KERETAPI TANAH MELAYU BERHAD (KTMB) NEED TO BE REVITALIZED AS IT IS OUR NATIONAL TREASURE - Insights by Nik Zafri

Source : The Edge Malaysia

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM Berhad (KTMB) is the main railway operator in Peninsular Malaysia (West Malaysia).  KTMB’s history dates back to the British colonial era since 1885 when railway lines were constructed to transport tin ore from mines to ports.

KTMB was known as the Federated Malay States Railway (Keretapi Negeri-Negeri Melayu Bersekutu) and later the Malayan Railways Administration (Pentadbiran Keretapi Tanah Melayu). It was officially named Keretapi Tanah Melayu in 1962. In 1992, KTMB was corporatized, although it remains fully owned by the Malaysian government.

KTMB serves over 100 stations across 10 states in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, operating on a rail network spanning 1,677 km. All KTMB tracks use metre gauge (1,000 mm), with approximately 700 km of these tracks electrified. In the fiscal year 2018, KTMB carried 39.5 million passengers and 5.7 million tonnes of cargo. (Source : Wikipedia)

As one of the oldest rail services in the region, its contributions to the nation's economy, connectivity, and industrial growth cannot be overstated.

As any other corporate entity, KTMB has had some share in problems such as  Financial struggles, Train service disruptions, Station issues and Delays.

However, KTMB with the help of the government has taken steps to address these issues, including - acquiring new train sets, preventive maintenance and has expanded and diversified its services.

LATEST EFFORTS BY THE MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT

The Malaysian Government has implemented several initiatives to support and enhance the operations of Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB).  These include: 

1. Acquisition of New Train Sets through Leasing Agreements

In August 2024, the government announced plans to acquire 62 new passenger train sets for KTMB via a leasing agreement with China. This initiative, valued at approximately RM10.7 billion, is structured over a 30-year lease period and aims to improve the quality and reliability of KTMB's services. The leasing costs encompass maintenance, repair, and operational services, ensuring sustained performance throughout the lease duration.  (Source : BERNAMA)

2. Financial Assistance and Subsidies

The government has provided substantial financial support to KTMB to fulfill its social obligations, particularly in offering affordable fares to the B40 income group. This includes subsidies to maintain low ticket prices, reflecting the government's commitment to public transportation as a social responsibility.  (Source : Ministry of Transport)

3. Infrastructure Upgrades and Modernization

Significant investments have been made to upgrade KTMB's infrastructure. Some of notable ones are :  

• Electrification and Double Tracking Projects - Projects like the Rawang-Ipoh double tracking and electrification have been completed, enabling trains to operate at higher speeds and improving service efficiency. 

• Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrification and Double Tracking - This ongoing project aims to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times between Gemas and Johor Bahru. Although initially expected to be completed by mid-2023, the project has been delayed to mid-2025.

 4. Collaboration with Railway Assets Corporation (RAC)

Discussions have been held regarding a potential merger between KTMB and RAC to streamline operations and improve financial sustainability. While a full merger has not been finalized, the government continues to explore ways to enhance coordination between the two entities.  (Source : The Malaysian Reserve)

5. Implementation of Green Initiatives 

The government, through RAC, has supported green initiatives by installing solar panels at various railway stations. This move aligns with national policies to promote renewable energy and reduce the carbon footprint of public transportation. 

These efforts underscore the government's commitment to revitalizing KTMB, ensuring it remains a vital component of Malaysia's public transportation network. 

HOW DO I FEEL ABOUT IT?

I feel personally being a user of KTM services for decades, there are more steps can be taken to help revitalize KTMB which require a more multifaceted strategy focusing on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, financial sustainability, and technological advancements. 

The following can be additional points to the revitalization plan. 

1. Improve Operational Efficiency

1.1   Optimize Schedules

Analyze demand and adjust train frequencies to minimize empty runs while maximizing usage during peak hours.

1.2 Modernize Rolling Stock

• Invest more in energy-efficient, comfortable, and high-capacity trains to enhance reliability and reduce maintenance costs.

• Streamline Maintenance - Implement predictive maintenance using #IoT sensors to prevent breakdowns and reduce downtime. 

2. Additional Infrastructure Upgrade

2.1 Enhance Rail Tracks

Upgrade tracks for high-speed trains and improve connections to industrial hubs.

2.2 Smart Stations

More modernization of train stations with digital ticketing kiosks, real-time arrival displays, and better passenger amenities. 

2.3 Electrification 

Transition to fully electric trains where feasible to reduce fuel costs and environmental impact.

3. Financial and Policy Reforms

3.1 More Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)

Engage private sector players in funding infrastructure upgrades and service improvements.

3.2 Diversify Revenue Streams

Leverage KTMB-owned land for more commercial development, such as more malls, more offices, and more residential projects.

3.3 Subsidy and Funding

Work more with Malaysian government to secure subsidies for loss-making routes vital for rural connectivity. 

4. Enhance Customer Experience

4.1 Digital Transformation

KTM already have an app to book all the train tickets online including train, ETS, Intercity and North Komuter between Kuala Lumpur right up to Padang Besar and other destinations within their operation in Malaysia.  Unfortunately, there are still so much improvements can be made to the system based on the comments made by customers on the apps. These comments should be taken seriously, they should be gathered and implement a more effective customer feedback mechanism to address the pain points.

4.2 Safety and Cleanliness

There have been good comments by both locals and foreign tourist on this matter. KTM should maintain this branding of implementing a high standard of safety and cleanliness on trains and at stations.

5. Intercity Connectivity

The routes should be expanded to underserved regions, ensuring better national integration.

6. Freight Services 

Optimize freight services to capitalize on the rising demand for cargo transport, especially for e-commerce. 

7. Tourism Initiatives 

Partner with more tourism boards to offer scenic train routes and travel packages. At the moment Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and Tourism Malaysia have established a robust partnership to promote rail tourism, enhancing Malaysia's appeal as a travel destination. Key collaborative initiatives include: 

7.1 "Railway to See Malaysia" Campaign" (Launched May, 2024) - which has helped in increasing passenger numbers ever since. 

7.2 Excursion Trains, Promising Perak Edition (Launched September 2024) - which has encouraged domestic and international tourists to explore Perak by train. The initiative will enhance local economic income through effective promotions and attractive packages.

Apart from that Tourism Perak, in collaboration with KTMB, launched rail tourism packages as alternative modes to attract tourists to explore Perak by train. The selection of Taiping as the launch location is significant due to the presence of Malaysia's first railway track, enhancing the historical appeal of these packages. 

7.3 Heritage Steam Locomotive Tours – Partnered with with Great Leisure Heritage Rail Sdn Bhd (GLHR), the program is to introduce the Tourism Heritage Steam Locomotive Train. Set to commence operations in January 2025, this service offers a nostalgic 380-kilometer journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth, aiming to attract tourists interested in historical and cultural experiences.  (Source : The Star)

7.4 International Tourism Collaborations

In October 2017, Tourism Malaysia and KTMB launched rail packages targeting Southern Thailand. This initiative aimed to promote KTMB packages by travel agents in Southern Thailand and foster closer tourism ties between Thailand and Malaysia, commemorating the 60th anniversary of Thai-Malaysian diplomatic relations. 

These collaborative efforts between KTMB and Tourism Malaysia underscore a shared commitment to leveraging rail services as a unique and sustainable means of exploring Malaysia's rich cultural and natural heritage. 

8. Sustainability Practices 

The government, through RAC, has supported green initiatives by installing solar panels at various railway stations.

These practices can be further enhanced by adopting renewable energy sources for operations and use sustainable materials in train construction and explore selling carbon credits as a revenue stream. 

9. Foster a Skilled Workforce 

9.1 Training and Development 

Upskill employees to manage advanced technologies and deliver better customer service. 

9.2 Cultural Shift 

Promote a performance-oriented and customer-centric organizational culture.

10. Collaborate with Regional Partners

10.1 ASEAN Integration 

Collaborate with neighboring rail operators for cross-border connectivity, fostering trade and tourism within the ASEAN region. 

10.2 Knowledge Sharing 

Learn best practices from successful rail operators globally.

11. Long-Term Vision 

11.1 High-Speed Rail (HSR)

Revisit plans for high-speed rail projects that link major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. 

11.2 Smart Rail Network 

Integrate AI and big data analytics for optimizing routes, scheduling, and passenger management.

12. Conclusion

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM Berhad (KTMB) is more than just a transportation provider, it’s a national heritage with a legacy deeply interwoven into Malaysia’s history and development. KTMB should be preserved in terms of its legacy for future generations while embracing modernity.

This isn't just about bailing out a struggling company, it’s about ensuring the continued relevance of a national treasure that has already given so much. Such assistance is an investment in Malaysia's future, honoring KTMB's historical contributions.

I firmly believe that KTMB can transform into a sustainable and competitive rail operator that supports Malaysia’s economic growth and urban mobility needs

JOHOR - SINGAPORE SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE (SEZ) - It's special alright - Overview by Nik Zafri

Note and Disclaimer : This article is part of a private online recent discussion between myself and interested parties. No confidential information, such as plans, drawings, or VR simulations or the likes are being disclosed in this article. I am sharing this piece voluntarily to promote Special Economic Zones (SEZ) to professionals and firms who may be exploring opportunities in this area. Additionally, I may serve as a key speaker on the subject. Inquiries and speaking invitations from any party are welcome, subject to terms and conditions.

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a proposed cross-border economic zone that aims to integrate the economies of Johor, a state in southern Malaysia, and Singapore. This initiative is meant to promote closer economic cooperation and development between the two regions, capitalizing on their proximity and complementary economic strengths. 

In 2023, total trade between Malaysia and Singapore reached US$79.6 billion. Malaysia’s exports to Singapore were US$ 31.53 billion. The main exported goods were electrical and electronic equipment (US$9.38 billion), mineral fuels, oils, distillation products (US$9.73 billion), machinery, nuclear reactors and boilers (US$2.66 billion), pearls, precious stones, metals, coins (US$1.68 billion), and plastics (US$1.09 billion). 

Meanwhile, in the same year, Malaysia’s Exports to Singapore reached US$48.09 billion, and the main exported goods were electrical and electronic equipment (US$22.20 billion), mineral fuels, oils, distillation products (US$7.82 billion), machinery, nuclear reactors and boilers (US$4.69 billion), optical, photo, technical, medical apparatus (US$1.64 billion), and pearls, precious stones, metals, coins (US$0.89 billion). 

Source : ITC Trade Map

On January 11, 2024, Minister of Economic Affairs, Rafizi Ramli and Singapore’s Trade and Industry Minister signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining proposed joint initiatives to develop the region. The signing was witnessed by Malaysia's Prime Minister YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

KEY FEATURES OF SEZ

Cross-Border Integration 

The Johor-Singapore SEZ is designed to foster greater economic integration between Johor and Singapore. This includes encouraging investment, trade, and labour movement across the border.

FOCUS AREAS AND SECTORS

The SEZ is expected to target specific sectors where Johor and Singapore can complement each other.

Manufacturing and Logistics

Johor’s Iskandar Malaysia Region already focuses on these sectors, benefiting from lower land and labour costs compared to Singapore.

Electronics and Electrical (E&E) Manufacturing 

This is one of the largest manufacturing sectors in Iskandar Malaysia, involving the production of semiconductors, consumer electronics, electrical components, and home appliances. For example, companies like Panasonic and Vishay Intertechnology have set up operations in Johor, producing components like capacitors, resistors, and sensors that are exported globally.

Automotive and Aerospace Manufacturing 

Iskandar Malaysia serves as a hub for automotive parts and component manufacturers. The region produces items like engine parts, electronics, tires, and other components. Companies like Berjaya Group and Toyota Tsusho have established facilities in Johor. Aerospace component manufacturers such as Upeca Aerotech also operate in Johor, producing parts for global aerospace giants like Boeing and Airbus. 

Food and Beverage (F&B) Processing

The food processing industry in Iskandar Malaysia involves processing raw agricultural products into packaged foods and beverages for export and local markets. This includes halal food production, given Malaysia's strength in the halal industry. For example, Nestlé has a significant presence in Johor, producing products like Milo, Maggi, and Nescafé for Southeast Asia.

Petrochemical and Chemical Manufacturing 

The region is also home to several petrochemical and chemical manufacturing plants, such as those producing plastics, resins, fertilizers, and industrial chemicals. Companies like Petronas have significant operations in Johor, particularly at the Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC), which focuses on petrochemical and refinery activities.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Manufacturing 

Iskandar Malaysia has been growing its footprint in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, with companies involved in the production of generic medicines, medical devices, and biotech research. Biocon, an Indian biopharmaceutical giant, has established a large facility in Johor to manufacture insulin products for global markets.

LOGISTICS OF ISKANDAR MALAYSIA

Logistics involves the transportation, warehousing, distribution, and supply chain management of goods. The region benefits from its strategic location next to Singapore, access to ports, highways, and railways, and a growing network of logistics hubs.

E-COMMERCE FULFILLMENT CENTRES

The rise of e-commerce has led to the establishment of fulfillment centers in Iskandar Malaysia, where goods are stored, packed, and shipped to customers in Malaysia, Singapore, and the broader Southeast Asian region. Companies like Lazada and Shopee have invested in logistics infrastructure in Johor to support their operations.

Singapore and Malaysia are distinguished as leading mature e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia, characterized by high internet and smartphone penetration, affluent and tech-savvy consumer bases, sophisticated logistics and payment infrastructure, and supportive government policies. The e-commerce sector in Singapore is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11% over the next five years, while Malaysia's market is expected to experience a 14.32% growth rate during the same period.

Source : Growthops.Asia

TECHNOLOGY, SYSTEM AND PLANNED IMPLEMENTATION

Technology and Innovation - Leveraging Singapore’s status as a tech and innovation hub.  Technology and Innovation are key drivers of growth in both Johor’s Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore. Each region leverages its unique strengths to foster technological advancements and innovation, often complementing one another in areas like digital transformation, smart cities, artificial intelligence, and green technologies.

Data Centers and Cloud Computing - Iskandar Malaysia is emerging as a hub for data centers, benefiting from its strategic location, lower operating costs, and availability of land. Companies such as Bridge Data Centres and Keppel Data Centres have established facilities in Johor to cater to growing demand from Southeast Asia. These data centers support cloud computing, data storage, and disaster recovery services, catering to regional businesses and multinational corporations.

Smart City (Urban Intelligence) Initiatives - The Iskandar Malaysia is implementing smart city with elements of Urban Intelligence initiatives to improve urban living through technology. The Smart City Iskandar Malaysia (SCIM) framework focuses on smart governance, smart economy, smart mobility, and smart environment. Examples include the use of intelligent traffic management systems, energy-efficient buildings, and smart waste management solutions.

Innovation and Research Centres - Several innovation hubs and research centres in Iskandar Malaysia focus on advanced technologies. For instance, the Crescendo-HELP International School's Innovation Center fosters research in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and STEM education. The University of Southampton Malaysia Campus in Johor is involved in research and development (R&D) in engineering and technology.

Green Technology and Sustainability - Iskandar Malaysia promotes sustainable development and green technology through initiatives such as the Iskandar Malaysia Low Carbon Society project, which aims to reduce carbon emissions through the adoption of renewable energy, green building practices, and sustainable transport systems. The region also hosts solar panel manufacturers and other companies focused on clean energy solutions.

Advanced Manufacturing and Automation - The region is home to advanced manufacturing plants that use automation, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance productivity and reduce costs. For example, companies in sectors like electronics, automotive, and aerospace are adopting Industry 4.0 technologies, such as D&S Solution (M) Sdn Bhd, which focuses on precision engineering and automation solutions.

Smart Nation Initiative - Singapore’s Smart Nation Initiative aims to transform the city-state into a leading digital economy and smart city through the integration of technology in governance, healthcare, transportation, and urban planning. Examples include a nationwide network of sensors and smart devices for public safety, autonomous vehicle trials, and digital payment systems.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Development - Singapore is a regional leader in AI development, with government-led initiatives such as AI Singapore driving innovation. AI Singapore works on projects ranging from natural language processing to AI-driven healthcare solutions. Companies like Grab use AI to optimize ride-hailing and food delivery services.

Fintech and Digital Banking - Singapore is a global fintech hub, fostering innovation in digital banking, blockchain, and payment systems. Startups like Revolut, Nium, and TransferWise operate in the city, and major banks such as DBS and OCBC have launched digital banking platforms and robo-advisors.

1) Collaborative R&D and Innovation

Johor can serve as an extension of Singapore’s innovation ecosystem by providing space and cost advantages for research and development (R&D) facilities. For example, joint research initiatives in areas like AI, advanced manufacturing, and biotechnology could benefit from the resources and talent pools in both regions. 

2) Cross-Border Digital Economy

The close proximity and digital connectivity between Singapore and Johor enable cross-border digital trade, e-commerce, and fintech innovation. Singaporean startups and companies can leverage Johor’s infrastructure and workforce for regional expansion.

3) Smart City Development/Urban Intelligence 

Both regions can share best practices and collaborate on smart city solutions, such as intelligent transport systems, sustainable urban planning, and energy-efficient technologies, creating a seamless cross-border smart city ecosystem.

4) Supply Chain Optimization

Manufacturing and logistics hubs in Johor can support Singapore’s technology and innovation ecosystem by providing supply chain and distribution solutions for high-tech products, enabling cost-effective and efficient regional supply chains.

5) Education and Healthcare

Johor can serve as an expansion area for Singapore's education and healthcare services.

6) Tourism

Both regions aim to enhance tourism through shared marketing and improved connectivity. This will make the SEZ more viable, there are plans for infrastructure projects that improve connectivity between Johor and Singapore. For example:

 7) The Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link

A rail link connecting Johor Bahru and Singapore, set to ease traffic congestion and promote daily commuting.

8) Enhanced Road and Port Facilities

Upgrades to current road networks and port facilities to facilitate the movement of goods and people.

9) Simplified Regulations and Incentives

As a special economic zone, the SEZ may offer unique incentives to attract investors, such as tax breaks, streamlined regulations, and ease of doing business. These incentives would be designed to attract businesses that can benefit from a cross-border operational model, leveraging the advantages of both jurisdictions.

10) Labor Market and Workforce Synergy

The SEZ will likely include policies to promote the efficient movement of labor between Johor and Singapore, such as simplified visa processes or special permits for cross-border workers. This could help both regions address labor shortages and create a more dynamic workforce.

RELATION TO ISKANDAR MALAYSIA

The Johor-Singapore SEZ concept is closely related to the Iskandar Malaysia development, which is already a significant economic growth corridor in southern Johor. Iskandar Malaysia’s focus on industrial development, logistics, property development, and international education aligns well with the objectives of the SEZ, positioning it as a key component of this larger cross-border strategy.

CURRENT STATUS

While the idea of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone has been discussed and promoted in various bilateral forums, it is still largely in the conceptual stage. Key projects like the RTS link are already underway, but a comprehensive, formal agreement defining the specifics of the SEZ, such as its regulatory framework, incentives, and governance structure, has not yet been finalized.

CONCLUSION

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone is a proposed initiative to create a tightly integrated cross-border economic region between Johor in Malaysia and Singapore. It aims to capitalize on their geographic proximity and economic complementarities to drive growth, enhance connectivity, and foster bilateral cooperation. While the concept is promising, its full realization depends on continued negotiations and strategic planning between both governments.

DEFEND YOURSELF AGAINST DEEPFAKES - Nik Zafri

Deepfake technology represents a remarkable achievement in artificial intelligence, offering significant benefits across various industries such as architecture through VR/simulation, gaming, entertainment, healthcare, and more.

However, deepfakes also have the potential to be misused, for instance, to frame or ridicule individuals or to trigger public unrest or part of elaborate scamming. Some deepfakes are so convincingly realistic that they can easily confuse viewers, especially those encountering them for the first time.

As deepfake technology advances, detecting these falsified videos becomes increasingly difficult. Similar to superimposed photos, deepfakes can be identified by examining the source codes or metadata—such as timestamps, locations, and device types—as well as by analyzing the following elements : 

1. Unnatural Facial Movements and Expressions 

e.g. 

blinking - even in the newly improved models, sometimes deepfakes do have issues with realistic blinking patterns. (14 to 17 times a minute)

Pay attention to mouth movement as well especially during a speech. The lips can sometimes be out of sync with the audio or move unnaturally

Facial Expressions can seem to be exaggerated, stiff, or inconsistent with the tone of the speech.

2. Inconsistent Lighting and Shadows

Lighting - deepfakes might struggle with consistent lighting across the face and body. If you watch carefully, you may spot shadows/highlights that don't match scene's overall lighting

Reflections - Glasses, jewelry, or shiny objects should reflect light naturally. If the reflections look off or are missing, it could indicate a deepfake.

3. Unnatural Eye Movements

One of the most obvious element in spotting a deepfake is the gaze direction where yes direction may not align naturally with the head or body movement, or the gaze might appear fixed/static or robotic.

4. Hair and Teeth

Hair - another problem is in the rendering of hair - look at the edges where it meets the background. Hair might appear blurry, or individual strands may not be visible.

Teeth can too perfect, overly white, or lack texture, making them seem unnatural.

5. Audio-Visual Mismatch

Sync Issue where the audio does not match the visual, either due to timing issues or because the deepfake doesn’t accurately replicate the mouth’s movements.

Voice Quality sounding too robotic or doesn’t match the person’s usual tone.

6. Background Anomalies

Inconsistencies - strange distortions or warping in the background, especially near the edges of the face or body.

Blurring - area around the face might be blurred or have different quality levels compared to the rest of the scene.

7. Resolution Discrepancies - Pixelation -  Check for inconsistencies in the video’s resolution. For instance, if the face appears sharper or more pixelated than the rest of the frame, it could be a deepfake.

8. Edge Quality - Pay attention to the edges of the face and body. If they appear too smooth or too sharp compared to the rest of the video, it might be a sign of manipulation.

9. Unusual Artifact - Distortion - Look for any visible distortions, especially when the person moves their head quickly. Deepfakes might struggle to keep up with fast movements.

10. Color Shifts - If the skin tone or color of the face changes abruptly, it might indicate that the video has been tampered with.

11. Content Inconsistencies - Context - Consider the context of the video. If the behavior, speech, or actions of the person seem out of character.

12. Mismatched Statements - Compare the content with known facts or previous statements by the individual - check for any discrepancies.

13. Use of Detection Tools - There are tools and software available that can help detect deepfakes by analyzing inconsistencies that might not be visible to the human eye.

HOW EXACTLY DO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ANALYZE THE STOCK MARKET - From the draft notes of Nik Zafri

Knowledge Sharing (from my draft notes) :

Question : How exactly Artificial Intelligence predicts the stock market?

Nik Zafri : If I have to make an intelligence guess, it should look something like this

#artificialintelligence #AI #stockmarket

PREDICTING THE STOCK MARKET? HERE'S SOME TIPS (NIK ZAFRI)

Predicting the stock market with absolute certainty is an elusive goal because it's influenced by numerous unpredictable factors such as economic indicators, geopolitical events, investor sentiment, and even natural disasters. However, many analysts and researchers attempt to forecast stock market movements using various methods and tools.

I believe statistical models such as linear regression, ARIMA, GARCH are some of the most popular ones in analyzing historical price data and identify patterns or trends. There are few other typical analyses such as

(a) quantitative (maths (Black-Scholes) + statistics = pricing or Var for loses),

(b) fundamentals (company's financial health, quality, trends, and macroeconomic = intrinsic value and predict future stock prices),

(c) technical - past market data, primarily price and volume = identify patterns and trends = predict future price movements. Tools : moving averages, chart patterns, and technical indicators such as RSI and MACD and,

(d) sentiment - alternative news from social media, news, anything of public sentiment to gauge investor mood and predict market movements. NLP should be useful to extract insights from textual data.

And now here comes Artificial Intelligence (my gen used to call it machine learning - we don't have sophisticated tools like AI then) - the principles are much the same except the approach is far more advanced. Algorithms such as neural network, SVM, random forests (data mining) and make predictions. AI can handle non-linear relationships and capture complex patterns better than traditional statistical methods (although I may disagree with that :-) )

THE ASEAN FINANCIAL INNOVATION SUMMIT 2024

Day 1 and 2 of the ASEAN Financial Innovation Summit organized by CT Asia took place at the M Star Hotel and Resorts. The event provided valuable insights as I listened to esteemed financial, technical, and governance experts, both local and international, discussing topics ranging from the future of Accounting, Banking, ESG, ERP, International Trade, to the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence.

I extend my gratitude to the Women in Governance and Technology Association of Malaysia (WIGTA) one of the VIP delegates, support partners, and exhibitors for the invitation to this remarkable gathering.

Throughout the summit, I had the opportunity to connect with knowledgeable delegates and speakers from around the world, fostering potential future business opportunities.

Additionally, participation in the event will yield certification and Continuing Professional Education (CPE) points.