Under the terms of the agreement, Alibaba will provide cloud computing technologies to help Macau transform into a smart city
Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group has signed a strategic partnership with the Government of Macau special administrative region (Macau), under which Alibaba will support Macau’s transformation into a smart city by using cloud computing technologies in order to bring benefits to both residents and tourists visiting the city.
Under the terms of the agreement, Alibaba Cloud, the cloud computing arm of Alibaba Group, will provide technologies to upgrade the IT infrastructure in Macau to foster developments in tourism, transportation, healthcare, governance and talent development.
“After setting the goal to turn Macau into a smart city, Macau Government has studied the experience of other cities in developing their own versions of smart cities. After thorough study and research, we have decided to collaborate with Alibaba Group to foster the development of cloud computing and big data technologies,” O Lam, chief of office of Macau’s chief executive Chui Sai On, said. “By leveraging the power of these technologies and connecting resources of different government departments, the project is expected to enhance the model of socio-economic operation in Macau, expediting the city’s transformation into a smart city.”
“Alibaba Cloud’s big data and deep learning technologies have been helping to build ‘city brains’ in China to improve well-being of urban residents. Leveraging our advanced technology and experience in this customized project, we are confident that the success of Macau’s digital transformation will serve as an example of a truly smart city in the region,” Simon Hu, SVP of Alibaba Group and president of Alibaba Cloud, said.
The partnership is expected to initially last for four years. During the 2017-2019 period, the collaboration will focus on cloud computing, smart transportation, smart tourism, smart healthcare and smart city governance.
-Cloud computing: The parties will collaborate to develop a dedicated smart technology platform with the aim of promoting cloud computing technologies in Macau.
-Smart transportation: The parties will build a smart transportation network for the city to optimize the management of road, water and air traffic.
-Smart tourism: Alibaba will support Macau in its development of smart tourism, leveraging the analysis of visitors and providing target consumer marketing tools. In the future, tourists visiting Macau will enjoy insight-driven guided tours, convenient mobile payments and customized online promotions at the airport, commercial districts, tourist spots, convenience stores and restaurants.
-Smart healthcare: Alibaba will support Macau in enhancing its electronic medical system and assisting healthcare decision-making through the use of online medical information.
-Smart city governance: Alibaba will assist Macau with the development of a centralized cloud-based platform that connects different government departments to enhance the efficiency of the city’s governance.
