MDX 2023: Pivot to digital requires shift in tech, mindset and policy

• Zoom transitioned from video tool to force in public sector & education
• Malaysian organisations need to continuously evolve & adapt to leverage digital

In the digital era, various tech platforms have emerged not just as a communication tool but as a catalyst for driving digital transformation within the public sector and education.

Zoom Head of Asia-Pacific Ricky Kapur highlighted the significant shift towards advanced digital solutions in governance and educational systems, a trend that is rapidly gaining momentum globally.

He was speaking at the Malaysian Digital Expo (MDX) 2023 launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on 6 Nov. Digital News Asia is an official media of the event.

Ricky’s observations, especially in dynamic regions like India, Singapore and Malaysia, reflect a growing trend in government interest for technological advancements.

He said that the increasing adoption of various tech platforms for diverse applications went beyond traditional communication needs and into areas such as the legal system with hybrid courts becoming common and in health care with telehealth services becoming almost mainstream during the pandemic. This has resulted in profound societal impact.

“This transformation is making government operations not only more efficient but also more accessible to the public,” he said.

Ricky was speaking at a fireside chat alongside Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) Senior Vice President Gopi Ganesalingam on the ‘Building Businesses: The Importance of Pivoting’.

Gopi, an advocate for leveraging digital technology to transform public services and educational systems, emphasises the critical role of digital tools in modernising these sectors.

“In today’s world, digital transformation is imperative for public sector efficiency and educational excellence,” he said, stressing that digital tools are essential in redefining the interaction between governments, educational institutions, and the public.

Gopi also pointed out the unique challenges and opportunities in driving digital transformation.

“Adapting to digital methods requires a shift not only in technology but also in mindset and policy,” he said, emphasising that the key to successful digital transformation lies in collaborative efforts and the willingness to embrace change.

“It’s about creating a Malaysian culture that values innovation and is open to rethinking traditional methods,” Gopi added.

Both Ricky and Gopi believe that education must be a foundational pillar to spur such innovative thinking and to challenge traditional ways of looking at issues.

The field of education itself has changed, with the shift to virtual and hybrid learning, accelerated by the pandemic, here to stay.

“Educational institutions at all levels are now leveraging technology to offer more interactive and accessible learning experiences. This includes collaborations between EdTech companies and universities, broadening educational possibilities far beyond traditional classroom settings,” said Ricky.

Optimistic about the future, Gopi added, “Digital platforms have democratised education, making it more accessible and inclusive. This is a game-changer in how we approach learning and teaching.”

Gopi also underlined the importance of public sector involvement. “Governments play a pivotal role in nurturing an environment where digital education can thrive. By supporting EdTech initiatives and promoting digital literacy, we can ensure that the benefits of technology reach every student.”

Zoom’s influence also extends to the healthcare and judicial systems.

In healthcare, the platform facilitates telehealth services, overcoming geographical and linguistic barriers to enhance patient care. In the judicial system, the introduction of hybrid courts, which combine physical and virtual presences, is streamlining legal proceedings.

“These advancements are making essential services more accessible and adaptable to the needs of diverse populations,” said Ricky.

Zoom’s journey from a simple video conferencing tool to a transformative force in public sector operations and education brings to life the immense potential of digital technologies in reshaping how governments and educational institutions function.

“The current applications are just the beginning of what’s possible with digital transformation. The future holds even more innovative uses of technology, continuing to improve and enrich lives across the globe,” said Ricky.

Gopi advocated for a sustained and strategic approach towards digital transformation.

“Digital transformation to successfully pivot is a journey, not a destination. Malaysian organisations need to continuously evolve and adapt to leverage digital technologies effectively,” he said.

Note: Michael Ang is a communications consultant based in KL. In his previous lives, he was a journalist with an English daily in KL and had stints as head of comms for IBM Malaysia and Microsoft Malaysia, before serving as Microsoft Corporate PR lead for the Asia-Pacific region in Singapore. Upon his return to Malaysia, he served, among others, as Comms Advisor to then MDEC CEO Datuk Yasmin Mahmood from 2014 - 2018.