To promote the widespread application of AI and nurture local talent, the “Creating an AI Smart Society Together – CTM AI + Big Data Smart Solutions Design Competition”, organized by CTM in collaboration with the Macau Post and Telecommunications Bureau, the Education and Youth Development Bureau and Baidu Cloud, has garnered enthusiastic participation from a diverse array of students and residents since its launch, with over 800 applications submitted for the competition. Following professional evaluation by a panel of expert judges, the “Generative AI Creativity Category” recognized 20 finalists and 6 excellence award recipients, while the "Innovative．Creative AI + Big Data Smart Solutions Category” honored 8 finalists, alongside Third Prize, Second Prize and Outstanding Award winners.

 

The award ceremony of the “Creating an AI Smart Society Together – CTM AI + Big Data Smart Solutions Design Competition” was held on April 9 at the Banquet Hall on the 3rd Floor of the Macau Tower. Mr. Ieong Fu Weng, Head of Department of Information Technology Development and Resource Management, Mr. To Ka Hou, Head of Division of Information and Technology, Education and Youth Development Bureau, Mr. Ip Sio Kai, Mr. Si Ka Lon, Ms. Song Pek Kei and Ms. Loi I Weng, Members of the Legislative Assembly of Macau SAR attended the competition and served as award presenters.

 

Ebel Cham, Vice President of Commercial, CTM, emphasized in her address that the company's long-standing commitment to advancing Macau’s information technology and network infrastructure, from the rollout of high-speed internet and fiber optics to the evolution of 4G, 5G and now cutting-edge AI, CTM has consistently spearheaded initiatives such as creative competitions designed to popularize new technologies among local students. Ms. Cham further noted that CTM actively collaborates with local schools to develop immersive scenarios, including “AI Sports Experiences”, “5G Smart National Education” and "5G Smart Application R&D Laboratories”. These projects underscore the company's dedication to nurturing homegrown IT talent. Besides, recognizing the importance of a healthy online space, CTM partnered with DSEDJ to introduce the “Good Student” Internet Plan. The initiative has been met with an enthusiastic response from parents and educators, reflecting its success in supporting student development. Ms. Cham noted that CTM will integrate more AI-driven elements into the initiative, hoping to support the government's efforts in providing students with a healthier, superior and more enriching digital learning landscape.

 

Ms. Cham remarked on the high level of sophistication displayed in the entries, noting that AI has become seamlessly integrated into daily life. Much like CTM’s own network infrastructure, which is currently evolving toward Level 4 (L4) autonomous networking, these advancements are laying a robust foundation for the "AI + Network" integration essential to Macau’s future digital and smart development. She further emphasized that CTM remains steadfast in its support of the Macau SAR Government’s initiatives to further liberalize the local telecommunications market. Under the government's leadership, CTM recently formalized telecommunications asset access agreements with local operators. This milestone underscores CTM’s proactive commitment to government policy, facilitating a mechanism that opens designated concession assets to qualified operators based on the principles of "fairness, transparency and the user-pays model."

 

In response to Hutchison Hong Kong’s decision to exit the Macau market and their subsequent outreach to CTM, the company moved forward with the acquisition of 3 Macau. Ms. Cham emphasized that this strategic integration was essential to ensuring market stability and guaranteeing a seamless, uninterrupted experience for all subscribers. With the acquisition now finalized, CTM is leveraging its network resources and optimization measures to provide former 3 Macau customers with a broader range of service plans and enhanced network performance. CTM remains committed to supporting the government’s objectives while continuously strengthening its market competitiveness to meet the growing demand for premium telecommunications services among the general public.

 

Following the expert panel’s evaluation, the winners of the Excellence Award of the “Generative AI Creativity Category” were Lio Chon Hou, Colégio Diocesano de São José 3, Cheong Hoi Nam, Macao Pooi To Middle School (Taipa), Lam Chi Nei, Macau Pui Ching Middle School, Leong Lok Cheng, Colégio Diocesano de São José 5, Hui Si Heng and Ho Ioi Lam, Macau Pui Ching Middle School, each received a cash prize of MOP 5,000 and a trophy. Additionally, 20 shortlisted entries were recognized, with each recipient awarded a cash prize of MOP 2,000 and a certificate of merit.

 

Following an on-site evaluation by the judging panel, the winners for the "Innovative．Creative AI+ Big Data Smart Solutions Category” were announced. "Guardian Sprite" was awarded the Third Prize, “Wellness Charm” secured the Second Prize, and the Grand Excellence Award was presented to “PulmoSight”. The winners were presented with trophies and cash prizes of MOP 8,000, MOP 10,000 and MOP 20,000, respectively. Furthermore, eight shortlisted entries were each awarded a trophy and a cash prize of MOP 5,000.

 

CTM extends its sincere gratitude to all co-organizers, coordinating units and supporting units for their invaluable contribution to the success of this competition. The company remains committed to driving the development of “AI Macau” leveraging AI, Big Data and its leading smart foundation to fully support the digital transformation needs across all sectors of the Macau community.