Analysis

Microsoft platforms drive AI modernisation in Asia Pacific

Enterprises across Asia Pacific are increasingly incorporating Microsoft cloud and AI platforms into integrated operating environments as they respond to economic uncertainty, evolving regulations and intensifying competition, according to a new research report published today by Information Services Group, a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm. The 2026 ISG Provider Lens Microsoft AI and Cloud Ecosystem report for Asia Pacific finds that Microsoft platforms and services are playing key roles in a broad transition from infrastructure modernisation to AI-enabled business transformation. Across Australia and New Zealand, Southeast Asia and India, organisations are integrating cloud, data and AI capabilities into business processes to improve operational efficiency, strengthen customer engagement and make better use of enterprise informations “In Asia Pacific, AI has quickly matured from an experimental technology into the driving force of enterprise transformation,” said Michael Gale, partner and regional leader, ISG Asia Pacific. “Enterprises in this market increasingly view the Microsoft ecosystem as strategic to the next phase of modernization.” Organisations throughout the region are bringing together Microsoft cloud, AI and productivity platforms to create more unified operating environments. Rather than treating AI adoption as a separate initiative, enterprises are embedding AI capabilities into existing business processes to improve everyday operations. This strategy helps to address continuing challenges around fragmented data, legacy infrastructure and growing pressure to demonstrate measurable returns on technology investments. Modern, integrated environments help employees automate routine work, gain access to information and generate insights that support faster, more informed decisions. Changing enterprise priorities around security, regulation and operational resilience are also influencing Microsoft adoption in Asia Pacific. Organisations are adopting responsible AI practices and secure cloud architectures that comply with evolving data sovereignty requirements. Microsoft is making massive investments to support increased usage in the region, including a $3 billion expansion framework across Asia Pacific […]

NTU Singapore scientists develop cleaner way to recycle mixed plastic packaging

Scientists from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have developed a new method to recycle mixed plastic packaging without using harmful chemical solvents – an approach that could make one of the world’s most difficult waste streams significantly easier to handle. The research team from NTU Singapore’s School of Materials Science and Engineering and Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute (NEWRI) has introduced a process called depolymerisation-induced polymer separation, or DIPS. The method selectively breaks down one type of plastic in mixed plastic packaging while leaving the other plastics intact, allowing each material to be recovered and reused. Addressing a global recycling challenge Mixed plastic packaging, commonly used to wrap snacks, instant noodles and other food products, is designed to be tough and airtight. The packaging is made up of several different plastics bonded tightly together, making it challenging to recycle. Even if recycled, the material is often of low quality and has little commercial value. As a result, most multilayer packaging ends up in landfills or incinerators, adding to a fast-growing waste burden. Global plastic production is projected to reach 736 million tonnes[1] by 2040. Lead investigator Professor Hu Xiao, who is also the Programme Director for Sustainable Chemistry and Materials at NEWRI, said: “We’re seeing more mixed plastic packaging used in everyday food products, but recycling it safely and efficiently is still a major challenge. Our team set out to tackle this by developing a practical, scalable way to separate these materials without using harmful solvents.” Study co-author Dr Liang Yen Nan, who is also Senior Research Fellow, NEWRI, said: “One of the biggest hurdles in plastic recycling today is the lack of a viable way to deal with mixed plastics. This project was driven by that challenge, and our goal is to help move the industry closer to a solution that works in the real world.” A […]

India engages Monash University to optimise rail maintenance in Dedicated Rail Freight Corridors

Image: Mr Parmod Kumar, Chief Vigilance Officer, DFCCIL, Mr Amol Pandey, Director – Trade & Investment, Austrade, Mr Praveen Kumar, Managing Director, DFCCIL, Mr Nathan Davis, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Austrade, Professor Ravi Ravitharan, Dire The Monash Institute of Railway Technology (Monash IRT) and the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) have signed an agreement to commence their first project following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2025 to advance heavy haul railway engineering in India. The Monash IRT, internationally renowned for its experience in solving wheel-rail interface related issues for leading heavy haul operators globally, will support the DFCCIL to optimise the wheel-rail interface on two critical Eastern and Western freight corridors in India, the largest heavy haul network in the world. Speaking from the signing ceremony in New Delhi India, the Director of Monash IRT Professor Ravi Ravitharan, said this all-important collaboration with the DFCCIL with focus on improving wheel-rail interface, support safety and long term sustainability for India’s heavy haul railways, reduce maintenance costs and extend the asset life for advancing India’s expanding freight rail network. “Monash IRT has a long standing relationship and has collaborated with DFCCIL since 2016. Through this project our team will work closely with DFCCIL engineers and technical staff to transfer knowledge and to advance heavy haul railway engineering in India,” Professor Ravitharan said. “Monash IRT and the DFCCIL will continue to explore further collaborative projects as part of this broader partnership and continue to strengthen freight rail performance and innovation across both countries.” Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) and Senior Vice-President at Monash University, Professor Craig Jeffrey said Monash IRT’s expertise in railway engineering is internationally recognised. “This collaboration reflects the Institute’s proven capability in solving complex rail engineering problems, with outcomes that have been successfully adopted internationally,” Professor Jeffrey said. The Managing […]

Drive down total cost of ownership with data-driven insights

Managing plant operations is a complex task, with countless moving parts that need to work in harmony. For fleet managers overseeing large fleets, keeping track of the operational details for each individual truck can be challenging. Even when all components are functioning correctly, inefficiencies in a single process or piece of equipment can significantly impact overall uptime and business output. Additionally, ensuring that operators comply with health and safety regulations is crucial, in order to avoid injuries and costly fines. Modern telematics and fleet management tools provide lift truck owners with the ability to precisely monitor and measure truck data, enabling informed operational decisions that improve maintenance efficiency, reduce energy costs, and maximize operator productivity—ultimately leading to a lower total cost of ownership. Comprehensive Insight into Fleet Performance An active fleet of lift trucks represents a substantial investment that must be safeguarded against misuse, neglect, or unauthorised operation. Beyond basic reporting on vehicle usage and performance, fleet managers are increasingly tasked with delivering actionable insights on workforce productivity, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Telemetry, the process of remotely capturing specific measurements and other meaningful data in a given application, plays a crucial role of providing useful insights. In addition to tracking, recording, and reporting data, a telemetry system allows managers to remotely command or otherwise exert real-time control over the equipped machinery. This capability enables fleet managers to monitor and optimise their operations from anywhere. Balancing fleet efficiency with operator performance is more manageable when the right data is accessible. Understanding the total cost of operation—covering contract costs, maintenance, acquisition, labour, and more—enables fleet managers to optimize fleet size and structure for peak productivity. To effectively track and analyse these critical data points over time, lift truck fleets need to be equipped with comprehensive and reliable telemetry systems. Optimise Your […]

Applied Materials Tampines Campus in Singapore

Applied Materials expands Singapore manufacturing to support AI chip demand

Applied Materials has expanded its manufacturing and R&D operations in Singapore to support the global build-out of AI infrastructure. The new US$500 million (S$600 million) Tampines Campus more than doubles Applied’s advanced cleanroom capacity in Singapore and strengthens the company’s global manufacturing footprint, which also includes facilities in the United States, Europe, Israel and Taiwan. The new facility, already operating at volume production, is focused on serving chipmakers that are expanding production to meet increasing AI-driven demand. “AI is transforming every industry, creating unprecedented demand for advanced semiconductors,” said Gary Dickerson, President and CEO of Applied Materials. “Our expanded manufacturing operations in Singapore strengthen Applied’s ability to deliver semiconductor manufacturing equipment that chipmakers need to bring next-generation chips to market faster.” The Tampines Campus marks a major milestone in Applied’s Singapore 2030 plan to strengthen the company’s global manufacturing and R&D capabilities, broaden technology ecosystem partnerships and promote local workforce development. The campus features an expansive manufacturing cleanroom and production capacity along with R&D facilities to support global and regional customers. With the expansion, Applied anticipates adding approximately 1,000 new local jobs over the next few years to support industry growth and technology commercialization. “Singapore has been a strategic hub of Applied Materials’ global operations for 35 years, and our expansion here is a testament to the world-class semiconductor ecosystem, infrastructure and talent this country has built,” said KC Ong, Group Vice President of Worldwide Manufacturing at Applied Materials. “Our new AI-enabled, automation-ready facility represents the next era of advanced manufacturing optimized for speed, precision and quality.” Intelligent manufacturing and sustainable operations The Tampines Campus sets a new global benchmark for sustainable, intelligent semiconductor equipment production. The facility deploys Autonomous Mobile Robots, autonomous assembly and testing systems, and AI-assisted quality inspection—deepening integration between manufacturing, R&D and ecosystem partners to accelerate time-to-market for […]

Strong demand for construction continues across APAC, but project delivery risk intensifies

Project delivery risk has emerged as the critical theme for the industry to navigate even as activity levels remain high Construction markets across Asia Pacific (APAC) entered 2026 in a strong position, but that momentum is now under pressure following geopolitical disruptions and energy shocks in the first half of the year. The latest Construction Market Insights mid-year report by Linesight revealed that APAC remains among the strongest growth regions for construction, supported by investment in digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, energy, transport, and major public programmes. Most markets within APAC experienced an expanded construction output in 2025 and are on track to sustain this positive trajectory this year. In particular, Malaysia is anticipated to lead growth in the APAC region in 2026, with a projected 6.5% increase in construction output. Other Southeast Asian markets are also demonstrating robust growth, with Singapore and Thailand expected to deliver an increase of 4.5% and 3.7% in construction output respectively. While demand remains strong, risks in project delivery are rising as market conditions are increasingly shaped by execution constraints rather than demand, influenced by persistent challenges in labour, supply chains and power availability. In an environment of intensified macroeconomic uncertainty and geopolitical disruptions, supply chains are also facing severe constraints and pressures. The report highlighted that recent tensions in the Middle East have pushed the global supply chain pressure index (GSCPI) to its highest level of 1.82 this year since July 2022. Key market-specific insights to note for 2026 and beyond include: Malaysia: Construction industry is projected to grow an average of 3.5% per year from 2027 to 2030, led by investment in industrial, transport, and energy projects. Construction inflation remains elevated at 5–6%, driven by global commodity costs and domestic subsidy and labour pressures. Data centre demand continues to rise, with strong hyperscale interest. Singapore: Construction industry is expected to […]

Rockwell Automation’s Singapore site named a World Economic Forum Global Lighthouse

Recognition highlights advanced manufacturing capabilities at Rockwell’s Singapore facility and the company’s role in scaling AI-driven transformation. Rockwell Automation, the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, has announced its Singapore manufacturing facility has been named a member of the Global Lighthouse Network by the World Economic Forum (WEF). The designation recognises this facility for applying advanced technologies at scale to deliver measurable improvements in productivity, quality and workforce enablement. Rockwell’s Singapore site was recognised with distinction in the productivity category, reflecting its transformation into a highly flexible, data-driven operation. By deploying more than 50 digital and AI-enabled solutions – including intelligent automation, AI-driven quality control and predictive maintenance – the facility improved output efficiency, reduced defects and accelerated workforce onboarding. “This recognition reflects how Rockwell is applying advanced automation technologies not just within a single site, but in ways that can scale across our global operations and for our customers,” said Bob Buttermore, SVP and chief supply chain officer at Rockwell Automation. “We are focused on turning data into decisions and AI into outcomes – helping manufacturers build Factories of the Future that are more resilient, adaptive and productive.” According to the World Economic Forum, this latest cohort of Lighthouse sites demonstrates how AI is becoming embedded into core operations, enabling organisations to improve decision-making, accelerate innovation and continuously optimize performance. Rockwell’s participation in the Global Lighthouse Network connects the company to a global community of leading manufacturers advancing industrial transformation. Through this collaboration, Rockwell will share best practices and work alongside other Lighthouse members to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies across industries and regions. “The world’s leading manufacturers are no longer optimising individual processes; they are reimagining entire operating systems,” said Kiva Allgood, managing director, World Economic Forum. “The newest Lighthouse sites show how […]

Embracing a Zero-Carbon Future | The 6th LiuGong Global Customer Day Held in Liuzhou

LIUZHOU, China – On May 31, the 6th LiuGong (000528.SZ) Global Customer Day was held in Liuzhou, China. Mr. Su Zimeng, President of the China Construction Machinery Association, Mr. Song Zhiping, President of the China Association for Public Companies, Mr. Zheng Jin, Chairman of LiuGong Group and LiuGong Machinery, Mr. Luo Guobing, Vice Chairman, and President of LiuGong Machinery and other LiuGong top management, along with more than 1,200 customers, partners, industry experts and media representatives from over 50 countries and regions gathered to witness LiuGong’s latest achievements in sustainability, intelligence and globalisation, and explore the future of low-carbon transformation in the construction equipment industry. More than 150 machines were displayed onsite, and the new energy equipment accounts for half. The event featured a series of activities, including discussions on zero-carbon smart mining and electrification solutions, machine demonstrations, test drives and factory tours. President Mr. Luo Guobing shared its global development strategy, the customer from South Africa presented real-world success stories, showcasing LiuGong’s innovation capabilities and comprehensive solutions for global markets. Zero-Carbon Mining Solutions Unveiled During the event, LiuGong officially launched its Zero-Carbon Smart Mining Solution, covering green power, intelligent equipment, digital management and lifecycle services. New mining machines and solutions were also showcased through live demonstrations. Hands-On Experience As one of the most anticipated activities, LiuGong’s test-drive program featured star products including electric wheel loaders and autonomous mining trucks, allowing customers to experience equipment performance and the synergy of LiuGong’s integrated solutions firsthand. Delivering the 600,000th Wheel Loader As LiuGong celebrates the 60th year of its wheel loader business, the company officially delivered its 600,000th wheel loader during the event, marking another important milestone in its development. Since launching China’s first wheel loader in 1966, LiuGong has continuously advanced industry innovation and expanded its global presence, helping shape the evolution of […]

Thailand approves $29 billion investment wave as data center demand surges

BANGKOK – Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved six major projects worth a combined 958 billion baht, or approximately USD 29 billion, led by a large-scale data infrastructure expansion by TikTok System (Thailand) Co., Ltd., underscoring the country’s growing role as a regional hub for data centers, cloud services and AI-driven digital infrastructure. The approvals were made at a BOI Board meeting chaired by Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. The Board also approved a second batch of projects under the Thailand FastPass mechanism and discussed with energy agencies steps to strengthen electricity readiness and improve access to clean energy — two increasingly important factors in attracting large-scale digital and high-technology investment. Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI, said the latest approvals reflect growing investor confidence in Thailand at a time when global companies are racing to expand digital infrastructure across Asia. “Amid continuing global volatility, investment in Thailand’s digital and advanced technology sectors continues to grow, reflecting investor confidence in the country’s potential as a regional technology hub,” Mr. Narit said. “For Thailand to capture this new investment cycle, we must be ready not only with investment incentives, but also with sufficient power, clean-energy options, skilled talent, deeper supply chains and a reliable facilitation system that allows projects to move quickly from approval to operation.” Of the six approved projects, three are in data center and data hosting services, with a combined investment value of 913 billion baht, or approximately USD 27 billion. The largest project is by TikTok System (Thailand) Co., Ltd., valued at 842 billion baht, or approximately USD 25 billion. The project will install additional servers and expand data storage and processing infrastructure across Bangkok, Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao Province, supporting rising demand for digital services and strengthening Thailand’s […]

Multi-Year strategic collaboration to accelerate industrial intelligence in the Cloud

AVEVA, a global leader in industrial software, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have announced a multi-year Strategic Collaboration Agreement (SCA) to accelerate the delivery of industrial intelligence in the cloud. The agreement deepens the companies’ existing relationship and establishes a framework for joint technology development, go-to-market execution, and customer migration support across the global industrial sector. Under the terms of the agreement, AVEVA will expand its CONNECT industrial intelligence platform on AWS, as part of its broader move to a multi-cloud architecture. By using services including Amazon Bedrock, Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, and Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2), AVEVA will deliver both public and private SaaS capabilities for industrial customers worldwide, accelerating this multi-cloud strategy and reinforcing AVEVA’s commitment to flexibility and scalability. The collaboration also encompasses listing AVEVA products on AWS Marketplace, joint customer migration programs, and a shared commitment to training and certification across both organisations. By bringing CONNECT and the broader AVEVA portfolio to AWS, the two companies aim to give industrial customers a faster, more scalable path to cloud-native operations, reducing the complexity and cost of managing on-premises infrastructure while enabling new AI-driven capabilities that were previously impractical at scale. “Industrial companies are sitting on decades of operational data that holds enormous, untapped value,” said Rob McGreevy, Chief Product Officer, AVEVA. “As AVEVA advances its multi-cloud strategy, building CONNECT on AWS gives our customers even greater flexibility and scalability, empowering them to turn that data into intelligence that helps them design faster, operate smarter, and optimise continuously. AVEVA’s software sits at the heart of mission-critical operations for more than 20,000 enterprises across 150+ countries. This collaboration accelerates how the industrial world can harness cloud and AI with the freedom of choice they expect.” Key Elements of the collaboration: • CONNECT on AWS: AVEVA will build and […]

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