Retail News CRM

Author: Mei Ling Tan

  • China’s Temu, Shein flood Vietnam with cheap goods

    China’s Temu, Shein flood Vietnam with cheap goods

    Chinese e-commerce platforms Temu and Shein, known for their steep discount strategies, are seeking to entice Vietnamese consumers by offering lavish promotions.

    Le Hung of Hanoi recently got a dash camera three days after ordering on Temu, all for VND71,000 (US$2.8).

    He had learned about Temu from a social media ad. After downloading the app he was told to create an account to get large discounts and shop immediately.

    “Normally, dash cameras cost several times more, so I gave it a try,” he says.

    If the total order is VND120,000 or more, shipping is free.

    Bich Phuong in HCMC recently received a 94% discount voucher from Temu for her first order.

    She bought two incense burner towers for VND50,000 each, half the price on Shopee. Temu owned by Chinese e-commerce giant PDD Holdings, launched in the U.S. in 2022 and has been expanding globally in recent years.

    It now sells directly to consumers in 82 countries and territories, with the latest markets being Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

    Chinse fashion brand Shein has also been active in Vietnam.

    Nhu Mai of HCMC was introduced to the platform by a colleague who used it to buy phone cases and clothes.

    “Purchases over VND200,000 qualify for free shipping,” she says.

    Other Chinese platforms like Taobao, 1688, Pinduoduo, and JD are facilitating direct purchases by Vietnamese consumers.

    Vietnam’s promising retail market and open policies are causing these large e-commerce players to flock to the country.

    A report by Singapore research firm Momentum Works said Vietnam was the fastest growing market last year with gross merchandise volume rising by nearly 53% from 2022.

    According to e-commerce data firm ECDB Vietnam ranks 21st globally and third in Southeast Asia after Indonesia and Thailand in terms of e-commerce market size with an estimated value of $23.8 billion this year.

    Over the next four years it is projected to grow by 12.6% annually to top $38.2 billion by 2028, it added.

    “Vietnam is becoming a lucrative market for investors, especially in cross-border e-commerce,” an official from department of e-commerce and digital economy, who asks not to be identified.

    Vietnam’s e-commerce market has grown by 25% annually, with over 61 million people shopping online and spending $336 a year on average, according to the department.

    Regulations require cross-border e-commerce platforms that use Vietnamese domains, display content in Vietnamese or process over 100,000 transactions annually from Vietnam must register with the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

    But the ministry acknowledges that not all platforms are following the rule.

    “The Ministry of Industry and Trade is increasing oversight and working with them to ensure platforms comply with the law and consumer rights are protected,” the official adds.

    Pressure on local retailers

    Platforms like Temu offer Vietnamese consumers direct access to cheap “made-in-China” goods, which is hurting domestic retailers, according to Tran Lam, an expert in online sales training.

    Temu, along with Shopee, Lazada and TikTok, is flooding Vietnam with low-priced Chinese goods, and local sellers are suffering, unable to compete on price.

    Some countries have are trying to prevent this influx of Chinese goods.

    Temu was banned in Indonesia earlier this month, and is facing increasing scrutiny in the E.U. and the U.S.

    The European Commission is considering imposing import duties on goods valued under EUR150 ($163).

    Last month Washington announced measures to close a loophole that allowed tax-free import of items valued at under $800.

    Frederic Neumann, co-head of Asia economics research at HSBC, says banning platforms like Temu and Shein in Vietnam might not be a good idea.

    These platforms benefit consumers by offering low prices, the competition they bring causes domestic producers to improve product quality, and the entry of foreign giants encourages investment in logistics, benefiting consumers overall, he points out.

    “Some countries take a hardline approach, but finding a way to integrate them into the ecosystem without causing too much disruption is the best outcome.”

    He says authorities must introduce detailed regulations to allow Vietnamese producers to participate on platforms like Temu, and ensure there are no tax discrepancies between local and foreign goods.

    For instance, Thailand previously did not impose import duties and VAT on goods costing under THB1,500, but since May this year all shipments are subject to a 7% VAT, thus protecting local production from cheap online imports, he says.

    “The key is creating a level playing field.”

    The Ministry of Industry and Trade official notes that managing cross-border e-commerce is a challenge for Vietnam and many other countries amid globalization.

    Ministries have called for tweaking customs operations to separate ordinary goods flows from online purchases and increase control over foreign sellers.

    They also want amendments to the VAT Law to ensure that products sold on digital platforms do not get any exemption.

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  • Airtel Collaborates with Kia India to Boost Kia Connect 2.0

    Airtel Collaborates with Kia India to Boost Kia Connect 2.0

    As part of the collaboration, Kia will leverage Airtel Business’ IoT Hub, which provides tailored IoT solutions across multiple networks, including 5G, 4G, NB-IoT, 2G, and satellite.

    The IoT Hub is equipped with advanced analytics capabilities and real-time data insights sourced from connected devices.

    The Kia Connect 2.0 platform aims to equip Kia vehicles with advanced connected features, including vehicle management, AI-powered voice commands, and remote control capabilities. It also boasts safety, security, and navigation functions.

    Hardeep Singh Brar, Senior Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, indicated that the automaker plans to introduce over-the-air (OTA) diagnostics as part of the transition to the Kia Connect 2.0 platform.

    He mentioned that this initiative is expected to unlock new possibilities for software-defined vehicles, with IoT technology becoming a fundamental aspect of Kia’s offerings.

    Airtel Business highlighted that its IoT platform offers comprehensive support for connected vehicle features, including connectivity, telematics, and infotainment. It also enables functionalities such as eSIMs, real-time remote monitoring, over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates, and safety features like SOS emergency calling and real-time connectivity during accidents or emergencies.

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  • National Policies and Projects Driving Fiber Expansion in APAC

    National Policies and Projects Driving Fiber Expansion in APAC

    With optical fiber networks now reaching the majority of households in many markets, the region’s fiber broadband subscriptions surpassed the 500-million mark at the end of 2022. This figure represents an impressive 85.1% share of the entire residential fixed-line broadband subscriber base, showcasing the scale of fiber adoption across the region.

    However, despite this extensive network reach, fiber broadband service take-up rates in most markets remain below 50%, indicating that there is still considerable potential for growth and increased utilization.

    Mainland China leads the way in fiber deployment, and boasted 59.6 million kilometers of installed fiber lines at the end of 2022. This extensive network has positioned China as a global leader in fiber infrastructure, and the country’s commitment to expanding broadband access is set to continue.

    Kagan estimates that by 2027, fiber broadband subscribers will account for at least 90% of all broadband users in China. The push for fiber expansion has been spearheaded by China Mobile Ltd., which alone deployed around 19.4 million kilometers of fiber cables. These efforts form part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure ubiquitous broadband access, which will be critical for supporting China’s digital economy and future technologies like 5G and IoT.

    China’s fiber deployment strategy is supported by multiple national policies and initiatives. The Broadband China Strategy (2013) set the foundation for expanding fiber-optic networks, focusing on increasing broadband coverage in rural and underserved areas. China’s 5G and fiber network integration aims to provide 1,000 Mbps speeds to all counties and township seats by 2025, enhancing connectivity across the country. The East-to-West Computing Resource Transfer Project is strengthening data transmission between regions by expanding fiber networks. The China Optical Fiber and Cable Development Plan, part of the “13th Five-Year Plan,” is enhaning the manufacturing and deployment of fiber-optic cables.

    In India, the Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) market is experiencing rapid growth, led by companies such as Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. and Bharti Airtel Ltd. Within two years of its launch, Reliance Jio became the market leader, connecting over 7.6 million residences to its FTTH network by the end of 2022. Bharti Airtel, the second-largest player in the market, expanded its FTTH services to over 500 new towns during the same period.

    This surge in fiber expansion aligns with India’s Digital India initiative, which aims to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. Government support and favorable policies have been instrumental in accelerating the deployment of fiber infrastructure in urban and semi-urban areas, though rural penetration remains a challenge.

    The BharatNet project, spearheaded by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), aims to connect 250,000 gram panchayats with high-speed internet through fiber optic cables, supporting governance, e-services, and digital inclusion across rural areas. Furthermore, the National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP) 2018 emphasizes fiberization to boost 5G readiness and the overall telecommunications framework. Make in India supports the domestic manufacturing of fiber optic equipment, while the Smart Cities Mission ensures fiber-based infrastructure is utilized in urban areas for smart city services.

    Japan and South Korea, which were among the first countries to adopt nationwide fiber broadband services in the early 2000s, continue to lead in terms of advanced fiber technologies. The focus in these mature markets has shifted to improving network speeds and power efficiency in long-distance signal transmission.

    Despite the sophistication of its fiber infrastructure, Japan faces challenges in expanding coverage to remote areas due to geographical barriers and natural disasters. To address these issues, companies like NTT and KDDI have partnered with SpaceX to explore wireless space broadband solutions for hard-to-reach regions.

    In Japan, the Infrastructure Development Plan for a Digital Garden City Nation (revised in 2023) aims to reach 99.90% fiber-optic coverage by 2027, focusing on bridging regional disparities in broadband access. The Society 5.0 initiative, a core element of Japan’s vision for future digital society, emphasizes integrating advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and quantum computing with fiber infrastructure, aiming to solve societal problems while fostering economic growth. The Integrated Innovation Strategy 2022 supports the expansion of fiber networks to facilitate the creation of smart cities, enhance communication systems, and further digitalization efforts across industries. The 6th Science, Technology, and Innovation Basic Plan underscores the importance of infrastructure improvements, particularly for a highly digital and data-driven economy.

    South Korea has long been a global leader in fiber deployment, driven by comprehensive policies and initiatives to ensure universal high-speed broadband access. Key policies include the Korean Information Infrastructure (KII), launched in the late 1990s, which laid the groundwork for widespread fiber networks. This was followed by the IT839 Strategy, which focused on broadband convergence, establishing an environment conducive to the development of high-speed networks, fiber expansion, and 5G readiness. More recently, the Giga-KOREA Project aims to deliver gigabit-speed internet that is 40 times faster across the country. South Korea’s Broadband Convergence Network (BcN) policy is another significant initiative, enabling ultra-high-speed broadband connections nationwide and promoting infrastructure sharing between telecom operators, reducing costs and ensuring competitiveness in fiber deployment.

    Southeast Asian countries are also actively pursuing fiber expansion, with national policies playing a crucial role in accelerating deployment.

    In Indonesia, for instance, Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk (Telkom Indonesia) upgraded copper-based connections to fiber in 459 cities and districts by the end of 2022. However, broadband penetration remains low in rural and remote areas, where Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and satellite solutions are often used to extend coverage. The collaboration between Kacific Broadband Satellites Ltd., PT Bis Data Indonesia (BIGNET), and PT Primacom Interbuana (Primacom) to build 2,500 satellite internet sites illustrates efforts to overcome these connectivity challenges.

    Indonesia’s fiber deployment efforts are anchored by several significant policies and initiatives. The Palapa Ring Project is a key government-led initiative that aims to establish a nationwide fiber optic backbone, connecting remote regions and providing reliable broadband services. Another initiative is the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2020-2025, which promotes broadband expansion, particularly targeting public facilities like schools and healthcare centers to boost e-education, e-health, and e-government.

    The Philippines has made significant strides in fiber expansion, with PLDT Inc. and Converge ICT Solutions Inc. leading the charge. PLDT reached 17.2 million homes by early 2023, while Converge ICT passed 15.1 million.

    In the Philippines, the National Broadband Plan (NBP), spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), aims to establish a nationwide government-owned broadband network. The plan is supported by the National Fiber Backbone (NFB) project, which was launched in 2024. Phase 1 of the NFB spans 1,245 kilometers and connects various provinces, Metro Manila, and eco-zones, enhancing government operations and expanding internet access. The entire NBP, set for completion by 2026, will increase internet penetration from 33% to 65% and lower connectivity costs. To further accelerate deployment, the DPWH Policy on

    In Malaysia, the Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) initiative, launched by the government, aims to enhance digital infrastructure across the country. By the end of 2022, the project had connected 7.7 million premises to fiber, improving the broadband landscape. Moreover, Malaysia’s National Fiberization and Connectivity Plan (NFCP), launched in September 2019, aims to provide robust and affordable digital connectivity nationwide with a budget of MYR 21.6 billion (approximately USD 5.16 billion).

    Similarly, Singapore’s Nationwide Broadband Network, supported by NetLink NBN Trust, has reached over 1.5 million households, offering fiber plans with speeds up to 2.5 Gbps. Singapore’s Digital Connectivity Blueprint (DCB) aims to maintain world-class digital infrastructure and includes objectives like doubling submarine cable landings in the next decade and achieving seamless 10 Gbps domestic connectivity within five years. The Next Generation Nationwide Broadband Network (Next Gen NBN) advocated for high-speed fiber connectivity, and required the network to cover 95% of homes and businesses by 2012, which it achieved ahead of schedule. Furthermore, the SMEs Go Digital Program encourages small and medium enterprises to adopt digital solutions, including fiber-based services.

    Thailand’s Digital Thailand policy has also facilitated significant fiber expansion, with ISPs like True Corp. and Advanced Info Service PCL connecting more than 23 million households in 2022. Thailand’s National Broadband Network (NBN) is a significant initiative aimed at delivering high-speed internet access nationwide, particularly targeting affordability and coverage for all citizens. Additionally, the 8-Step Strategy unveiled by the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (ONDE) in 2023 seeks to accelerate digital transformation by integrating various sectors, including fiber expansion and deployment.

    In Vietnam, the three major ISPs—VNPT, Viettel., and FPT Telecom—collectively reached 18 million fiber subscribers by year-end in 2022. The country’s fiber infrastructure uses advanced technologies such as Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) and Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) to handle high data volumes, supporting the growth of digital services.

    Vietnam has implemented several national policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing fiber deployment across the country. The Decision No. 977/QĐ-BTTTT, initiated in June 2024, outlines the Strategy for Developing Vietnam’s International Fiber Optic Cable System with ambitious goals, including the activation of new submarine cable routes by 2027 and a total designed capacity of at least 350 Tbps by 2030. Additionally, Vietnam’s Smart City project in Hanoi aims to leverage fiber technology to enhance urban infrastructure, improve services, and promote digital governance, ultimately fostering a more connected society.

    Challenges and the Road Ahead

    While APAC has made remarkable progress in fiber expansion, challenges remain. Rural and geographically isolated areas continue to pose difficulties for fiber deployment due to high costs and logistical issues. To bridge these gaps, countries are exploring hybrid solutions, including Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), satellite, and even space-based broadband technologies. As governments continue to prioritize broadband infrastructure development, the region is well-positioned to achieve higher fiber adoption rates and drive digital transformation.

    As evident in the above, national policies have been pivotal in shaping the fiber landscape in APAC, and sustained efforts will be crucial in a

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  • Apple Music will let you relive a concert you have been to

    Apple Music will let you relive a concert you have been to

    I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite things about attending live music performances is the element of surprise. Besides the music itself, there’s an art to how artists choose the order of their songs. Now, Apple Music is recognizing that.

    A new feature allows artists to create playlists featuring the songs they performed at their recent shows. This should make it a breeze for you to relive the concert you just attended and jog your memory with some good (fingers crossed) vibes. Plus, you can check out all the tracks an artist plans to perform before catching them on tour.

    Now, while this feature is aimed at artists, I think it also brings some perks for us regular users. For example, when artists put together a setlist and share it on social media to announce their upcoming tours or concerts, it makes staying in the loop a whole lot easier. Plus, it’s a great way to reconnect with someone you experienced the live show with.
    If you’re an artist eager to try out this new feature on Apple Music and create a Set List on your artist page, head over to Artist Content and scroll down to Artist Playlists. Here’s how to kick things off:

    1. Click the (+) button next to Artist Playlists or the Create a Set List button if you haven’t made one yet.
    2. Choose the type of show (concert, tour, or residency) and enter an event name.
    3. Add an event: If you’ve linked your Bandsintown account with Shazam, you can select from upcoming events. If not, connect your Apple Music artist page to Bandsintown or manually enter your event details, including location and date.
    4. Set a publish date for the playlist, ensuring it’s at least one day in the future. The playlist will be published based on your local time. Click Continue when ready.
    5. Use the search function to add tracks to your Set List, either by song name or by pasting an Apple Music link. Include the songs performed during the show, and adjust the order as needed. Click Publish when done.

    You can create multiple Set Lists for different shows, which will display by popularity on your Apple Music artist page and Shazam pages. However, keep in mind that any playlists managed by Apple are not editable.

    In other Apple Music news, Apple recently gave Apple Music Classical a classic twist by introducing new album booklets. Before that, with the rollout of iOS 18, Apple Music launched a personalized New tab to help with music discovery.

  • Amazon confirms the Kindle Oasis will be discontinued

    Amazon confirms the Kindle Oasis will be discontinued

    Fresh on the heels of the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition announcement, Amazon confirmed that it’s retiring its last Kindle e-reader to feature physical buttons, the Kindle Oasis.

    The information doesn’t really come as a surprise considering the e-reader made its debut on the market more than eight years ago. What’s surprising is that many of those who bought the e-reader when it was launched are still using it. There’s an entire thread on reddit where Kindle Oasis users express their love for Amazon’s e-reader.

    Unfortunately, Amazon’s rep Devon Corvasce told The Verge that “once current inventory of Kindle Oasis sells out online and in stores, we will not restock the device. Today, all of our devices are touch-forward which is what our customers are comfortable with.”

    The Kindle Oasis can no longer be bought from Amazon, as the e-reader’s page mentions the product is “currently unavailable,” and that’s probably how it will stay until all stock is depleted. The Oasis will probably be completely removed from Amazon’s website in just a couple of months.

    After its original launch back in 2016, the Kindle Oasis received some updates in the form of two new versions, which landed in 2017 and 2019, respectively. Since then, Amazon focused completely on releasing touch-only Kindle models, which made the Oasis rather obsolete.

    Still, it would have been nice for Amazon to have at least one Kindle model that features physical buttons in its portfolio, as many customers prefer the Oasis over the newer models.

    Thankfully, if you’re more of a traditional person who prefers their e-readers have physical buttons, there are plenty of alternatives from the competition like the Kobo Libra, Kobo Sage, Pocketbook Verse Pro, Onyx Boox Page or the Hi Reader Pro.

    Some of these are better than others, but what’s important is that e-readers with physical buttons are still a thing, despite Amazon’s decision to discontinue its only model with this specific perk.

  • PLDT’s VITRO, HGC Partner to Strengthen Philippine Data Center Connectivity

    The partnership includes HGC’s integration into the VITRO Partner Network (VPN), a collaboration led by PLDT Enterprise that brings together carriers, system integrators, and technology firms. This network allows partners to integrate VITRO’s infrastructure into their services seamlessly.

    Gary F. Ignacio, VITRO’s Chief Commercial Officer, expressed that the collaboration will open up new opportunities for VITRO and extend its reach by leveraging HGC’s global network.

    This enables HGC to extend its presence to the new VITRO Sta. Rosa Data Center, which PLDT describes as the Philippines’ first and largest hyperscale-grade facility. HGC will deliver connectivity and telecom services to hyperscalers and enterprises co-located at VITRO Sta. Rosa, offering expanded reach and more connectivity choices.

    HGC also stated that the agreement strengthens its Point of Presence (PoP) in the Philippines and fosters an ecosystem that supports further expansion of its data center connectivity. This move reinforces HGC’s position within the country’s rapidly evolving technology and digital infrastructure landscape.

    Michael De Castro, HGC’s first Vice President for In-Country Project Investment and President of HGC’s Digital Well Infrastructure Corp (DWIC), noted that the partnership aims to achieve HGC’s goal of delivering its globally recognized quality of service.

    He explained that this will be accomplished by combining VITRO’s advanced infrastructure with HGC’s extensive premium fiber-optic network in Luzon, including Metro Manila and key areas of Mindanao, along with th

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  • Google Flights introduces a new “Cheapest” tab for budget-conscious travelers

    Google Flights has launched a new “Cheapest” tab to help travelers find the most affordable flights, even if it means sacrificing some convenience. The new feature comes as October is considered the ideal time to book holiday flights for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

    Google Flights already offers various ways to save on travel, but this new feature aims to make finding the lowest prices even easier. The “Cheapest” tab will display options with the lowest fares, which may include longer layovers, self-transfers, or booking different legs of the trip through multiple airlines or booking sites.

    The new “Cheapest” tab complements the existing “Best” tab, which prioritizes a balance of price and convenience. While the “Best” tab shows the most convenient flights based on factors like travel time and number of stops, the “Cheapest” tab focuses solely on finding the absolute lowest fares, regardless of the potential inconveniences.

    This new feature is beneficial for travelers who are flexible with their travel plans and prioritize cost savings over convenience. By using the “Cheapest” tab, travelers can explore a wider range of options and potentially find significant discounts on their airfare.

    Google’s latest insights indicate that the cheapest fares for U.S. domestic trips around Thanksgiving and Christmas are usually available in October, which makes this the perfect time to roll out this tool. The new addition will effectively enable travelers to easily compare prices and find the best deals for their holiday travel plans. Rollout should begin globally over the next two weeks, wherever Google Flights is available —  this means both on mobile and the web.
    This update will provide travelers with an additional tool to make informed decisions and find the most affordable flights for their next trip, and it could be a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers like myself. The ability to prioritize price over convenience opens up a whole new world of possibilities for finding affordable flights. I’m eager to try out the “Cheapest” tab and see how much I can save on my future travels.
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  • Changi Airport Group opens refurbished air logistics facility Changi Nexus One in Changi Airfreight Centre

    Changi Airport Group opens refurbished air logistics facility Changi Nexus One in Changi Airfreight Centre

    Changi Airport Group (CAG) announced the opening of Changi Nexus One, a refurbished air logistics facility within Changi Airfreight Centre (CAC) spanning close to 8,000 sqm of warehousing space. Strategically located with direct apron connectivity, Changi Nexus One is designed as a facility for two tenants, capable of expeditious cargo handling and will serve the special needs of air logistics players looking to expand their global airfreight operations through Singapore.

    This new facility will increase Changi Airport’s logistics warehouse capacity, ensuring that Singapore’s Changi air cargo hub can meet the growing demand for air cargo services, prior to the completion of the Changi East Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in the mid-2030s. CAG’s investment in Changi Nexus One demonstrates its commitment to providing world-class facilities for air logistics players, augmenting Changi’s role as a leading regional air cargo transshipment hub. The new tenants at Changi Nexus One are expected to bring new air logistics handling capabilities, as well as adopt automation and smart technology in their operations, further enhancing Changi Airport’s air cargo management capabilities.

    A key partner taking up space in this facility is Expeditors, the world’s seventh largest air freight forwarding company, which is looking to expand its air logistics activities in Singapore.

    Mr Barthul Hoefnagels, Regional Vice President – Malaysia, Singapore & Indonesia said, “The new facility in Changi Airfreight Centre will enhance our end-to-end efficiency and reliability through fewer touch points, allowing Expeditors to further enhance our specialised cargo handling capabilities for pharmaceutical, aviation, semiconductor and other industries, and better serve the in-transit needs of our global customers. We are excited to expand our collaboration with Changi Airport Group to drive further value to our customers.”

    New benchmark for green building practices

    In line with Changi Airport’s commitment to sustainability, Changi Nexus One is a pioneer in several areas. It is the first building within CAC, and the first-of-its-kind in Changi, to achieve both Green Mark Platinum and the Green Mark Platinum Positive Energy Building (PEB) certifications by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).

    The Green Mark Platinum PEB certification is issued to buildings with the highest environmental performance. To achieve this, Changi Nexus One has demonstrated that it is a BCA super-low energy building that achieves more than 60% energy savings and generates more renewable energy than it consumes. Besides the ongoing installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) system airport wide including at the Cargo Agent Buildings, solar PV panels will also be installed at Changi Nexus One by the first quarter of 2025 to provide on-site renewable energy. By 2028, Changi Nexus One will generate enough on-site solar power to offset the total building energy consumption by over 140%. This surplus of renewable energy will be channelled to other airport facilities to sustain Changi Airport’s other operations.

    Additionally, this project is the first in Singapore’s private sector to adopt the collaborative contracting method. This new contracting method recommended by BCA is an innovative approach which fosters greater collaboration between project stakeholders, leading to improved efficiency. It focuses on risk management, which involves all parties assessing and evaluating potential project threats in advance, resulting in completion of works ahead of schedule, risk sharing and cost savings.

    Mr. Lim Ching Kiat, CAG’s Executive Vice President for Air Hub and Cargo Development said, “The opening of Changi Nexus One marks a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen Changi Airport’s position as a global air cargo hub. Through enhancing our cargo handling capacity and capabilities, we aim to stay at the forefront of the air cargo industry, putting Changi in a good position to capture growth from key cargo players, as well as growth in the region. Working closely with our tenants, we aim to bring in new cargo opportunities and expand into new markets.

    “As we strive to maintain Changi’s continued success as a thriving air cargo hub, we also constantly challenge ourselves to carry out our development works and operations according to our sustainability goals.”

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  • Grab Vietnam chief says company ‘stronger than ever’

    Grab Vietnam chief says company ‘stronger than ever’

    Grab is now “stronger than ever” after 10 years of operations in Vietnam, its country chief said in the wake of competitor Gojek’s exit from the market.

    It now has more users and partners than ever, Alejandro Osorio, managing director of Grab Vietnam, said at the company’s recent 10th year celebration.

    They number in the millions, and tens of millions of transactions are conducted each month, he said. The Singaporean company entered Vietnam in 2014 as GrabTaxi, and has since grown to offer 15 services in 50 localities.

    The ride-hailing market has also seen many other competitors like Uber, Tada and Baemin come and go and now only Be and Xanh SM remain.

    Grab remains the predominant player with a two-third market share, according to research firm Q&Me. In the food delivery business, Grab faces competition from Be and ShopeeFood.

    Many competitors entered the market and spent a great deal of resources on discounts, but did not achieve sustainability, Osorio said referring to their exit.

    Grab on the other hand focused on giving users a number of reasons to open its app, not just for booking a ride, he said.

    Food, delivery, shopping, and other services help maintain a loyal group of customers and reduce the cost of acquiring new ones, he said.

    This complicated network of services helps create success and is difficult to duplicate, he said.

    Grab has also changed its discount strategy, and only has promotions when necessary instead of offering many, he said.

    It also works with partners such as restaurants and payment companies, and so the discounts come from them and not its pockets, allowing it to maintain a price advantage, he explained.

    However, it continues to pour “large investments and efforts” into improving tech solutions, he said, pointing to the new features it has been offering such as personalizing users’ experience and allowing them to order as a group as examples of this.

    But what competitors remain are not making things easy.

    ShopeeFood is backed by e-commerce giant Shopee, while Be and Xanh SM are widely supported since they are Vietnamese businesses.

    Xanh SM’s all-electric fleet also aligns with the government’s plans for future development.

    Le Hong Hiep, a fellow at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, told the Vietnamese media in June that Xanh SM has the potential to threaten the dominance of Grab if it maintains current growth rates.

    But Osorio said Grab believes competition is positive and fosters development.

    The company is considering helping drivers switch to environment-friendly vehicles, and combining food delivery orders to reduce travel for drivers, he added.

    Vietnam’s ride-hailing and food delivery market was estimated at US$3 billion last year and is expected to reach $10 billion by 2030, according to a 2023 report by Google, Temasek and Bain & Co.

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  • Vietnam launches commercial 5G services

    Vietnam launches commercial 5G services

    Vietnam’s first commercial 5G services were launched in all localities Tuesday morning by military-owned telecom giant Viettel, with subscription starting at VND135,000 (US$5.4) a month.

    The company announced at the launching event that it has installed 6,500 base transceiver stations in all 63 provinces and cities, with speeds of up to 1 gigabyte per second, or 10 times that of current 4G services.

    Vietnam lagged behind the world in launching 2G, 3G and 4G services, but now it has matched other countries in offering commercial 5G, and is among five countries that can produce 5G equipment, said Tao Duc Thang, Viettel chairman and CEO.

    “A new future of mobile services begins today.”

    Viettel offers 11 prepaid plans starting from VND135,000 a month and 8 postpaid plans from VND200,000 for individual customers.

    Users with 5G-enabled devices can subscribe to the service without changing their SIM cards.

    Viettel has also developed 130 different usage scenarios suited to the need of corporates and organizations in all industries, with cloud, artificial intelligence, and internet of things features available.

    Viettel began 5G trials in 2019 on the 4G platform and earlier this year tested services on a standalone 5G network.

    5G, with ultra-low latency, is expected to support services that demand immediate responses, such as self-driving cars, remote surgeries, smart factory controls, and virtual reality classrooms.

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  • You will soon be able to easily move your passkeys between password managers

    You will soon be able to easily move your passkeys between password managers

    The FIDO Alliance, a consortium dedicated to creating open standards for authentication, has announced a significant step towards a passwordless future. In a recent press release, the organization unveiled draft specifications that aim to standardize the secure exchange of passkeys and other credentials across different providers. This means you’ll be able to easily move your passkeys between different services, like password managers or online accounts, without compromising security.

    Big names like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Samsung are all on board with this new system, and they’re working together to make sure it’s easy for everyone to use seamlessly across different devices and platforms. Why is this a big deal? Well, passkeys are already more secure than passwords. They protect users from phishing scams and make logging in much easier. With more than 12 billion online accounts already using passkeys, this new development is set to make the internet a safer and more convenient place.

    Recognizing their importance, the FIDO Alliance is working to give users more control and making online security less of a headache. To start, they want to make sure you can easily switch between different services without having to worry about your passwords falling into the wrong hands.

    p until now, there wasn’t a universal way to share passkeys securely. That’s where the FIDO Alliance comes in, as they have introduced two draft specifications to address this challenge: the Credential Exchange Protocol (CXP) and the Credential Exchange Format (CXF). These establish a standardized framework for securely transferring credentials, including passwords, passkeys, and more, between credential managers. The transfer process is designed to ensure that sensitive information is not exposed and remains protected by default.

    Once these specifications are finalized and standardized, they will be made openly accessible for credential providers to implement. This will empower users with a secure and effortless experience when switching between providers, should they choose to do so.

    The FIDO Alliance is actively encouraging community review and feedback on the working draft specifications, emphasizing that they are not yet intended for implementation, as they may undergo further revisions. However, they encourage those that choose to be involved, to take a gander at the published drafts and provide feedback through their GitHub repository.

    As someone who juggles a lot of online accounts, the idea of easily and securely moving my passkeys between services sounds like a step forward. I’m really looking forward to seeing how, once implemented, this new system simplifies my digital life and makes online security less of a chore. It’s great to see these major tech companies working together to make the internet a safer and more user-friendly place.

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  • Google Messages working on fixing a privacy concern with its Profile discovery feature

    Google Messages working on fixing a privacy concern with its Profile discovery feature

    Google Messages is now working to fix a Profile discovery privacy risk that has been around since Google introduced the feature last year. The popular RCS messaging app for Android has been gaining popularity recently and more and more companies are choosing it over other messenger apps.

    With the rise in popularity, Google Messages is evolving to fulfill the needs and expectations of users better. Back in November 2023, Google announced Profiles, which allowed people to find other profiles.

    The feature itself isn’t available to everybody yet (it’s been rolling out to users somewhat sporadically), and now, the folks at Android Authority have discovered that Google is working on fixing privacy concerns around profile discovery.

    Digging into the code of Google Messages v20241010 beta, Android Authority found changes that would give users more control over who can see their name and profile picture. Right now, as part of the Profile Discovery feature, you can choose to use the name from your profile or a short name and show or hide your profile picture.

    But when this update becomes official, you will have new options inside Google Messages for profile privacy and visibility. Here are the sharing options you will likely get for your profile photo and your name:

    • People you message: Most likely, this option will show your name and profile photo to people you have messaged, whether or not they’re in your contact list. This most likely would be what a “Public” profile on social media is. This is the feature you’d use if you want to be found by people when they look up your number through Profile Discovery.
    • Only your contacts: Straightforwardly, this means your name and profile photo will be shown only to people in your contacts.
    • No one: Likely, your name and photo will be hidden from anyone.

    Reportedly, these new options will be shown to you when you log into Google Messages for the first time once the update has been rolled out. You will be able to change this setting through the “Your profile” option in the account switcher after that as well.

    For now, it’s not clear whether choosing the “No one” option means you turn off profile discovery features. However, offering these options is a great way to ensure that privacy-focused individuals will not be concerned with Profile Discovery features.

    For the moment, keep in mind that you still cannot set a different profile picture or name for Google Messages, and the app takes the picture and name from your Google account. Hopefully, Google will work on that feature too.

    After almost a full year after the Profiles announcement though, the feature isn’t rolled out to everyone just yet. It’s great though that Google is fixing privacy concerns ahead of a wider rollout.

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  • Budget e-commerce platform Temu enters Vietnam, Brunei after Indonesia ban

    Budget e-commerce platform Temu enters Vietnam, Brunei after Indonesia ban

    Chinese discount shopping site Temu has entered Vietnam and Brunei after facing a ban in Indonesia.

    But its entry into Vietnam was rushed, seeing as the Temu website in the country was initially only available in English.

    It also only accepts payments through credit cards and Google Pay, and no local digital wallets.

    The platform said shipping to Vietnam takes four to seven days, much faster than the five to 20 days for Malaysia or the Philippines, according to Singapore-based research firm Momentum Works.

    Meanwhile, Temu’s Brunei site is available in both English and that country’s official Malay language.

    Vietnam was the fastest-growing e-commerce market in Southeast Asia with a 53% year-on-year growth in gross merchandise value last year while Brunei has one of the world’s highest standards of living.

    The move to expand into these two Southeast Asian countries came after the site was banned from operating in Indonesia earlier this month.

    Budi Arie Setiadi, the country’s Minister of Communications and Informatics, said on Oct. 1 that the ban is in place to protect local micro, small and medium enterprises from being disrupted, as quoted by CNA.

    Indonesia has also requested Google and Apple to block Temu from their Indonesia app stores to prevent it from being downloaded, Reuters reported.

    The country’s e-commerce industry is projected to grow from US$62 billion in 2023 to approximately US$160 billion by 2030, according to a report by Google, Singapore state investor Temasek Holdings and consultancy Bain & Co.

    Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Temu is an online marketplace offering a variety of products at heavily discounted prices. It is owned by Chinese e-commerce giant PDD Holdings and currently operates in over 80 countries and territories.

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  • Reliance Jio Pushes for Satellite Spectrum Auction

    Reliance Jio Pushes for Satellite Spectrum Auction

    In a letter to Minister Scindia, Reliance Jio highlighted the Supreme Court’s ruling in the 2G case, warning that the TRAI’s omission of questions regarding a level playing field could result in potential legal disputes.

    The letter from Reliance Jio was prompted by the TRAI’s rejection of its request to include questions about the level playing field between terrestrial network providers, which use ground-based towers for mobile services and satellite communication service providers.

    The TRAI previously reported to have initiated a consultation process that aimed to determine the methodology and pricing for assigning spectrum to satellite companies, enabling them to offer calling, messaging, broadband, and other services in India.

    In its letter, Reliance Jio pointed out that several satellite communication companies, including Elon Musk’s Starlink, Amazon’s Kuiper, Bharti Group-backed OneWeb, Eutelsat, and the SES-Jio joint venture, have shown interest in offering their services in India. This development poses a direct challenge to land-based mobile networks. Consequently, Reliance Jio asserted that a fair and transparent auction system for satellite services is crucial to ensure equitable competition in the market.

    Reliance Jio noted that while the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) acknowledged the necessity for a level playing field in its reference to the TRAI, the consultation paper released by the TRAI seemed to neglect this important concern. Reliance Jio expressed that it believes the TRAI has prematurely closed the discussion without seeking input from stakeholders.

    The telecom operator further stated that the consultation paper did not pose relevant questions regarding the level playing field, preventing stakeholders from expressing their views.

    “Such a consultation exercise could result in recommendations that disregard this vital issue of level playing field. Although we have raised this issue with TRAI and asked that the consultation paper be revised to address the level playing field issues between satellite and terrestrial networks, our request has not been considered favorably,” Reliance Jio said.

    The government, under the Telecommunications Act 2023, has chosen to allocate spectrum for specific satellite services through an administrative process instead of using an auction.

    Reliance Jio emphasized that a comprehensive analysis of technological advancements, market demand and supply, and the economic feasibility of conducting spectrum auctions was not carried out by the DoT or the TRAI prior to the decision to allow administrative allocation for satellite phone services.

    Reliance Jio further stated that, in accordance with the clear legislative intent and the DoT’s acknowledgment of the need for a level playing field between satellite and terrestrial services, the TRAI should conduct a thorough assessment of technological advancements, market demand and supply, as well as the technical and economic feasibility of auctions for satellite services.

    Reliance Jio warned that failing to do so could render the TRAI’s consultation process and subsequent recommendations subject to legal scrutiny. The company highlighted that the Honorable Supreme Court of India, in various judgments, has underscored the importance of a transparent and fair mechanism for spectrum assignment, rejecting the ‘first-come-first-served’ method.

    “Any preferential treatment of satellite-based services, whether under the guise of emerging technologies or global precedents, should be firmly rejected. Spectrum assignment policies must align with established legal mandates, including the Supreme Court’s directive on adopting a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory approach,” Reliance Jio added.

  • UiPath and Indosat Partner to Train Indonesians in Enterprise Automation

    UiPath and Indosat Partner to Train Indonesians in Enterprise Automation

    The goal of this initiative is to prepare Indonesia’s digital talents to support the country’s transformation into a global hub for AI and automation talent. As part of this collaboration, UiPath will enhance Indosat’s IDCamp curriculum by incorporating enterprise automation training. The program will offer courses on enterprise automation, allowing participants to earn UiPath Certified Professional credentials.

    Daniel Dines, the Founder and CEO of UiPath, stated, “As Indonesia aims to become a global economic powerhouse, it is crucial to strengthen workforce resilience and develop digital skills. UiPath is thrilled to partner with Indosat to promote innovation and make learning in enterprise automation more accessible. Together, we are facilitating the sustainable adoption of these technologies and preparing Indonesia’s workforce to excel in the digital economy.”

    Vikram Sinha, the President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, added, “Indosat’s main goal is to empower Indonesia through advanced technology. Recognizing the potential of UiPath’s technology in driving growth across various sectors in Indonesia, we decided to form this partnership. This collaboration aims to enhance national competitiveness and create opportunities for society to thrive in the digital era. We believe that this initiative will significantly contribute to Indonesia’s future as a global hub for digital talent.”

    UiPath is expanding its collaboration with Indosat to offer two specialized web-based courses on enterprise automation development and citizen development as part of Indosat’s online coding camp IDCamp. These courses—UiPath Automation Explorer and UiPath Citizen Developer—are designed to equip learners with automation skills. Participants in IDCamp will have access to various free resources, including comprehensive courses on enterprise automation technologies, UiPath Academic Alliance software editions, and UiPath Certified Professional certifications to prepare them for success in the digital workforce.

    Learners will also have the opportunity to connect with a global community of automation professionals and users. Since its launch, IDCamp has provided over 273,000 individuals with online coding scholarships. The program incorporates real-world case studies, with high-achieving graduates receiving support for global certifications and career opportunities. The partnership will also expand the UiPath Academic Alliance in Indonesia, involving more than 18 academic institutions and impacting over 8,000 students.

    Indosat will support these institutions through collaborative projects like workshops and hackathons, applying AI and enterprise automation to solve real-world challenges. Addressing the digital skills gap is essential to achieving Indonesia’s goal of becoming the fourth-largest economy by 2045. UiPath will provide more information about the UiPath Automation Explorer and UiPath Citizen Developer courses offered through Indosat IDCamp in two webinars scheduled for October 17, 2024, and November 7, 2024.