In this presentation, Mr. Boom makes a case for deploying a virtual model of physical rail assets, processes, systems, and passenger flows to analyze data and monitor systems enhance the reliability and safety of urban rail transportation network.

Bangladesh, a member of South Asia Sub-regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC), is developing a railway network linking the country with neighboring SASEC member countries like India, Myanmar, and Nepal under the financial assistance from different institutions such as ADB. In this presentation, Mr. Hossain gave an overview of the different rail corridors being developed in Bangladesh under the SASEC program, and its interconnectivity to the Trans-Asian Railway (TAR) Network.

In this presentation, Ms. Yang discussed integrated corridor management in the context of ADB's existing regional cooperation programs. In particular, she presented various initiatives related to modal integration, intermodal logistics centers and services, integrated border crossing point management, and harmonization of standards and procedures.​

In this presentation, Mr. Noka discussed how to adapt automated fare collection (AFC) solutions created for developed countries to the needs of developing countries such as the Philippines. He also talked through the features of AFC solutions, as well as the development process of an AFC solution for the Philippine transport sector.​

In this presentation, Mr. Makwana gives an overview of Building Information Modeling (BIM), including the drivers for its global adoption, and its uses in the railway sector. He also presents a number of technology solutions for rail track systems, electrification, signalling and communications, as well as some implementation challenges regarding BIM.

In this presentation, Mr. Romei shares Systra's experience with asset digitalization, including the challenges involved and case studies that illustrate its successful implementation. He also emphasized the value of utilizing digital technologies such as big data and IoT, and integrated platforms to deliver solutions for asset digitalization and effective decision making.​

In this presentation, Mr. Leather cites inadequate financing support to develop high-quality, high-capacity transport infrastructure and services as a key contributing factor to the current infrastructure gap in Asia and the Pacific. He also emphasized the importance of rehabilitation, improved management, and maintenance in improving the region's railroad system standards and operations, as well as the changing areas for ADB assistance in the railway sector.​

Remittance remains a stable source of external finance in Asia. In 2017, 30.9% of remittances to Asia ($84.2 billion) came from the Middle East, while 27.7% was from within the region.

The World Wide Fund for Nature’s Coral Triangle program supports the development of responsible nature-based tourism in six countries, including Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, and Solomon Islands. This session aims to stimulate further thinking on how investing in natural capital can be utilized to support the development of countries involved.