DIGITAL TRUST MODEL ROADMAP: STAKEHOLDERS TO WORK TOWARDS AN INCLUSIVE ECOSYSTEM

From Left: Ong Kian Yew, CEO of PIKOM, Ahmad Izham Khairuddin of Cybersecurity Malaysia, Emmanuel Hervé，BSI ASEAN Managing Director, Datuk Ts. Dr. Haji Amirudin Abdul Wahab, CEO of Cybersecurity Malaysia, Taufik Nurhidayat, Head of Indonesia National CSIRT of BSSN, Victor Lo, Head of Digital Tech, Digital Industry Acceleration Division, MDEC and Dr. Roshaliza Rosli, Ecosystem Manager, Digital Tech Department of MDEC

KUALA LUMPUR, May 10 (Bernama) -- The Digital TRUST Model for Digital Prosperity Roadmap that was presented at the recently held Future of Cybersecurity Summit (FOCS) 2024 by PIKOM Cybersecurity Chapter, will be critical for stakeholders to address the dynamic nature of cybersecurity challenges, including newly emerging threats, evolving policies, technological advancements, and changing economic and social factors.

The Roadmap was the highlight of the Roundtable on the Digital Trust Model at the Summit, and is set to be a key reference point for stakeholders to collaboratively shape a trusted digital future. A key emphasis of the Roadmap was the need for a cohesive ecosystem of digital trust, without which the potential benefits of the intelligent economy will remain unrealised.

In the era of widespread adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), driven by the proliferation of data analytics and AI innovations, the global landscape is undergoing a profound shift towards an Intelligent World. This transformation includes the emergence of Generative AI (GenAI) as a game changer with significant impact on the economy and society to drive unimaginable increases in productivity and output.

In this landscape, digital trust is crucial for economic development. Without robust cybersecurity measures, trust in the intelligent world will remain low, impacting the growth of economies and the willingness of consumers to participate in a digitally connected economy.

The Digital TRUST Model for Digital Prosperity Roadmap also establishes that achieving digital trust cannot be based on certain values or principles. In a multicultural world, these perspectives are too diverse and cannot be governed by a one-size-fits-all approach thus necessitating a nuanced and inclusive approach to building trust in the digital era.

Additionally, creating digital trust is a process and must be done in a structured manner. It requires the collective commitment of representative stakeholder voices responsible for establishing a cybersecurity ecosystem that will enhance the quality of life in the intelligent world. The diverse range of stakeholders that need to be engaged include Governments, businesses, academia, technology experts, civil society organisations, and individuals.

Personal Data Protection (PDP) Commissioner Professor Dr Mohd Nazri Bin Kama stated in his foreword, “In an era where the digital realm permeates every facet of our lives, the question of data privacy and cybersecurity looms large. It is a question that demands not just technical solutions, but a collaborative approach, a shared vision, and a global language. And within this complex landscape, the publication of the Digital TRUST Model for Digital Prosperity is a timely roadmap towards a safer, more prosperous digital future.”

Executive Director of ASEAN Foundation Dr Piti Srisangnam said in the preface, “The Digital TRUST model recognises that achieving GenAI's full potential requires a shared commitment from all stakeholders. From the development of ethical and responsible AI technologies to the promotion of digital literacy and data security, collective action is essential. By collaborating across sectors and borders, we can ensure that GenAI benefits all of humanity, bridging the digital divide and fostering a global community united in progress.”

Taufik Nurhidayat, Chairman of Id-SIRTII BSSN from Indonesia mentioned, "BSSN welcomes discussion and collaboration on best practices as well as globally recognized standards and frameworks to support cyber security. “Governments, associations, and industry players learned valuable lessons from the launch of the DIGITAL TRUST model framework at FOCS 2024, and we hope that cybersecurity levels will continue to be improved in the future to create a safe and trusted digital ecosystem."

Chairman of PIKOM Mr Ong Chin Seong said, “Digital TRUST Model for Digital Prosperity is more than just a roadmap; it is a clarion call to action. It challenges us, the industry, to rise to the occasion, to embrace our role as active participants in shaping a secure, inclusive, and prosperous digital future. We must lead by example, championing best practices, nurturing talent, and fostering collaboration.”

As rapid technological evolution reshapes societal dynamics, the Digital TRUST Model will be a strategic guide to shape Malaysia’s policies in the development of an Intelligent Economy within an Intelligent World, with digital trust as the fundamental prerequisite at the core of this progress. For the full copy of the roadmap, please visit https://pikom.org.my/research-white-paper/

About PIKOM

PIKOM, THE NATIONAL TECH ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA, is the association representing the technology industry in Malaysia. Its membership currently stands at more than 1,000 active companies involved in a whole spectrum of tech products and services, and which command 80% of the total TECH business in Malaysia.

For more information, visit www.pikom.org.my

Source: Persatuan Industri Komputer dan Multimedia Malaysia (PIKOM)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ong Kian Yew, CEO, PIKOM
Tel: 03-76220079 / 012-2050879
Email: oky@pikom.org.my/info@pikom.org.my

--BERNAMA

Zenas BioPharma Raises US$200 Mln To Bolster Immunology-focused Clinical Programmes

KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Bernama) -- Zenas BioPharma, a global biopharmaceutical company has announced the closing of an upsized US$200 million Series C preferred stock financing. (US$1=RM4.74)

In a statement, the company said the financing round was led by SR One along with NEA, Norwest Venture Partners, and Delos Capital with significant participation from Enavate Sciences and Longitude Capital.

Proceeds will support ongoing mid- to late-stage clinical development programmes for the company’s lead product candidate, obexelimab, a bifunctional monoclonal antibody being developed to treat various autoimmune diseases.

The obexelimab clinical programmes include an ongoing Phase 3 registration-directed trial in IgG4-Related Disease, two planned Phase 2 randomised controlled trials in Multiple Sclerosis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and an ongoing open label Phase 2 trial in Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia.

“We are pleased and appreciative of the support we have received from this group of tremendous life sciences investors as we advance the ongoing obexelimab development programme across multiple auto-immune diseases.

“This financing enables us to complete multiple potentially value driving clinical programmes,” said Zenas BioPharma Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lonnie Moulder.

Additional new investors, the Federated Hermes Kaufmann Funds, and Arrowmark Partners, along with existing investors, Fairmount, Wellington Management, Rock Springs Capital, Pivotal bioVenture Partners, Vivo Capital, Quan Venture Fund, and Superstring Capital participated in the financing.

In conjunction with the financing, SR One venture partner, Jake Nunn and Delos Capital Partner, Tim Xiao joined Zenas’ Board of Directors.

Zenas BioPharma committed to becoming a leader in the development and commercialisation of inflammation and immunology-directed therapies, aims to improve the lives of those facing autoimmune and rare diseases.

-- BERNAMA

BLACK & VEATCH URGES ASIA PACIFIC TO RAPIDLY SCALE LOW-CARBON INFRASTRUCTURE FOR DECARBONISATION

KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Bernama) -- Black & Veatch, a global leader in critical infrastructure solutions, has prompted Asia Pacific to rapidly identify and adopt the next generation of low-carbon and scalable infrastructure to accelerate its decarbonisation progress.

The next stage of renewable energy and alternative fuel development to achieve lower carbon emissions is complex. Project sites will be larger and more challenging, with many sites require connecting renewable energy resources in remote areas to the grid.

“Nevertheless, ample opportunities exist in the Asia Pacific to integrate a mix of different generation, transmission, and distribution technologies at the right price point and at the right time to achieve commercial and environmental success.

“Black & Veatch has been at the forefront of building critical energy infrastructure for several decades and is committed to supporting the rising energy needs in Asia Pacific with low and no-carbon energy sources,” said Black & Veatch President, Asia Pacific and India, Narsingh Chaudhary in a statement.

As Asia Pacific economies transition from a carbon-based economy to an electron- and molecule-based one, the region must find the right energy mix for near-term requirements and long-term change.

Hence, liquefied natural gas (LNG) can support the shift from coal and the additional energy mix needed to fuel economic growth in developing markets.

Meanwhile, energy storage technologies, such as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH), can enhance energy security by balancing sudden and significant drops in power production from variable renewable energy resources to improve grid reliability and stability.

In the longer term, hydrogen has the potential to provide seasonal energy storage and serve as the missing link for utilities, commercial businesses, and industries seeking to operate sustainably.

Better-planned and designed transmission systems, including interconnection lines and substations, as well as switching facilities, will help Asia Pacific address voltage and frequency variability and grid code requirements across the grid.

Additionally, Chaudhary will present global best practices for scaling low-carbon technologies in carbon reduction and share his insights on the role of gas and LNG as a transition fuel at Future Energy Asia 2024 taking place from May 15 to 17, in Bangkok, Thailand.

-- BERNAMA

INVNT Group, MSM Advance Offerings, Solutions In Motorsports With Strategic Appointment

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 (Bernama) -- INVNT GROUP and Media & Sport Management (MSM) enhanced service offerings and commercial solutions tailored for talent and brands within the booming motorsports industry with strategic leadership appointment.

The partnership brings the appointment of Roc Nation music and entertainment veteran, Luca Zanello, as INVNT GROUP Senior Vice President of Content Strategy, fortifying the global suite of award-winning capabilities and integrated services within the motorsports.

According to a statement, Zanello is reporting to INVNT GROUP President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and INVNT.ATOM CEO, Scott Cullather.

“Our evolving collaboration with MSM, and appointment of Luca, places us at the forefront, allowing us to deliver pioneering, bespoke solutions to the motorsports industry,” said Cullather.

Meanwhile, MSM Founder and CEO, Enrico Zanarini said: “With MSM’s deep history in the motorsports industry, and INVNT GROUP's storytelling expertise, we are poised to deliver exciting and unexpected engagement programmes that resonate deeply with fans and stakeholders alike.”

The partnership aims to deliver strategies within the motorsport domain, leveraging both INVNT GROUP and MSM’s deep rooted motorsports network and industry expertise.

This strategic allegiance is a significant milestone in the evolution of motorsport marketing and the overall industry, promising next-generation strategies and enhanced engagement for clients, brands, partners, and audiences globally.

Over four decades, MSM has built standout relationships between brands, drivers, teams, and championships at the pinnacle of motorsport, including sponsorships, hospitality, and events.

INVNT GROUP, the global brand storytelling agency portfolio, was named Best Global Media Agency at the 2023 Automotive Marcomm Awards by Autocar, for groundbreaking campaigns with Lamborghini, Formula E, General Motors, Lotus and Rolls Royce, among others.

-- BERNAMA

HITACHI ENERGY TO PROVIDE HVDC TECHNOLOGIES FOR US’ LARGEST TRANSMISSION PROJECT

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Bernama) -- Hitachi Energy, a global technology leader, has entered into a multi-year agreement with Pattern Energy to support its high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technologies for the SunZia Transmission Project.

According to a statement, the link will connect the SunZia Wind project in New Mexico to Arizona and Western states in the United States (US) which will be one of the world’s largest transmission links delivering renewable energy.

“We are proud to be selected once again to provide our unique service expertise to keep the important SunZia link operating at maximum efficiency, performance, and reliability.

“With our service solutions, we are building a partnership ecosystem to ensure continued support to the HVDC link throughout its lifetime, delivering cutting edge digital service with sustainability and customer-value at its core,” said Hitachi Energy global head of the HVDC business, Andreas Berthou.

Meanwhile, Pattern Energy vice president of Operational Excellence, Paul Haberlein said Hitachi Energy was selected as its partner to engineer, manufacture and maintain the HVDC converter stations after they enter operation.

The long-term agreement will provide service solutions for the SunZia Transmission HVDC link, currently under construction, owned by Pattern Energy, one of the world’s largest privately-owned developers and operators of renewable energy and transmission projects.

Hitachi Energy’s HVDC Light technology will efficiently transfer and integrate huge volumes of wind power over 885 kilometres into the regional power grid, which will significantly increase the availability of sustainable energy for homes and businesses throughout the region when it enters operation, which is expected in 2025.

Once complete, SunZia Wind will have a total power capacity of 3,515-megawatt (MW), enough clean, renewable electricity to provide power to approximately three million Americans.

The HVDC link will efficiently transmit up to 3,000 MW of this power west to Arizona. The HVDC Light system will be the largest voltage source converter (VSC) installation in the US, one of the largest worldwide, and one of the country’s longest HVDC connections.

Service for an HVDC system includes a wide range of activities and support, including scheduled maintenance, cyber services, on-site engineering support and life cycle assessment of the HVDC Light stations.

-- BERNAMA

MOGAS Industries Mourns Loss Of Its Chairman And Founder

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 (Bernama) -- MOGAS Industries Inc has announced the passing of its chairman and founder, Vincent Louis Mogas on May 2 in Houston, Texas.

The family of Mogas, the company’s executive leadership team and its employees worldwide are saddened over the passing of this amazing man, whose leadership was only matched by his passion and fervour for life and serving others.

According to a statement, MOGAS Industries was formed in May 1973 when Mogas purchased a small machine shop in Houston and soon acquired the rights to service and manufacture ball valves from Cameron Iron Works.

Under his leadership, the company studied valve failures and established a research and development (R&D) department that customised valves for specific applications.

Since 2000, MOGAS has established sales and service offices in Australia, China, Europe, Canada, South America, Middle East and India.

While Mogas received many company awards, including The Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Private Companies, multiple Best Companies to Work For in Texas, vendor excellence, and Texas Family Large Business of the Year Finalist, he was most proud of his and his family's philanthropy, and of employee fund raising and volunteerism contributions.

MOGAS Industries is the most trusted severe service technology company offering severe service valves, surface engineering/coating, modular process units, and aftermarket support.

-- BERNAMA

ATMECS GLOBAL REDEFINES AI/ML LANDSCAPE VIA INVOLVEMENT AS NVIDIA'S SOLUTION ADVISOR CONSULTANT

 

Lori Banas-Chief AI/ML Officer (Photo: Business Wire)

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (Bernama) -- ATMECS Global, renowned for its prowess in digital transformation and engineering solutions, announced it has joined the NVIDIA Partner Network as a Solution Advisor Consultant.

The milestone marks a pivotal step in ATMECS’s journey to redefine the artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) landscape, amplifying its commitment to innovation and excellence in delivering next-generation AI solutions.

ATMECS Chief Executive Officer, Gayathri Malolan in a statement said this collaboration with NVIDIA not only enhanced the company’s value proposition but also served as a catalyst for nurturing and expanding its talent pool, aligning with its vision for growth.

Meanwhile, its Chief AI/ML Officer, Lori Banas said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with NVIDIA, which reflects our dedication to harnessing the transformative power of AI and ML.

“We aim to unlock new possibilities and deliver cutting-edge AI solutions that drive business transformation and create a competitive edge for our clients.”

The collaboration with NVIDIA equips ATMECS with access to subject-matter experts and an extensive array of AI and ML technologies, including state-of-the-art graphics processing units (GPUs), high-speed networking, and comprehensive software platforms.

This portfolio of NVIDIA tools and expertise empowers ATMECS to architect and implement advanced AI-powered solutions that cater to a broad spectrum of use cases across industries, ranging from media and entertainment to healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing.

ATMECS will support customers in building and deploying a broad range of NVIDIA-powered solutions. With AI, ATMECS’s clients can transform how they operate and innovate, providing an unprecedented edge in the competitive AI marketplace.

By integrating cutting-edge NVIDIA technologies and ATMECS's wide expertise in AI and digital transformation, the collaboration is poised to deliver solutions that not only advance business processes but also create substantial value for clients.

This announcement showcases ATMECS's resolve to drive business transformation and deliver exceptional value through AI, setting new industry standards and driving a wave of technological excellence and innovation that benefits its clients and their broader industries.

-- BERNAMA