Opportunities for automation in the integrated resort and hospitality sector were discussed during the Asian IR Summit on Tuesday. According to panelists, the development potential lies in copilot systems and artificial general intelligence (AGI).
At a roundtable talk titled “Smart IR: Embracing AI for the New Era of IR Operations,” Derek Watterud, Vice President of Resort Technology at MGM, highlighted that in the short term, the development direction for automation in the hospitality industry is ‘the idea of copilot and machine-assisted’.
“Some things that humans are a little bit slower at but machines are quick at, these are good opportunities that appear for automation,” Derek said.
Alvin Zou, Vice President of SenseTime Asia Pacific Business Group, indicated that the future of artificial intelligence(AI) development would lean towards AGI, which refers to a type of artificial intelligence that can match human capabilities.
“If someday we can reach the stage of AGI, for example, human-like interactions and decision-making, we can help unleash the workforce to focus on more high-value and emotionally demanding tasks,” Alvin explained.
Ying Haiping, General Manager of Tuya Smart Commercial, discussed the extensive adoption of AI in the hotel industry in mainland China, particularly in areas such as intelligent retail and self-check-in.
In another roundtable discussion titled “Sustainable Tourism and ESG Practices in Hospitality,” Cindy Ngan, Partner in the Climate & Sustainable Practice at PwC Hong Kong, emphasized the increasing use of AI by the six gaming operators in Macau to save energy. These operators are also collaborating with local small and medium-sized businesses for waste recycling.
Cindy stated, “This form of collaboration not only helps large enterprises manage waste but also supports the growth of local small and medium-sized enterprises. Additionally, some products made from recycled materials can be utilized again in the hospitality sector.”
Morse Lei, Macau Business Line Director of CSR and SVP of Veolia HK&Macau, expressed that the industry can assist the Macau government in achieving its carbon neutrality goal through continuous innovation.
