IT department to prevent most attacks, detect new and predict future threats, and respond to emerging incidents. This helps to ensure operational continuity and regulatory compliance.
The comprehensive services offered are possible given the company’s global reach. According to Stephan, the company protects more than 400 million endpoints globally. They have good working knowledge of what is happening on the ground. Hence, high quality intelligence reports can be generated to help both their business and customers.
What to Do When Breached
Despite their global reach and geographic expertise, Stephan and Vitaly shared that not all countries or companies were open to receiving their help. More specifically, developing nations tended to have the most reservations.
Vitaly explained, “Developing countries, being much more suspicious and closed off [in sharing information about their breach] would say: ‘Show us proof, we don’t want to hear you’. In the end, they don’t want to hear about the breach. They want to live in their own shell and are afraid of discovering threats even on their own premises. They want to be ignorant about this.”
He added, “In Singapore, the response was opposite. We came on the ground, we did a search with their engineers and they found that our suspicions were based on fact. Their response was also very diligent. I was impressed.”
Stephan concurred, “This is a challenge we meet in many countries. When we talk to larger corporations or even government, the concern to share data, specifically after customers or citizens got breached, is huge. They don’t want to share anything.”
“But if you do not share, you cannot leverage on information which is out there as well. If you look at the cybercriminals, this is a global network. There are no borders. They share all the malicious codes they have, they send it to each other to develop it further. They are very well connected globally. If companies and governments are not working globally with each other, then there will always be a disadvantage. They will always be a step behind.”
Ending off, Vitaly said, People trust too much, they are not suspicious enough. On the internet, people are much more relaxed. They think no is going to attack them physically, so computers and smartphones are not as harmful.”
The rise of private information extortion through scams in Southeast Asia should be warning enough.
He advised users, “Put less trust in systems and strangers on the networks. If you receive messages from social media, text or emails, about being hacked or being blocked, do not engage in the conversation. This allows the malicious actor to enter.”
Unless people revert to devices with limited functionalities, there is little to no chance of evading an attack these days. Threats will keep evolving and it there will be no end to them. As long as individuals and organisations install apps and plugins to their devices, there will be always be malicious intents waiting to lure unsuspecting prey.
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The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) is dedicated to securing Singapore’s cyberspace to support national security, power the digital economy, and protect the digital way of life. To reinforce national security, CSA continually monitors cyber threats, defends critical information infrastructure (CII), and implements mitigation measures to safeguard essential services.
The Singapore Cyber Emergency Response Team (SingCERT) responds to cybersecurity incidents for its Singapore constituents. It was set up to facilitate the detection, resolution and prevention of cybersecurity-related incidents on the Internet.
Singapore, represented by the CSA has been working closely with ASEAN Member States (AMS) to establish the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) to promote and facilitate information-sharing related to cyber incident response, and to complement the operational efforts by individual national CERTs in each AMS.
Singapore had made the recommendation for a single AMS to host the ASEAN Regional CERT and proposed to host and fund its physical activities in Singapore at the 14th ASEAN Network Security Action Council in August 2023.
The ASEAN Regional CERT will enable stronger regional cybersecurity incident response coordination and critical information infrastructure (CII) protection cooperation, including for cross-border CII such as banking and finance, communications, aviation and maritime.
The 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN) convened in Singapore in February, to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in the digital realm, particularly amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The meeting recognised advancements in implementing the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 (ADM 2025) despite the pandemic and stressed the need for a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem. The ADM 2025 Mid-Term Review (MTR) assessed progress in key areas including trusted digital services, consumer protection, and broadband infrastructure
The meeting highlighted the need to set governance standards for emerging technologies like AI, based on recommendations from the ADM 2025 MTR. It also emphasised the importance of collaborating on digital infrastructure and fostering trust among users for secure data sharing.
The endorsement of the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics marked a significant milestone, reflecting the region’s commitment to harnessing AI technologies responsibly. The guide, which includes practical use cases for trustworthy AI deployment, is poised to serve as a valuable tool for promoting the responsible and ethical utilisation of AI solutions across ASEAN.
Additionally, the meeting welcomed initiatives aimed at enhancing regional cybersecurity capabilities, such as the establishment of the ASEAN Regional CERT. This initiative is expected to bolster incident response capabilities and facilitate timely information sharing and best practice exchange among ASEAN member states.
Moreover, the meeting acknowledged the importance of data governance and privacy protection in fostering digital trust. Efforts to promote the adoption of the ASEAN Model Contractual Clauses and facilitate seamless data transfers between ASEAN and the European Union were commended as significant steps towards enhancing regional data governance frameworks.
The meeting also highlighted the significance of digital infrastructure development, including the advancement of 5G networks and the establishment of frameworks to facilitate cross-border data flows, particularly in areas such as disaster management and logistics for rural areas.
In the realm of international cooperation, the meeting affirmed ASEAN’s commitment to deepening collaboration with dialogue and development partners, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, the United States, the European Union, ITU, and APT. These partnerships are crucial for advancing digital transformation, cybersecurity, and capacity-building efforts across the region.
Overall, the 4th ADGMIN underscored the collective resolve of ASEAN member states to navigate the evolving digital landscape, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and resilience to realise the full potential of the digital economy for the benefit of all stakeholders.
Following the endorsement of the financial model, Singapore will continue to work closely with AMS to operationalise the ASEAN Regional CERT to enhance collective cybersecurity within the region.
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In a significant stride towards fostering digital innovation within in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, the Technology Development Board (TDB) has joined hands with a Delhi-based company in a strategic agreement. Under this collaboration, TDB has approved a Conditional Grant of ₹1.22 crores (approximately US$162,000) to support its groundbreaking project titled “Digital Financial Solutions for Last Mile FMCG Value Chains in Emerging Markets”.
The initiative has been facilitated through the ‘INDIA-ISRAEL INDUSTRIAL R&D AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION FUND (I4F)’. Spearheaded by a company from Israel, the project sets out to revolutionise last-mile FMCG value chains in emerging markets through the implementation of cutting-edge digital finance solutions.
This partnership underscores the robust technological cooperation between India and Israel, highlighting their joint commitment to driving innovation in industrial research and development.
At its core, the project focuses on developing an integrated digital finance platform tailored specifically for last-mile FMCG value chains. Leveraging the Delhi company’s expertise in human-centred design, the project places a strong emphasis on enhancing user experience and ensuring alignment with diverse consumer needs. With a prestigious client portfolio that includes industry giants, the company brings invaluable insight and innovation to the project.
Upon completion, the platform is poised to seamlessly embed financial services across FMCG value chains, with particular attention to enhancing last-mile distribution networks. Drawing from the Delhi company’s extensive experience in managing branchless banking networks and B2B commerce platforms, the project aims to empower businesses and consumers alike, driving financial inclusion and fostering sustainable economic growth in emerging markets.
Speaking on the significance of this partnership, the Secretary of the Technology Development Board, stressed its pivotal role in addressing real-world challenges through innovation-driven solutions. As the inaugural agreement signed under the Bilateral India-Israel call, the initiative lays the groundwork for future collaborations.
Moreover, it signifies a commitment to transformative agreements that will drive progress and innovation in the near future. This partnership stands as evidence of technological advancement and cooperation between India and Israel, poised to deliver tangible benefits to both nations and beyond.
India is recognised as a burgeoning powerhouse in the global technology and digital space, with a commitment to innovation and leadership that extends beyond its borders. As the world witnesses an increasingly interconnected digital landscape, India is keen to leverage its expertise and resources to collaborate internationally.
OpenGov Asia highlighted the Indo-French Joint Committee of Science and Technology’s (JCST) recent meeting, emphasizing the efficacy of the Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) in boosting collaboration. Talks centred on advancing research in key areas such as Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (ICPS), health, clean energy, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technologies, and advanced materials.
Emphasising the significance of fostering connections among innovators and entrepreneurs from both nations, the meeting underscored the importance of leveraging collaborative efforts for mutual benefit. Dr Claire Giry, Director General for Research and Innovation at the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research echoed these sentiments, stressing the need to reinforce ties between researchers from India and France, with a specific focus on sustainable technologies, applied mathematics, health, and ocean research.
With a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, India’s endeavours in the tech and digital space aim not only to drive economic growth but also to empower communities worldwide, cementing its position as a beacon of technological leadership and cooperation on the international stage.
Through partnerships, knowledge exchange, and collaborative initiatives, India seeks to not only showcase its technological prowess but also to extend a helping hand internationally. By fostering innovation, promoting digital inclusion, and championing technological solutions to global challenges, India aims to demonstrate leadership in the tech arena while making meaningful contributions to the international community.
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A collaboration between the Postgraduate School of Geological Engineering at Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), the Geological Engineering Student Association “GEA” (HMTG “GEA”), and the Indonesian Association of Geologists (IAGI) recently showcased the advancements in sensing technology at a seminar entitled “Remote Sensing Technology for Exploration, Inventory, and Management of Natural Resources in Indonesia”.
Led by Professor Dr Ir. Indroyono Soesilo, M.Sc., the seminar highlighted remote sensing’s pivotal role in a data-driven and tech-enabled world. It has become an indispensable tool in the scientific field, providing researchers and practitioners with valuable data and previously unattainable insights.
As humanity transitions into the “imagination society” of era 5.0, remote sensing emerges as a crucial tool in providing information and knowledge to address contemporary and future challenges, underlining its significance in digital transformation and problem-solving endeavours. Its continued development and integration into various industries promise to revolutionise further how humans interact with and understand the world.
According to Prof Indroyono, remote sensing is observing an object without direct contact using specialised sensors mounted on various platforms such as drones, aircraft, satellites, etc. Multiple sensors used for remote sensing operate at different wavelengths, ranging from visible light, infrared, and radar to seismic waves, providing flexibility in obtaining data needed for geology.
Since its inception in 1960 with NASA’s TIROS-1 project, remote sensing technology has undergone significant evolution, transitioning into a service-oriented industry in Indonesia by 1993. This transformation has been propelled by government support and infrastructure development efforts. The trajectory of remote sensing underscores its vital role in facilitating Indonesia’s exploration, inventorying, and management of natural resources.
The evolution of remote sensing technology is evident from the launch of the first satellite platform in 1960 to the subsequent deployment of Landsat-1, an earth monitoring satellite, 12 years later. Prof. Indroyono and other professionals have played a pivotal role in Indonesia’s remote sensing advancement, leveraging their international educational backgrounds. Initially, their focus was on fostering Indonesia’s remote sensing service sector, encompassing data providers, information service providers, knowledge service providers, and initiatives for market expansion.
Currently, many high-resolution satellites are used for commercial purposes. The images of the earth produced by these satellites are also real-time and directly collected in the extensive data system for inventory, monitoring, analysis, and prediction purposes.
In a previous article, OpenGovAsia reported that Indonesia was deploying remote sensing to estimate oil palm productivity using satellite imagery from Sentinel-2. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) established a collaborative remote sensing research project with Lamandau Polytechnic from Lamandau Regency, Central Kalimantan.
Through remote sensing data, this research collaboration aims to establish a comprehensive understanding and accurate prediction of oil palm productivity in Bulik District, Lamandau Regency. Furthermore, remote sensing has also been used for conservation, explicitly focusing on monitoring water quality and addressing marine waste. Plastic and other waste materials discharged into the oceans pose severe global challenges.
Prof. Indroyono stresses the necessity of strengthening regulations to ensure the ethical use of remote sensing technology, despite its industry’s current robustness in adhering to rules. He advocates for continuous research and development efforts to maintain competitiveness, stressing the importance of exploring new sensor technologies and refining data processing techniques. Additionally, he underscores the pivotal role of collaboration between government, industry, and academia in driving innovation and addressing challenges in remote sensing technology and applications.
While significant progress has been made, Prof. Indroyono believes there is still untapped potential in the remote sensing industry. By bolstering regulatory frameworks, investing in R&D, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the industry can continue its growth trajectory and realise its full potential in the years ahead.
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In a strategic move to bolster innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystems, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) recently concluded an impactful visit to the Middle East, solidifying various strategic partnerships across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. This landmark initiative aimed to reinforce the world-class I&T ecosystems of both Hong Kong and the Middle East, leveraging digital advancements to propel global progress and collaboration.
Led by Professor Sun Dong, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry, the delegation comprised representatives from eight park companies, showcasing Hong Kong’s prowess in innovation at the prestigious LEAP 2024 event.
These partnerships mark significant milestones in HKSTP’s mission to cultivate a truly global innovation community, seizing opportunities for multilateral technology collaborations and fostering cross-border innovation networks.
Among the standout achievements was Halo Energy Limited (Halo), a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, securing two major partnerships in the UAE and Qatar. These strategic collaborations aim to explore opportunities for EV charging deployment and investment in the Middle East, laying the groundwork for sustainable transportation solutions in the region and driving the adoption of clean energy technologies.
A biotech company, a subsidiary of an HKSTP park company, inked a trilateral agreement with the Dubai Economic Development Corporation and another HK business. This partnership will expand the biotech research and development (R&D) footprint in the UAE, focusing on advancements in human and veterinary diagnostics and lab testing.
The collaboration underscores the commitment to technology exchange and innovation-driven solutions, fostering a dynamic ecosystem for biotech and green tech investments in the Middle East.
Furthermore, a pioneer in smart building solutions forged a strategic partnership with a Dubai-based company. This collaboration aims to promote energy-saving and green building solutions, with plans to implement its innovative platform in 100 commercial buildings across the region over the next 18 months. By harnessing the power of digital technologies, the partnership seeks to drive sustainable urban development and enhance the efficiency of built environments in the Middle East.
Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, emphasised the transformative potential of these partnerships in propelling both regions into a new era of innovation and collaboration. The strategic MoU signed with the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, represents a pivotal step towards technology exchange and startup support between the two ecosystems, fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking initiatives in technology and industry practices.
The delegation also explored strategic partnerships with another group, facilitating startups’ market expansion efforts in the Middle East, and engaged with leading innovation hubs such as Masdar City, Hub 71 in Abu Dhabi, and the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). These interactions fostered discussions on fostering innovative ecosystems and promoting collaboration across government, industry, and academia to drive research and development initiatives in key sectors.
HKSTP was optimistic after showcasing its vibrant I&T ecosystem at the Hong Kong Pavilion during LEAP 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With meaningful synergies anticipated between the two regions, the event provided a platform for HKSTP to highlight Hong Kong’s technological strengths and solidify its position as a gateway to the Greater Bay Area. T
Through demonstrations by eight Science Park tech ventures and a panel discussion moderated by CEO Mr Albert Wong, the event aimed to uncover new commercial opportunities and foster international partnerships for a prosperous I&T future.
The HKSTP’s Middle East delegation exemplifies the power of international collaboration in driving digital transformation and innovation. By forging strategic partnerships and fostering cross-border innovation networks, HKSTP is at the forefront of propelling global progress and shaping a future where technology transcends borders to address complex challenges and unlock new opportunities for all.
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In the heart of Kidapawan City, Cotabato Province, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is spearheading a transformative initiative poised to revolutionise the landscape of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Soccsksargen region. Through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Programme (SETUP), DOST emphasises the pivotal role of technology and innovation in enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of local businesses.
In a significant stride towards bolstering the operational efficiency and competitiveness of products and services for MSMEs in Cotabato, DOST recently greenlit the implementation of the SETUP programme. This strategic move aims to empower local enterprises through innovation funds allocated for machinery upgrades, setting the stage for transformative growth and development.
Michael Ty Mayo, the Provincial Director of DOST in Cotabato, underscores the programme’s fundamental mission: to leverage science and technology as catalysts for the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises nationwide.
“It helps increase production, improve product quality, and encourage innovation to make local industries more competitive in the global market,” explains Mayo, highlighting the programme’s multifaceted benefits for MSMEs.
Among the esteemed recipients of the SETUP programme’s innovation funds are trailblazing enterprises. These visionary entrepreneurs represent the vanguard of technological advancement, poised to harness the power of science and technology to drive business growth and innovation.
For the visionary owner of communications, networking and data solutions, the SETUP programme heralds a new era of opportunity and growth for local SMEs. Pagaduan’s enterprise specialises in systems integration, connectivity, and public safety solutions, offering a diverse range of services encompassing telecommunications, network design, structured cabling systems, and more. With the infusion of innovation funds, he is optimistic about the transformative impact on his business and the broader local economy.
Similarly, the proprietor of a bakery and catering services company lauds DOST’s programme as a vital mechanism for enhancing operational capability and productivity. As an accredited partner of the DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute, the outlet plays a pivotal role in producing nutribuns and supplying the feeding programme of the Department of Education.
The owner Serag recognises the pivotal role of technology and innovation in driving business growth and sustainability, underscoring the importance of the SETUP programme in fostering a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive.
The decisive support for DOST’s initiative extends beyond the entrepreneurial sphere, with the provincial government of Cotabato expressing unwavering support for the intensified implementation of the programme. Moreover, DOST has garnered staunch backing from the congressional offices of the second and third districts of the province, underscoring the collaborative efforts to drive technological innovation and economic growth.
As DOST Regional Director Sammy Malawan reaffirms, the SETUP programme represents a beacon of hope and opportunity for MSMEs, offering unwavering support and guidance in navigating the complexities of technological advancement. With a steadfast commitment to promoting science, technology, and innovation as driving agents of success, DOST stands poised to propel MSMEs towards a brighter, more prosperous future.
At the forefront of the Philippines’ digital transformation, the Department of Science and Technology drives progress and innovation. Through its dedication to technology and digital literacy, DOST empowers businesses, cities, and citizens, enabling them to excel in today’s tech-driven world. A case in point is the impactful work of a DOST scholar, whose innovative applications are propelling Borongan’s evolution into Eastern Visayas’ smart city.
Through various initiatives, DOST plays a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to technology and digital resources across the nation. By promoting digital literacy courses and providing training opportunities, DOST equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to harness the power of technology for personal and professional advancement.
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The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) in Vietnam has recently put forward a series of proposed regulations aimed at managing internet resources, notably the national domain name “.vn”.
These regulations, outlined in a draft decree detailing provisions of the Telecommunications Law, seek to streamline processes related to the transfer of ownership, including donations, contributions of capital, and inheritance of usage rights for the “.vn” domain. By aligning these procedures with existing property rights laws and relevant regulations, the MIC aims to ensure transparency and legal compliance in the management of digital assets.
Under the proposed regulations, individuals and organisations must promptly update “.vn” domain registration details in cases of ownership changes due to donations, capital contributions, or inheritance rights. Entities involved in activities like restructuring or capital transactions leading to domain ownership changes must also adjust registrant details accordingly.
A crucial component of these regulations involves enforcing the revision of registrant information for domain names when undergoing changes such as organisational restructuring, name adjustments, or modifications in functions and responsibilities.
These stipulations are designed to uphold the accuracy and currency of records concerning domain ownership and utilisation rights.
The proposed regulations also address the circumstances under which “.vn” domain names may be revoked, including instances where they are used against the state, pose national security risks, violate laws, or fail to meet maintenance fee obligations.
To ensure transparency and provide adequate notice, the MIC will notify affected parties of impending revocations through various channels, including direct communication, mass media, text messages, and websites, with a minimum three-month advance notice period.
In cases of resource revocation, the MIC pledges to compensate affected individuals and organisations using funds from the State Budget. Compensation levels are determined based on factors such as the remaining maintenance fees for directly allocated or granted resources and the auction-winning amount for resources acquired through auctions.
According to statistics from the Vietnam Internet Network Information Centre (VNNIC), Vietnam currently hosts ten domestic and six foreign domain name registrars. The country boasts over 604,000 registered “.vn” domain names, with nearly 19,000 domain name transfers recorded by the end of last December.
The MIC’s proposed regulations signal a proactive approach to internet resource management, aiming to ensure compliance, transparency, and accountability in Vietnam’s digital landscape.
Furthermore, the proposed regulations prioritise the protection of Internet resources related to national sovereignty and security, ensuring that agencies, organisations, and socio-political entities receive preferential treatment in resource allocation and management. These measures underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding national interests in cyberspace.
In addition to the regulations governing Internet resources, the MIC is also considering proposals for managing and utilising telecommunications number warehouses. These regulations cover various aspects such as the allocation, leasing, and exchange of subscriber numbers, aiming to optimise the management of telecommunications resources and improve service delivery in the telecommunications sector.
Vietnam is undertaking efforts to streamline its regulations, rationalise laws, and establish uniformity within its legal framework to create a more conducive and attractive cyber environment. By harmonising regulations and ensuring the coherence of laws, the nation seeks to promote innovation, facilitate business operations, and enhance cybersecurity standards.
OpenGov Asia reported that the Ministry of Public Security is proposing a Data Law aimed at establishing a unified national data centre to address the country’s fragmented data management infrastructure. This legislation seeks to overcome challenges stemming from inadequate infrastructure and disjointed databases across various ministries, ultimately promoting standardised and secure data management through a centralised repository
These initiatives aim to instil confidence among stakeholders, foster a dynamic digital ecosystem, and position Vietnam as a preferred destination for investment and technological advancement in the global digital landscape.
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In a concerted effort to revolutionise India’s skill ecosystem, Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, unveiled a series of strategic partnerships aimed at leveraging cutting-edge technology.
These initiatives, announced in collaboration with industry leaders, academia, and government departments, are poised to enhance the nation’s workforce preparedness for the dynamic and technology-driven landscape of the 21st century.
Highlighting the urgency and importance of these initiatives, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan emphasised their role in preparing the population for 21st-century job markets, nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, and driving economic growth. Through strategic collaborations with industry partners, academia, and government departments, the aim is to bridge the gap between industry requirements and skill development initiatives, ensuring that India’s young workforce remains competitive and adaptable to emerging technological trends.
Among the key announcements was the inauguration of two Centers of Excellence (CoE) in the media and electronics sector at the Skill Development Institute (SDI) in Bhubaneshwar. These CoEs, equipped with state-of-the-art technology infrastructure including workstations and digital cameras, are poised to deliver cutting-edge training programmes in courses such as Graphic Design, Social Media Management, and Digital Marketing. By aligning training programmes with industry demands, the CoEs aim to elevate the capabilities of India’s youth population, making them industry-ready and globally competitive.
Furthermore, the event witnessed the launch of Mock Test 2.0 by NIMI in 12 languages and the introduction of four new-age courses under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) focusing on Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security. These courses, meticulously designed to address the evolving needs of the technology-driven market, are set to equip India’s youth with the requisite skills to excel in the digital era.
In addition to these initiatives, the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed 19 MoUs with various government departments, industry players, and academic institutions. These collaborations aim to foster synergy and cooperation in skill development, laying the foundation for a robust and future-ready workforce.
The partnerships, spanning diverse sectors such as handicrafts, aviation services, and technology application, underscore the holistic approach towards skill development and innovation.
The government’s commitment to adapting to the evolving job landscape was further exemplified by the proactive introduction of new-age trades and the establishment of ITIs dedicated to emerging technologies. Initiatives such as the PM Mudra Yojana provide entrepreneurial support, empowering individuals to harness their skills and contribute to economic growth.
Moreover, the launch of the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) reaffirms the ministry’s commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive skilling. The SIDH aims to offer personalised learning opportunities and enhance accessibility to skill development programmes, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds have access to quality education and training.
The event also witnessed the release of the Skill Gap Assessment Report on Green Hydrogen, a collaborative effort between the Skill Council for Green Jobs and USAID. This comprehensive report aims to address the evolving demands of the green hydrogen industry by proposing tailored training programmes and practical recommendations to cultivate a skilled workforce.
The event, attended by Dr Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, Chairman of NCVET and Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), among others, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey towards skill development and innovation.
These tech-driven partnerships and initiatives mark a significant step towards building a skilled and future-ready workforce, contributing to India’s economic growth and global competitiveness. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and adaptability, India is poised to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of the digital era.