Government recommendations for responsible digital transformation

The research found that “by 2022, 60% of global GDP will be digitized. Yet today, only 45% of people trust that technology will improve their lives. Every sector is beginning to face deep questions about what the implications of this transformation will be.”

The World Economic Forum, via its Global System Initiative on Shaping the Future of Digital Economy and Society, is driving the agenda of “Our Shared Digital Future”. One of its goals is delivering responsible digital transformation, and this paper provides a framework on how to think about the impacts from five emerging digital developments.

The topics the research paper cover are:

Cyber-resilience
Data privacy
The internet of things (IoT)
Blockchain
Artificial intelligence (AI)

The structure of the paper includes an overview of each technology; the essential responsibilities for business, government and society. For this article, we have outlined the recommendations from the report on how government can assist with these developing technologies.

Cyber-resilience

In the absence of global cyber laws or treaties, governments have an enabling role to develop coherent national cybersecurity strategies and transnational and regional treaties. They need to ensure that public databases and national infrastructures have the necessary safeguards and establish regulatory frameworks that accelerate the adoption of cybersecurity practices. Law enforcement needs to be standardized and deterrents to cybercrime shared between nations. Governments and business leaders need to work on these ideas in concert rather than in opposition.

Data privacy

Governments will manage the clash between the exponential growth of personal data and the regulatory push to protect citizens’ data. A focus on following the lead of their citizens’ complaints will help governments avoid targeting specific companies or sectors.

There are dangers of regulatory overlap, as privacy laws, digital protocols, labour laws and age definitions need coordination between countries to avoid unintended impacts to broader public strategy goals. And the toughest challenge for regulators will involve developing dynamic models to keep laws current, laying the groundwork for regulating outcomes versus a rules-based compliance system that may quickly become outdated.

The internet of things (IoT)

Government has an essential role to play in helping prevent a growing digital divide and ensure that the benefits of IoT reach the communities in which it can provide the greatest benefit. This includes enabling and investing in digital infrastructure such as 5G networks and other wireless technologies to ease public access and adoption of IoT.

Another area of opportunity is government’s role as potentially the largest implementer of IoT through urban and rural public services. IoT can generate significant productivity gains, service-level improvements and long term cost savings for the public sector. Government can also help mitigate the risks associated with IoT by establishing regulatory frameworks that support open standards, interoperability, data protections, transparency, network and device security and other best practices in the design and architecture of IoT systems.

Blockchain

There may be potential applications for blockchain in areas linked to standard digital ID usage, and interactions that require certifications may be open to simplification. On the other hand, blockchain’s essential characteristics of decentralization and immutability would seem to put it in conflict with the emerging regulatory framework on personal data.

For example, some countries are regulating a requirement to ascertain the location and jurisdiction of data, which goes against the decentralized characteristic of blockchain. Likewise, some regulatory frameworks require businesses to be able to determine the controller and the processor of any transaction.

Either blockchain developers must find ways to use blockchain via anonymization of personal data or regulators have to exempt blockchain from some of the new legal demands.

Artificial intelligence (AI)

Government will have to look at AI in two ways – On the one hand, the potential for “misuse” is high, and will be difficult to manage. Risks include use of AI for evasion and detection avoidance. On the other hand, the risk of “missed use” may be even higher for society. Tools and protocols will need to be established so that the safe sharing of large data pools across different elements of society is possible.

As users of these technologies, governments can move quickly to capture gains in productivity and offer improvements in all public services. They can also help prevent a growing digital divide and ensure that IoT reaches the communities where it can provide the greatest benefit.

The report highlighted that citizens also have vital roles to play as they engage with these emerging technologies. Adopting a code of good digital conduct, developing strong personal digital-security habits, exercising new data subject rights fairly and engaging responsibly with businesses on customer complaints will be essential.

Together, these behaviours will help create a level of digital citizenship and governance which will be able to influence the journey to deliver a responsible transformation.

AI for Personalised Myeloid Leukaemia Treatment in Singapore

Researchers from Singapore General Hospital (SGH), A*STAR’s Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), and Duke-NUS Medical School have used artificial intelligence (AI) to speed up the identification of vital biomarkers that can identify patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) at diagnosis who will not respond to standard therapy.

These patients may be eligible for a life-saving bone marrow transplant in the early stages of the illness with this favourable prognosis.

A genetic mutation that causes a tyrosine kinase enzyme to turn on permanently causes CML, a specific type of blood cancer. In the bone marrow, a blood stem cell experiences a mutation that transforms it into an aggressive leukaemic cell that eventually takes over the creation of healthy blood.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), which turn off the tyrosine kinase that the genetic mutation switched on as a result, are the standard treatment for CML. But not everyone reacts the same way to these medications. Some individuals respond very well to the point that their life expectancy would be regarded as typical, at the other end of the range.

Besides, some individuals do not respond at all, and their sickness develops into a severe condition known as a blast crisis that is resistant to all sorts of conventional therapy.

Finding out if a patient is resistant to TKI therapy earlier could make the difference between survival or early death because the only cure for blast crisis is a bone marrow transplant, which would be most successful when carried out during the early stages of the disease.

“Our work indicates that it will be possible to detect patients destined to undergo blast crisis when they first see their haematologist,” said the study’s senior author and associate professor, Ong Sin Tiong of Duke-NUS’ Cancer & Stem Cell Biology (CSCB) Programme.

He added this may save lives since bone marrow transplants for these patients are most effective during the early stages of CML.

Researchers made an “atlas” of cells by taking samples of bone marrow from six healthy people and 23 people with CML before they were treated. The map let them see the different types of cells in each sample and how many of each type there were. Researchers did RNA sequencing on a single cell and used machine-learning methods to figure out which genes and molecular processes were on and off in each cell.

The work found eight statistically important things about the bone marrow cells before treatment. These things were linked to either sensitivity to treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor or strong resistance to it.

Patients were more likely to react well to treatment if their bone marrow samples showed a stronger tendency toward premature red blood cells and a certain type of “natural killer cell” that kills tumours. As the number of these cells in the bone marrow changed, so did the way the patient responded to treatment.

The study could lead to drug targets that could help people with chronic myeloid leukaemia avoid or delay treatment resistance and blast crisis.

Associate Professor Charles Chuah from Duke-NUS’s CSCB Programme, who is also a Senior Consultant at the Department of Haematology at SGH and National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), cited that the results of treating chronic myeloid leukaemia have gotten much better over the years and that patients now have many options. Knowing which treatment works best for each patient will improve these results even more, and they are excited about the chance of doing so.

The team hopes to use the results to make a test that can be used regularly in hospitals to predict how well a treatment will work.

Digital Sansad 2.0: Revolutionising Parliamentary Proceedings and Citizen Engagement

For India’s newly inaugurated Parliament building, a revamped version of the Digital Sansad app has been launched to provide a platform to stream parliamentary proceedings. The app is revolutionising communication and collaboration among stakeholders in the sector. It will promote transparency in governance and foster citizen engagement by providing easy access to information and facilitating active participation in the democratic process.

The app aims to cater to the diverse needs of Members of Parliament (MPs), government users, citizens, and secretariat personnel. It offers a range of services tailored to each user group, leveraging state-of-the-art technology to provide an enhanced experience, according to the government.

The revamped Digital Sansad is equipped with a diverse range of advanced features. It serves as a centralised hub for accessing various parliamentary resources. It uses AI to transcribe House proceedings in real-time. The technology enables automatic speech recognition, accurately capturing and transcribing word-by-word spoken in Parliament, ensuring a comprehensive and precise record of the proceedings.

By leveraging AI-enabled transcription techniques, the Digital Sansad app guarantees the availability of precise and dependable records without the need for human intervention in the note-taking process. The approach significantly reduces the risk of errors or omissions, ensuring the accuracy of the transcribed content. Furthermore, it streamlines the documentation process and allows for the easy retrieval of information, benefiting not only MPs and researchers but also the broader public on a large scale.

The Digital Sansad app offers several resources and functionalities to boost parliamentary operations. Users can access information on House business, member participation, debates, Q&As, media galleries, and digital libraries. This comprehensive access enables MPs and citizens to stay informed and engaged in the legislative process. Furthermore, the app acts as a bridge between citizens and their representatives by facilitating open dialogue through the Constituency Connect feature.

By simplifying administrative tasks for MPs, the Digital Sansad app saves valuable time and bridges the gap between their legislative responsibilities and the needs of the public. The direct interaction facilitated by the app ensures transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in the parliamentary processes, thereby fostering a robust democracy. The Digital Sansad 2.0 app is accessible on both Android and iOS platforms.

AI is playing an increasingly significant role in governance in India. The government has recognised the potential of AI to enhance decision-making, streamline administrative processes, and deliver efficient public services. It has also highlighted the importance of protecting data and ensuring the responsible use of AI.

Last month, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-Madras) established the Centre for Responsible Artificial Intelligence (CeRAI), a multidisciplinary research centre dedicated to promoting ethical and accountable advancements in AI-powered solutions for practical applications.

As OpenGov Asia reported, CeRAI aims to establish itself as a leading research facility at both the national and international levels, focusing on fundamental and applied research in Responsible AI and its direct influence on implementing AI systems within the Indian ecosystem.

CeRAI’s main focus will be on generating high-quality research outputs, such as publishing research articles in high-impact journals/conferences, white papers, and patents, among others. It will work towards creating technical resources such as curated datasets (universal as well as India-specific), software, and toolkits pertaining to the field of Responsible AI.

Indonesia Explores Implementation of e-SIM Technology

Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards from mobile operators in cell phones are becoming more advanced, and their sizes are getting smaller, making it easier for humans to be more efficient. The SIM card size, which initially started as a mini SIM, evolved into micro SIM and nano SIM, and the latest one is e-SIM or electronic SIM. Owners will no longer need to physically remove and insert SIM cards to connect to the network.

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) has announced that it will conduct a study to test the implementation of the Embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) in Indonesia. This step is part of the government’s efforts to anticipate and leverage the latest telecommunications technology developments. The study aims to comprehensively understand eSIM technology and explore the best ways to implement it effectively in Indonesia.

“The Public Testing Draft for the implementation study of eSIM is intended to gather responses and input from stakeholders involved in the eSIM implementation to improve the study material, thus producing a comprehensive and accurate study to support the eSIM ecosystem in Indonesia,” wrote Kominfo in a written statement.

Kominfo explains that eSIM technology is a promising solution to replace conventional physical SIM cards, enhancing security. By using eSIM, customer identity information is no longer stored in physical form on a card but integrated directly into the electronic device itself. It allows users to easily manage and access various communication services without physically changing SIM cards. Instead, users only need to scan a barcode to activate the eSIM.

The eSIM is embedded within a device and can be remotely activated with a local operator for use in a specific region. Owners of devices with embedded eSIM can also use mobile services from one country to another by activating the card in the destination country. This technology enables individuals to use a single phone with eSIM in multiple countries worldwide, eliminating the need to switch SIM cards for different local mobile operators.

Another advantage of eSIM technology is its larger capacity than conventional physical SIM cards. Users can simultaneously load up to eight different e-SIMs in a single smartphone. Therefore, the larger capacity of e-SIM opens new opportunities and provides greater flexibility in managing communication services. For example, users can have one eSIM for personal use, one eSIM for work, and several additional eSIMs for particular purposes, such as travelling abroad or using different networks.

Users no longer need to physically change SIM cards when switching operators or activating new services. Users can easily activate, deactivate, or switch between registered eSIMs on their devices through software settings. It saves time and provides convenience for users who frequently switch between operators or require access to different types of networks.

Additionally, multiple eSIMs in a single device provide an ideal solution for users with complex communication needs. For example, business owners with various phone numbers or professionals who frequently travel and require connectivity in different countries can easily manage and organise all their services through a single device.

Through this study, the government hopes to understand better the potential and challenges associated with eSIM implementation in Indonesia. It includes evaluating the regulatory and infrastructure needs required to support eSIM adoption and determining the appropriate policy measures to ensure adequate security, privacy, and consumer protection.

By adopting eSIM technology, in the future, Indonesian society can enjoy the benefits and conveniences offered by the latest communication technology while ensuring the protection of data and user security remains intact.

Taiwan Strengthens AI-Based Healthcare Solutions

Partnerships between the public and private sectors to provide AI-based healthcare solutions harness the experience and resources of both sectors, enabling collaboration and knowledge-sharing. This collaboration allows for the development of novel technology and solutions to solve complicated healthcare concerns more effectively.

A Taiwanese venture that creates breakthrough medical software has created an upper respiratory tract evaluation software that is powered by medical artificial intelligence (AI). This product is being utilised as an obstructive sleep apnea treatment evaluation programme that can quickly confirm obstructive sleep apnea sites and identify their aetiology, emphasising its utility as a diagnosis reference software for physicians.

Aside from obstructive sleep apnea, rapid upper respiratory tract assessment can be performed to evaluate orthognathic and laryngeal procedures, as well as pediatric sleep breathing patterns. In 2022, the team cooperated with Taichung Veterans General Hospital, a government-owned hospital in central Taiwan, published their clinical trial results in a reputable journal, and employed the software in conjunction with cardiovascular and geriatric health examinations.

Changes in electrocardiography (ECG) signals related to blood glucose, according to a developer of intuitive tools, employed continuous ECG as the basic algorithm to construct a non-invasive continuous blood glucose monitoring system.

This non-invasive continuous blood glucose monitoring device has undergone clinical trials at Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital’s Division of Nephrology, and more clinical trials will be done at multiple global sites in the future.

An AI companion diagnostic and screening tool for osteoporosis, sarcopenia, leukaemia, cervical cancer, human papillomavirus infection, bladder cancer, and breast cancer has been developed by a medical solutions firm dedicated to women’s health. Taiwan, Singapore, and Vietnam have all accepted most of these instruments.

Likewise, the medical solutions provider presents world-class smart laboratory solutions such as Data-analysis AI workstations, front-end automatic nucleic acid extraction systems, test reagent kits, and information storage systems.

The primary concentration of an interactive technology corporation is the development of rehabilitation service systems and articulation training platforms. Its Smart Health Promotion Service System combines software and hardware, and it is an innovative and effective smart rehabilitation system that employs the world’s first smart knee guard for detecting surface electromyography (sEMG) signals in conjunction with a retro and interactive somatosensory game.

According to reports, even though shared investments in global digital health increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, enthusiasm in various disciplines has begun to wane since the end of the pandemic.

A substantial quantity of capital has flowed to AI-related startups as the use of AI in the healthcare industry has increased. Statistic reports indicate that AI is most used to: improve workflow and coordination between medical staff; predict hospitalisation or mortality rates; aid in diagnosis; or develop chatbots that respond to symptom-related questions and provide diagnostic confirmation and consultation for patients.

Cardiovascular medicine has surpassed oncology as the most popular discipline for digital health applications in the Asia-Pacific region over the past five years. Chatbots and “digital pharmacies” are the two areas with the most potential for future expansion. About 86% of pharmacy proprietors believe that improving the patient experience is the key to future differentiation from other pharmacies.

Public-private partnerships encourage shared risks and rewards. By pooling resources and expertise, both sectors can share the risks associated with research, development, and implementation of AI-based healthcare solutions. Additionally, successful outcomes can be mutually beneficial, with opportunities for commercialisation, market growth, and economic development.

Computational Model Deciphers Human Emotions

When individuals engage in social interactions with others, they encounter a range of emotions. Additionally, they make conscious efforts to either evade or predict these emotional responses based on the words spoken or actions taken. Referred to as the theory of mind, this ability empowers people to deduce the thoughts, wishes, objectives and feelings of those around them.

A computational model which enables forecasting of a range of emotions in individuals was developed by MIT neuroscientists, including joy, gratitude, confusion, regret, and embarrassment. This model closely mimics the social intelligence exhibited by human observers.

It was specifically designed to anticipate the emotional responses of individuals involved in a scenario based on the prisoner’s dilemma. It is a classic game theory scenario in which two people must decide whether to help and cooperate with their partner or betray them.

The construction of the model involved integrating various factors that are believed to impact an individual’s emotional responses. These factors encompassed the person’s desires, expectations in each situation, and whether their actions were being observed. By considering these elements, the researchers aimed to create a comprehensive framework that could capture the complexities of human emotional reactions.

By incorporating these factors, the computational model developed by the researchers aimed to approximate how individuals might express emotions in different contexts. This computational modelling advancement brings humanity closer to unravelling the mysteries of human emotions and enhances the understanding of how individuals perceive and respond to various situations.

Rebecca Saxe, the John W. Jarve Professor of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, a member of MIT’s McGovern Institute for Brain Research, and the study’s Senior Author stated that although comprehensive research has focused on training computer models to infer an individual’s emotional state through facial expressions, it is not the most crucial element of human emotional intelligence. The most critical factor is the capability to anticipate and predict someone’s emotional reaction to events before they occur. This ability holds greater significance in human emotional intelligence.

To simulate the prediction-making process of human observers, the researchers utilised scenarios taken from a British game show named “Golden Balls.” Depending on the game’s outcome, contestants may experience various emotional states, such as joy and relief when both contestants choose to share the winnings, surprise and anger if one contestant steals the pot, or a mix of guilt and excitement when successfully stealing the winnings.

The researchers devised three distinct modules to develop a computational model capable of predicting these emotions. The first module was trained to infer a person’s preferences and beliefs by analysing their actions, employing a technique known as inverse planning.

The second module assesses the game’s outcome with each player’s desired and anticipated outcomes. Subsequently, the third module utilises this information along with the contestants’ expectations to forecast the emotions they might be experiencing.

After implementing and activating the three modules, the researchers employed them on a new dataset obtained from the game show to evaluate the accuracy of the models’ emotion predictions compared to those made by human observers. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in the model’s performance compared to any previous model designed for emotion prediction.

In the future, the researchers are ready to enhance the model’s capabilities by further extending its predictive performance to various scenarios.

Exclusive! Empowering the Next Generation: Strategic Partnership for Youth Skills in Malaysia’s Digital Economy

In an era of rapid digital transformation, Malaysia recognises the importance of equipping its youth with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy. To address this crucial need, a strategic partnership has been formed to empower the next generation through youth skills development.

This alliance brings together key stakeholders from the government, the private sector, educational institutions and industry experts to collaborate on initiatives that enhance digital competencies among Malaysian youth.

The initiative aims to bridge the digital skills gap by offering comprehensive programmes that cater to the specific needs of Malaysian youth. It focuses on equipping them with the essential digital skills required for success in the modern workforce.

By developing a strong foundation in areas such as coding, data analytics, digital marketing and emerging technologies, youth will be ready to take on the challenges and opportunities in Malaysia’s digital economy.

The plans encompass a range of strategies, such as training programmes, mentorship opportunities, industry collaborations and granting access to digital resources. They not only foster technical skills but also emphasise critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and entrepreneurship.

Envisioning a future where Malaysian youth lead the way in innovation and contribute to the growth and competitiveness of the digital economy, the partnership strives to empower the next generation with these essential skills. By doing so, they not only aim to fulfil the career aspirations of the youth but also ensure their active participation in driving the nation’s progress.

Fostering Youth Skills in Malaysia’s Digital Economy

Ir Ts Dr Aziyati Yusoff, Head of Strategic Partnership for Youth Skills Development, Ministry of Youth and Sports, emphasises Malaysia’s commitment to bridging the digital skills gap among its youth and aligning them with the demands of the digital economy.

With a forward-thinking approach, she acknowledges the significance of embracing new paradigms and perspectives to stay relevant in an ever-evolving digital landscape. By recognising the need to adapt and equip the younger generation with the necessary skills, Malaysia is poised to nurture a workforce that can effectively contribute to the country’s digital transformation and global competitiveness.

“Currently ranked 33rd in technological advancement, Malaysia aspires to become a regional leader,” Dr Aziyati reveals. “While physical platforms have been emphasised, other factors like education integration, cultural wellness, societal maturity, and economic stability are also important.”

Malaysia acknowledges the significance of coding and technical skills but also places value on soft skills and adaptability. School programmes in the country emphasise a well-rounded approach by incorporating STEM activities, innovation competitions, and even sports to enhance social interaction and problem-solving abilities.

This holistic approach ensures that Malaysian youth not only develop technical proficiency but also cultivate essential interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt to various challenges. By nurturing a balanced skill set, Malaysia aims to prepare its youth for the multifaceted demands of the digital era, where both technical expertise and soft skills play integral roles in success.

Dr Aziyati acknowledges the importance of coding classes in Malaysia, recognising their role in fostering skills such as planning, problem-solving, and performance evaluation. The country’s education blueprint focuses on utilising information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance the quality of learning.

This is achieved through the implementation of online classrooms, robotics competitions, and government initiatives like the Digital MakerSpace and Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC). By leveraging these platforms and programmes, Malaysia is actively promoting the integration of technology into education and empowering its youth to thrive in the digital age.

The government promotes inclusivity and equal opportunities through various initiatives that aim to provide practical platforms for knowledge and anticipate the challenges and opportunities brought by technology.

These initiatives aim for wider engagement and to create an environment where students have access to digital resources, hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to showcase their skills.

Advancements in digital technology benefit the economy by creating jobs, improving employability rates, fostering digital content creators, supporting governmental agendas and providing a return on investment.

Smart partnerships with various ministries, including the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Communications and Digital, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Ministry of International Trade and Industry, contribute to these benefits.

“Smart partnerships ensure the relevance of training and knowledge content, while industries are open to hiring special needs graduates, offering training tailored to their abilities,” Dr Aziyati reiterates.

In the modern world, diverse cultural values and socioeconomic achievements define our lifestyles, Dr Aziyati observes. The Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint embraces the globalised nature of information systems, which facilitates cultural exchange and emphasises the impact of digital technology on societal resilience and the future-proofing of the economy.

Despite economic challenges, Malaysia’s resources and diversity have facilitated national transformations. The government understands that consistent and continuous investment in youth development through training and education is crucial for ensuring sustainable progress and national sustainability.

The education system and institutions play a crucial role in facilitating successful partnerships and collaborations. Both national and institutional levels are open to innovative ideas and opportunities for partnerships.

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry supports initiatives by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education to establish partnerships with other countries. Collaboration with education institutions from countries like the UK, USA, Australia, Germany, European nations, Asian countries and APEC nations is pursued through international knowledge exchange.

Through such partnerships, a wide array of opportunities, initiatives, incentives, and projects are being implemented to benefit the citizens. These activities span various domains, including student and cultural exchange, expert sharing, technology transfer, intellectual discourse and skill mobility.

The aim is to foster mutual growth, facilitate the transfer of knowledge and expertise and create a dynamic environment that promotes innovation and skill development among individuals. As Malaysia promotes the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it requires a highly skilled workforce and smart citizens to attract investment for a better economy.

“To facilitate execution and foster innovation in the digital economy, proper planning and provision in the areas of manpower, machinery, and methods are crucial. Some also emphasise materials and mediums,” Dr Aziyati explains. “Youth entrepreneurs can adopt these approaches to boost productivity.”

Since 2013, the Federal Government has launched various initiatives and projects, including policies on science, technology, and innovation, IoT strategy, Smart City framework, cybersecurity, and the digital economy blueprint, with implementation planned until 2025.

Dr Aziyati agrees that expanding strategic relationships with other countries becomes easier with transparency as governance is visualised through paperless documents, faster approvals, efficient repayment methods and increased output capacity.

While online application processes are already in place, information security, cybercrime, cryptography and privacy concerns must be addressed, she reveals.

Over the past five years, Malaysia has experienced political changes and evolving government institutions. Despite these fluctuations, the youth and future generations remain focused on the impact and development of the digital economy.

“To achieve successful implementation of integrated e-governance, a nation must attain key elements such as political stability, economic prosperity, social harmony, technological modernisation, environmental sustainability, and legal strength,” Dr Aziyati opines. “These factors collectively contribute to effective governance and ensure a holistic approach towards leveraging digital technology for the betterment of society.”

Sustaining the momentum of digital economy efforts and utilising strengths and opportunities can lead to enhanced business, partnerships and economic growth. Transformation and readiness for change are key factors for success, along with incorporating fresh ideas from young minds and a skilled workforce.

Dr Aziyati is convinced that aside from financial assistance, Malaysia can secure long-term stability and progress by implementing a thorough and consistent transformation programme.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports in Malaysia is responsible for the supervision and advancement of eSports players. However, there are existing challenges concerning the welfare of developers within this domain. As a result, the ministry is actively seeking new policies and measures to address and strengthen this aspect, ensuring the well-being and support of young developers in the future.

In her new role overseeing Training Management for skills institutions, Dr Aziyati continues to prioritise partnerships with industry to promote digital technology advancement. To improve governmental institutions, she proposed the following:

Increase budget allocations for youth in the digital economy
Expand youth development programmes for mastering digital skills
Provide more incentives to support youth in adapting to the fast-paced digital world
Implement transformative programs in STEM, digital education, and school projects
Foster flexible ideas for national digital improvements
Reduce bureaucracy in project decision-making processes
Encourage creativity by minimising organisational hierarchy limitations
Minimise the use of paper forms
The transition from old-school work delegations to foster flexibility through collaborative discussions and cooperative deliveries

To realise these improvements, both financial support and organisational adjustments are necessary.

The Ministry of Education has identified a concerning trend where nearly 50% of school leavers are choosing not to pursue higher education. This issue is influenced by several factors, including the high cost of education, a perceived lack of job guarantees, and the belief that courses offered may not provide sufficient marketability compared to the appeal of social media businesses and gig economy jobs.

Dr Aziyati feels it is crucial to conduct a study that examines the relevance of current school curricula, the courses offered by higher education institutions and the demands of industries. Recognising the interdependence among these entities is vital, as failure to address outdated education content and maintain the status quo could result in a substantial gap in producing high-quality graduates.

By understanding the evolving needs of industries and aligning educational programmes accordingly, Malaysia can ensure that its education system remains responsive, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the job market effectively.

“To inspire young people, it is important to emphasise the importance of passion and willingness to continuously learn, improve and contribute to society,” Dr Aziyati says. “Success requires effort and perseverance, as reflected in the quote: genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.”

While young people may encounter misleading information and failure, it is part of the learning process. She believes that patience, persistence, and perseverance are key in this journey if one’s pursuits are beneficial to society.

Dr Aziyati strongly believes that by consistently pursuing personal growth and making significant contributions, success and recognition will naturally follow. She feels that this journey should not solely revolve around personal improvement, but also include a commitment to leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

Additionally, it is crucial to acknowledge the inherent value of the learning process itself, which cannot be easily replaced. However, Dr Aziyati acknowledges that individuals may sometimes be influenced by the opinions of others and consequently choose paths that they are not genuinely passionate about.

While quick money-making opportunities may come and go, Dr Aziyati underscores the enduring value of education and the credentials earned through hard work. She encourages individuals to prioritise long-term gains, as the knowledge and skills acquired through education will have a lasting impact throughout their lives.

“By channelling the passion of young people towards constructive and educational endeavours that bring benefits to the nation, we can unleash their potential and make meaningful contributions to their personal and societal growth,” Dr Aziyati concludes.

Eksklusif! Memperkuat Generasi Muda: Strategi Kerjasama dalam Meningkatkan Keahlian Anak Muda untuk Kemajuan Ekonomi Digital di Malaysia

Kementerian Sains, Teknologi, dan Inovasi (KSTI) di Malaysia merancang tujuan untuk menjadi negara berbasis teknologi tinggi pada tahun 2030. Sebagai negara dengan peringkat 33 sebagai “the most technologically advanced countries”, Malaysia optimis tujuan tersebut akan tercapai.

Upaya-upaya yang dilakukan, terutama oleh pemerintah Malaysia sendiri, menunjukkan adanya perhatian serius terhadap pengembangan ekonomi digital di negara ini. Pemerintah menyadari bahwa memiliki keahlian digital dalam era kemajuan teknologi saat ini merupakan aset yang sangat berharga dan penting bagi setiap individu, terutama generasi muda.

Dalam upaya mencapai tujuan menjadi negara berbasis teknologi tinggi, pemerintah telah meluncurkan berbagai program dan inisiatif yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keahlian digital masyarakat, terutama bagi anak muda. Pendidikan dan pelatihan dalam bidang teknologi dan inovasi telah menjadi fokus utama pemerintah dengan menyediakan akses yang lebih luas dan menyeluruh kepada masyarakat untuk memperoleh pengetahuan dan keterampilan yang diperlukan.

Peningkatan keahlian digital anak muda tidak hanya akan meningkatkan nilai individu, tetapi juga berkontribusi pada integrasi dan adaptasi negara terhadap kemajuan teknologi yang terjadi dengan cepat. Dengan besarnya jumlah individu yang memiliki keahlian digital, Malaysia dapat lebih siap menghadapi tantangan dan peluang yang ditawarkan oleh ekonomi digital.

Selain itu, kehadiran generasi muda yang terampil dalam bidang teknologi juga akan memberikan dampak positif dalam mendorong inovasi dan perkembangan industri teknologi di negara ini. Mereka memiliki potensi untuk menciptakan solusi baru, mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi, dan meningkatkan daya saing internasional.

Transformasi Keahlian Digital Berperan dalam Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Malaysia

Ir Ts Dr Aziyati Yusoff, Kepala Kerjasama Strategis untuk Pengembangan Keahlian Anak Muda, Kementerian Pemuda dan Olahraga, Malaysia, melalui wawancaranya menyatakan bahwa kehadiran generasi muda yang memiliki keahlian digital di Malaysia dapat menjadi pendorong utama dalam transformasi inovasi dan pertumbuhan ekonomi negara ini. Mereka tidak hanya memiliki kemampuan teknologi yang canggih, tetapi juga potensi untuk menciptakan solusi baru yang mengarah pada perkembangan industri teknologi yang pesat.

Dalam upaya untuk menjembatani kekosongan yang terjadi antara berbagai entitas di Malaysia, sebuah inovasi baru telah diperkenalkan yang bertujuan untuk menawarkan sebuah program yang inklusif. Inovasi ini secara khusus ditujukan untuk mendukung dan meningkatkan ekonomi digital di negara tersebut.

Program pembelajaran yang ditawarkan harus didesain dengan tujuan untuk memastikan bahwa generasi muda memiliki kemampuan yang diperlukan untuk sukses dalam ekonomi digital. Dalam program ini, anak-anak muda akan diberikan kesempatan untuk mempelajari keterampilan seperti pemrograman komputer, desain grafis, analisis data, dan teknologi terkait lainnya.

Melalui Kementerian Ekonomi dan Investasi, Kementerian Sains dan Teknologi, Kementerian Informasi dan Komunikasi, dan Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri Malaysia, dapat berkolaborasi untuk memprioritaskan anggaran dalam mendukung program-program yang berkaitan dengan keahlian transformasi digital pada anak muda Pemerintah Malaysia telah mengambil langkah-langkah penting dalam implementasi program-program digital yang bertujuan untuk memberikan pembelajaran digital kepada generasi muda.

Salah satu inisiatif strategis yang diluncurkan adalah MyDIGITAL (Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint), yang bertujuan untuk mempercepat transformasi digital negara dan mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi digital. Selain itu, terdapat juga MaGIC (Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre), sebuah pusat inovasi dan kreativitas yang bertujuan untuk mempercepat perkembangan ekosistem startup di Malaysia.

MyDIGITAL dan MaGIC adalah dua program yang menjadi fokus pemerintah dalam mengembangkan potensi digital di negara ini. MyDIGITAL bertujuan untuk merumuskan kebijakan, strategi, dan inisiatif yang mempercepat pengadopsian teknologi digital di berbagai sektor, termasuk pendidikan. Sementara itu, MaGIC berperan sebagai pusat inovasi dan kreativitas yang memberikan pelatihan, mentoring, dan dukungan bagi para startup untuk mengembangkan produk dan layanan mereka.

Dengan adanya program-program ini, pemerintah Malaysia berharap dapat menciptakan generasi muda yang terampil dalam pemanfaatan teknologi digital, meningkatkan daya saing negara dalam ekonomi digital, dan mendorong pertumbuhan ekosistem startup yang inovatif. Melalui upaya ini, Malaysia berkomitmen untuk menjadi pemimpin regional dalam transformasi digital dan ekonomi berbasis pengetahuan.

Program-program digital ini merupakan langkah positif yang diambil oleh pemerintah Malaysia untuk mempersiapkan generasi muda menghadapi tantangan dan peluang dalam era digital. Dengan membangun fondasi pendidikan digital yang kuat dan memberikan dukungan bagi inovasi dan kreativitas, pemerintah berharap dapat menciptakan lingkungan yang kondusif bagi pertumbuhan ekonomi digital dan perkembangan teknologi di Malaysia.

Aziyati Yusoff menghimbau agar pemerintah pusat dapat lebih memprioritaskan anggaran kepada program-program yang meningkatkan keahlian digital kepada anak muda. “Melalui Kementerian Ekonomi dan Investasi, Kementerian Sains dan Teknologi, Kementerian Informasi dan Komunikasi, dan Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri Malaysia, dapat berkolaborasi untuk memprioritaskan anggaran dalam mendukung program-program yang berkaitan dengan keahlian transformasi digital pada anak muda” himbaunya.

Selain implementasi program-program digital di luar sekolah, penting juga untuk memperhatikan penyertaan pembelajaran digital dalam kurikulum sekolah. Pembelajaran digital, seperti Teknologi Informasi dan Komunikasi (TIK), harus menjadi bagian integral dari kurikulum agar para murid dapat memahami dan menguasai aspek penting ini dalam kehidupan mereka.

Pengajaran TIK dapat meliputi berbagai keterampilan, seperti penggunaan perangkat keras dan perangkat lunak, penelusuran informasi secara online, literasi digital, dan pemahaman tentang etika dan keamanan dalam penggunaan teknologi. Dengan menyertakan TIK dalam kurikulum, sekolah dapat memberikan landasan yang kuat bagi para murid dalam memanfaatkan teknologi digital dengan bijak dan efektif.

Selain itu, program Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) juga dapat diintegrasikan ke dalam kurikulum sekolah. Program ini mendorong pemahaman yang mendalam tentang sains, teknologi, rekayasa, dan matematika, serta menghubungkannya dengan konteks dunia nyata.

Dalam era digital, program STEM dapat diperkaya dengan penggunaan teknologi digital, seperti eksperimen ilmiah menggunakan perangkat lunak simulasi, pemrograman komputer untuk memecahkan masalah matematika, dan pengembangan solusi teknik menggunakan teknologi terkini.

Selain pembelajaran TIK dan program STEM, proyek siswa berbasis digital juga dapat menjadi komponen yang berharga dalam kurikulum sekolah. Proyek-proyek ini memberikan kesempatan kepada para murid untuk menerapkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan digital mereka dalam konteks nyata. Misalnya, mereka dapat bekerja sama dalam tim untuk merancang dan mengembangkan aplikasi, membuat presentasi multimedia, atau melakukan penelitian online.

Melalui proyek-proyek ini, para murid dapat mengembangkan kemampuan kolaborasi, kreativitas, dan pemecahan masalah, sambil memperdalam pemahaman mereka tentang teknologi digital.

Dengan menyertakan pembelajaran TIK, program STEM, dan proyek siswa berbasis digital dalam kurikulum sekolah, para murid akan mendapatkan pendidikan yang holistik dan relevan dengan tuntutan dunia digital saat ini. Mereka akan dilengkapi dengan keterampilan yang diperlukan untuk menghadapi tantangan dan memanfaatkan peluang dalam era digital yang terus berkembang. Selain itu, ini juga akan membantu mereka membangun landasan yang kuat untuk melanjutkan pendidikan dan karir di bidang teknologi, ilmu pengetahuan, dan inovasi.

Lebih jauh, pemerintah menghadirkan kolaborasi dengan lembaga pendidikan di Britania Raya, Amerika Serikat, Australia, Jerman, negara-negara Eropa, negara-negara Asia, dan juga APEC (Kerja Sama Ekonomi Asia-Pasifik) melalui pertukaran pengetahuan internasional. Aktivitas-aktivitas dalam kemitraan semacam ini mencakup pertukaran mahasiswa dan budaya, berbagi pengetahuan antara para ahli, transfer teknologi, diskusi intelektual, serta mobilitas keahlian dan keterampilan.

Dalam mengembangkan inovasi digital, pemerintah harus menjalin kerja sama dengan sektor swasta, lembaga pendidikan, dan berbagai entitas terkait lainnya. Kolaborasi ini diharapkan dapat menciptakan ekosistem pembelajaran yang holistik dan berkelanjutan. Program ini akan dilaksanakan melalui kemitraan strategis antara lembaga pendidikan dan perusahaan teknologi, yang akan memberikan pengetahuan praktis dan pengalaman langsung kepada anak-anak muda. Hal ini bertujuan untuk menciptakan kestabilan negara ke depannya.

Cara terbaik untuk menggambarkan kestabilan dari sebuah negara adalah ketika mereka memiliki hal-hal berikut secara seimbang, yaitu stabilitas politik, kemakmuran ekonomi, harmoni sosial, modernisasi teknologi yang ramah lingkungan, dan hukum yang tegas.

Dengan demikian, inovasi ini tidak hanya bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keahlian anak-anak muda, tetapi juga untuk menciptakan lapangan kerja baru dan mempercepat pertumbuhan ekonomi digital di Malaysia secara keseluruhan. Dengan adanya program pembelajaran yang relevan dengan kebutuhan pasar, diharapkan akan terjadi peningkatan daya saing dan inovasi di sektor ekonomi digital, serta pengurangan kesenjangan keterampilan di antara generasi muda.

Dalam rangka mencapai visi ini, dukungan pemerintah dan partisipasi aktif dari berbagai pihak terlibat sangat penting. Program ini harus didukung dengan kebijakan yang mendukung, investasi yang memadai, serta pengembangan infrastruktur teknologi yang memadai. Dengan adanya kerangka kerja yang kuat dan kolaborasi yang efektif, inovasi ini memiliki potensi besar untuk mengubah lanskap ekonomi digital di Malaysia, menciptakan masa depan yang lebih inklusif, dan memberikan manfaat jangka panjang bagi anak-anak muda serta masyarakat secara keseluruhan.

Dalam mendukung program digital inklusif ini, Aziyati menghimbau agar pemerintah dapat lebih tanggap dengan cara mengurangi berbagai macam birokrasi dalam melakukan pengambilan keputusan.

Birokrasi yang kompleks dan lambat dapat menghambat inovasi dan menghambat perubahan yang cepat yang dibutuhkan dalam era digital. Oleh karena itu, perlu adanya reformasi dan penyederhanaan prosedur administrasi yang terkait dengan pengimplementasian program digital. Langkah-langkah ini meliputi mempercepat proses pengadaan teknologi, mengurangi regulasi yang menghambat perkembangan industri digital, serta memperbaiki koordinasi antarlembaga pemerintah yang terlibat dalam implementasi program digital.

Dengan meningkatkan tingkat tanggap pemerintah terhadap program digital inklusif, diharapkan dapat tercipta lingkungan yang mendukung pertumbuhan ekonomi digital, pemerataan akses teknologi, dan peningkatan kualitas hidup masyarakat secara keseluruhan. Dengan adanya kolaborasi antara pemerintah, pemangku kepentingan, dan masyarakat, serta pengurangan birokrasi yang berlebihan, Malaysia dapat melangkah maju dalam menghadapi era digital dengan lebih siap dan tanggap.

Selain langkah-langkah yang telah disebutkan sebelumnya, pemerintah juga telah meluncurkan beberapa proyek kebijakan nasional yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan dan mengimplementasikan bidang sains, inovasi, teknologi, dan transformasi digital di Malaysia. Proyek-proyek ini menjadi landasan strategis dalam mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi digital dan menciptakan lingkungan yang kondusif bagi pengembangan teknologi.

Salah satu proyek tersebut adalah Strategi Nasional Internet of Things (IoT), yang bertujuan untuk mengembangkan ekosistem IoT yang luas di Malaysia. Melalui penggunaan teknologi IoT, diharapkan dapat tercipta konektivitas yang lebih baik antara perangkat dan infrastruktur, yang akan membawa manfaat besar dalam berbagai sektor, seperti industri, pertanian, transportasi, dan layanan publik.

Selain itu, Malaysia juga telah mengadopsi kerangka kerja Malaysia Smart City yang bertujuan untuk menciptakan kota yang cerdas dan berkelanjutan. Melalui integrasi teknologi digital, informasi, dan komunikasi, diharapkan dapat meningkatkan efisiensi dan kualitas hidup di perkotaan, serta memperkuat konektivitas antara pemerintah, masyarakat, dan sektor swasta.

Pemerintah Malaysia juga telah mengambil langkah strategis dalam menghadapi tantangan keamanan siber dengan merumuskan strategi keamanan siber yang komprehensif. Langkah ini bertujuan untuk melindungi infrastruktur digital negara, data sensitif, dan privasi masyarakat dari ancaman siber yang semakin kompleks dan beragam

Dalam upaya mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi digital, Malaysia telah mengembangkan ekonomi digital yang berfokus pada inovasi, kewirausahaan, dan pengembangan industri teknologi. Melalui berbagai program dan kebijakan, pemerintah berupaya mendorong kreativitas dan inovasi, serta memberikan dukungan kepada pelaku usaha digital, termasuk startup dan UKM, untuk berkembang dan bersaing di pasar global.

Selain itu, Malaysia juga telah merancang blueprint dan kebijakan nasional yang bertujuan untuk memulai program percepatan dalam menghadapi transformasi digital. Blueprint ini menyediakan arah dan langkah-langkah konkret untuk mengintegrasikan teknologi digital dalam berbagai sektor, termasuk pendidikan, kesehatan, transportasi, dan administrasi public.

Harapannya, di 5 tahun ke depan, inklusivitas digital pada anak muda akan menghadirkan berbagai gagasan yang inovatif dan menghasilkan tenaga kerja yang berkualitas. Kalau kita berhasil konsisten untuk melakukan perubahan dan transformasi ini terus menerus, Malaysia akan menjadi negara yang stabil, baik dari tingkat ekonomi maupun sumberdaya manusia.

“Kami yakin dengan rencana ini. Melalui investasi berkelanjutan dalam pelatihan dan pendidikan pemuda, kami bertujuan untuk mempersiapkan generasi yang adaptif dan mampu bersaing secara global di Malaysia. Peningkatan sumber daya manusia dan kualitas pendidikan merupakan kunci untuk mencapai peningkatan nasional yang berkelanjutan,” tutup Aziyati.

June 7, 2023

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