“First ‘believe,’ and then you will ‘see.’ Everything will fall into place. I believe that the first step must start from the belief in the heart!” Richard Ouyang , General Manager of ANKO Food Machine Corporation and Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association, emphasized in an interview with “The Icons” by Eken International Celebrity Magazine that contemporary businesses are undergoing “digital transformation” and “zero-carbon transformation,” and the leaders’ hearts must first “believe.”

After obtaining a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles, Richard Ouyang  returned to the family business, initially establishing a research and development department and gradually building a research and development system. After assuming the position of vice general manager, he further expanded the factory to its current scale. Richard Ouyang  has been serving as the general manager since 2014, leading ANKO Food Machine Corporation in continuous transformation and reaching new peaks.

Established in 1978, ANKO Food Machine Corporation is a leading brand in Taiwan’s food processing industry, primarily focused on the export market. Its service extends to all five continents, with sales covering 112 countries, and it can produce over 300 types of foods from around the world. Now, the baton has been passed to Richard Ouyang . With his approachable management style, Richard Ouyang  leads the company through multiple upgrades in line with the trends of the times.

“Many people talk about ‘results,’ but I prefer ‘belief.’ Like the ‘digital transformation train’ advocated by the Digital Enterprise Association, it helps everyone see the direction of sustainable transformation in the future. I often tell everyone that if you believe you can achieve it, you will definitely become that way because all your thoughts and practices will help you reach that place!” Richard Ouyang , also serving as Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association, plays a leading role in the “digital transformation train,” guiding new-generation entrepreneurial members to bring the resources of the association back to their respective enterprises, allowing everyone to continue iterating and moving towards sustainability on the existing foundation.

Common Concern for Businesses: How to Effectively “Reduce Carbon”?

“Get on board!” Richard Ouyang , one of the conductors of the “digital transformation train,” also bears the responsibility of leading everyone to think as a team. “We not only look at the success of companies but also discuss the little details in ‘failed experiences,’ as these are more effective nutrients. We reach consensus with the visited companies, and everyone delves into your ‘dark history’! Because the challenges these exemplary companies faced during their growth are undoubtedly the best lessons for successors to learn effective transformation,” Richard Ouyang  chuckled.

In addition to the collaborative learning of the “digital transformation train,” Richard Ouyang  mentioned that the advisory team, composed of industry experts, is also a crucial driver assisting members in the sustainable transformation of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association. These experts are retired executives from various businesses, each with years of experience in promoting transformation in their respective fields. When members encounter any issues in their transformation journey, they can consult these seasoned experts for solutions. “In the ‘zero-carbon university’ of the Digital Enterprise Association, the experts not only impart knowledge and concepts but also directly point out specific systematic methods, providing each participant with a starting point for sustainable transformation.”

As early as 2014, before Richard Ouyang  took over as general manager, ANKO Food Machine Corporation had already initiated “digital transformation.” However, like many other businesses, the next steps for “zero-carbon transformation” were perplexing at that time: “Carbon reduction is crucial, so we conducted carbon footprint assessments. But after that, how do we effectively reduce carbon? Back then, we knew the facts but didn’t understand the underlying reasons.” However, the empowerment from the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association helped ANKO Food Machine Corporation initiate “zero-carbon transformation” based on its existing foundation: “For example, many people, after conducting greenhouse gas inventories, directly calculate carbon footprints. But regarding how to effectively reduce carbon next, there was no clear direction. Should it start from materials, design, or processes? Actually, the first thing to do is establish an energy management system, so you can understand how much carbon is generated throughout the operation process, including identifying the highest energy-consuming areas. Then, you’ll understand where to start reducing carbon most efficiently.”

The members of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association are leaders in various industries, making it an effective platform for resource integration and sharing. “Previously, to calculate how much electricity a certain machine consumes, we needed to install a smart meter. Fengyi Electronics happened to be our member, so I made a call to Shaoling Chen, the Chief Strategy Officer, and they helped us develop the smart meter. Now, besides ANKO, many members also use their products. Because we are all on the same path, and they have the capability in this area, they developed the smart electricity meter themselves and shared the information with us, so we all started using it together.'” Richard Ouyang  said that facing the rapidly changing international market, group collaboration is inevitable. The Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association allows entrepreneurs to learn and create together, enabling the rapid convergence of resources from different fields. Many seemingly challenging problems can be solved in an instant.

Establishing a Firm Footing in the International Market through Transformation

“The challenges we face now are completely different from what the older generation encountered,” Richard Ouyang  discusses the challenges faced by different generations in managing businesses and emphasizes the importance of successors addressing the issue of “transformation.”

“My father’s challenges back then were ‘where are the customers?’ His daily concern was how to travel the world with a suitcase and find customers willing to make purchases in various countries. In the current era of transparent information through the internet, we don’t need to fly to different places every day to knock on the doors of local customers. Still, we must learn a lot of non-core knowledge, including everything in the realm of ‘sustainable transformation,'” he added.

Richard Ouyang , skilled in international business, also mentioned that due to easy access to information in the internet age, customers and agents from various countries often use data from different competitors for bargaining and negotiations. The imitation of competitors and the increasing number of competitors in recent years prompted him to gradually adjust the company’s sales service model and product types.

“In terms of services, we use digital capabilities to accelerate and optimize the delivery process. Through digital transformation, we change the service provider model to meet more customer production needs, such as machine lifespan prediction. On the product side, we have advanced from a single machine to providing comprehensive solutions with both software (food formulas) and hardware, as well as rapid custom product services,” Richard Ouyang  said. Elevating the value and completeness of solutions, offering customers products and services at different levels, is a differentiation strategy that demonstrates a unique position in the international market.

Richard Ouyang  also mentioned that the mentors of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association have diverse international experiences, allowing entrepreneurs to quickly adjust their organizations, implement processes, and incorporate system tools during the digital transformation process, reducing various costs associated with transformation. He emphasized that these experienced mentors can even guide entrepreneurs in managing cross-border businesses.

Facing Internal Skepticism, “Mass Communication” is the Only Way

In the past, ANKO Food Machine Corporation only needed to focus on the field of food machinery. However, in the era where carbon has value, if a company does not actively reduce carbon, it will inevitably struggle to penetrate the international market. “In the past, if there was something I didn’t understand, I asked customers, agents, and senior colleagues. I roughly understood it. But entering this era where ‘digital transformation’ and ‘zero-carbon transformation’ are suddenly emphasized, no one in the company knew how to do it, and we didn’t even know where to ask. Looking back now, everything started with me believing that this thing would succeed, and then I started seeking resources.”

During the transformation, challenges from various aspects, including internal skepticism, are inevitable. Richard Ouyang  emphasized that extensive communication is key: “You must communicate extensively with internal employees, continuously emphasizing the value of change. In the actual execution and operation process, you must let the team feel that everyone continues to achieve small successes. These experiences and achievements will provide partners with tangible evidence, instilling confidence in them. This way, the overall transformation of the company will proceed smoothly.”

Building upon the market foundation developed by the first generation, Richard Ouyang  also mentioned that one of the key goals of sustainable transformation for ANKO Food Machine Corporation is to enhance after-sales service: “Digital tools can improve the efficiency of communication with customers. For example, if I sell a dumpling machine that can produce twelve thousand dumplings in an hour, and each dumpling earns one pound, then for the customer, stopping the machine for an hour means losing twelve thousand pounds. ‘Digital transformation’ can help customers minimize this loss.”

In addition, digital tools can also be used to monitor the health of food machinery, such as predicting when consumables need replacement or when any parts require maintenance, allowing early detection without the need for elaborate repairs sent back to the factory. Richard Ouyang  joked, “The best after-sales service is not needing after-sales service.”

As for “zero-carbon transformation,” Richard Ouyang  mentioned that when considering the purchase cost of a machine, it’s not just the equipment price; it also includes the cost of carbon tariffs, the carbon emissions during the transportation process, maintenance costs, and more. Therefore, what ANKO sells is not only the efficiency of the machine. According to Richard Ouyang , their value also includes helping customers minimize usage costs from the initiation of the machine to the end of its life cycle.

He believes that whether a company, after “zero-carbon transformation,” can bring the maximum value to customers, helping them complete the last mile and earn maximum profit at the lowest cost, is the greatest value a company can offer.

The First Step to Successful Sustainable Transformation is to “Believe”!

“Believe, and you will see” is the belief that Richard Ouyang has upheld all along. In addition to carrying forward the spirit of ANKO Food Machine Corporation – “Preserving the Taste Heritage, Manufacturing the First Choice” – allowing delicious flavours from ancient times to the latest to be preserved worldwide and assisting customers in creating more value, he also aspires for the team he leads to become a model for the “digital transformation” and “zero-carbon transformation” in the food processing industry. This, in turn, would lead the entire industry through transformation, creating more “common good” and “mutual success.”

“Of course, businesses need to be profitable, but I hope for the company, employees, suppliers, and customers to grow together, influencing the entire community, industry chain, and even this era,” Richard Ouyang  enthusiastically extends an invitation to more entrepreneurs.

“The Digital Enterprise Association’s ‘digital transformation train’ is speeding along. Everyone is welcome to board. In this journey of sustainable transformation, we are a group traveling together. You won’t be alone; the conductor is right beside you! I can be reached anytime, but there’s one condition,” Richard Ouyang  laughs and says, “You must join me; you must first ‘believe.’ As long as you believe, you will ‘see’!”

Business Transformation Institute is Now Enrolling

Business Transformation Institute, a transformation amplifier designed for Taiwanese enterprises, aims to integrate tradition and innovation to help businesses find new growth dynamics at critical moments of succession and transformation.

This place encourages new-generation entrepreneurs to accumulate experience and resources through internal and external entrepreneurship, while also facilitating the introduction of funds and resources to support the fusion and vigorous development of “first-generation” and “second-generation” entrepreneurs. Through this model, the institute not only serves as a growth platform for new-generation entrepreneurs but also acts as an amplifier for innovative thinking, guiding businesses to find their unique path of transformation amid change.

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The post The Food Processing Industry is Undergoing Sustainable Transformation! Mr. Richard Ouyang , General Manager of ANKO Food Machine Corporation and Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Association, Emphasizes: Believe, and You Will See! first appeared on The Icons.

These trends are increasingly leading executives to prioritize and demonstrate progress on ESG metrics, with PwC reporting that, 91% of business leaders believe their company has a responsibility to act on ESG issues.

As ESG continues its rise to the top of the corporate agenda, Michael Chung, Greater China General Manager of Wolters Kluwer’s CCH Tagetik business, shared insights in an exclusive interview with 《The Icons》. Michael Chung sheds light on the obstacles faced by Taiwanese enterprises that are feeling increased pressure to collect and reliably report ESG data, and he explains how the same kind of technologies that are driving the digital transformation of financial and corporate performance reporting can be leveraged to facilitate ESG reporting, too. Michael Chung also shares results from a recent Wolters Kluwer survey of finance professionals, which studied the current state of digital finance transformation within businesses; and concluded with reflections on the Wolters Kluwer CCH Tagetik commitment to the Taiwanese market and its future vision.

Why ESG Reporting is a Top Challenge for Finance Leaders

“Taiwan is expected to increase its ESG regulations, with a first major step being the requirement that a significant number of listed companies publish ESG reports by 2025,” said Michael Chung, who has helped Taiwanese enterprises improve their corporate performance management (CPM) and financial reporting for more than 20 years. He is now leveraging that experience to help Taiwanese enterprises tackle the complexities of ESG reporting, too.

Michael Chung believes that adhering to constantly evolving ESG reporting regulations requires cross-functional collaboration and data sharing between departments, with the finance department taking a leading role. Similar to financial reporting, the ESG reporting process involves dealing with complex data from dozens and sometimes hundreds of sources, which are often fragmented and challenging to manage comprehensively.

“Aside from adhering to Taiwan’s ESG regulations, companies are also seeking to align with international standards like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Task Force on Climate-Related Disclosures (TCFD). Research shows that the vast majority of companies are currently unprepared to adhere to these requirements, because they lack the ability to efficiently collect, report, analyze and assure the accuracy of their ESG data,” said Michael Chung.

He pointed to a 2022 EY study, which found that 60% of finance executives say their ESG data resides in a patchwork of software applications – many of which don’t connect with each other. Fifty-five percent of those executives say their ESG data resides in spreadsheets. He says that just as managing valuable data in a patchwork of disconnected systems and spreadsheets would make it nearly impossible for organizations to fully understand and improve their financial performance – the same is true when it comes to their ESG data.

“Organizations that win the confidence and trust of key stakeholders, including regulators, will be the ones that harness the power of advanced technology to digitally transform the way they collect, report, analyze and assure the accuracy of both their financial and ESG data,” said Michael Chung.

Digital Transformation: A Crucial Step in Measuring and Improving Financial and ESG Performance

Michael Chung emphasized that in the world of financial and ESG reporting, the new normal is complex, perpetual change. This has intensified businesses’ urgent need for optimized budgeting, forecasting, cost control processes, flexibility, and rapid responsiveness. That’s why he says it’s essential that finance leaders adopt user-friendly, digital tools that provide real-time data and strategic insights about financial and ESG performance.

A 2023 survey conducted by Wolters Kluwer CCH Tagetik, among 600 finance and business leaders in private sector enterprises that have 1,000+ employees in China, reveals the key ways that financial professionals are looking to leverage technology to improve their corporate performance. 

Sixty percent (59.54%) of respondents to the 2023 Wolters Kluwer CCH Tagetik survey identified improving planning, budgeting, and forecasting capabilities as a key objective in their digital transformations. Other significant aspects included:

• 56.74%: Reporting and analysis
• 54.93%: Financial consolidation
• 54.11%: Profitability analysis

Michael Chung explained that CCH Tagetik’s AI-enabled corporate performance management (CPM) solution is an example of the kind of technology that can deliver these types of insights to enterprises of all sizes. He believes that as ESG continues to rise to the top of the corporate agenda, Taiwanese enterprises will experience an increased appetite – and need – for transformational ESG technology, too.

“Through its flexible architecture, the CCH Tagetik platform seamlessly connects and swiftly processes extensive finance and operations datasets, in a way that empowers users to enhance enterprise performance management, make more accurate business predictions, improve cost control, and ultimately make better decisions,” said Michael Chung.

Michael Chung also shared that the CCH Tagetik expert solution was recently recognized by Gartner as a Leader in financial planning solutions in both 2022 and 2023, and as a 2023 Leader in financial close and consolidation software, too. Additionally, the 2023 “Gartner Peer Insights” report, recognized Wolters Kluwer as a “Customers’ Choice” for Financial Planning Software, with 97% of CCH Tagetik users indicating that they are willing to recommend the platform to peers.

“Implementing an AI-enabled CPM solution can provide finance teams with greater confidence in providing accurate financial reports, while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations, and empowering them to make more informed business decisions. The same is true in the world of ESG. The right technology can also make it easier for enterprises to efficiently collect and analyze ESG related data, so they can develop accurate ESG reports, drive compliance with ESG reporting requirements, and ultimately improve their ESG performance,” said Michael Chung.

To meet this growing market need, in April 2023, Wolters Kluwer announced that it would further expand the CCH Tagetik expert solution portfolio – which has long been driving the digital transformation of financial reporting processes – to meet the evolving ESG reporting needs of Taiwanese companies. 

New CCH Tagetik ESG & Sustainability Performance Management functionality now helps companies comply with ESG reporting and disclosure requirements, while driving long-term, sustainable growth. 

This new, audit-friendly functionality captures, consolidates and facilitates the reporting of ESG data and operational key performance indicators (KPIs), as required by an increasing number of global governing bodies and by the Taiwan Stock Exchange’s new ESG disclosure platform.

Building Momentum to Help Taiwanese Companies Gain Competitive Advantage in a Global Market

“Wolters Kluwer CCH Tagetik places great importance on the growth of our customer base in Taiwan, and our primary customers in this market are currently in the insurance industry, including Hotai Insurance Co., Ltd. and ShinKong Insurance Co., Ltd.,” said Michael Chung. “Our ultimate goal is to establish collaborative relationships not only in insurance but also in high technology, retail, and FMCG.”

The CCH Tagetik CPM solution entered the Taiwanese market in 2021 and since that time has helped many companies improve the efficiency of performance management. With the recent introduction of its ESG reporting functionality, Michael Chung says that CCH Tagetik platform can also help Taiwanese enterprises improve the efficiency and accuracy of their ESG performance and reporting, too.

“Our clients are benchmark enterprises in their respective fields. After implementing CCH Tagetik solutions, our Taiwanese customers are better empowered to respond to rapidly changing business environments, predict and plan for various scenarios. We believe that the successes experienced by our customers will help fuel the continued expansion throughout Greater China,” explained Michael Chung.

“Wolters Kluwer CCH Tagetik is deeply committed to its Taiwanese clients. We not only use our services to help them make more informed business decisions and gain an advantage over competitors but hope to accompany Taiwanese companies in their growth, moving toward the world and driving competitive advantage in the global market,” Michael Chung concluded.

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The post Michael Chung, General Manager of Wolters Kluwer CCH Tagetik in Greater China, Discusses How Technology Can Help Companies Transform ESG and Financial Reporting into Competitive Advantage first appeared on The Icons.

Sustainable Development and Challenges in the AI Industry

Chairman Chen first pointed out that the semiconductor industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, with the rapid development of high-performance computing and the AI technologies bringing infinite possibilities to the industry. However, this progress also poses challenges such as increased energy consumption and costs.

“Especially the energy consumption caused by the AI technology has become a significant bottleneck restricting the continuous development of the industry. Additionally, the AI computations require a large amount of energy due to extensive data processing and complex algorithm calculations, leading to high energy consumption and heat generation.”

He emphasized the importance of sustainable development and explained that it is not just an abstract concept but a very practical and urgent need. He noted, “Energy is a crucial component of ESG, and without sufficient energy, the operation of the AI  becomes impossible.”

Chairman Chen also mentioned the current interconnection between the semiconductor industry and ESG goals, emphasizing the importance of addressing energy consumption issues. 

Furthermore, with the ongoing development of the AI industry, the demand for energy will continue to rise, potentially becoming a bottleneck for future development.

Discussing how to promote sustainable development, Chairman Chen proposed a unique perspective. He believes that to achieve the sustainable development of the industry, there needs to be global standards to limit the energy consumption of the industry. 

Sustainable development strategies should be promoted from both the bottom-up in terms of design and top-down in terms of structure. He emphasized the importance of Top-Down and Bottom-Up strategies in promoting sustainable development.

“Through Top-Down ESG strategies, clear energy usage standards and goals can be set, while Bottom-Up strategies allow society to start from the grassroots, focusing on practical implementation and improvement.”

Integration of the Semiconductor Supply Chain and International Cooperation

When discussing the integration of the semiconductor industry’s supply chain, Chairman Chen delved into the entire supply chain process from foundry to chip, then to the system, to the data center, and from the data center to the user. He believed that close collaboration and integration at each link are the cornerstones of driving the continuous development of the semiconductor industry.

“The semiconductor supply chain includes multiple links, each with its unique role and value. Efficient operation at each link, from providing raw materials to manufacturing and distribution of the final product, is crucial to ensuring the industry’s continuous development.”

Chairman Chen emphasized that international cooperation and resource sharing are crucial for promoting the sustainable development of the semiconductor industry and the efficient operation of the supply chain. He further explained that the semiconductor industry is a good example of horizontal division of labor, and cooperation models between countries are essential drivers of sustained industry development.

Through this exclusive interview with Chairman Chen, we gained in-depth insights into how the semiconductor industry addresses challenges in energy consumption and costs amidst rapid technological development and the demand for sustainable development. His perspectives provide valuable professional information, enabling a clearer understanding of the future direction of the semiconductor industry and potential solutions.

Dr. Wen Chen is the current Chairman of AP Memory and one of the founding members of the company. Leading AP Memory’s technical team, he has established numerous core technologies and designs. With profound expertise in semiconductor technology and industry management, Dr. Chen took over as CEO in May 2019, overseeing the company’s daily operations and leading it to higher operational levels.

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While BLUE’s early works focused on current events, he remains deeply concerned about societal issues, particularly education, after becoming a parent. This includes providing a quality educational environment for his child, rational distribution of educational resources, and addressing the impact of climate change on the living environment for future generations. Consequently, BLUE actively educates his son on the importance of environmental conservation, instilling in him an early awareness of caring for the planet.

Primary Concern: Education

Discussing his understanding of SDGs, BLUE sees them as challenges that humanity collectively faces. “Issues such as inequality and environmental conservation require collective efforts from everyone to make improvements,” he emphasizes.

SDGs established by the United Nations, encompass 17 crucial topics, including no poverty, gender equality, and climate action. They urge governments, businesses, and the general public to take action for the joint sustainable development of the planet and humanity.

Regarding SDG 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all, BLUE shares his perspective as a father: “Every parent wants the best for their child. Since my son started school, I’ve been reading extensively to find the best educational methods for him, hoping he grows up happy and confident.” BLUE’s concern in education extends beyond his child’s academic performance to encompass the overall school environment.

Expressing concerns about the Taiwanese education system, BLUE grew up in a rote-learning environment. Despite pressure to prioritize academic success over personal interests, he persisted and now pursues a career he loves. Aware of the potential stifling of his child’s talents and personality within the rigid education system, BLUE believes in fostering an environment that encourages exploration. 

Rather than providing standard answers, he advocates for an educational setting that encourages children to try various activities, fostering self-discovery of their interests and abilities.

Addressing Future Challenges in Education

In the era of digital advancements, BLUE expresses concern about whether Taiwanese schools can promptly update teaching equipment and introduce courses to develop students’ technological capabilities. He worries not only about schools’ ability to prepare students for future challenges but also about the unequal distribution of educational resources. 

“Private schools often have the financial capacity to invest in updated facilities and attract qualified teachers, potentially widening the gap between students attending public and private schools, deepening educational inequality,” he noted. 

As a parent, BLUE empathizes with the desire not to disadvantage children from the start. Regardless of attending public or private schools, he hopes every child has ample opportunities for education and development. 

BLUE believes that education is a long-term commitment that continues to influence a child’s actions and words even after parents are gone. “Providing quality education to help the next generation grow in a better environment is the most critical issue for me,” he said.

Early Cultivation of Environmental Awareness

BLUE recalled a visit to the zoo with his son, “He pointed to a polar bear and expressed concern about its vanishing habitat.” 

Climate change is another significant issue BLUE actively addresses. He believes in nurturing environmental awareness in children, “like many of my generation, we only learned about waste separation later in life.”

Starting from his son’s early years, BLUE aims to influence him positively, hoping his son will influence those around him in turn. For example, during Halloween, BLUE and his son utilize discarded cardboard from IKEA to create costumes, turning the DIY process into cherished memories.

“The weather is becoming more and more extreme nowadays. Sometimes it’s so hot in the summer that it’s unbearable to go outside. We are fortunate to have air conditioning to cool down; some people don’t even have access to electricity.” Faced with the challenges of climate change, SDGs 13 calls on everyone to take action. Recently, BLUE purchased a GOGORO electric scooter to reduce the use of fossil fuels, hoping to contribute to the well-being of the Earth.

BLUE’s commitment is also evident in the positive impact on his son. “Once, when there was a large bag of garbage to be disposed of at home, and the plastic bottles and aluminum cans were not separated, my son took the initiative to divide them into two bags. He not only has environmental awareness but also takes action.”

With climate change already underway, coinciding with the COP 28,  annual global climate summit, BLUE emphasizes the importance of collective action. As countries convene to discuss strategies to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and reverse the global warming trend, BLUE urges everyone to pay attention and take action.

“I hope environmental protection goes beyond slogans and becomes ingrained in our daily lives. Only then can we leave a livable environment for our children and the next generation,” BLUE concludes.

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CogX, first held in 2017, has become a globally renowned international exhibition. This year’s event took place from September 12 to 14 in London, exploring challenges humanity will face in the next ten years in the exponential era. The event featured over 500 global experts, including Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales, who delivered speeches. The discussions covered various topics related to technological developments, including semiconductors, internet and AI security, clean energy, education, and industrial transformation. The three-day event was expected to attract over 90,000 attendees.

Showcasing Taiwan to the World

NARLabs presented two technological exhibits, including the Sloping Rolling Bearings (SRB) and horizontal vibration table developed by Taiwan National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering. The earthquake-resistant capabilities of SRB have been applied in numerous countries, validated through recent seismic events, saving billions in economic losses.

Additionally, Taiwan National Laboratory Animal Center, Taiwan Instrument Research Institute, and Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute jointly integrated several organs on chips developed through Taiwan’s technological advantages, including microfluidic devices, organ microenvironment simulations, and microelectromechanical biomedical chips. These innovations represent essential tools for translational biomedical research in the next generation, accelerating drug development and enabling precision medicine.

Director Chang explained that NARLabs, with a focus on “Innovative Technology, Safeguarding Taiwan,” showcased achievements in six major areas, combining efforts from seven national-level experimental research centers. “The exhibition aimed to demonstrate that NARLabs’ research and services not only assist Taiwanese academic and research units in creating local value but also contribute to global top-notch technological development.”

It also showcased NARLabs’ talent cultivation capabilities across academia, industry, and research, providing a reference for countries worldwide.

Prioritizing Talent Cultivation Propels Taiwan’s Semiconductor Industry to Global Leadership

Director Chang expressed that NARLabs’ participation in CogX aimed not only to share Taiwan’s experience in developing cutting-edge technology and cultivating talent but also to showcase Taiwan’s technological and soft power to the world.

“The goal was to attract international collaborations with academic and research institutions and collectively contribute to global sustainable development.”

The Semi Impact Summit, a focal point of CogX, took place on September 14, focusing on semiconductor-related topics. It provided an interactive platform for participants, including businesses, investors, policymakers, and innovation developers, to share knowledge and engage in in-depth discussions, driving global semiconductor industry development.

Several NARLabs researchers, including Director Chau-Lyan Chang from National Center for High-performance Computing, Deputy Director Ying-Zong Juang from Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute, Deputy Director Juin-Fu Chai from Taiwan National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering, Director Mei-Yu Chang from International Affairs Office at NARLabs, and Associate Researcher Chih-Sheng Yu from Taiwan Instrument Research Institute, were invited as speakers. “Other speakers from Taiwan included Frank Huang, Chairman of Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation.” Director Chang said.

The Semi Impact Summit covered various topics such as AI, net-zero, IoT, and organs on chips. Director Chang believes that as a tech island, Taiwan holds a unique position in global semiconductor industry investments and IC design. 

“Through talent cultivation programs developed by Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute, NARLabs is actively promoting Taiwan’s distinctive position in the world semiconductor industry.”

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For the first time, Taiwan’s National Applied Research Laboratories (NARLabs) participated in CogX this year. In an interview with《The Icons》, Mei-Yu Chang, Director of the International Affairs Office at NARLabs, highlighted the institute’s exhibition of Taiwan’s achievements in six major areas: semiconductor development, AI chips, organ chips, cyber security, net zero, and semiconductor talent cultivation. This presentation demonstrated Taiwan’s soft and hard power, aiming to establish more collaboration channels with countries worldwide.

Innovative Technology, Safeguarding Taiwan

Director Mei-Yu Chang emphasized that NARLabs with its seven national-level research centers, showcased Taiwan’s achievements in six major domains under the theme “Innovative Technology, Safeguarding Taiwan.”

“This exhibition not only highlighted the value of the research and services provided by NARLabs for Taiwan’s academic and research institutions but also showcased Taiwan’s pursuit of cutting-edge technological development globally.” Moreover, it demonstrated the talent cultivation capabilities established by NARLabs through collaborations with industry, government, academia, and research sectors, providing valuable insights for countries worldwide.

The exhibition featured two groundbreaking physical exhibits: the Sloping Rolling Bearings (SRB) and Horizontal Vibration Table developed by Taiwan’s National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering (NCREE), as Director Mei-Yu Chang explained, “SRB has been applied in many countries, saving billions of dollars in economic losses through recent earthquake validations.”  Additionally, Taiwan’s National Laboratory Animal Center (NLAC), Taiwan Instrument Research Institute (TIRI), and Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute (TSRI) jointly integrated several organ chips developed through Taiwan’s technological advantages, including microfluidic devices, organ microenvironment simulations, and microelectromechanical biomedical chips. These innovations represent essential tools for translational biomedical research in the next generation, accelerating drug development and enabling precision medicine.

Director Mei-Yu Chang introduced the recent proposal by Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Commission (NSTC) involving eight forward-looking technology platforms,

“including Advanced Semiconductors and Quantum Technology, AI, Space Technology, Cybersecurity, Precision Health, Net Zero Technology, Defense Technology, and Humanities & Social Sciences. The aim is to integrate academic and research resources and bridge them to industry and society. NARLabs, in line with NSTC policies, has established multiple platforms for implementing these technologies and participated in CogX Festival, a forward-looking technology exhibition held in London. This engagement allowed nations across the globe to witness Taiwan’s technological development direction.”

Several Experts Showcased Taiwan’s Semiconductor Research Achievements Collaboratively

During CogX’s Semi Impact Summit on September 14, several researchers from NARLabs were invited as keynote speakers, including Director General Chau-Lyan Chang from National Center for High-performance Computing (NCHC), Deputy Director General Ying-Zong Juang, from TSRI, Deputy Director General Juin-Fu Chai from NCREE, Associate Researcher Chih-Sheng Yu from Taiwan Instrument Research Institute, and Director Mei-Yu Chang from the International Affairs Office at NARLabs. Through this event, they shared Taiwan’s experiences and advancements in both technology and forward-looking research, aiming to attract international industry, academia, and research institutions to collaborate further with NARLabs on multinational projects, addressing topics related to AI, net zero, IoT, and organ chips.

Director General Chau-Lyan Chang from NCHC delivered a speech on “Chips for Many Things : from LLM to Edge AI,” highlighting the importance of human intelligence and innovation driving the powerful capabilities of chips, from Edge AI to Large Language Models (LLM) necessary for Generative AI.

Deputy Director General Ying-Zong Juang, from TSRI  discussed the “The IC Design Challenges in the New Era,” emphasizing  that with the evolution of AI, computational environments have outpaced past computer generations. To address these demands, generated AI, HPC, and quantum computing into a hybrid computational environment is essential. 

Deputy Director General Juin-Fu Chai from NCREE presented “AI EEWS & Structural Safety Monitoring System,” explaining how AI-based earthquake warning systems, coupled with post-earthquake structural safety monitoring, can effectively reduce disaster and financial losses, especially in high-tech industries using high-precision instruments.

Associate Researcher Chih-Sheng Yu from TIRI presented “Introduction to the capabilities of  TIRI on semiconductors & opto-electro-mechanical systems and how to create an ecosystem of new alternative methods (NAMs) in Taiwan,” introducing the advanced vacuum technology’s crucial role in advanced semiconductor processes, high-tech optical components for Taiwan’s self-made satellite Formosat-5, an  accelerator platform facilitating the introduction of medical instruments to the market, and an alternative animal testing platform developed in collaboration with NLAC and TSRI.

Representing NLAC,  Associate Professor Yu-Hsiang Hsu from the Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University presented “The 3Rs of Precision Medicine,” highlighting the establishment of a cardiac cell model on a chip combined with piezoelectric elements, which can be applied in drug screening.

Director Mei-Yu Chang from International Affairs Office of NARLabs delivered a presentation on “Exploring the Taiwan Model: What Brings the Uniqueness of Taiwan Semiconductor Development?” As a technological island, Taiwan holds the world’s top position in semiconductor industry investments and IC design. NARLabs as a platform linking academia, research, and industry, especially through the talent cultivation programs developed by TSRI, further promotes Taiwan’s distinctive position in the global semiconductor industry.

The Semi Impact Summit, focusing on semiconductor-related topics, provided participants with an interactive platform to share and discuss the latest advancements, challenges, opportunities, and even the geopolitical impacts. The goal was to bring together businesses, investors, policymakers, and innovators, fostering knowledge sharing and in-depth discussions to drive the global semiconductor industry’s development. In addition to researchers from NARLabs, other speakers from Taiwan included Frank Huang, Chairman of Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation.

NARLabs’ participation in the CogX Festival aimed not only to share Taiwan’s experiences in developing cutting-edge technology and nurturing talents with the world but also to attract international industry, academia, and research institutions for more cross-border collaborations. The ultimate objective was to work together towards promoting human’s sustainable development.

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The post Taiwan’s Semiconductor Shines at CogX Festival, UK’s Annual Tech Exhibition, Director Mei-Yu Chang of Taiwan’s NARLabs: Technological Applications and Talent Cultivation Makes Taiwan’s Semiconductor Industry Unique first appeared on The Icons.

In an interview with《The Icons》, BLUE shared his unexpected journey of becoming a parent-child illustrator. Since becoming a father, he has become increasingly concerned about education and climate change issues.

Just Seeking Sympathy Initially

For BLUE, drawing is not only a passion but also a means to convey ideas to others. Initially, his creations often focused on women due to youthful curiosity. As he grew older, he delved into societal issues, creating editorial cartoons for major newspapers. After his son was born, he became a full-time dad. The first year was hectic, leaving little time for creativity. However, when his child turned 2, BLUE picked up the brush again, using the parenting experience as his main theme. Now, at 9 years old, his son has inspired over 500 parent-child illustrations capturing their everyday interactions, whether joyful or challenging.

“He once brought a snack from kindergarten and told me mysteriously, ‘Dad, you have to taste this, it’s the most delicious thing I’ve ever eaten!’ I thought, ‘What kind of snack have I not tasted?’ When he brought it out, it was just an ordinary snack. But, I was deeply moved as I ate it,” BLUE shared, displaying an illustration of his son handing him a corn cob.

BLUE’s son had just celebrated his 9th birthday at the time of the interview. In the illustration, the child was surrounded by friends, getting ready to blow out 9 candles. “Birthdays are quite busy – you have to invite classmates, prepare food, and take care of the kids. But every time I see a child blowing out candles, it always tugs at my heartstrings. It’s a moment that signifies him growing one more year older.”

Reading Over 1000 Books to Prepare for Parenting

BLUE’s work also reflects his worries about his son. “I worry about his future, his health, and the fact that he absorbs everything like a sponge. A casual remark might influence his thoughts significantly or affect his choices,” BLUE admitted. Despite reading over a thousand books, he found himself increasingly uncertain at times.

“For instance, regarding money,” BLUE mentions his attempt to instill financial literacy. “I thought about giving him pocket money for contributing to household chores and teaching him to manage it himself.” However, BLUE read conflicting psychology theories, “If contributions to the family are rewarded with money, it changes the motivation, and I was at a loss about what to do. So, in the end, I didn’t implement it.”

“I grew up in a traditional family, where children were expected to be listening rather than questioning. It made me a bit timid. I want him to be more confident, find a sense of accomplishment in what he loves,” he added.

Speaking of his expectations for his son, BLUE touched on the conflict between parenting and personal desires. “I hope he can be true to himself, but I also want him to be well-behaved. People should continuously try new things, but I also need peace and quiet. Sometimes when he jumps around on the sofa, I tell him to stop, and that might suppress him,” BLUE confessed.

In the struggle between raising his son and fulfilling personal needs, BLUE fears he might be hindering his child’s development. He highlighted the challenges of parenting: “Being a parent means not being able to go out, not even to 7-11, once the child is asleep. The mental and economic pressures, the stress of care and discipline, all accumulate,” BLUE said, echoing the sentiments of parents everywhere.

However, BLUE firmly stated that his parenting series will continue.

BLUE: Values and Attitudes are Most Important in Education

BLUE believes that the most important education for children is to instill good values and attitudes. He stated, “Knowledge is essential, but it’s readily available on the internet. There’s no need to memorize the height of Jade Mountain or Taipei 101. However, one should avoid becoming ignorant, thinking they know everything just because they can find information online. With strong foundational values, acquiring knowledge becomes easier.”

He then discussed the challenges children will face in the future, especially regarding AI. He acknowledged that AI might replace many jobs, and skills learned today could become obsolete in 5 to 10 years. Despite the impact of technological advancements, BLUE remains optimistic. He said, “How children will face AI in the future might not be a problem for them; it will be something natural. So, the impact won’t be as significant as it is for us.”

Looking ahead, BLUE expressed concerns about the impact of climate change. He worries about leaving a habitable Earth for his son and actively educates him about environmental conservation, recycling, and climate change issues. He emphasized the importance of early awareness and mentioned the upcoming COP28 at the end of November, where leaders from various countries will gather to discuss actions to address climate change. BLUE also urges all parents to pay attention to this annual climate event.

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The post Single Dad Paints His Way from Taiwan to the World! Taiwanese Illustrator BLUE: “A Brush Isn’t Enough to Express My Concern and Care for Son” first appeared on The Icons.

Taiwan and UK are Highly Complementary in Scientific and Technological Cooperation

Lin emphasized that NARLabs’ goal is not only to enhance its international recognition but also to use platforms like exhibitions to make more people aware of its research capabilities and achievements in various technology domains.

“While many research highlights may not have been fully displayed at the exhibition, NARLabs hopes to attract more collaboration opportunities through other means, such as promotional materials, to apply its research outcomes in diverse fields and industries,” he said.

When asked about how NARLabs perceived its performance at the exhibition, Lin stated that they recognized the complementarity between Taiwan and the UK in terms of technological research and commercialization. 

“The UK excels in original designs and scientific theoretical development in biotech and data science, while Taiwan possesses rapid prototyping and large-scale production capabilities. This complementarity provides an excellent opportunity for collaboration. Through cooperation, both parties can integrate their strengths more effectively, driving the commercialization of technology,” he noted.

Looking toward the future, Lin mentioned the importance of ESG and SDGs and emphasized how to achieve sustainable development in these areas.

“Taiwan’s outstanding performance in the semiconductor field, coupled with its capability to reduce energy consumption and advance energy technology, secures its place in the global technological competition,” he stated. He also mentioned that Taiwan can collaborate with researchers and businesses worldwide to address various challenges faced by humanity, strengthening Taiwan’s influence and position in the global technology arena through these collaborations.

Dr. Bou-Wen Lin: Taiwan, Through Global Cooperation, Addresses Various Challenges Faced by Humanity

NARLabs showcased its research highlights and capabilities in various technology domains, especially in AI and chip manufacturing, at the CogX exhibition. Through participation in the exhibition, NARLabs not only enhanced its international recognition but also demonstrated its active role in global technology cooperation and research development.

Lin’s insights provide us with a valuable perspective, enabling a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s influence and position in the global technology arena. Through collaboration with global researchers and businesses, Taiwan aims to address various challenges faced by humanity.

In the future development of the semiconductor field, Lin particularly emphasized the importance of sustainable development, especially in reducing energy consumption and advancing energy technology, to secure Taiwan’s prominent position in the global technological competition.

Interviewee Profile

Dr. Bou-Wen Lin , vice president of Taiwan National Applied Research Laboratories, possesses a rich academic background and diverse management experience. He has profound expertise and practical experience in technology management and policy research. In multiple academic and practical fields, he has demonstrated outstanding leadership and strategic planning abilities.

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The post Taiwan Shines at CogX Festival, Dr. Bou-Wen Lin, Vice President of NARLabs: Energy Technology Gives Taiwan a Place in the Global Semiconductor Field! first appeared on The Icons.

From the AI Hardware Capital to a Leader in Sustainable Development, Taiwan’s Semiconductor Industry Holds Global Influence 

 “Taiwan, as the global capital of AI hardware, possesses a unique and robust supply chain integration capability,” mentioned Dr. Huang. He pointed out that Nvidia chose to collaborate with Taiwanese companies such as TSMC（Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.）, Quanta, and Wistron due to this advantage. He firmly believes that no other country can challenge Taiwan’s leading position in this regard.

Dr. Huang further discussed the emerging direction in the AI field – portable AI chips. “While Nvidia’s AI chips have shown outstanding performance in data information AI, there is still significant room for development due to their high cost and limitations in AI functionality. Taiwan is actively developing and maintaining a leading position in this field,” he noted. He highlighted that portable AI chips can be applied in various areas, including IoT devices, edge computing, autonomous vehicles, smart manufacturing, where the demand for low-power and high-performance chips is increasing.

Regarding the development strategy of the semiconductor supply chain, Dr. Huang believes that the integration of memory chips and logic chips will become increasingly important.

“The rapid development of AI computing will drive the semiconductor industry towards heterogeneous integration and packaging, high bandwidth, and low power consumption. 3D IC packaging technology, System-on-Chip design, and Multi-Chip Modules will be crucial directions for the future semiconductor industry. Additionally, new-generation memory technologies such as DDR5 and GDDR6, along with new low-power semiconductor manufacturing technologies, will be key to the future development of AI hardware.”

In the face of global concerns about sustainable development, Dr. Huang stated that although Taiwan only provides suggestions as a participating organization in ESG matters, it is indeed a part of this field. He emphasized that substantial progress in this area requires innovative ideas.

Regarding Taiwan’s strategy of restructuring the global semiconductor supply chain and establishing foundries worldwide, Dr. Huang believes this is a necessary choice due to concerns about Taiwan’s geopolitical risks.

“Although the process might be challenging due to different regulations in different countries, Taiwan must adapt to local regulations and environments. However, it will ultimately succeed,” he said.

Dr. Huang also shared his thoughts on the potential future development between Taiwan and Europe: “Although Taiwan is just a small island, its influence in the semiconductor industry has been recognized by countries worldwide. With the intensifying political conflicts between China and Taiwan, global attention on Taiwan has correspondingly increased.”

“Regardless of who wins in Taiwan’s elections, Taiwan should continue to advance high technology and promote its development. Only when Taiwan can lead the high-tech industry will other countries pay attention to Taiwan.” Dr. Huang emphasized.

Dr. Frank Huang: Innovation is the Key to Taiwan’s Semiconductor Industry’s Continuous Leadership

In this era of rapid technological advancement, Taiwan’s semiconductor industry not only highlights its crucial position in the global supply chain but also demonstrates its leading advantage in driving innovation and development in AI hardware. Dr. Huang’s insights reveal Taiwan’s profound strength and future potential in the semiconductor and AI fields.

Faced with the changes and challenges in global politics and economics, Taiwan’s semiconductor industry’s strategic adjustments and technological innovation will be the key to its continued leadership.

Through continuous technological research and development, active international cooperation, and a deep understanding of sustainable development, Taiwan will continue to solidify its leading position in the global semiconductor industry. It will usher in a new chapter in the era of AI, painting a broader future blueprint for global technological development.

Dr. Frank Huang, founder and CEO of PSMC, also the founder of UMAX Computer Corporation. He has served as the chairman of the Taipei Computer Association and possesses profound insights and experience in the semiconductor and AI hardware industry.

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“To understand the ‘new normal,’ we surveyed 1,320 financial and business leaders from private enterprises with over 1,000 employees in North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region (APAC),” said Michael Chung, General Manager of Wolters Kluwer (CCH Tagetik) Greater China, in an interview with 《The Icons》, discussing key findings from the survey.

Financial and Business Processes Become More Challenging and Complex

The pandemic-induced business disruptions were unprecedented in scale and impact. Chung said: “Only  a handful of organizations managed seamless operations. In contrast, the majority of respondents (90%) in our survey indicated that financial and business processes became more challenging and complex over the past 2 years.”

Increased complexity had significant implications for enterprises, including rising operational costs, difficulties in providing insightful strategic guidance, heightened risk exposure, and a lack of visibility into performance-driving factors.

Hence, organizations must replace outdated Corporate Performance Management (CPM) processes hindering financial teams’ development, including obsolete software, manual intervention points, and spreadsheet-based processes. Given the complexity increase, leaders must decide which tools and technologies can simplify these processes.

Financial Leaders Play a Crucial Role in Navigating Uncertainty

According the survey Three-quarters of the leaders expressed challenges in balancing:

• Growth plans with financial controls and risk management
• Adapting to market changes and proactive innovation
• Financial investments and operational process investments
• Traditional technologies and new technologies
• Retraining existing staff and hiring new employees

Chung pointed: “Worse still, manual operations consumed financial leaders’ time, preventing them from focusing on high-value activities like strategic planning. Respondents cited manual financial operations as one of the top three frustrating work issues, along with technical problems and data integration, and the disconnect between financial and operational processes.”

“Despite financial leaders’ responsibilities expanding from strategic guidance to cost control, ethical consultation, new reporting requirements, and operational planning, many were hampered by inefficient tools. Up to 95% of respondents felt frustrated with their financial processes.”

To ensure businesses can thrive amidst chaos in future and grow in evolving business environments, financial teams need centralized data management and must leverage AI and automation technologies in their CPM processes. This enables them to overcome challenges such as technical issues, inadequate tools, and departmental silos.

Unified Concerns among Financial Leaders

the survey also found that financial and operational leaders almost unanimously identified the most urgent issues in the next 2-3 years:

• Economic chaos
• Workforce disruption
• Technological upheaval (AI, Machine Learning)
• Industry/supply chain disruptions
• Regulatory turmoil
• Competition turmoil, new competitors
• Mergers and acquisitions chaos

Chung thought these concerns reflect the inevitable and varied forms of chaos organizations might face. “Given the diverse threats today, organizations need to proactively plan for chaotic events. When asked how important it is now, compared to two years ago, to predict financial chaos and provide business guidance, 95% said it’s now more critical.”

While no one can accurately predict the next chaotic event, financial teams can prepare. To do this, they need to utilize CPM tools, including process automation, planning expanded  and analysis, predictive analytics, real-time forecasting, and scenario analysis, to enhance flexibility. These functionalities enable organizations to respond to sudden changes more quickly and efficiently.

The Disconnect between Finance and Operations is a Pressing Issue

When chaos strikes, seemingly insignificant inefficiencies in processes can lead to significant consequences, such as delayed predictions that could severely postpone crucial production decisions.

“That’s why it’s crucial for financial and operational leaders to maintain consistency and flexibility across different business functions. Unfortunately, almost half of the respondents indicated a disconnect between finance and operations in various aspects” Chung said.

These disconnects include:

• Systems, technology, and tools.
• Financial and operational processes.
• Inconsistent data.
• Data sharing.

However, this doesn’t mean that leaders don’t recognize the value of aligning finance and operations. “In fact, most respondents believe integrating with financial planning would benefit various business areas significantly. The majority (63%) stated that supply chain planning would benefit from this integration. Approximately half of the respondents believed that sales performance, human resources/labor, marketing, and information planning would also benefit.”Chung stated.

The advantages of this integration include improved decision-making, more accurate predictions, and better understanding of revenue and operational situations.

So, what hampers the connection between finance and operations? One of the significant obstacles is the inconsistency in tools and planning systems, “with 39% of respondents considering this a challenge. Other barriers include inconsistent financial and operational data, ownership of processes and cross-functional key performance indicators are disparate, and concerns about data management skills.” Chung said.

Fortunately, CPM enterprise software can help businesses overcome these challenges. The platform connects different departments, teams, and business units by providing a single data source for data transformation. It serves as a platform for planning, reporting, and analysis execution, acting as the communication hub for performance management. In essence, the CPM platform ensures internal coordination across the entire company, leading to better decision-making.

On the path forward, embracing change, adopting advanced technology, and promoting coordination between financial and operational departments are key to navigating today’s complex business environment. Organizations that actively invest in CPM processes, utilize data-driven insights, and maintain agility when facing chaos will secure a favorable position for future developments and achieve success.

In the face of unprecedented challenges and complex situations, the financial function stands at a critical crossroads. Embracing change, adopting advanced technology, and promoting coordination between financial and operational functions are essential to steer your enterprise toward success. Download Wolters Kluwer’s “Global CPM Trends Report” for valuable insights guiding financial leaders in their journey forward.

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The post Michael Chung, General Manager of  CCH Tagetik Greater China : Manual Operations Consume Too Much Time for Financial Leaders; It’s Time for Businesses to Upgrade Their Tools! first appeared on The Icons.