Oracle, hyperscalers unite to enter the “multi-cloud era”

September 11, 2024

THE big three hyperscalers–Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google and Microsoft Azure–are collaborating in various ways with Oracle, a cloud hyperscaler itself to usher in what Larry Ellison, Oracle Chairman and Chief Technology Officer calls the “multi-cloud era.”

The collaboration between the four hyperscalers offer improved services for customers, simplifying the migration and deployment of enterprise workloads to the cloud while improving agility, flexibility, and security.

“For infrastructure, AWS, Azure, Google, Oracle, which is by the way listed in alphabetical order,” Ellison humorously mentioned “and for applications, Google, Salesforce, Workday…also listed alphabetically, are on different clouds and before today, the problem is that the clouds do not work well together, they are not gracefully integrated.”

Ellison said that this is where the availability of the interoperability and connectivity to the power of Oracle to the different services and capabilities of AWS, Azure and Google.

Officially launched was Oracle Database@AWS, that allows customers to access Oracle Autonomous Database on dedicated infrastructure and Oracle Exadata Database Service within AWS starting December this year. Also announced the general availability of Oracle Database@Google Cloud in four Google Cloud regions across the United States and Europe. Finally, the Oracle Database@Azure was made available to accelerate cloud migrations in six Microsoft Azure regions.

The move into the multi-cloud era meets rapidly growing global demand for interoperability between these three global cloud hyperscalers.

“To meet this demand and give customers the choice and flexibility they want, Amazon and Oracle are seamlessly connecting AWS services with the very latest Oracle Database technology, including the Oracle Autonomous Database. With Oracle Cloud Infrastructure deployed inside of AWS datacenters, we can provide customers with the best possible database and network performance,” Ellison emphasized.

“As far back as 2008, customers could run their Oracle workloads in the cloud, and since then, many of the world’s largest and most security sensitive organizations have chosen to deploy their Oracle software on AWS,” Matt Garman, AWS CEO explained.

Oracle Database@AWS will provide customers with a unified experience between Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and AWS, offering simplified database administration, billing, and unified customer support. Customers will have the ability to seamlessly connect enterprise data in their Oracle Database to applications running on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2), AWS Analytics services, or AWS’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) services, including Amazon Bedrock.

Now available in six Microsoft Azure regions–Australia East, Canada Central, East US, France Central, Germany West Central, and UK South–Oracle Database@Azure will soon be available in fifteen more regions, including Brazil South, Central India, Central US, East US 2, Italy North, Japan East, North Europe, South Central US, Southeast Asia, Spain Central, Sweden Central, United Arab Emirates North, West Europe, West US 2, and West US 3.

Customers will now be able to run Oracle Exadata Database Service, Oracle Autonomous Database, and Oracle Database Zero Data Loss Autonomous Recovery Service on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) in Google Cloud datacenters across U.S. East (Ashburn), U.S. West (Salt Lake City), U.K. South (London), and Germany Central (Frankfurt), expanding to many more regions in the coming months across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.

In his keynote at the 2024 Oracle CloudWorld 2024, Ellison highlighted how the new collaborations will provide customers the strength and speed of a low latency network connection between Oracle databases and applications on the various platforms. For example, customers get the performance, availability, security, and cost-effectiveness of Oracle Exadata Database Service, while enjoying the security, agility, flexibility, and sustainability benefits provided by AWS.

In the case of the AWS and Oracle deal, the costs will also be well managed.

“Same price, same performance, same everything,” Ellison said about how fees will be managed with the new cloud availabilities within the three collaborations with Oracle adding that “we are seeing huge demand from customers that want to use multiple clouds. This dramatically expands the market.”

“This new, deeper partnership will provide Oracle Database services within AWS to allow customers to take advantage of the flexibility, reliability, and scalability of the world’s most widely adopted cloud alongside enterprise software they rely on,” Ellison concluded.

NLEX-SLEX Connector Road eyes to top Bentley 2024 infra awards

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

August 28, 2024

Aerial view of the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road Project (Photo from DPWH)

The NLEX-SLEX Connector Road Project, an ambitious P22.03B project aimed at enhancing connectivity and alleviating traffic congestion in Metro Manila is one of 3 finalists in the Road and Highways category of Bentley Systems 2024 Going Digital Awards Year of Infrastructure Awards (YII).

Vying for honors alongside the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road are the China Road and Bridge Corporation, China Highway Engineering Consulting Corporation for the Phnom Penh — Bavet Expressway, Phnom-Penh, Cambodia; and WISDRI Engineering & Research Incorporation Limited for the implementation of the Wuhan Gaoxin 4th Road Comprehensive Reconstruction Project, Wuhan, Hubei, China.

Bentley Systems, the world’s leading infrastructure engineering software company, hold the prestigious Going Digital Awards annually. This annual event celebrates the groundbreaking work of Bentley software users globally, highlighting how innovative software solutions are driving advancements in infrastructure development, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life. This year, the competition received over 250 nominations from 36 countries, resulting in 36 finalists selected across 12 categories.

“This year’s Going Digital Awards finalists represent an impressive mix of international projects that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on land, at sea, and underground. These programs highlight engineering genius; they showcase the teams of infrastructure professionals that are unlocking the power of data with AI, digital twins, immersive visualizations, and more, to make modern life possible,” Kristin Fallon, Bentley Systems’ Chief Marketing Officer said as she underscored the significance of infrastructure in connecting communities and fostering economic growth. She praised the 2024 finalists, stating, “we applaud and celebrate each finalist for their outstanding achievements to make better, more resilient critical infrastructure for an improved quality of life.”

These finalists will now have the opportunity to present their projects to an esteemed panel of 34 independent judges.

The winners will be announced on October 9th at the 2024 Going Digital Awards event, taking place at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver.

The Going Digital Awards continue to serve as a platform for recognizing and inspiring innovation within the infrastructure engineering sector.

By showcasing the transformative potential of digital technologies, Bentley Systems is encouraging further advancements that will shape the future of our built environment.

Upon completion, the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road is expected to yield substantial benefits.

It is projected to significantly reduce travel time between key destinations, such as SLEX-Alabang to NLEX-Balintawak, from 2 hours to a mere 20 minutes. Similarly, the travel time from Clark to Calamba will be shortened from 3 hours to approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. An estimated 35,000 motorists/vehicles are expected to benefit daily from this improved connectivity.

Additionally, the project will enhance accessibility between NAIA and Clark airports, facilitating smoother travel for both domestic and international passengers.

E-trikes a catalyst for electrification

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

July 2, 2024

THE growing popularity of e-trikes is seen by experts as a signaling a potential shift towards cleaner, more sustainable mobility. The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) believes that the more e-trikes there are in the transportation ecosystem, the “balance the mobility benefits and the need for order and safety on the roads,” needs to be addressed.

However, the unregulated growth of e-trikes and quads (4-wheel versions) also exposes the gaps in existing policy and regulation. This intersection of promise and peril highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses road safety, consumer protection, and the environmental benefits of electric vehicles.

E-trikes, ubiquitous in many cities and municipalities, present a unique opportunity to mainstream electric mobility. Their widespread use, particularly for public transportation and last-mile connectivity, can raise awareness about EVs and demonstrate their viability.

The familiarity and accessibility of e-trikes can pave the way for broader acceptance of other electric vehicles, such as cars and motorcycles.

In the absence of comprehensive national regulations, local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines are stepping up to address the growing popularity of e-trikes and e-bikes. These initiatives, while varied in approach, reflect a common concern for safety, sustainability, and the integration of electric vehicles into existing transportation systems.

In Santa Rosa, Laguna, e-bikes as a sustainable transportation option, passing a resolution to support their use and encourage the creation of dedicated bike lanes and parking areas.

The city is also exploring incentives to encourage residents to switch to e-bikes.

Iloilo City is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, Iloilo City’s existing regulations on non-motorized transport, including bicycles, indirectly apply to e-bikes. These regulations cover road usage, safety gear, and traffic rules, ensuring a degree of safety and order for e-bike riders.

In Barangay Lahug, Cebu City, Ordinance No. 11 series of 2019 regulates the registration, operation, and franchising of e-trikes. This ordinance aims to ensure that e-trikes meet safety standards and operate within designated routes. While in Barangay Apas, also in Cebu, Barangay Resolution No. 13 series of 2021 encourages e-trikes and quads to use dedicated bike lanes. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the environmental and health benefits of electric mobility

Early and effective policy development can play a crucial role in steering the e-trike industry towards sustainable growth. By establishing clear standards for vehicle design, safety, and performance, the government can create a level playing field for manufacturers and ensure that only high-quality e-trikes enter the market.

To address the complex challenges facing the e-trike industry, a collaborative approach involving multiple government agencies is essential. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) should work closely with the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to stem the importation of non-standard e-bikes and e-trikes. This can be achieved through stricter import controls, mandatory certification, and regular inspections.

The DTI can play a role in promoting local manufacturing of e-trikes, fostering a domestic industry that adheres to high standards and contributes to economic growth. The DOE, on the other hand, can focus on developing a robust charging infrastructure and supporting research and development of battery technologies.

However, this potential can only be realized with proactive policy development and robust regulation. The current landscape is characterized by a patchwork of local ordinances and national guidelines, often lacking in uniformity and enforcement. This fragmentation not only hinders the growth of the e-trike industry but also poses significant road safety risks.

The lack of standardized safety regulations for e-trikes has led to a proliferation of substandard vehicles on the roads. These vehicles, often imported without proper quality control, may lack essential safety features like adequate braking systems, lights, and structural integrity. Furthermore, many e-trike drivers lack formal training, exacerbating the risk of accidents.

The government’s failure to enforce existing laws further compounds the problem.

Overloading, reckless driving, and operating on prohibited roads remain rampant, jeopardizing the safety of both riders and other road users. A comprehensive approach to road safety must include stringent vehicle standards, driver training programs, and consistent enforcement of traffic laws.

PUSHING FOR GLOBAL RECOGNITION: ‘Until I run out of money’

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

June 25, 2024

Pham Nhat Vuong, the enigmatic chairman of Vingroup, is a man of few words but immense vision. I first met him at the VinFast Future Prize 2023 in Hanoi. I broke cordon sanitaire just after the Vietnam president left escorted by his bodyguards. I attempted to get a selfie, instead I got a handshake that left an enduring impression. Vuong, exuded a quiet determination that hinted at the transformative potential of his latest venture: VinFast, Vietnam’s first global electric vehicle manufacturer.

VinFast’s story is one of audacious ambition and rapid execution. Established in 2017 as a subsidiary of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest conglomerate, VinFast has emerged as a symbol of the country’s burgeoning technological prowess and industrial ambition. Vuong, who had already built a vast empire spanning real estate, retail, healthcare, and education, saw an opportunity to revolutionize Vietnam’s automotive industry and position the nation as a key player in the global electric vehicle market.

Leveraging Vingroup’s extensive resources and Vuong’s unwavering determination, VinFast embarked on an ambitious journey to develop a comprehensive range of electric vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs, and even electric buses and scooters. The company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hai Phong, Vietnam, boasts cutting-edge technology and a commitment to sustainability, reflecting Vuong’s vision for a greener future.

In a remarkably short period, VinFast has achieved significant milestones. The company’s vehicles have garnered international acclaim for their design, performance, and technological innovation. In 2019, VinFast made a splash at the Paris Motor Show, unveiling two models — the LUX A2.0 sedan and the LUX SA2.0 SUV — designed in collaboration with renowned Italian design house Pininfarina. These models quickly became popular in Vietnam, establishing VinFast as a domestic leader.

VinFast’s global aspirations were evident from the outset. The company partnered with leading automotive suppliers and technology firms, including BMW, Bosch, and Siemens, to ensure its vehicles met international standards. In 2021, VinFast announced plans to expand into North America and Europe, setting the stage for its entry into the global electric vehicle market.

A pivotal moment for VinFast came in 2022 when the company announced its commitment to becoming a fully electric vehicle manufacturer. This bold move signaled Vuong’s belief in the inevitability of the global shift towards electric mobility and his determination to position VinFast at the forefront of this revolution.

VinFast’s rapid growth has not been without challenges. The company faced initial skepticism from some industry observers, who questioned its ability to compete with established global automakers. However, VinFast has consistently defied expectations, proving its capabilities through innovative engineering, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction.

In the first quarter of 2024, VinFast continued its global expansion, launching its brand in Thailand and Indonesia and establishing a presence in the Middle East. The company also initiated construction on a new manufacturing facility in India, further solidifying its commitment to global expansion. While domestic sales remain strong, VinFast is also experiencing encouraging growth in the U.S. market, where it has launched two electric SUV models, the VF 8 and VF 9.

Vuong’s long-term vision for VinFast is unwavering. In a recent interview, he reiterated his commitment to the company, stating, “Until I run out of money,” when asked about his financial support. This statement reflects Vuong’s belief in the transformative power of electric vehicles and his determination to build a sustainable and enduring company that will not only benefit Vietnam but also contribute to a greener future for the planet.

As VinFast continues to innovate and expand, it is poised to become a major player in the global electric vehicle market. Vuong’s ambition to create a Vietnamese brand with global influence is becoming a reality, and VinFast’s success is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

VINFAST AUTO PHILIPPINES BRAND INTRO: Exciting models electrify auto market

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

June 4, 2024

Vinfast public brand launch at the SM MOA last weekend.

VIETNAMESE electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast (VF), backed by Vietnam’s largest conglomerate Vingroup, charged the Philippines EV scenes last weekend launching 2 compact SUVs, 1 full size SUV and a hatchback as well as electric motorcycles. The Philippine launch–the third in Southeast Asia after Thailand and Indonesia–marks a significant step in its global expansion strategy.

“We are finally here and will officially launch,” Nguyen Thi Minh Ngoc, CEO and President of Vinfast Auto Philippines told Malaya Business Insight at a media dinner the day before the brand event. She also intimated that she is very confident of the growth of Vinfast in the country because of her strong team which includes Philippine automotive industry veterans.

Leading the local team is former Suzuki Philippines Assistant to the General Manager for Automobiles, Jude Racadio, who is now deputy CEO for sales and marketing. Cherrey Lou Villaster formerly of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines is now Vinfast Auto Marketing Director, while industry expansion expert Ginia Domingo formerly of Columbian Motors is Business Development Director. For aftersales, Margo Delfinado heads aftersales as its deputy CEO and Peter Garcia leads network and dealer development.

The initial lineup includes the VF e34, VF 5, VF 7, and VF 9 electric cars, as well as six electric motorcycle models and the VF DrgnFly electric bike.

“These vehicles are designed to cater to a wide range of consumer preferences, from compact city cars to spacious SUVs.Aligned with its mission to popularize electric mobility, VinFast’s strategy for entering the Philippine market revolves around three core values: “Good cars, good prices, and excellent after-sales policies,” Nguyen told Malaya Business Insight as she highlighted how VinFast products meet stringent safety standards, incorporate advanced smart features, and are offered at accessible prices.

VinFast’s entry into the Philippine market comes with a robust dealer network strategy. The company has already signed cooperation agreements with four Philippine dealers: EV Solutions, K1 Prestige Bay Motors Inc, Autoflare Corporation, and MNV Auto Group Inc. The first VinFast showrooms are expected to open in Manila by the end of June 2024, with the first customer deliveries scheduled for the third quarter of the year.

“It’s an honor to be among the first VinFast dealerships driving the electric car revolution in the Philippines. We’re impressed by VinFast’s strong market potential, thanks to their variety of vehicles and industry-leading warranty. Together, we’ll meet the growing Filipino demand for EVs and build a greener, smarter transportation future for the country,” Rafael Vincente R. Calinisan, representative of EV Solutions said.

The VinFast Auto Philippines team with first dealer principals.

“This collaboration marks a significant step forward, establishing VinFast’s presence and laying a strong foundation for our long-term growth in the Philippines. We’re further committed to expanding our electric vehicle dealership network across major cities, actively contributing to the unstoppable global shift towards green transportation,” Nguyen told the audience at the brand launch.

“VinFast’s appeal lies in its diverse product range, modern exterior designs, and smart features that enhance the user experience,” Jude Racadio, deputy CEO for sales and marketing at Vinfast Auto Philippines said.

A large crowd gathers at the Vinfast launch in SM MOA.

To make electric vehicles more accessible to Filipino consumers, VinFast will offer both traditional car purchases and a unique battery subscription policy, which aims to lower the initial cost of ownership.

“Our battery leasing and vehicle-with-battery sales options, provide consumers with more choices. This approach will help customers reduce upfront costs by separating the battery from the vehicle price and potentially make monthly EV operating costs comparable to or even more competitive than gasoline-powered vehicles,” Nguyen explained.

“We are the first one to have a free battery replacement and maintenance program for customers who choose the battery subscription policy,” she emphasized.

VinFast’s expansion into the Philippines is a testament to its ambition to become a leading player in the global EV industry. The company is actively expanding its dealership network across the country and is committed to promoting sustainable mobility solutions in the region.

“We’re impressed by VinFast’s strong market potential, thanks to their variety of vehicles and industry-leading warranty. Together, we’ll meet the growing Filipino demand for EVs and build a greener, smarter transportation future for the country,”

“By partnering with trusted and experienced automotive companies, VinFast is determined to deliver smart and convenient electric mobility solutions to Filipino consumers as soon as possible, offering complete peace of mind.” Nguyen concluded.

The Philippines becomes the third Southeast Asian market VinFast has entered in the first half of 2024, following Indonesia and Thailand. This rapid expansion strengthens VinFast’s position in the region and demonstrates the company’s ability to quickly accelerate its presence.–with Lech P. Quiambao.

SMEs vulnerable to infoleaks, phishing

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

April 24, 2024

Cybercriminals are human, not machines, says Blackpanda. (Image prompt engineered and produced by Gemni Advanced)

Blackpanda unveils study on SME cyber risks across Asia Pacific

BLACKPANDA, headquartered in Singapore, is Asia’s leading digital forensics and cyber security firm. It recently released its first proprietary study, analyzing cyber security vulnerabilities in SME companies across the Asia Pacific region.

The security firm utilized in-house external attack surface management (ASM) scans and data to identify top vulnerabilities that represent significant risk level where threats are recommended to be resolved as soon as practicable or within a matter of days to prevent potential infiltration by attackers to launch an attack.

Gene Yu, CEO of Blackpanda Group stressed that humans, not technology is behind cyberattacks,

“Even cybersecurity experts forget that in cybercrime, we are actually dealing with people, who are the criminals themselves, not the technology. Often it is technology that is the focus of a cybersecurity solution, when it is in fact, humans behind the digital crimes,” Yu explained saying that part of his company’s success is actually clamping down of cybercriminals themselves.

The report underscores how budget constraints and a lack of focus on preventative measures leave SMEs particularly exposed to potentially devastating cyberattacks.

“Our study shows that in the cybersecurity landscape for SMEs in the Asia Pacific region, giving resource-strapped businesses access to the protection and expertise they need to stay secure in an increasingly digital world,” Yu stressed.

The study identified three key areas where SMEs are most at risk. First is compromised assets such as email breaches. Yu said and emails seems innocuous but Blackpanda has classified it as a high-risk attack, representing 71.68 percent of total risks. This leaves SMEs highly susceptible to information leakage and phishing attacks.

It also lists, exposed web services, comprising 69.92 percent of high-risk exposures, presenting entry points for damaging web-based attacks. Finally, not patching or updating software or programs known to have vulnerabilities represent 59.96 percent of system security problems. Though classified only as a medium-risk issue. It still highlights the urgency for businesses to address basic patching and software updates.

“The majority of the cyber incidents we encounter can be traced back to fundamental vulnerabilities that remain unpatched…As part of our commitment at Blackpanda…we are not only focused on responding to these emergencies but also on significantly reducing the occurrence of such attacks across the entire market.”

SMEs often find themselves lacking the resources or awareness to implement robust cyber security measures on par with larger enterprises. This leaves them more vulnerable to other significant risks, such as exposed database and remote access services, poor system and DNS configurations, and outdated software.

To combat this growing threat, Blackpanda offers IR-1, a SaaS platform providing incident response, vulnerability assessments, and cyber insurance in a single package.

“In the Philippines, we see a significant number of high severity vulnerabilities that allow attackers to target SMEs and gain unauthorized access to email accounts, or disrupt server operations,” Evelyn del Monte, Managing Director for Blackpanda Philippines told reporters at the media launch of the mulit-faceted cybersecurity solution.

IN ITS inaugural study on cyber security vulnerabilities in SMEs across the Asia Pacific, Blackpanda, utilizing in-house ASM scans, highlights critical risks demanding urgent resolution to thwart potential attacks, signaling a call to action for businesses to fortify their digital defenses against evolving threats.

“Our incident response capabilities alone are tailored to address these challenges head-on,” del Monte commented to a question on how small companies can take full advantage of Blackpanda’s expertise.

IR-1’s cost-effective, subscription-based model is ideal for SMEs. Its features give them proactive tools and critical support. These include guaranteed, fixed-cost incident response minimizes costly downtime and ensures immediate access to experts, unceasingly identify risks, allowing businesses to take preemptive action.

One of its strongest assets, wherever it is available. is the cyber insurance called Pandamatics. This insurance product simplifies coverage, providing financial protection when needed as well as spread the costs over a number of members.

In the conversation with Yu, he made an interesting point to the use of analog techniques while dealing with criminals online is a necessary step in cybersecurity. This does not mean downshifting to manual methods of tracking exploits but rather using codes, safe words and signals embedded into code or messages.

“IR-1 equips our clients with robust tools and resources essential for both preventing and mitigating cyberattacks. We have several significant upgrades scheduled for this year. Our subscribers can look forward to rolling out even more advanced, technology-driven solutions tailored to their needs,” del Monte concludes.

Blackpanda team shown from left to right: Ruck Rosario, Digital Forensics and Incident Response Specialist; Pauline Ong, Director of Customer Success; May Tan, Marketing Manager; Evelyn Del Monte, Managing Director – Philippines , Gene Yu, Founder and CEO; Valerie Koh, Marketing Analyst.

Oracle invests in Singapore’s digital future

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

April 24, 2024

Josephine Teo, Singaporeâ€™s Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-charge of Smart Nation and Cybersecurity in conversation with Safra Catz, Oracle CEO at Oracle CloudWorld Tour Singapore. (Handout photo)

Internships, apprenticeships, and strategic partnerships by training 10,000 students and professionals in latest technologies

LEADING cloud technology provider Oracle announced a major collaboration with the Singapore Government to significantly expand the nation’s digital workforce. The announcement came as part of the Oracle CloudWorld Tour 2024, a one-day event in Singapore last week.

The initiative aims to train up to 10,000 students and professionals in critical digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data science by 2027.

This ambitious program emphasizes practical experience, with Oracle offering up to 300 internships and apprenticeships for students and recent graduates of the five polytechnics in Singapore’s TechSkills Accelerator for Institute of Technical Education and Polytechnics Alliance (TIP Alliance). Students will gain on-the-job training while working alongside Oracle’s industry experts.

“We recognize the need to evolve our talent pool in line with the rapid growth of Singapore’s digital economy,” said Garrett Ilg, Oracle’s executive vice president and general manager for Japan & Asia Pacific. “This collaboration strongly supports Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative and ensures our workforce possesses the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow.”

Certification and training through Oracle University

Oracle University, the company’s comprehensive training platform, will play a central role in equipping Singapore’s workforce with in-demand digital skills. The platform will provide training and certifications programs for up to 9,700 Singapore-based learners over the next three years. Rigorous foundational courses in data-driven technologies will be followed by professional-level training in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and data science. Oracle will tailor additional training to individual learners based on their existing skills and goals.

The program includes a new Gen AI Professional Certification, specifically designed to build advanced AI expertise among Singapore’s digital professionals. Additionally, learners can earn digital badges to showcase specific skills making it easier for employers to find the right talent.

“When we launched the refreshed National AI Strategy (NAIS 2.0) in December last year, we set ambitious goals, one of which involves tripling our AI practitioner pool to 15,000 over the next five years. Although it has only been four months,” Josephine Teo, Singapore’s Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-charge of Smart Nation and Cybersecurity said in a fire-side chat with Oracle CEO Safra Catz.

One of the media sessions with Oracle executives and industry experts.

“Singapore is making significant progress towards cultivating a skilled tech workforce capable of driving innovation and meeting industry demands. Partners like Oracle are crucial on this journey.” Teo concluded.

Romil Sharma, group head of technology and operations at Singlife, highlighted the importance of continuous upskilling and developing innovative solutions with platforms like Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.

Deepika Giri, associate vice president at IDC, emphasized the growing demand for AI talent in Asia and the critical need for companies to invest in digital skill development to avoid falling behind.

Oracle University leverages the expertise of world-leading technology practitioners to deliver comprehensive cloud-focused training and certifications. Millions of professionals have used the platform to develop valuable skills, contributing to Oracle’s strong track record in global workforce training.

E-TRUCK MARKET TO GROW 23.8% BY 2030: Decarbonizing global trucking

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

April 23, 2024

The EU e-Highway. (Photo by Patrizia Cacciotti courtesy of the Aachen University)

Carbon emission reduction to increase
as global trucking goes green

THE global landscape of commercial trucking is charging towards electrification. Currently it is diesel fuel that powers most of the trucks around the world, and traditional truck makers are slowly moving towards electrification.

The global electric commercial truck (ECT) market is slowly booming, driven mostly by stricter emissions regulations, government incentives, declining battery costs, and a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility within the logistics and transport sectors, the ECT landscape is poised for rapid expansion.

According to Markets&Markets, the electric truck market is expected to balloon from USD 70.9 billion in 2024 to a staggering USD 255.6 billion by 2030, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.8 percent.

Stringent government regulations on carbon emissions, particularly prevalent in Europe and North America, are compelling fleet operators to transition towards zero-emission vehicles. Subsidies and tax breaks specifically earmarked for ECT purchases further incentivize this shift. Technological advancements are playing a critical role as well. Rapid improvements in battery technology are steadily extending the range and lowering the total cost of ownership (TCO) for ECTs. Alongside these, advancements in electric motors, power electronics, and charging infrastructure are solidifying the case for ECT adoption.

A growing number of large corporations are setting ambitious environmental targets, including achieving carbon neutrality. The adoption of ECTs is a cornerstone strategy for achieving these goals within their logistics and transport operations. Consumer preferences are also evolving. Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable products and services, putting pressure on companies across the supply chain to minimize their carbon footprint. This trend indirectly fuels the adoption of ECTs.

The ECT market is a diverse landscape catering to a variety of applications and needs. Also traditional truck makers like DAF, Fleetwood, Hino, Isuzu, Iveco, Mercedes-Benz, Peterbilt, Scania and Volvo are converting its current platforms into electric, while the native EV makers like Tesla and BYD develop from a purely EV platform ensuring motors and batteries are best managed in the design.

The market is primarily segmented into light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty ECTs, with medium and heavy-duty trucks are anticipated to experience the most significant growth due to their prevalence in long-haul operations, where technological advancements are making electrification increasingly feasible.

If based on propulsion, it is battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are currently the dominant force within the ECT market. However, fuel cell electric trucks (FCEVs) are gaining traction, particularly for applications demanding exceptional range and rapid refueling capabilities.

Continued research into further increasing energy density, decreasing costs, and developing faster-charging batteries is key to improving ECT performance and eliminating range limitations. This ongoing evolution will enhance the practicality of commercial electric trucks.

Several innovative projects are shaping the future of electrified trucking

E-Highways: Pioneering projects like Sweden’s ‘Electric Road System’ (ERS) spearheaded by Scania, feature electric trucks using pantographs to draw power from overhead lines on highways. This technology enables long-range trucking while dynamically charging batteries, mitigating range anxiety for long-haul operations.

EV City Buses: Not a new concept but the evolution is increasing in both scope and technology. Companies like Vietnam’s VinFast and Poland’s Solaris are increasing their bus production. The VinBus eC34 for example is a 12-meter electric city bus with a range of up to 220 km on a single charge. With its fast-charging capabilities and modern design and amenities like Wi-Fi and passenger information systems, the VinBus has become a popular mode of transporation in Vietnam with its passenger capacity of up to 68 people.

Mega-chargers: High-powered DC fast chargers capable of delivering megawatts of power are under development to enable rapid charging for heavy-duty ECTs during rest periods. This minimizes downtime and optimizes operational efficiency for long-distance hauls.

Autonomous ECTs: Pilot projects are underway that combine electric trucks with self-driving technology. This has the potential to further increase efficiency, safety, and optimize long-haul operations by reducing driver fatigue and enabling continuous movement.

As mentioned earlier, Europe, North America, and China are spearheading ECT adoption due to robust government policies and incentives. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to emerge as a major growth market in the coming years, driven by economic expansion and growing environmental concerns.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite the promising outlook, the ECT market faces some hurdles:

Upfront Cost: ECTs typically carry higher upfront costs compared to their diesel counterparts. However, TCO calculations are becoming more favorable over time as battery costs decline and government incentives bridge the cost gap.

Charging Infrastructure: Limited availability of widespread and reliable charging infrastructure, especially for heavy-duty long-haul trucks, creates range anxiety and limits Significant investments are needed to expand charging networks and ensure reliable access for ECT operators.

Battery Technology: Continued research into further increasing energy density, decreasing costs, and developing faster-charging batteries is key to improving ECT performance and eliminating range limitations. This ongoing evolution will enhance the practicality of commercial electric trucks.

Real-World implementation

Tesla Semi: applications and impact: Tesla’s Semi has garnered significant attention and is now beginning to enter real-world operations. Companies like PepsiCo have begun integrating Tesla Semis into their fleets, exploring their capability in applications like beverage distribution. These early deployments will provide valuable data on the efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of heavy-duty electric trucks in real-world scenarios.

Scania in Europe: infrastructure and innovation: Scania’s work on electrifying trucking infrastructure in Europe is noteworthy. Alongside its development of ECTs, Scania is heavily involved in projects like the ‘Electric Road System’ (ERS) in Sweden. Integrating pantograph technology with highways allows for dynamic charging and extended range, potentially revolutionizing long-haul trucking.

BYD in China: urban Operations and expansion: BYD, a major player in the electric vehicle market, is making significant strides in the ECT sector within China. Focusing on applications such as urban delivery, drayage, and refuse collection, BYD’s electric trucks contribute to improving air quality in densely populated areas. They are a driving force behind China’s push towards electrified transport, particularly within cities. BYD buses are found in the US, mostly in the West Coast states.

The global electric commercial truck market stands at a pivotal moment. While certain challenges remain, the incentives for adoption are stronger than ever, driven by regulatory pressure, technological advancements, sustainability priorities, and potential economic advantages. The coming decade is likely to witness the rapid transformation of commercial trucking as electrification reshapes the industry landscape.

Oracle regional expansion supports PH digitalization

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

April 17, 2024

Chin Yin Loong, Oracle regional managing director of ASEAN and SAGE leads a fireside chat at Oracle CloudWorld Tour in Singapore. (Photo by author)

CLOUD and on-premise technology expert Oracle is ready to help the Philippines digitalize faster, with a second cloud region in Singapore which was announced last year and go live this year, apart from its complete Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) roster.

“We recognize both the need and the hesitation of companies to migrate to the Cloud. There is significant promise for accelerating digital transformation within the Philippines, and at Oracle have both the robust infrastructure and the resources to do it,” Chin Ying Loong, Oracle regional managing director of ASEAN and SAGE (South East Asia Growing Economies) said at an exclusive interview for Philippine media at the Oracle CloudWorld Tour 2024 in Singapore.

Chin said that for businesses in the Philippines, Oracle’s initiatives in the region translates to enhanced performance, security, and flexibility in data management.

“The Philippines has a burgeoning digital sector, and this new cloud region offers a powerful platform for businesses to scale their operations, embrace cutting-edge technologies like AI, and stay ahead of the competition,” Chin noted. He also said that AI is embedded in every level of Oracle’s infrastructure making it extremely easy and cost-efficient for companies to both migrate and to interoperate with their current systems.

Chin stressed that because of the Singapore cloud region businesses in the Philippines will benefit from reduced latency, ensuring faster and more reliable access to critical applications and data. Additionally, Oracle’s focus on security will bolster trust in cloud-based solutions, particularly in sectors like financial services where data protection is paramount.

“This security and data protection is inherent in every level of Oracle Cloud,” Chin emphasized.

A key advantage of Oracle’s expanded presence is the access it provides to advanced data and analytics tools. The Philippines, with its growing pool of data-savvy professionals, can leverage these tools to gain valuable business insights and optimize decision-making. Moreover, Oracle’s cloud solutions will empower local businesses to modernize their legacy systems and streamline operations, leading to improved efficiency and customer experiences.

Another advantage of Oracle’s improved systems and expanded regions–now totaling over 60 data centers globally–is compliance to policies governing data sovereignty. For example, in the EU where GDPR rules demand data staying in a particular territory, Oracle has the regional centers for this to happen.

When applicable, the replication critical data and applications across these locations, safeguarding operations in the event of disruptions. This enhanced resilience is vital in the SEA region prone to natural disasters.

Chin admitted that Oracle came “late in the game” for Cloud. Being an on-premise technology provider for the very longest time, it began its own journey beginning only in 2016 when it acquired cloud-native Netsuite–which was Oracle founder Larry Ellison’s early technology investments.

“Being late in the game is actually an advantage for us, because we immediately jumped into the developing the Cloud based on the many technologies we already have and learned from the mistakes of others. This allowed us quickly develop the next-generation cloud which we are implementing right now,” Chin clarified as he said that Oracle’s thrust aligns with the Philippines’ national goals of building a digital and green economy.

Oracle’s move strengthens Singapore’s position as a regional technology hub, but the benefits extend far beyond the city-state. As businesses in the Philippines embrace cloud solutions, they will drive technological advancements, create high-value jobs, and contribute to greater economic prosperity.

Singapore can lead ASEAN in EV adoption

Raymond G.B. Tribdino

April 16, 2024

A ChargeNow charging station in a parking lot in Singapore. There are 3,600 charging stations in the island nation (Photo from Motor Insurance Singapore)

Due to expensive ownership rules and strict emissions laws

COULD Singapore’s unique car ownership regulations position the city-state as an accelerated frontrunner in EV adoption within the Southeast Asia and wider Asia? While countries like Indonesia and Malaysia see hindered EV growth due to cheap fossil fuels and easy vehicle financing terms, Singapore’s Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system presents a distinct opportunity to fast-track EV adoption.

The COE system, a permit required to own and operate a vehicle in Singapore, is crucial. High COE prices, driven by a bidding system, have long made car ownership exceptionally expensive.

There are over a dozen Tesla Supercharger locations in Singapore. (Photo by author).

A recent survey by commissioned by Singapore’s Automotive Group Cycle & Carriage and published in on carbuyer.com.sg early this year shows that half of the drivers in Singapore want an EV as their next car. The survey also reveals that a substantial portion of Singapore’s ICE vehicle owners (67 percent) aim to sell or trade in their cars by 2025 with half of those surveyed seriously considering switching to EVs or hybrids.

This shift in preference isn’t merely influenced by environmental concerns. Younger car owners (20-49), higher-income brackets ($9,000+/month), women, and those with multi-car households show a strong inclination towards EVs. The availability of public charging stations is the top concern, followed by battery durability and safety.

As of May 2023, Singapore had 7,961 electric vehicles (EVs) registered, which is 1.2 percent of the country’s total vehicles. This represents a 50.5 percent increase from 2022, when 3,634 EVs were registered. In 2022, EVs made up almost 12 percent of all car sales.

Comparatively, based on the latest data (August 2023) the adoption rate for electric vehicles (EVs) in ASEAN was 0.7 percent in Thailand, 0.3 percent in Malaysia, and 0.1 percent in Indonesia.

This growing interest coincides with rising EV market share in Singapore. Despite slowing new car sales, EVs comprised 13 percent of registrations in 2023, a trend which could increase as expiring government incentives at the end of the year create a sense of urgency for potential EV buyers.

Singapore’s government is a driving force behind this change, targeting a phase-out of new ICE vehicle sales by 2030 and an ambitious plan of 60,000 public charging points across the island by the same year.

What differentiates Singapore is that the high upfront costs of car ownership, influenced by the COE, could narrow the price difference between an ICE vehicle and an EV. Consumers already primed for significant expenditure may be more open to embracing EVs as the cost gap shrinks relative to nations where car ownership is initially cheaper.

However, public perception remains a hurdle. Many still view EVs through a lens of limited awareness, and education efforts will be critical. Additionally, EVs inherently offer simpler mechanics compared to traditional ICE cars, a benefit that must be highlighted in consumer outreach.

Car dealerships in Singapore are taking note, actively expanding EV offerings to align with the shifting market. This indicates a strong belief that the potential EV boom in Singapore will outpace adoption rates in neighboring countries, precisely due to the pre-existing structure of car ownership restrictions.

Singapore’s commitment to a robust charging infrastructure network by 2030 positions it to overcome this significant hurdle faster than its neighbors. The city-state’s compact size and well-developed urban planning further support the feasibility of EV charging infrastructure compared to the geographical spread and logistical hurdles present in many other ASEAN countries.

Singapore’s COE system itself doesn’t guarantee accelerated EV adoption. It can however be used by government to push EV adoption. These unique rules can even allow transportation authorities to technically, allow only electric vehicles on the island nation’s roads.

Government incentives, continued investment in charging infrastructure, and combating public misconceptions about EVs are still necessary. However, the framework of pre-existing expense associated with car ownership provides a unique lever that could be used to push EV adoption beyond what is achievable in countries without similar regulatory structures.

Experts in the Singapore Automobile Association—

Across the ASEAN-6 nations, three major challenges hinder widespread EV adoption: high costs, limited charging infrastructure availability, and an underdeveloped EV supply chain. Singapore stands out as the most EV-ready among the ASEAN-6. This is due to growing consumer awareness and acceptance of EVs, an expanding charging network, increasing EV research and development, and robust government support expressed through both policies and incentives aimed at fostering infrastructure growth. Following Singapore in EV readiness, we find Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines, respectively.

“While the ASEAN-6 nations had been slow to adopt EVs, societal concerns over climate change are now driving a rapid shift in policies and consumer attitudes toward EVs. Financial incentives to improve the affordability of EVs have been widely adopted across these markets, accompanied by national programs and policies to improve sustainability and decarbonize the transport and energy infrastructures have helped to encourage consumer sentiments and adoption of EVs,” Susana Utama, EY-Parthenon Partner, Industrial and Value Creation at Ernst & Young Solutions LLP said.

Unlike Singapore, many ASEAN countries maintain relatively low barriers to car ownership. In Indonesia and Malaysia, the affordability of fossil fuels, coupled with accessible financing options, makes owning and operating traditional ICE vehicles attractive. While the upfront cost of an EV might still be higher in these countries, the comparatively low cost of ownership for an ICE vehicle can disincentivize transitioning to electric alternatives, even as environmental concerns grow.

According ASEAN vehicle adoption surveys conducted between 2020-2022, the percentage of consumers that preferred an EV as their next vehicle in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam fell below 5 percent. In Singapore and Thailand, that percentage was higher at 9 and 14 percent, respectively.

Furthermore, developing nations within ASEAN frequently face challenges in developing and maintaining robust electrical infrastructure. This can create uncertainty around the reliability of power grids to support widespread EV charging, especially outside major urban centers. While Singapore grapples with public perception and knowledge gaps around EVs, the issue becomes far more acute in countries where electrical grids themselves could prove unreliable under increased strain.

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