Alibaba Holds First Technology Forum in Singapore

Online retailer Alibaba held its first Alibaba Technology Forum in Singapore today at the National University of Singapore (NUS), bringing together some of the industry’s best minds in artificial intelligence (AI) and computer engineering to explore the future of technology and its role in the digital economy.

An annual series previously held in mainland China, Hong Kong and the US, the Alibaba Technology Forum was brought to Singapore this year to draw on the strong research and development (R&D) capabilities at local learning institutions, align with Singapore’s Smart Nation and AI efforts, and build on Alibaba’s commitment to enabling local SMEs through technology innovation.

The event also served as an opportunity to engage with budding technology talent in Singapore, as Alibaba continues to ramp up its operations in the region.

“We hope to join forces with local tech talent, tap into their research and multi-language skills and, ultimately, drive the development of data technologies such as speech analysis and Natural Language Processing that will be of value to businesses in the region,” said Rong Jin, Senior Principal Engineer of Alibaba Group and Head of Alibaba’s Institute of Data Science and Technologies.

“In the meantime, we feel Alibaba can introduce and facilitate the commercialisation of new technologies and products here and drive unlimited social and business impacts in the process, supporting the Singapore Government’s AI and Smart Nation push.”

The forum explored important topics including the business applications of AI, the impact of AI on workers in the near future, and the role of data technologies in the digital economy. Alibaba also showcased its advanced technology capabilities and discussed its philosophy for attracting the best technology minds globally.

The Alibaba Technology Forum is an annual series of events started by Alibaba Group in 2013, with the aim of inspiring conversations around the future of technology. The Forum has been held at prominent universities worldwide including Stanford University, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Peking University, Tsinghua University and Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications.