Bfm :: Tech Talk

Climate change poses an unprecedented threat to both Malaysia and the global community. In Malaysia, the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-induced events, such as the devastating floods in 2021 which displaced approximately 400,000 individuals, underscore the nation's vulnerability and the urgent need for robust adaptation and resilience strategies.We speak with Dr Rezal Khairi Ahmad, CEO of NanoMalaysia, to explore the urgent topic of climate resilience. With Malaysia facing significant challenges such as floods and landslides, it is crucial to understand the strategies and innovations driving the nation's efforts to adapt and thrive.

The Amazon Web Services “Finance Forward Series: Data, AI & Agility - Thriving In The New Insurance Landscape” event concluded on 14 May 2024, with a panel session featuring Gianluca Bernacchia, Senior Partner, Consulting & Analytics Asia, and Global C&A Insurance Community Lead with DXC Technology; and Nipun Grover, ASEAN Insurance Specialist with Amazon Web Services (AWS).The conversation explored the growing adoption of Generative AI (Gen AI) among insurers, the critical role of data quality, and strategies for managing personal identifiable information (PII). Key insights highlighted the importance of a human-in-the-loop approach to mitigate AI risks, effective execution and change management practices, and the complementary use of AI technologies to drive innovation and improve business outcomes in the insurance industry.This event was sponsored by Amazon Web Services.

In today’s green hued instalment, Rich and Matt delve into the exciting world of superconductors and the ongoing quest for room-temperature superconductivity, which could pave the way for a future of limitless clean energy.Matt gets particularly fired up by a groundbreaking alternative to pesticides, inspired by the ingenious traps of carnivorous plants. Yes. Spraying plants with glue. AI forces its way onto the agenda as they examine the controversy surrounding Scarlett Johansson’s beef with OpenAI over alleged copyright infringement, and examine the industry’s approach to protecting copyright owners and content creators. And finally, they put on their data heads to look at a new New York Times' report comparing Taylor Swift's popularity to that of music legends like The Beatles and Michael Jackson.

We speak with Dr. Ian Tan, an Associate Professor in Computer Science and the Head of the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia. We discuss the profound changes artificial intelligence (AI) is bringing to the world of programming and computer science. From Jensen Huang’s vision of a future where traditional programming languages are no longer necessary to the rise of low-code and no-code platforms, we explore how these advancements are reshaping educational curricula and the skill sets required for future software developers.We also touch on the concept of digital twins, the democratisation of programming, and the importance of ethical considerations in AI development. Dr. Tan shares his thoughts on how computer science education should evolve to prepare students for a world where AI plays an increasingly central role.

Join us as Dr. Mohammad Sherafatmand from Hydroleap discusses innovative solutions to Malaysia's critical water challenges. With the nation's ageing infrastructure and rising water demand set to increase by over 100% by 2050, the need for sustainable solutions is more urgent than ever.Dr. Sherafatmand explains how his company's proprietary electrochemical engineering technology offers an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to treat wastewater, which could play a crucial role in addressing Malaysia's water scarcity issues.We also explore successful models from Singapore, like the NEWater project, and discuss how Malaysia could adapt these practices to meet its unique water needs.Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Rich and Matt dive into the complex intersection of technology, security, and information warfare. Starting with TikTok's recent controversies and the US government's push to force its sale, the discussion explores the challenges of regulating social media platforms amidst geopolitical tensions.Moving to the battle against misinformation, an MIT study is using AI chatbots to counter conspiracy theories through factual, non-judgmental conversations - potentially reshaping deeply held beliefs. However, concerns arise about the potential misuse of AI models to spread tailored disinformation.The pair also covers a novel hacking technique that exploits processor speed fluctuations to extract sensitive data from air-gapped systems, highlighting the ever-evolving cat-and-mouse game between attackers and defenders.Image credit: This is an AI generated image.

We sit down with Sanjay Sarma, the newly appointed CEO and Dean of the Asia School of Business, to explore the transformative impact of AI on education. With AI technologies like ChatGPT on the rise, tertiary education is at a pivotal moment of change. Sarma will share his insights into how AI will influence educational practices, and the challenges and opportunities these technologies pose for future graduates. He brings a wealth of experience in open learning and academia to shed light on the future of learning in an AI-driven world. Discover how technology is reshaping education and redefining the roles of educators and students alike.

As we mark World Password Day, we reflect on recent findings that highlight a concerning trend in Malaysia – the persistence of weak passwords like ‘123456’ and ‘password’, which remain alarmingly popular. This year, the launch of Pangkalan Data Utama (Padu) has underscored the chaos weak passwords can create, shaking public confidence in critical national databases meant to improve government policies and subsidy distribution.

On this episode, Rich and Matt delve into the surprising potential benefits of anxiety. You might think anxiety is purely negative, but what if it could actually be harnessed as a powerful tool?Recent research suggests that reframing how we view anxiety could unlock its hidden advantages. Instead of seeing it as a hindrance, scientists are finding that the heightened awareness and energy that anxiety brings can help people make better decisions, boost performance, and even fuel positive change.From using eco-anxiety to drive climate activism, to channeling nervous energy into focused thinking before a big presentation, researchers are uncovering ways to turn anxiety's negatives into positives. We'll explore the science behind this counterintuitive idea and hear real-world examples of people putting anxiety's power to work.

During an M&A, companies are not only acquiring a new business, but they are also getting access to whole new business systems and data, which could easily become a significant asset or a substantial liability if not managed properly.In this episode, we are going to take a look at the world of M&A and how organisations can address potential data integration challenges before, during and after a M&A process.To help us break down the common pitfalls faced by businesses during data integration in M&A, the challenges and risks as well as why this is pivotal for businesses to take into consideration, we speak with Praveen Kumar, Vice President for Asia Pacific at Rocket Software.

Rich Bradbury and Matt Armitage discuss a recent open letter signed by 200 music stars, including Nicki Minaj, REM, and Stevie Wonder, urging technology companies to refrain from developing AI technologies that could replace human songwriters and artists. Do artists who have profited from their music but now fear AI encroachment on their livelihoods deserve our sympathy or is the profit of a few disguising the disenfranchisement of the many?

In this episode, we looked into the transformative impact of AI on the future of work, with guidance from KPMG Malaysia's Executive Director of Business Transformation, People & Change - and lead for human rights Sharmini Ann Jacob. We unpacked the key findings of KPMG's recent report, exploring how AI was integrated into daily operations, the critical role of upskilling, and the adaptations required from middle management in the face of rapid technological changes. Our conversation illuminated the challenge of balancing technological advancements with human values and the ethical considerations inherent in AI integration.

On this week's episode of weird science, Matt and Rich discussed killer worms (nope not those ones), super frequencies and tay-tay.

In an era where AI is increasingly integrated into every facet of our world, it has now emerged as a transformative force in redefining the mobile experience.Through a range of AI-powered features, including Live Translation, Chat Assist, Photo Assist, and Circle to Search with Google, we see the widespread influence of AI in shaping our daily lives and how we create, connect, and engage in leisure activities. Today's Tech Talk explores the Samsung Galaxy S24 Series, the first Galaxy AI phone. Discover the cutting-edge technology offered by the #GalaxyAI.Explore more at www.samsung.com.my

In this interconnected environment, the essence of connectivity transcends technological capabilities. It involves creating expansive networks, nurturing relationships, and encouraging collaborations that advance business objectives. This evolution positions the concept of connecting businesses of all sizes as a fundamental strategy in today's corporate world, essential for tapping into new opportunities and navigating the challenges of a constantly evolving business landscape.Today's discussion on "Connecting businesses of all sizes" will explore the significance of connectivity in transforming, elevating, driving growth and decoding the future for businesses of all sizes.Speaking with us is Goh Seow Eng, the Chief Executive Officer of Maxis.

In an era where digital transformation is not just a buzzword but a pivotal strategy for success, businesses are increasingly turning towards using technology to drive growth and scalability.Whether it is about harnessing the power of 5G connectivity, leveraging cloud computing for operational agility, or employing data analytics for better decision-making, technology is an enabler. It can help businesses navigate rapidly evolving consumer demands, streamline and optimise operations, enhance customer experiences, and even open new channels for revenue generation.Today's discussion on "Leveraging technology to scale and grow a business" aims to illuminate the various ways in which modern technologies can be harnessed to propel businesses forward.

We hear from Sara Faatz from Progress to discuss the pivotal role of human-centered design in technology. We explore how this approach, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility, is reshaping the way digital applications are developed, particularly for people with disabilities. We discuss the global need for inclusive digital solutions, the business implications of neglecting this aspect, and the strategies to implement effective human-centric design.

In this episode, Matt and Richard explore the complex relationship between technology and memory, focusing on the preservation of digital content after death and the concept of digital avatars.They look at concerns around the preservation of digital records for future generations, questioning what our current digital footprints will contribute to the historical record. And examine how society can ensure that digital formats are accessible and usable over time. As a mirror they look at grief tech, technology used in the grieving process, such as digital avatars that can recreate the appearance and personality of deceased individuals. They examine its ethical and psychological implications, questioning its impact on the grieving process and its potential benefits and harms.

Connectivity is pivotal in powering all Internet of Things, including the way we produce and distribute products. Imagine a world where every aspect of your supply chain is interconnected and optimised for peak efficiency.Join us in decoding the future of smart manufacturing and seamless logistics with Selva Rajasekaran, Head of Enterprise Products, and Kevin Lee, Head of SMB & Mid Market Segment at Maxis Business, on key initiatives driving the next industrial revolution.This is the second of a 4-part series with Maxis Business.

In the future, we might not be able to see the stars for the trees if wood becomes the material of choice for interstellar habitation. Plus wilful ignorance, scent location and self-driving cars.