FPT accompanies over 700 delegates at the Vietnam-Asia Smart City Summit
On December 2, the Vietnam-Asia Smart City Summit, organized by the Vietnam Software and IT Services Association (VINASA) in collaboration with the Hanoi Department of Information and Communications, successfully took place under the theme “Smart City – Digital Economy – Sustainable Development.”
The event brought together representatives from government departments, local authorities, and leading tech companies such as VNPT, FPT, Viettel, MobiFone along with over 700 domestic and international delegates. During the event, Mr. Phan Thanh Son, EVP & Chief Business Development Officer at FPT IS, moderated a critical panel discussion on the theme “Smart City – Digital Economy – Sustainable Development”.
Speakers and experts contributed their insights during the afternoon session of the conference on December 2, 2024.
The discussion featured Ms. Võ Thị Trung Trinh, Director of Ho Chi Minh City Digital Transformation Center. The two delegates engaged in a lively dialogue on effectively leveraging, managing, and utilizing data to address pressing urban challenges such as traffic, the environment, public services, and security. Additionally, lessons learned from Ho Chi Minh City’s data integration and digital transformation processes were shared, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships and proposing innovative strategies to drive the digital economy and enhance the efficiency of public services.
Ms. Trinh emphasized the challenges of collecting and processing big data, pointing out the persistent issue of “data silos” among organizations. The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee has been resolute in directing units to actively integrate their data into a shared data repository without the need to dismantle their existing systems. However, this process requires synchronized support from various departments, particularly the Department of Information and Communications, to ensure smooth and effective operations.
The passage of the Data Law by the National Assembly has unlocked numerous opportunities, but Ms. Trinh noted that this is only part of the broader picture. The core issue lies in fostering a culture of data sharing, transforming data into a shared asset that can be effectively utilized. She emphasized, “If we don’t commit to changing our mindset and actions, this process will remain purely theoretical.”
One standout strategy in smart city development is the public-private partnership model (PPP). By placing citizens at the center, Ho Chi Minh City has established a digital citizen application to connect the government with its people, encouraging public feedback to enhance services, boost competitiveness, and attract investment.
Looking ahead, Ms. Trinh highlighted the city’s plans to develop integrated infrastructure for large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) deployment. The focus is shifting from isolated applications to creating a unified data platform that enables city-wide AI implementation, establishing a significant competitive advantage.
She also acknowledged the contributions of major corporations such as FPT, Viettel, and VNPT… in supporting the city’s digital transformation journey for the 2025–2030 period. Ho Chi Minh City aims to further expand opportunities through policies encouraging investment in digital transformation, IoT, and cutting-edge technologies. The city will continue to enhance its digital infrastructure to support neighboring provinces, solidifying its role as a regional leader.
Mr. Phan Thanh Sơn, FPT Corporation and Ms. Võ Thị Trung Trinh, Director of Ho Chi Minh City Digital Transformation Center engage in panel discussion.
In his concluding remarks following Ms. Trinh’s presentation, Mr. Phan Thanh Sơn emphasized the importance of collaboration with the statement: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” expressing his desire and commitment to support other provinces in building a sustainable smart urban community alongside Ho Chi Minh City.
As part of the activities celebrating National Digital Transformation Day 2024, the conference became a major platform for Hanoi, other localities, and international partners to share experiences, discuss digital transformation solutions, and strengthen technological cooperation. With a strategic vision for building smart cities, the event reflected Hanoi’s strong commitment to fostering a multi-tiered collaboration environment. It aimed to connect businesses, research institutes, scientists, government authorities, and international organizations to promote innovation and sustainable development.
On the sidelines of the conference, exhibition booths showcased various solutions and AI-powered platforms for smart city development, energy management, environmental monitoring, and trade connectivity. The event served not only as a hub for innovative ideas but also as an opportunity for domestic and international businesses to seek partnerships and drive the practical application of IT in urban management.
