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MEDIA RELEASE

 

April 24, 2023

Contact:          Dato’ Dan E. Khoo, CEO. Mobile +1 (650) 318-7178 E: danekhoo@witsa.org

                          Mr. Anders Halvorsen. Mobile: +1 571 265-5964 E: ahalvorsen@witsa.org 

 

WITSA Joins Global Industry Coalition; Urges G7 to Advance Data Free Flow With Trust

 Fairfax, VA:  The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) and a global coalition of 35 industry and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from Canada, Europe, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, among others, have signed onto a joint statement voicing their support for the G7’s efforts to promote Data Free Flow with Trust (DFFT).

Ahead of the upcoming G7 Summit in Hiroshima, the Global Data Alliance has convened a cross-sector group of 35 industry associations and NGOs urging G7 leaders to support DFFT – an initiative first proposed by Japan in 2019 to promote digital trust and the ability to transfer data across transnational digital networks.

The 35 organizations are urging G7 Parties to support international legal norms and best practices on cross-border data. In particular, governments should not use data transfer rules to discriminate against non-nationals and ensure that when such rules are needed, they are narrowly framed. The Global Industry Statement also puts forward several concrete DFFT work proposals, noting:

1. “We … urge G7 Parties to explore concrete approaches to advancing DFFT. These should include: (a) aligning their own data transfer policies across economies and with international standards; (b) promoting and strengthening cross-border data interoperability mechanisms, such as the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules Forum; (c) analyzing the importance of data transfers – and the costs of restrictions – in key sectors; and (d) collectively supporting the OECD Declaration on Government Access to Personal Data Held by Private Sector Entities.”

“In today’s global economy, consumers, regulators, and businesses all benefit from a constant stream of data flowing seamlessly back and forth across national borders,” stated WITSA Chairman Dr. Sean Seah.

“Businesses use data to create valuable products and services, enhance productivity, reduce costs, improve efficiency, deter fraud, protect consumers, and foster economic growth and jobs,” said WITSA CEO Dato’ Dan E Khoo. “To secure these benefits, it is essential to have clear, consistent rules in place that allow for the unimpeded flow of data except as limited to legitimate public policy objectives.” In general, National Security, Data Privacy etc. should not be used as a lever to restrict data flows, and mandate data localization.

 WITSA strongly supports Japan’s leadership on DFFT. Cross-border data transfers support efforts to address challenges relating to cybersecurity, digital transformation, climate change, financial inclusion, public health, privacy, and digital trade. WITSA and its industry partners are urging the G7 to support a public-private commitment to digital trust, where governments do not limit data transfers for protectionist purposes or through measures that are more restrictive than necessary. The private sector should build trust by adhering to high standards of digital responsibility, including through the adoption of strong internal controls regarding cybersecurity, data security, financial transparency, and regulatory compliance.

WITSA has an established policy advocating against restrictions of the free flow of information across borders in its data flows paper, calling ‘data’ an essential resource for healthy economic growth and warning that that excessive restrictions on the flow of data hinders the barrier to secure management and protection of data.

Read the multi-industry statement in full here.

About WITSA:

The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global digital technology industry, whose members from over 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world tech market. WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in digital technology products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.

WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the digital technology industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members – ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States – to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues. For more information on WITSA, please visit https://witsa.org/.

April 4, 2023

Contact: Dato’ Dan E Khoo danekhoo@witsa.org +60 12 (650) 8392

Huawei Signs as WCIT 2023 Platinum Partner with Sponsorship Value of USD1.5 million

Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia: The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) and the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), the host organizer of its global catalytic platform, the World Congress Innovation and Technology (WCIT), today announced Huawei as the first International Platinum Sponsor valued at USD1.5 million, the single largest sponsor in recent WCIT history. This announcement was made after WCIT 2023’s Organizing  Committee meeting chaired by The Honorable  Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, the State Secretary of Sarawak.

Dr Sean Seah, Chairman of WITSA said, “We are very proud to have Huawei on board. This is testament that Huawei sees the value that the World Congress of Innovation and Technology can bring. We are in discussion with a few other international companies that are keen to come on board as partners and will share more details in due time. We have also received positive interests from several parties that are considering participation as country pavilions at WCIT 2023. We have received delegate bookings from 20 countries and expect more interest in the next coming months.” 

State Secretary of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki said  Sarawak is actively developing its digital economy and offers opportunities for investment in ecommerce, digital infrastructure and digital startups. All these initiatives have expanded Sarawak as the gateway into Southeast Asia especially now that all international borders have opened and businesses are rapidly expanding. 

According to SDEC Chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani, “We are very proud to be the host organizer of WCIT 2023, working alongside PIKOM as Host Association. WCIT, reputed as the largest tech global congress in the world, will bring focus into Sarawak’s economic benefits, complimenting our Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS). We are expecting WCIT 2023 to be the grandest tech congregation with the inclusion of IDECS and Sarawak’s 60th Year Anniversary.” 

Dato’ Dan E Khoo, CEO of WITSA said, “WCIT 2023 is poised to leverage WITSA’s global footprint and Sarawak’s rapid economic growth to catalyze transformational innovations and technology that leave a lasting impact on its key stakeholders. We are anticipating opportunities to connect Sarawak tech firms and startup entrepreneurs to their global counterparts and showcase the vibrant tech ecosystem to potential tech investors.” 

Amongst the hot topics that will be staged at WCIT 2023 are the Age of AI, Future Trends in Innovation, Looking Beyond Sustainability and Strengthening Tech Talents. WCIT 2023 is expected to welcome 4,000 attendees and will feature IDECs and other satellite events this October. To register as a delegate, become a sponsor or participate as an exhibitor, go to www.wcit2023.com.

 

About WITSA

The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global tech industry, whose members from over 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world tech market.  WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in tech products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.  WITSA hosts the World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT), the premier global industry sponsored tech conference.

WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the tech industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members — ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States — to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues.

                         

March 11, 2023

Contact: Dato’ Dan E Khoo danekhoo@witsa.org +60 12 (650) 8392

 

WITSA Members Get Special Offer of USD199 All Access Tickets to WCIT 2023 till March 31st 2023

 

•  WCIT 2023 Organizer Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) Offers Special Ticket Price of USD199 for WITSA Members (and Members’ Members) till March 31, 2023

Manama, Bahrain: The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) concluded its Spring Board of Directors’ Meeting in Bahrain recently with the following key announcements:

1. WCIT 2023 Special Offer of USD199 all-access tickets for WITSA Members
2. Meeting with Bahrain’s Minister of Industry and Commerce H.E. Abdulla Adel Fakhro with a Special Invitation to speak at WCIT 2023

Senior representative from the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), organiser of WCIT 2023, Madam Malseni Jamal presented updates on the global congress and announced a special deal of USD199 per all-access ticket offered to WITSA Members from now till March 31st, 2023.

Dr Sean Seah, Chairman of WITSA said, “We take this opportunity to thank SDEC for the irresistible offer of USD199 all-access tickets for WITSA members. I strongly suggest all WITSA members take up this offer before the closing date. Having delegates from our member countries at WCIT 2023 will contribute to its success as well as show strong camaraderie of WITSA for our signature event.”

WITSA also had an audience with the Bahrain Minister of Industry and Commerce, H.E. Abdulla Adel Fakhro to further discuss Bahrain’s interest in hosting WCIT 2024 as well as inviting the Minister to speak at WCIT 2023. 

WITSA CEO Dato’ Dan E Khoo said, “We had a very fruitful meeting with the Minister as Bahrain has expressed strong interest to host WCIT 2024. We have also invited the Minister to be part of the Global Leaders Dialogue and to speak at the congress. WCIT has gained an endearing reputation as the Olympics of the World’s Information Technology Industry.  For decades, WCIT has been a consequential and influential platform that provides an opportunity to find means and avenues to connect for global trade opportunities.”

WCIT 2023 is happening on October 4th to 6th, 2023 in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, which focuses on 3 days of impactful discussions, investment opportunities, policy action recommendations, business insights, innovative exhibits, talent recruitment possibilities and networking sessions. In addition to the congress sessions, there will be a Global Leaders’ Roundtable session, the WITSA Global Innovation and Tech Excellence Awards & Gala-Dinner, a global tech exhibition, and global B2B business networking.

To participate as sponsors, exhibitors and delegates, kindly go to www.wcit2023.com for more information or register your interest. 

To get hold of the special ticket price of USD199 for WITSA members and members’ members, kindly connect with Ms Jeralyn Quinsayas at jeralyn@witsa.org. The USD199 per ticket is available now till March 31st, 2023.    

 

About WITSA

The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global tech industry, whose members from over 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world tech market.  WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in tech products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.  WITSA hosts the World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT), the premier global industry sponsored tech conference.

 

WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the tech industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members — ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States — to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues.

January 19, 2023

Contact: Dato’ Dan E Khoo danekhoo@witsa.org +60 12 (650) 8392

 

WITSA Members and Global Technology Leaders to Participate in the World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT) 2023

Kuching, Sarawak: The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) yesterday welcomed the unveiling of the official logo of the World Congress on Innovation and Technology 2023 (WCIT 2023) which will take place on October 4 – 6, 2023 in Kuching, Sarawak.

Officiated by the Premier of Sarawak The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, the event also saw the announcement of key partners that are joining the effort to organize the 27^th edition of WCIT that was first staged in 1978. The WCIT 2023 logo features the following description:

• The Tree of Life that symbolises Sarawak’s evolution of modernity and interconnection to the global discourse.
• The Rhinoceros Hornbill symbolizes the value of power and strength of Sarawak
• Three Stripes Globe represents sustainability, innovation and economic prosperity
• Colours Green and Blue represent the intersection of nature and digital technology, to be digitally and innovatively forward, while being sustainable.

At the launch, the Premier of Sarawak highlighted the role of innovation in advancing the new economy through applications such as algae as a source of energy, data and AI in disrupting conventional means of production. He hoped WCIT 2023 would bring to Sarawak new innovations, data and technology to impact the energy industry, the circular economy and digital transformation.

A signature event of WITSA, WCIT 2023 is the premier event for the global tech industry, bringing together leaders, experts and stakeholders to discuss, deliberate and challenge the latest tech and innovation trends. The congress will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities with delegates from around the world.

WITSA aims to bring its member economies and global tech leaders to attend WCIT 2023 to experience the diverse and exotic culture as well as take advantage of all the investment and business opportunities that Sarawak, Malaysia and the broader ASEAN economies have to offer.

WITSA Chairman Dr Sean Seah said, “WITSA is the leading recognized voice of the global tech industry which is the key driver of global economic growth. This is a unique opportunity for WITSA members to participate in WCIT 2023 and contribute to shaping the future of the global tech industry. Delegates from around the world will experience the diverse and exotic culture while fostering collaboration in various technology, innovation and business sectors.”

WITSA CEO Dato’ Dan E Khoo added, “With the host organizers’ aims to leverage innovation and technology for prosperity, inclusivity and sustainability, WCIT 2023 is set to be the catalyst that sparks idea generation, investment opportunities, business insights, policy action recommendations, delightful tech experiences, serendipitous discovery and partner-talent recruitment possibilities in pursuit of a sustainable future for the tech industry.”

WCIT is unique in its global perspective on fulfilling the promise of the digital age and its ability to draw users, providers, media and academia from around the world to focus on technology for societal good. In addition, global business, government and academic leaders discuss emerging markets, legal and policy issues, political and economic trends, emerging technologies, tech user perspectives and business opportunities in the global marketplace.

This premier global tech congress brings together more than 2,000 global leaders in business, government and academia from over 80 countries to impact economic and social development through the exchange of policies, practices, trends and ideas on tech.

WCIT 2023 is hosted by the Sarawak Government, organized by the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad, co-hosted by the Sarawak Multimedia Authority and Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS), with The National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) as the Host Association. For more information and to participate, go to www.wcit2023.com.

Launch of WCIT 2023 Logo by the Premier of Sarawak The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg

WITSA Chairman, Dr Sean Seah handing over the WCIT Crystal Plaque to the Sarawak Premier at the Launch of the WCIT 2023 Logo

 

About WITSA

The World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global ICT industry, whose members from over 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world ICT market.  WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in ICT products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.  WITSA hosts the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT), the premier global industry sponsored ICT conference.

 

WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the ICT industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members — ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States — to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

November 15, 2022

Contact:                       Dato’ Dan E. Khoo       danekhoo@witsa.org
                                                                              +601 (2650) 8392

WITSA Welcomes New Member: Somalia Association for Information Communication Technology (SAFICT)

Fairfax, Virginia: At its Board of Directors meetings on November 8, 2022, the World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) unanimously approved a membership application from the Somalia Association for Information Communication Technology (SAFICT). SAFICT is a private, independent and not-for-profit association which promotes know-how, tech-based solutions, cooperation and mutual support among Somalian tech companies and seeks to build Somalia as a technology powerhouse in Africa. SAFICT promotes the development of Somalia’s tech Industry while protecting the members’ rights and lobbying on important issues. Established in April 2020, SAFICT’s mission is to help grow its digital industry to become the essential sector contributing to Somalia’s economic recovery and growth and to elevate member expertise and collective interests of the member companies while upholding universal values.

“I am delighted to welcome SAFICT to WITSA’s vast network of industry associations, spanning 80 countries and economies and representing more than 90 percent of the global tech market,” stated WITSA Chairman Sean Seah. “I am looking forward to working with SAFICT to grow our global digital alliance and to position digital technology and the digital economy as the new strategic pillar for our global community, fulfilling the promise of the Digital Age for everyone,” continued Dr. Seah. “Together, we will promote the value of digital transformation as the key catalyst for economic growth and social prosperity, promote greater international cooperation, drive awareness of the competitive advantage of the digital technology industry, and strengthen WITSA’s role in the development of technology-related international public policy.”

“I am very delighted to have Somalia NGO join the MENA region, which I am sure it will be contributing to WITSA’s vision of Fulfilling the Promise of the Digital Age as well as the theme of WCIT 2023 in Sarawak, Malaysia,” stated WITSA’s Vice Chairman for Middle East and North America, Eng. Tarek Abd-elmonem Taha. “It will also bring about the benefits of digital technology to children, citizens, governments, education, science, healthcare, the environment, industries and societies as well as nearly every aspect of life in Somalia,” continued Eng. Taha.

“We are happy to formally join the global voice of the ICT industry; our organization is dedicated to contributing to the local technology capacity by exploring the latest technology innovation, and by becoming a member of WITSA, we can draw from our global partners,” Stated SAFICT President Ibrahim Noor. “We are committed to working with WITSA on upholding the universal values for the ICT industry and localizing the global voice of ICT, facilitating our partners and members in connecting with globally like-minded organizations.”

WITSA Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Dan E Khoo lauded SAFICT’s entry into the WITSA global community and said it was proof of the tremendous reach of the innovation and technology industry. “SAFICT’s membership expands WITSA’s global footprint and helps us in our mission to fulfill the promise of the digital age,” stated Dato’ Khoo. “Together, we are stronger and our global voice reaches further whether we drive, facilitate or advocate for policies and actions that help technology bring about societal good,” he added.

Learn more about SAFICT at: https://safict.org.so/

 

About WITSA

The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global ICT industry, whose members from 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world ICT market.  WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in ICT products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.

WITSA hosts the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT), the premier global industry sponsored ICT conference.

WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the ICT industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members — ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States — to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues.

For more information on WITSA, please visit www.witsa.org

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

November 10, 2022

 

Contact:                       Anders Halvorsen        ahalvorsen@witsa.org
                                                                               +1 571 265-5964

 

WITSA Elects New Officers for the 2020-2022 Term

Fairfax, Virginia: At its Board of Directors meetings on November 8, 2022, the World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) voted in several new officers. The officers approved completes the slate of WITSA officers for the 2022-2024 term.

Mr. Hemant Kumar Chaurasia was elected WITSA Treasurer. As Treasurer, Mr. Chaurasia will supervise and be responsible for all the funds and securities of the Corporation; the deposit of all money and other valuables to the credit of the Corporation in depositories of the Corporation; borrowings and compliance with the provisions of all indentures, agreements and instruments governing such borrowings to which the Corporation is a party; the disbursement of funds of the Corporation and the investment of its funds; and in general shall perform all of the duties incident to the office of the Treasurer.

WITSA also elected three new Regional Vice Chairmen, who will be WITSA’s front-line representatives in their respective regions as well as conduits for new members joining WITSA: Engr. Tarek Abd-elmonem Taha of the Egyptian Association for Information & Communication Technology (EiTESAL) for Middle East and North Africa; Mr. Zoran Lazarevski of ICT the Chamber of Commerce of Republic of North Macedonia (MASIT) for Europe (Non-EU/EEA); and Engr. Subrata Sarker of Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS) for Asia Pacific.

Mr. Alexander Mora of the Costa Rican Chamber of Information and Communication Technologies (CAMTIC) will chair the WITSA Strategic Planning Committee, which is responsible for increasing the global brand of WITSA as the Voice of the Global Tech Industry, contributing to WITSA’s long-term sustainability, establishing and implementing strategies for WITSA increase its relevant and valuable to WITSA members around the world.

Dr. Sean Seah of PIKOM, Malaysia, was re-elected as Chairman of WITSA’s Finance Committee, which is to oversee financial planning, prepare annual budgets for board approvals, financial management, ensure assets are protected, and the drafting of fiscal policies.

“On behalf of the WITSA Secretariat, I wish to congratulate the new WITSA Officers upon their successful election”, said CEO Dato’ Dan. E. Khoo. “We look forward to working with the new leadership to take WITSA to the next level”.

A list of all WITSA officers is provided below. WITSA also recently elected a new Chairman and Board of Directors for the 2022-2024 term. Please see that press release on the WITSA website at https://witsa.org/witsa-elects-new-leadership-for-the-2022-24-term-selects-dr-sean-seah-as-its-chairman/.

Chairman

Dr. Sean Seah, The National ICT Association of Malaysia (PIKOM)

WITSA Deputy Chairman

Mr. Robert Janssen (ASSESPRO, Brazil)

Treasurer

Mr. Hemant Kumar Chaurasia (CAN, Nepal)

WITSA Regional Vice Chairmen:

Regional Vice Chairman for Africa:

Mr. Roger Latchman (ITA, South Africa)

Regional Vice Chairman for Middle East and North Africa:

Eng. Tarek Abd-elmonem Taha (EITESAL, Egypt)

Regional Vice Chairman for Europe (EU & EEA):

Mr. Antonio Cimorra (AMETIC, Spain)

Regional Vice Chairman for Europe (Non-EU):

Mr. Zoran Lazarevski (MASIT, Republic of North Macedonia)

Regional Vice Chairman for Latin America:

Mr. Alexander Mora (CAMTIC, Costa Rica)

Regional Vice Chairman for the Caribbean:

Mr. John Kyle (Bermuda Chamber of Commerce)

Regional Vice Chairman for Asia-Pacific:

Engr. Subrata Sarker (BCS, Bangladesh)

WITSA Committees

Finance Committee:

Mr. Sean Seah (PIKOM, Malaysia)

Global Policy Action Committee:

Mr. Doug Johnson (CTA, United States)

Committee on Education, Training and Human Resources:

Dr. Boris Komrakov (InfoPark, Belarus)

Nominating Committee:

Eng. Tarek Abd-elmonem Taha (EITESAL, Egypt)

Strategic Planning Committee:

Mr. Alexander Mora (CAMTIC, Costa Rica)

Business Development Committee:

Mr. Brian Shen (CISA, Taiwan)

 

About WITSA

The World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global ICT industry, whose members from 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world ICT market.  WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in ICT products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.

WITSA hosts the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT), the premier global industry sponsored ICT conference.

WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the ICT industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members — ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States — to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues.

For more information on WITSA, please visit www.witsa.org