Latest news with #WorldExpo
The Star
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Green tech, AI and robots galore: Highlights from the 2025 World Expo in Japan
The 2025 World Expo in Osaka is now in full swing after kicking off back in April. The event welcomed over one million visitors in its first 13 days, with organisers aiming for a total of 28.2 million attendees over the course of the six-month event. Held every five years in a designated host country, the World Expo is an international showcase of culture, technological advancements, innovation, and inventions from nations (including Malaysia) and companies from around the world, presented in buildings specially built for the exposition called 'Pavilions'. This marks the second time that Osaka has hosted the World Expo, with the last time being back in 1970. Malaysia meets the world True to the theme of 'Weaving a Future in Harmony', Malaysia's Pavilion laid out a roadmap for the country's ambition to become a 'Smart Nation' by 2040, in a gallery splitting this ambition into several phases. Malaysia's Pavilion laid out a roadmap for the country's ambition to become a 'Smart Nation' by 2040, with a gallery splitting this ambition into several phases. This includes implementing integrated command centres from 2026 to 2030, with the aim of monitoring cities in real-time to ensure more efficient operation, allowing data-driven decision-making that would make predictions for traffic management and public safety trends. From 2031 to 2035, Malaysia envisions smarter and more responsive cities through advanced analytics and Internet of Things sensors operating in cities, with data shared across government agencies, enhancing services like waste management, energy efficiency, crime prevention, mobility, and infrastructure. Under the roadmap, Malaysia would finally achieve 'visionary smart cities' by 2040, with liveable, sustainable, safe, and seamlessly connected urban spaces. The pavilion also showcased a diorama of Kuala Lumpur, complete with a projection-mapped light show highlighting key landmarks and train lines throughout the city. It also featured an augmented reality (AR) element, with tablets providing explanations when the camera is pointed at a specific part of the city. The booth highlighted Malaysia's robust QR payment systems offered through various payment platforms, including DuitNow, MAE, GrabPay, TNG eWallet and Agro Bank, while also showcasing registered intellectual properties. Attendees could learn more about landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, the Tun Razak Exchange, and public transportation systems like the LRT and monorail lines by tapping on the AR overlay panels that are displayed on the tablet. The overlays display information about the landmarks, infrastructure, and offer suggestions for other sites to explore. Ministries are taking turns serving as exhibitors at the Malaysia Pavilion during the Expo, with the Domestic Trade and Costs of Living Ministry (KPDN) managing the booth during LifestyleTech's visit. The booth highlighted Malaysia's robust QR payment systems offered through various payment platforms, including DuitNow, MAE, GrabPay, TNG eWallet (see story on p4), and Agrobank, while also showcasing registered intellectual properties. A Hall of Fame celebrating notable figures from Malaysia's past and present. At the end of the Malaysia Pavilion was a Hall of Fame, celebrating notable figures from the nation's past and present, spanning a wide range of fields. This includes national athletes like Datuk Wira Lee Chong Wei and Datuk Nicol Ann David, along with stars like Tan Sri P. Ramlee and Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh. Riding the future Several Pavilions exhibited robots and their potential to transform the future of humanity. For instance, the Robot & Mobility Station by the East Gate of the Expo included a mix of experiences and demos leveraging robotics. On display was an AI (artificial intelligence) suitcase developed by the Consortium for Advanced Assistive Mobility Platform, meant to guide visually impaired people to requested destinations. This AI 'suitcase' guides those with vision impairments with voice and tactile directions. Despite the name, the suitcase provides no storage space whatsoever, with its internals completely filled with sensors, including lidar, which is commonly used with autonomous vehicles, a satellite positioning antenna, and camera. These sensors would then be used to detect obstacles and provide guidance through voice directions, with additional tactile directions provided through a spinning dial on the handle. The station also had three varieties of mobility devices, including the Daihatsu e-Sneaker, which could be rented for use around the Expo grounds. The e-Sneaker is capable of a top speed of 4km per hour, with a maximum range of 12km. The e-Sneaker can be borrowed by attendees to get around the Expo. Equipped with a row of sensors on the front and back, it can detect people and obstacles in front of riders, automatically dropping speed to 1kph to avoid collisions. Alongside it was the larger Waku Mobi scooter, capable of a much higher top speed of 20kph, boasting greater stability during rides due to its entire body being able to tilt without shifting the rider when on uneven surfaces. The Waku Mobi scooter can remain stable even when on jagged terrain for smoother rides. Meanwhile, the wheelchair-like Uni-One can move in any direction and is controlled by riders shifting their body weight or leaning, entirely hands-free. The Future City Pavilion featured the Corleo, a concept all-terrain vehicle from Kawasaki. As the name implies, it is meant to look like a robotic lion which people can ride like a horse. Kawasaki's all-terrain concept vehicle, the Corleo, looks like a robotic lion. Though based on the video shown behind the Corleo at the event, it might be more apt to describe it as a mountain goat, since it was mainly depicted in hilly and mountainous environments. Behind the Pavilion is the advanced air mobility vehicle from Lift Aircraft called Hexa, which was unfortunately only a static display during LifestyleTech's visit. It is unclear if it will be taking flight sometime later during the Expo. Robotics galore Also at the Future City Pavilion were completely autonomous farming robots from Kubota, a Japanese agricultural machinery company, with units in two different sizes on show. The larger Type V model is intended as a versatile platform capable of handling every stage of farming, from tilling to harvesting using various attachments and tools, while the smaller Type S is meant to be an assistant robot that can haul cargo and perform more precise tasks. Type V and Type S: Two multifunction agriculture robots were shown off at the Future Cities Pavilion. This is the Type S. Then there's the MechatroMate Q from robotics company Living Robot, a small elder care robot that doubles as a cross between a walking smartphone and a smart home hub. It can deliver video calls from family members directly to the person it's caring for with its built-in 13-megapixel camera, provide medication reminders, control appliances like air conditioners, and even contact emergency services if something goes wrong. The MechatroMate Q is an elder care robot that pulls double duty by making calls and giving medication reminders. Another robot on show was the Qlogo Reactive Ver. 2, which is a telepresence robot, meaning that it can be controlled by someone off-site and be tasked with a specific job that can be performed in real-time. Back at the Robot & Mobility Station are space-themed experiences, including a virtual reality spacewalk, which puts attendees in the seat of a space shuttle launch. The simulator chair even rotates 360° around to mimic zero gravity and the intensity of a shuttle launch. Alongside it is a moon driving experience with a simulator setup with hydraulics to simulate the rugged lunar surface, and the remote operation of excavation equipment on the moon with joysticks. Cutting-edge vending machines No conversation about exploring Japan would be complete without a vending machine mention. Aside from all vending machines on the Expo's grounds accepting card and QR payments in line with the event's cashless vision, vending machine providers are also honing in on sustainability tech. Fuji Electric and Coca-Cola's vending machine can be powered by hydrogen. A hydrogen-powered vending machine co-developed by Fuji Electric and Coca-Cola was also on show. While it works about the same as a regular vending machine, what makes it special is the replaceable hydrogen cartridges it uses as a power source. Rather than requiring a power outlet (and the associated infrastructure like power lines and electrical grids), these vending machines operate so long as the hydrogen cartridges are replaced when depleted. The hydrogen cartridges provide energy through a chemical reaction with hydrogen and oxygen, allowing these vending machines to be installed basically anywhere. This would also mean the vending machines would be powered by a clean energy source, assuming that green hydrogen is used, meaning that the production process gives off zero emissions. For context, grey hydrogen, which emits carbon dioxide when produced, accounted for around 92% of the hydrogen produced in 2022, according to a Forbes report. During LifestyleTech's visit however, it was switched to using regular electricity due to issues with hydrogen supply. A notice on the machine mentions it will resume using hydrogen power in early June. Meanwhile, in another part of the Expo, an Asahi vending machine was 'eating' carbon dioxide. It featured a built-in carbon dioxide absorber which is claimed to capture 20% of the annual emissions generated by powering each unit. Asahi's vending machine can 'eat' carbon dioxide and be powered by solar energy. While not carbon neutral, it does work to offset the carbon footprint created from powering them. A notice on the vending machines also says they have already deployed in Osaka's metro stations. However, when combined with another technology, namely solar panels, these Asahi vending machines might even become carbon negative. Some of those deployed at the Expo are equipped with a roof made of solar panels, along with a sodium battery to store a charge when skies are overcast or when the sun isn't out. There are some caveats, though, as a notice on the machine states that the cooling performance may be affected when it is running solely off the power stored in the battery, meaning that drinks may not be at the ideal temperature. Other tidbits Also spotted at the Expo was flexible solar power generation film designed to be installed on uneven surfaces like roof tiles, which can generate and store energy in connected batteries. The stored power can then be used for everyday needs, such as charging a smartphone or powering small household devices. Lift Aircraft's Hexa was shown as a static display. Malaysians looking to visit the Expo can install an app developed by the organisers, called EXPO2025 Personal Agent, which can provide recommendations based on a particular guest's likes, with a suggested itinerary based on the entrance used by the attendee and their time of entry, along with route navigation and restroom pit stops. It also gives attendees quests to visit certain spots as part of a virtual stamp rally. While Japan has a reputation for being a cash-first country, Expo organisers have gone in a different direction with a fully cashless policy, encouraging visitors to use credit and debit cards, QR codes, and prepaid card options during their time at the event. All in all, it makes for a familiar experience for Malaysians, who have long embraced e-wallets and contactless payments back at home. The Osaka World Expo runs until Oct 13, 2025.
Observer
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Observer
OFS showcases Oman's treasures at Expo 2025 Osaka
The Omani Film Society, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, hosted a film screening as part of the activities celebrating Cultural Diversity Day at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The OFS showcased the Oman's treasures on Omani Cultural Diversity Day. Expo 2025 is a World Expo taking place in Osaka from April 13 to October 13, 2025, organised and sanctioned by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). Oman's film screening was conducted in three languages: Arabic, English and Japanese, enhancing communication with international audiences. Oman's participation at Expo 2025 aimed to strengthen its position as a global filming destination. Anwar bin Khamis al Ruzaiqi, Vice-Chairman of the Omani Film Society, introduced the "Make Your Film in Oman" project, promoting Oman's picturesque locations as ideal settings for film-making. The screening included a promotional film showcasing international locations used in Hollywood and Bollywood films, highlighting their counterparts in Oman with its unique geographical diversity, including golden sand dunes, green valleys, towering mountains and pristine coastlines. The screening also discussed Oman's rich historical and archaeological sites, from castles and forts to ancient cities and Unesco world heritage sites, emphasising their cultural value, which enriches film productions. "We are proud to present Oman's cultural and cinematic treasures on a global stage, showcasing Oman's exceptional locations and rich heritage. Our participation at Expo Osaka reflects the Omani Film Society's commitment to strengthening Oman's position as an international film-making and cultural exchange destination," said Mohammed bin Abdullah al Ajmi, President of the Omani Film Society. "We believe that cinema is a powerful bridge connecting cultures and sharing the story of our people and land with the world. Through initiatives like this, we promote film tourism and creative industries in Oman while empowering young film-makers to share their unique stories and talents globally. We thank all partners and collaborators for contributing to the success of this participation and look forward to further cooperation to advance the Omani film sector," he added. During the event, five short documentaries directed by young Omani film-makers were screened, reflecting the diversity of environments, cultures and human stories in Oman. They include 'Al Mawarid' by Mohammed al Ajmi, exploring the Omani Tabseel season as a vibrant cultural and social event, 'You Will Never Dive Alone' by Fahad al Maimani, taking viewers on a visual journey into the depths of the Daymaniyat Islands, highlighting the richness of Omani marine life and the importance of conservation, 'Holding Your Breath,' directed by Issa al Subhi, telling the moving story of Omani diver Omar al Ghailani, showcasing free diving, perseverance and defiance, 'Trace,' directed by Buthaina al Kindi, an emotional journey through memory and nostalgia, reliving features of an ancient Omani village, focusing on belonging and identity and 'Long Distances,' directed by Hamad al Qasabi and Ali al Bimani, narrating the story of an Omani runner finding liberation and connection with his homeland. The participation also featured the Screen Oman platform, targeting production companies, directors and individuals interested in film-making, advertising and marketing. It promotes the diverse locations and terrain of Oman, open studios for filming, and film tourism.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
India showcases cultural renaissance at Osaka World Expo
While nations across the globe are displaying their modern might at the World Expo in Osaka, India has focussed on its soft power and showcased a cultural renaissance. The Osaka Expo, a World Expo being held in Japan, carries the theme 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives.' This international event, held every five years for six months, focuses on showcasing innovations and fostering exchange between nations and cultures to address global challenges. It aims to create a 'Living Lab' where diverse participants come together to co-create and implement solutions for global issues, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year the Expo is being held from April 13 to October 13. The Indian pavilion, curated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), is described as an 'immersive civilisational experience, rooting India's global identity in compassion and the flowing wisdom of the Bodhi stream,' a senior official at IGNCA said. 'From conceptualization to storytelling, IGNCA has played the role of a modern-day sutradhar (narrator), stringing together India's ancient philosophies and contemporary ambitions,' he added. The IGNCA is an autonomous body under the Union Culture Ministry. The design of the pavilion is a tribute to 'Bodhisattva Padmapani' from the iconic Ajanta Caves, symbolising compassion, enlightenment, and knowledge. Bodhisattva Padmapani is a prominent figure in Mahayana Buddhism, representing compassion and mercy. Aligned with the 'Connecting Lives' theme, the India Pavilion embodies the nation's values of inclusivity, sustainability, and progress, serving as a bridge between its spiritual heritage and its ambitious future. Among the many features of the pavilion is the Lotus Courtyard, which showcases a curated collection of Bodhisattva forms and artistic reproductions of frescoes from the 2,000-year-old Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within the pavilion is the 'Oneness Lounge', at the heart of which is the Bodhi tree as a central design element — abstracted and reimagined — while the 'Heritage Zone' celebrates India's rich legacy by showcasing UNESCO World Heritage Sites alongside an immersive presentation of hidden treasures, aiming to boost tourism and global recognition. The pavilion also highlights India's space programme. Visitors traverse thematic exhibits celebrating India's achievements. There is also a 'Wall of Life', focusing on internal well-being through Yoga and Ayurveda.
Elle
3 days ago
- Business
- Elle
Inside Cartier's Global Mission to Empower Women
Cartier is more than a storied house of the finest jewelry, it's a brand dedicated to platforming women in philanthropy. Since 2006, the Cartier Women's Initiative (CWI) has nurtured women-run and -owned businesses across social, economic, and environmental fields. In its nearly 20 years, the program has championed 330 entrepreneurs and awarded $12.2 million in financial support. CWI is open to any applicant across the globe, offering successful candidates a $100,000 grant for their initiative. In 2020, the house took its mission one step further by honoring former fellows with the CWI Impact Awards. For its second installment, Cartier transported guests and honorees to the World Expo in Osaka, Japan earlier this week to present the 'Women's Pavilion,' the first of which was staged five years ago at the Expo in Dubai. At the pavilion, the nine former fellows shared stories about their inspiring and impressive work. 2013 fellow Nabita Banka has radically transformed India's access to public bathrooms with her Biotoilet. 'We had an idea for a solution, then we proved it worked. However, I knew I couldn't tackle open defecation and lack of access to sanitation facilities by myself,' Banka says in a statement. While living in Nairobi, 2019 fellow Caitlin Dolkart noticed ambulance sirens were rare and that residents rarely called them because of slow response times. 'The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 50 percent of emergency-related mortality and morbidity could be avoided in low-income countries if ambulance response times were faster,' she explains. Through her app Flare, ambulance drivers are now able to have a direct line of communication with local hospitals, filling a crucial gap in the emergency medical system. The winners of the 2025 Impact Awards will receive an additional $100,000, mentorship, and media visibility to continue to expand their work. Applications for the Cartier Women's Initiative are open now through June 24, 2025 at 8:00 A.M. EDT (2:00 P.M. CEST).
Free Malaysia Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
Japan's Expo 2025 draws 5 million visitors in first 6 weeks
Visitors rest under the Grand Ring during the 2025 Osaka Expo in the city of Osaka on May 21, 2025. (Starfish Neuroscience pic) OSAKA : The World Expo in Japan's Osaka has welcomed five million visitors in its first six weeks, organisers say, despite lukewarm enthusiasm for the event ahead of its opening. A Mars meteorite and a beating artificial heart grown from stem cells are among the displays at Expo 2025, where more than 160 countries, regions and organisations are taking part. The event opened on April 13 and runs until mid-October, with most of the pavilions encircled by the world's largest wooden architectural structure, a latticed 'Grand Ring'. On Monday, the five millionth visitor entered the vast waterfront site, organisers said in a statement. 'The number of visitors to the Expo… increased from four million to five million in seven days,' they said, adding that more visitors were coming 'with each passing day'. So far 12.4 million tickets have been sold to the event. Organisers have set a total target of 23 million. Also known as a World's Fair, the Expo phenomenon, which brought the Eiffel Tower to Paris, began with London's 1851 Crystal Palace exhibition. It is now held every five years in different locations around the globe. Osaka last hosted the Expo in 1970 when Japan was booming and its technology the envy of the world. It attracted 64 million people, a record until Shanghai in 2010. Opinion polls before Expo 2025 opened showed low levels of public enthusiasm, with analysts saying inflation and high accommodation costs due to a record influx of foreign tourists to Japan could put people off buying tickets.
