Latest news with #ChenGang
Korea Herald
2 days ago
- Korea Herald
When "Just for Fun" Meets AI Tech: Singapore Tourism Board and Mafengwo Explore New Ways to Travel in the Future
SINGAPORE, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On June 10th, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Mafengwo jointly hosted the "#AnywayIt'sFun Inspiration Renewal Journey" event in Beijing. Centered around the themes of "contrast, novelty, and social connection," the event showcased the diverse charm of Singapore travel through an immersive Nanyang-style experience, a friendly roundtable discussion, and stories shared by travel influencers. Mafengwo unveiled its latest AI-powered cultural and creative product, powered by its self-developed AI model for travel industry, offering tourists a glimpse into the future of "smart travel." In recent years, Chinese travelers have increasingly sought deeper, more personalized travel experiences rather than chasing popular attractions. According to user data from Mafengwo's "AI Travel Assistant for Singapore", travelers' preferences to Singapore are becoming more nuanced and segmented. Families with children care about "queue times at attractions" and "stroller rentals," young travelers seek out "trendy cafés" and "Peranakan culture check-ins," while seniors prioritize "barrier-free facilities." "To meet these needs, Singapore has introduced five themed travel profiles," explained Mr. Andrew Phua, STB's Chief Representative and Executive Director of Greater China, during the roundtable. "Health-conscious travelers can explore Sentosa's rainforest ecosystem through immersive guided tours. Food lovers may try the uniquely flavored coffee pork ribs. Urban explorers can marvel at prehistoric wonders at the new Jurassic World: The Exhibition at Gardens by the Bay. Experience-seekers can feel the pulse of Formula 1 and enjoy live performances at the Singapore Grand Prix. Meanwhile, senior travelers may enjoy the tranquility and joy of traditional embroidery workshops. By combining AI technology with tourism products, we can provid endless possibilities aligned with the "Just for Fun" spirit. " "AI travel assistants—whether in the form of digital itineraries or creative cultural products—are more than tools. They are triggers for travel inspiration," said Chen Gang, CEO of Mafengwo. He elaborated on how AI is reshaping travel in the era of hyper-independent travel and introduced "AI XiaoXinxin," an AI assistant in plush doll form. It could seamlessly answer Singapore-related travel questions from both the host and guests, while also acting as a fun companion for photos and emotional support on trips. The AI Travel Itinerary tool ("AI Roadbook") offers exhaustive pre-trip planning support. Chen Gang demonstrated when prompted with "a 5-day in-depth cultural trip with parents," the system generated a thoughtfully balanced itinerary including Chinese heritage tours in Chinatown, local coffee culture, traditional crafts, and old-school cafés. Each section comes with budget allocations from economical to premium tiers. Especially for senior travelers, it introduces features like Singapore's "Green Man+" system and Silver Zones—facilities designed to enhance elderly convenience—thus easing planning anxiety. "Additionally, the newly launched real-time translation tool by AI Xiaoma eliminates the hassle of typing; users can simply press and speak into two microphones alternately on the same screen for seamless multilingual interaction." Two Mafengwo's influencers (Feng Shou) shared what "Just for Fun" means to them in Singapore. Geotechnical engineer and super dad Ren Yuan Tai Shan reflected on how he once fixated on rigid itineraries, but now treasures spontaneous moments—like chatting with local elders while enjoying fish ball noodles with his child near HDB flats. Meanwhile, first-time visitor and ski coach Yi Yun looked forward to zoning out, sipping Kopi, and strolling around the vibrant, sun-soaked streets, hoping to stumble upon delightful surprises. Beyond savoring local dishes at the Peranakan Flavor Remix Booth and creating handmade crafts at the Nanyang Mini Workshop, the appearance of the AI-powered "Xiaoma Robot" dressed in Singapore-themed outfits brought the event to a peak. Like travelers just back from Singapore, these robots offered guests a quirky, smart, and whimsical travel encounter. As long-term strategic partners, STB and Mafengwo have previously precisely reached family and young traveler segments through campaigns like "The Best Summer Homework" and "Jackson Wang's Itinerary," pioneering the integration of the latest technology into travel as the first overseas destination AI partner. The launch of this AI travel companion marks a significant transition in their collaboration from "content marketing" to " intelligent services." It is understood that both parties will continue to upgrade the AI companion's features to empower the "Just for Fun" philosophy, enabling travelers to enjoy both meticulous planning and unexpected discoveries around every corner in their Singapore journey.
Malaysian Reserve
2 days ago
- Malaysian Reserve
When "Just for Fun" Meets AI Tech: Singapore Tourism Board and Mafengwo Explore New Ways to Travel in the Future
SINGAPORE, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On June 10th, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Mafengwo jointly hosted the '#AnywayIt'sFun Inspiration Renewal Journey' event in Beijing. Centered around the themes of 'contrast, novelty, and social connection,' the event showcased the diverse charm of Singapore travel through an immersive Nanyang-style experience, a friendly roundtable discussion, and stories shared by travel influencers. Mafengwo unveiled its latest AI-powered cultural and creative product, powered by its self-developed AI model for travel industry, offering tourists a glimpse into the future of 'smart travel.' In recent years, Chinese travelers have increasingly sought deeper, more personalized travel experiences rather than chasing popular attractions. According to user data from Mafengwo's 'AI Travel Assistant for Singapore', travelers' preferences to Singapore are becoming more nuanced and segmented. Families with children care about 'queue times at attractions' and 'stroller rentals,' young travelers seek out 'trendy cafés' and 'Peranakan culture check-ins,' while seniors prioritize 'barrier-free facilities.' 'To meet these needs, Singapore has introduced five themed travel profiles,' explained Mr. Andrew Phua, STB's Chief Representative and Executive Director of Greater China, during the roundtable. 'Health-conscious travelers can explore Sentosa's rainforest ecosystem through immersive guided tours. Food lovers may try the uniquely flavored coffee pork ribs. Urban explorers can marvel at prehistoric wonders at the new Jurassic World: The Exhibition at Gardens by the Bay. Experience-seekers can feel the pulse of Formula 1 and enjoy live performances at the Singapore Grand Prix. Meanwhile, senior travelers may enjoy the tranquility and joy of traditional embroidery workshops. By combining AI technology with tourism products, we can provid endless possibilities aligned with the 'Just for Fun' spirit. ' 'AI travel assistants—whether in the form of digital itineraries or creative cultural products—are more than tools. They are triggers for travel inspiration,' said Chen Gang, CEO of Mafengwo. He elaborated on how AI is reshaping travel in the era of hyper-independent travel and introduced 'AI XiaoXinxin,' an AI assistant in plush doll form. It could seamlessly answer Singapore-related travel questions from both the host and guests, while also acting as a fun companion for photos and emotional support on trips. The AI Travel Itinerary tool ('AI Roadbook') offers exhaustive pre-trip planning support. Chen Gang demonstrated when prompted with 'a 5-day in-depth cultural trip with parents,' the system generated a thoughtfully balanced itinerary including Chinese heritage tours in Chinatown, local coffee culture, traditional crafts, and old-school cafés. Each section comes with budget allocations from economical to premium tiers. Especially for senior travelers, it introduces features like Singapore's 'Green Man+' system and Silver Zones—facilities designed to enhance elderly convenience—thus easing planning anxiety. 'Additionally, the newly launched real-time translation tool by AI Xiaoma eliminates the hassle of typing; users can simply press and speak into two microphones alternately on the same screen for seamless multilingual interaction.' Two Mafengwo's influencers (Feng Shou) shared what 'Just for Fun' means to them in Singapore. Geotechnical engineer and super dad Ren Yuan Tai Shan reflected on how he once fixated on rigid itineraries, but now treasures spontaneous moments—like chatting with local elders while enjoying fish ball noodles with his child near HDB flats. Meanwhile, first-time visitor and ski coach Yi Yun looked forward to zoning out, sipping Kopi, and strolling around the vibrant, sun-soaked streets, hoping to stumble upon delightful surprises. Beyond savoring local dishes at the Peranakan Flavor Remix Booth and creating handmade crafts at the Nanyang Mini Workshop, the appearance of the AI-powered 'Xiaoma Robot' dressed in Singapore-themed outfits brought the event to a peak. Like travelers just back from Singapore, these robots offered guests a quirky, smart, and whimsical travel encounter. As long-term strategic partners, STB and Mafengwo have previously precisely reached family and young traveler segments through campaigns like 'The Best Summer Homework' and 'Jackson Wang's Itinerary,' pioneering the integration of the latest technology into travel as the first overseas destination AI partner. The launch of this AI travel companion marks a significant transition in their collaboration from 'content marketing' to ' intelligent services.' It is understood that both parties will continue to upgrade the AI companion's features to empower the 'Just for Fun' philosophy, enabling travelers to enjoy both meticulous planning and unexpected discoveries around every corner in their Singapore journey.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
When "Just for Fun" Meets AI Tech: Singapore Tourism Board and Mafengwo Explore New Ways to Travel in the Future
SINGAPORE, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On June 10th, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Mafengwo jointly hosted the "#AnywayIt'sFun Inspiration Renewal Journey" event in Beijing. Centered around the themes of "contrast, novelty, and social connection," the event showcased the diverse charm of Singapore travel through an immersive Nanyang-style experience, a friendly roundtable discussion, and stories shared by travel influencers. Mafengwo unveiled its latest AI-powered cultural and creative product, powered by its self-developed AI model for travel industry, offering tourists a glimpse into the future of "smart travel." In recent years, Chinese travelers have increasingly sought deeper, more personalized travel experiences rather than chasing popular attractions. According to user data from Mafengwo's "AI Travel Assistant for Singapore", travelers' preferences to Singapore are becoming more nuanced and segmented. Families with children care about "queue times at attractions" and "stroller rentals," young travelers seek out "trendy cafés" and "Peranakan culture check-ins," while seniors prioritize "barrier-free facilities." "To meet these needs, Singapore has introduced five themed travel profiles," explained Mr. Andrew Phua, STB's Chief Representative and Executive Director of Greater China, during the roundtable. "Health-conscious travelers can explore Sentosa's rainforest ecosystem through immersive guided tours. Food lovers may try the uniquely flavored coffee pork ribs. Urban explorers can marvel at prehistoric wonders at the new Jurassic World: The Exhibition at Gardens by the Bay. Experience-seekers can feel the pulse of Formula 1 and enjoy live performances at the Singapore Grand Prix. Meanwhile, senior travelers may enjoy the tranquility and joy of traditional embroidery workshops. By combining AI technology with tourism products, we can provid endless possibilities aligned with the "Just for Fun" spirit. " "AI travel assistants—whether in the form of digital itineraries or creative cultural products—are more than tools. They are triggers for travel inspiration," said Chen Gang, CEO of Mafengwo. He elaborated on how AI is reshaping travel in the era of hyper-independent travel and introduced "AI XiaoXinxin," an AI assistant in plush doll form. It could seamlessly answer Singapore-related travel questions from both the host and guests, while also acting as a fun companion for photos and emotional support on trips. The AI Travel Itinerary tool ("AI Roadbook") offers exhaustive pre-trip planning support. Chen Gang demonstrated when prompted with "a 5-day in-depth cultural trip with parents," the system generated a thoughtfully balanced itinerary including Chinese heritage tours in Chinatown, local coffee culture, traditional crafts, and old-school cafés. Each section comes with budget allocations from economical to premium tiers. Especially for senior travelers, it introduces features like Singapore's "Green Man+" system and Silver Zones—facilities designed to enhance elderly convenience—thus easing planning anxiety. "Additionally, the newly launched real-time translation tool by AI Xiaoma eliminates the hassle of typing; users can simply press and speak into two microphones alternately on the same screen for seamless multilingual interaction." Two Mafengwo's influencers (Feng Shou) shared what "Just for Fun" means to them in Singapore. Geotechnical engineer and super dad Ren Yuan Tai Shan reflected on how he once fixated on rigid itineraries, but now treasures spontaneous moments—like chatting with local elders while enjoying fish ball noodles with his child near HDB flats. Meanwhile, first-time visitor and ski coach Yi Yun looked forward to zoning out, sipping Kopi, and strolling around the vibrant, sun-soaked streets, hoping to stumble upon delightful surprises. Beyond savoring local dishes at the Peranakan Flavor Remix Booth and creating handmade crafts at the Nanyang Mini Workshop, the appearance of the AI-powered "Xiaoma Robot" dressed in Singapore-themed outfits brought the event to a peak. Like travelers just back from Singapore, these robots offered guests a quirky, smart, and whimsical travel encounter. As long-term strategic partners, STB and Mafengwo have previously precisely reached family and young traveler segments through campaigns like "The Best Summer Homework" and "Jackson Wang's Itinerary," pioneering the integration of the latest technology into travel as the first overseas destination AI partner. The launch of this AI travel companion marks a significant transition in their collaboration from "content marketing" to " intelligent services." It is understood that both parties will continue to upgrade the AI companion's features to empower the "Just for Fun" philosophy, enabling travelers to enjoy both meticulous planning and unexpected discoveries around every corner in their Singapore journey. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Mafengwo Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
11-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Guangxi to expand AI cooperation with ASEAN
Guangxi: China-ASEAN Expo to focus on AI BEIJING, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from As a frontier window between China and member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has unique advantages for establishing a hub for artificial intelligence cooperation with ASEAN, which will inject momentum into the building of a China-ASEAN community with a shared future, said Chen Gang, Party secretary of Guangxi. Not only is Guangxi located at a critical juncture between the huge market of China, which has 1.4 billion people, and that of ASEAN, which boasts a population of nearly 700 million, but it also has an abundant energy supply, a linguistic talent pool including those skilled in the languages of ASEAN countries, and favorable policies, Chen noted. Therefore, the region is uniquely positioned to implement China's AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All, and to conduct AI cooperation with ASEAN, Chen told China Daily on the sidelines of the two sessions, the annual gatherings in Beijing of the nation's top legislative and political advisory bodies. 'I think that in the future, it will not be AI that defeats humans, but those who utilize AI defeating those who do not,' said Chen, who is also a deputy to the National People's Congress, China's top legislature. 'The same applies to the development of an enterprise, a region and a country. Those who develop and apply AI first will lead the way.' The China-ASEAN Information Harbor, a State-level digital open platform, has established 12 terrestrial optical cables linking Guangxi with ASEAN countries. The newly approved Nanning International Telecommunications Hub, which is scheduled to be operational by late this year, is expected to make Guangxi the fastest data transmission gateway to ASEAN, which can meet ASEAN countries' demand for AI data processing, Chen said. The upgraded China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 now includes cooperation on the digital economy, while Guangxi's AI industrial fund of 10 billion yuan ($1.38 billion) was set up in February and multiple development zones are further bolstering cross-border innovation, Chen said. He also noted that the region and ASEAN countries have engaged in deepened cooperation in trade, investment, people-to-people exchanges and education, and have accumulated a rich language database that can be used to train AI models. Moreover, Guangxi has hosted the China-ASEAN Expo 21 times and the China-ASEAN AI Summit four times, with the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo, scheduled for September in Nanning, the region's capital, expected to focus on AI cooperation, he added. Chen said that during a recent visit to Vietnam and Laos by a Guangxi delegation, which he led, the top leadership of the two ASEAN countries acknowledged the development progress of China's AI and said they looked forward to enhancing cooperation with China to develop AI models based on their own languages. The delegation also signed landmark deals with Vietnam on cross-border logistics data flows and established the China-Laos AI Innovation Cooperation Center — the first such platform between China and ASEAN, Chen said. Chen said there are four priorities for deepening AI collaboration. The first priority is to attract leading Chinese and ASEAN AI enterprises to set up research and development centers in Nanning, in order to foster cross-border industrial synergy, he said. Second, the region should aim to develop tailored AI applications for agriculture, healthcare, tourism and logistics in ASEAN markets, Chen said. Third, an integrated industrial chain should be established that includes research and development in Beijing and Shanghai as well as Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Guangdong province; integration in Guangxi; and application in ASEAN, he said. Fourth, the region will launch AI training programs for ASEAN officials, workers and students. Through a multilayer cooperation mechanism established between Guangxi and ASEAN government institutions, enterprises, research institutes and the commerce sector, ASEAN countries can equally participate in and benefit from cutting-edge AI technology and standards, which will be conducive to further strengthening the two sides' political trust, Chen said. Moreover, the China-ASEAN AI Innovation and Cooperation Center will cultivate AI talent to empower various industries and push for the inclusive development of AI and bring real benefits to the people, he added. Zhang Li contributed to this story.
