Lifestyle, My Personal

ChatGPT and Beyond: Examining 6 Effects of AI Language Models

ChatGPT is an AI language model that has been designed to understand and generate human-like language. The technology behind ChatGPT is impressive, but some users are worried about the risks and unfavourable effects of using such a strong tool. Here, we shall discuss about 6 issues and worries related to ChatGPT that people have.

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1. Privacy
One of the main issues about ChatGPT is privacy. ChatGPT processes and stores a tonne of user interaction data, including personal data. Because this data can be sensitive, some users might be worried that their communications with ChatGPT could be accessed by unauthorized parties or used against them.

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2. Security Concerns
Meanwhile, another concern is security. Because ChatGPT stores and processes sensitive data, it may be susceptible to hacker attacks or other security lapses. These dangers might get worse as ChatGPT processes more data and as more people use the technology.

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3. Fraud and Misuse of Information
Another issue is fraudulent users using ChatGPT. Some are concerned, for instance, that those with access to ChatGPT could use it to spread misinformation or propaganda or for other nefarious purposes. There may be serious repercussions for specific people, entire communities, and even entire nations.

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4. Ethical considerations
Ethical considerations are also a concern. The ethical ramifications of using ChatGPT and other AI language models are still being discussed. Some people are concerned that these technologies could be used against people, especially those in vulnerable populations. For instance, ChatGPT might be applied to discriminate against particular groups or perpetuate negative stereotypes.

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5. Lack of Control and Transparency
In addition, some people might feel uneasy about ChatGPT’s lack of transparency and control over the decision-making process. ChatGPT, a machine learning algorithm, bases its judgements on intricate mathematical models that are not always obvious to users. This might make people wonder how decisions are made and who is ultimately in charge of the results.

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6. Unintended Consequences
Lastly, unintended consequences are a worry. Because ChatGPT and other AI language models are built to learn from the data they are trained on, it is possible that they unintentionally acquire biases or continue harmful stereotypes. For those who are adversely affected by these biases, whether as individuals or as a group, this could have significant repercussions.

Using ChatGPT and other AI language models has a lot of potential benefits despite these worries and I have talked about this in my previous blogpost.

It is crucial to establish suitable safeguards and laws in order to reduce the potential risks and adverse effects of using ChatGPT. For instance, there might be specifications for user consent, data security and privacy, and decision-making transparency. Researchers and ChatGPT developers should also keep a close eye on potential unintended consequences and biases and take appropriate action to address them.

In conclusion, there are many potential advantages to using AI language models like ChatGPT, even though there are valid concerns. It is crucial to carefully consider the potential consequences of using such potent technology and establish suitable safeguards and regulations in order to make sure that the risks are appropriately mitigated. It is entirely up to us to exercise caution and responsibility whenever we are online.

Lifestyle, My Personal

Unlocking 6 Benefits of ChatGPT: Enhancing Workplace Communication, Automation, and Insights

The launch of ChatGPT has generated a lot of noise, with both supporters and critics expressing their opinions. However, regardless of personal views, ChatGPT is now a reality and has become an integral part of our daily lives. Let us explore about some of the benefits that ChatGPT brings to us and our work.

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1. Enhancing Workplace Communication and Efficiency with ChatGPT’s AI Language Model
ChatGPT can benefit individuals in a variety of ways at work because it is an AI language model. Deep learning neural networks that have been trained using an immense amount of linguistic data form the basis of ChatGPT’s technology. This means that ChatGPT is a useful tool for people who want to communicate more effectively and efficiently because it can recognize and process human language in a way that is natural and intuitive.

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2. ChatGPT’s Advantage in Delivering Technical and Specialized Information
One of ChatGPT’s key advantages is its capacity to deliver prompt and precise responses to inquiries. People who work in technical or specialized fields, where there may be a lot of jargon and specialized terminology that can be challenging to understand, will find this to be especially helpful. By offering definitions or explanations of difficult concepts, ChatGPT can help, saving people time and aggravation. For people who want to stay current with the most recent advancements in their field, ChatGPT can also offer insights into industry trends and best practices.

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3. Effortless Text Generation: Using ChatGPT at Work to Write Reports and Summaries
ChatGPT can also help people at work by producing text for them. This can range from summaries and meeting minutes to reports and articles. For instance, ChatGPT can assist a person who needs to write a report but is experiencing writer’s block by generating a rough draught or outlining important points. Similar to this, ChatGPT can quickly produce a succinct summary that encapsulates the key points of a lengthy document or presentation.

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4. Communication Simplified by ChatGPT’s Assistance with Email, Inquiry, and Social Media Post Drafting
ChatGPT can also be useful in facilitating communication. For instance, it can assist with the drafting of emails, inquiries, and social media posts. By creating agendas or suggesting topics for discussion, it can even aid in meeting preparation. This can be especially useful for people who might have trouble writing or who are short on time.

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5. Boosting Productivity with ChatGPT’s Automation of Repetitive Tasks
The ability of ChatGPT to increase productivity by automating repetitive tasks is an additional advantage. This includes activities like scheduling or data entry. For instance, ChatGPT enables users to schedule reminders for upcoming meetings or deadlines or to organize their calendars. By automatically populating fields based on specific criteria or by highlighting errors or inconsistencies, it can also help with data entry.

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6. Data-Driven Insights: ChatGPT’s Assistance in Making Informed Business Decisions
ChatGPT can make insightful suggestions based on data analysis. People who work in industries like marketing, finance, or business analytics can benefit the most from this. In order to make recommendations, ChatGPT can assist in finding patterns or trends in data sets. People who need to make well-informed business decisions based on data-driven insights may find this to be of particular use.

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In conclusion, ChatGPT is a strong tool that can benefit users at work in a number of different ways. ChatGPT can help people in being more effective and productive at work by answering questions with speed and accuracy, generating text, and facilitating communication. It can also assist people in making wise business decisions by automating monotonous tasks and offering insights and suggestions based on data analysis. There will probably be more workplace uses for ChatGPT as the underlying technology develops. This is because ChatGPT is a very potent AI language model.

Personally, I believe that if you haven’t used ChatGPT yet, you’re already a step behind. Whether we like it or not, ChatGPT has integrated itself into our daily lives. Instead of fearing it will overpower us, why not embrace it with an open mind and see how it can enhance our work. Let me know your thoughts about ChatGPT and how it affect you or your work.

Anyway, I’ll look at the other side of the argument by outlining some of the objections to ChatGPT that people have as of right now in my next blogpost. Are you ready for it?

My Personal, Nature

Help Saving Our Terrapins with Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS)

Photo credit: Get Outdoors Nevada

Did you know that reptiles in the order Testudines, such as terrapins, turtles, and tortoises, are all different from one another in terms of their appearance, habitats, behaviours, and diets? Many of us do now know about the differences among these animals. Hence, let me share with you some of the key variations:

Physical Features
Terrapins typically have a flattened shell, webbed feet, and are small in size. On the other hand, turtles have a more rounded shell and feet with claws or flippers that are designed for swimming in rivers and oceans. Tortoises have feet made for walking on land and a high-domed shell.

Habitat
Estuaries, swamps, and marshes are among the brackish water habitats where terrapins are most frequently found. Turtles can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, including lakes, rivers, and oceans. On land, tortoises can be found in arid environments like savannas, deserts, and other dry areas.

Diet
Terrapins are omnivores and consume a variety of foods, including plants, insects, and crustaceans. Although some species of turtles are solely herbivorous or carnivorous, all turtles are omnivores. Herbivorous tortoises eat cacti, grasses, and leaves.

Behaviour
Terrapins can live in groups and are typically more social than turtles. Turtles may only gather together during mating season because they tend to be more solitary. Tortoises are solitary creatures who prefer to spend most of their time in the sun.

Terrapins are small aquatic turtles that inhabit habitats with brackish water. Both freshwater and saltwater habitats are home to turtles, which are bigger than terrapins. The largest of the three, tortoises inhabit dry habitats on land.

Turtle Conservation Effort in Malaysia
For your information, Malaysia is home to several species of sea turtles, tortoises and terrapins, including the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, and olive ridley turtle. Threats to these turtles include habitat loss, pollution, poaching, and unintentional entanglement in fishing nets are some major issues we are facing. Numerous NGO organizations and governmental organizations in Malaysia are engaged in turtle conservation initiatives to address these threats and safeguard turtle populations. Here are a few instances:

Department of Fisheries Malaysia
The Department of Fisheries Malaysia is responsible for managing and conserving the country’s marine resources, including sea turtles. In order to protect sea turtles, the department has put in place a number of strategies, such as the creation of marine protected areas, the enforcement of fishing laws, and the tracking of turtle populations.

SEATRU
The research group SEATRU (Sea Turtle Research Unit) is based at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu and focuses on sea turtle conservation in Malaysia. SEATRU works with government organisations to implement conservation measures, conducts research on turtle populations and behaviour, and engages in community outreach and education.

WWF-Malaysia
Wildlife and their habitats are protected in Malaysia by the WWF-Malaysia organisation. The group runs a number of initiatives aimed at protecting sea turtles, such as monitoring turtle populations, assisting nesting grounds, and collaborating with regional groups to lessen threats to turtles.

Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia
The Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia is a non-governmental organization that is dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles in Malaysia. The group works with nearby communities to promote turtle conservation, runs a turtle hatchery, and studies turtle populations.

I am glad that I have had a great experience volunteering for TCS back in 2018 in one of their programs in Kuala Lumpur. From then onwards, I have been a supporter of this society, by making frequent donations and terrapin adoptions to help them in their effort to preserve the population of freshwater turtles.

About Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS)
The Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS) was established out of necessity in 2011 when co-founders Drs. Chan Eng Heng and Chen Pelf Nyok realised that despite the country’s home to 18 native species of tortoises and freshwater turtles, there was no organisation or agency in charge of them.

TCS is the first non-profit, non-governmental organization in Malaysia devoted to the preservation of freshwater turtles. Through collaborations with other like-minded organizations, people, and local communities as well as through its own programs, the Society seeks to restore Malaysia’s declining wild turtle populations, with a focus on freshwater turtles.

About Executive Director, Dr. Chen Pelf Nyok

Dr. Pelf is the co-founder and Executive Director of TCS. She receives the country of Malaysia’s first doctorate in the study of non-marine turtles. The distribution, biology, and ecology of freshwater turtles are some of her areas of interest in research. She oversees a neighborhood-based terrapin conservation project in Kg. Pasir Gajah, Kemaman, and was just given the Commonwealth Points of Light by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of her work on behalf of turtle conservation. The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group (TFTSG) counts her as a member.

I knew Dr. Pelf from the event I joined previously and been keeping contact with her since. She is such a humble and friendly person. And her dedication and passion towards helping the terrapins and preserving their population are exceptionally high and exemplary. Dr. Pelf, I wish you all the very best in your continuous effort. You have my support!

About Scientific Officer, Aminah bt. Madi

Aminah graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Zoology) degree from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) in 2022. Before receiving her first job offer as a Scientific Officer, she first joined TCS as an intern. She is eager to find out more information about turtle conservation. She works with university lecturers and students to plan, carry out, and support research projects. She is also committed to educating and inspiring the next generation about the value of freshwater turtles and the ways in which we can protect them.

Adopt A Terrapin NOW!
Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS) carries out a River Terrapin Conservation Project in the Kemaman River, Terengganu. A large number of river terrapin eggs are secured for incubation through the completion of this project and cooperation with the neighbourhood communities. The hatchlings of river terrapins are raised for four to five months after their emergence before being allowed to return to the river.

The river terrapins are available for adoption each year as part of our fundraising efforts. Each terrapin adoption costs RM35 (or US$10), and you will receive a unique Certificate of Adoption in addition to an official tax-deductible receipt. Choosing a name for your adopted terrapin is also encouraged! River terrapin conservation projects will be carried out in the future using all of the funds raised through the Terrapin Adoption Program.

I have participated in this program twice and here are the Certificate of Adoption that I have received from my previous adoptions:

I named my adopted terrapins Max and Alex. I just adopted another one today and I named it Petra. By the way, this Terrapin Adoption Program is a symbolic gesture in an effort to raise funds for turtle conservation in Malaysia. Adopters do NOT get to bring home a terrapin. And at the end of the day, ALL terrapins will be released into the river, regardless of whether they get adopted or not.

Some Other Ways to Support Turtle Conservation Society (TCS)
Join As A Member
As a TCS member, you will be a part of an exciting partnership that contributes to the protection and conservation of turtles in Malaysia. You may also participate in all the outreach activities that the Society carries out at a discounted rate; and automatically receive newsletters as well as updates from the field. Members are also entitled to a special discount on selected exclusive turtle-themed merchandise. Join now!

I signed up as a Life Member since May 2020. Wow! It’s been 3 years.

Donate
Your donations would benefit the river terrapins, school kids and the local villagers. It could be used to help defray the cost of some bills (water, electricity at the hatchery), or it could also be used to sponsor a Turtle Awareness Program. Workshops with the villagers’ women could be organised with the help of donations. These activities enable the women to develop their skills and earn a living while also increasing their capacity.

Buy Merchandise from Online Store and Shopee Store
What better way to raise awareness about turtle conservation than to include it in something that they can share with large numbers of people worldwide? Because their products are made by the local women of Kg. Pasir Gajah, you directly support them when you shop at TCS (especially when you purchase their batik products).

Find out more ways to help Turtle Conservation Society (TCS) via their social media:
Official Website: https://www.turtleconservationsociety.org.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurtleConservationSocietyofMalaysia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tcsmalaysia/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tcsmsia

*Photo credit: Some photos are taken from TCS website and should be credited to the rightful owner(s).

Health & Wellness, Lifestyle, My Personal

7 Tips to Make Healthier Choices for Busy People | Dixon Thum | TEDxMCKL

This is a major throwback. Back in 2018, I was invited to speak for TEDxMCKL with the theme, Beyond Tomorrow. TEDxMCKL aims to provide a clearer vision for the future, with credible and influential speakers discussing topics like health, technology, and volunteerism to empower the youth and help create a brighter world. At that time, I was a Fitness Coach and I shared about tips for a healthier lifestyle, covering topics such as nutrition, hydration, carbohydrates, protein, fats, fruits and vegetables, and staying active. I am an ACE certified personal trainer and fitness enthusiast, who always emphasizes on the importance of discipline in achieving fitness goals. At that point of time, I have given talks at various corporate companies and ran my own Fitness & Nutrition Support Program. Looking back at what I have shared back then, I find the points are still very much relevant and relatable until now. Hence I want to re-share and document the points here in my blog. Here you are – 7 Tips to Make Healthier Choices for Busy People.

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Tip #1:
Eat a carbohydrate-rich meal every day. There is a false belief that carbohydrates should be avoided in order to lose weight. We need carbohydrates to function properly because they give us energy. Simple and complex carbohydrates are the two different types of carbohydrates. Following digestion, simple carbohydrates give you immediate energy, but if you don’t burn off the calories, they’ll be stored as fat. It is therefore advisable to choose the healthier alternatives, which are complex carbohydrates. Brown sugar, brown rice, oatmeal, whole-wheat bread and sweet potatoes are a few examples of complex carbohydrates. These are great alternatives to white carbohydrates. Furthermore, choosing rice over noodles when ordering food is preferable because rice is a natural food as opposed to noodles, which are processed food.

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Tip #2:
Protein is a necessary nutrient that helps with tissue repair and muscle growth. Protein can be found in a variety of foods, including milk, yoghurt, chicken, fish, and meat. It is strongly advised, especially after exercise. Whether protein supplements are preferable to real food is a frequently asked question. The availability of healthy food near your gym will determine the answer. It’s best to choose a meal with protein if you have access to healthy food. If that isn’t an option, think about bringing a protein powder to the gym to use as a muscle-replenishing snack after your workout.

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Tip #3:
The third tip talks about choosing the right fats to eat. It’s critical to understand the distinction between good and bad fats. Monounsaturated fats, found in nuts, avocado, and olive oil, as well as polyunsaturated fats like Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are found in foods like salmon, are healthy fats that can be consumed in moderation. Saturated fats, such as those in milk, yoghurt, and animal oils, are also safe to eat but should only be consumed in moderation. Trans fats, which are present in processed foods, fried foods, and pastries, should be avoided. Regular trans fat consumption can cause cardiovascular diseases.

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Tip #4:
The fourth piece of advice is to include fresh fruits and vegetables at every meal. These are significant sources of the vitamins, minerals, and fibre needed for a balanced diet. It’s important to stay away from processed vegetables and dried or preserved fruits that are loaded with flavourings, additives, and preservatives.

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Tip #5:
Staying hydrated is crucial for our health, so it is advised that we consume at least 2 litres of water daily. It is advised to increase your water intake to 3 litres per day if you engage in strenuous physical activity or perspire a lot in order to replace the water that has been lost by your body. A common question people ask is whether they should drink water before or after meals. Simply drink water whenever you feel thirsty is the simple solution. It’s crucial to pay attention to your body’s signals and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Photo by Li Sun on Pexels.com

Tip #6:
The five suggestions listed above, all of which have to do with nutrition, demonstrate how important it is to maintain an active lifestyle in order to live a healthier one. It’s not as difficult as it may seem to live a healthier lifestyle if you have a basic understanding of nutrition. But it’s important to burn off the food you eat. By engaging in activities you enjoy, such as bootcamps outdoors or indoor activities like Zumba, yoga, or gym classes, you can maintain your level of activity. Cycling, canoeing, hiking, or jungle trekking on a regular basis can all be advantageous. To burn off what you eat, aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day. The final advice is presented here.

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Tip #7:
Discipline is utmost important in leading a healthier lifestyle. Lack of discipline will impede your progress towards your fitness goals, even if you are aware of tips one through six. Without self-control, you might find it difficult to follow a healthy diet, drink 2 to 3 litres of water per day, or work out for 30 to 60 minutes each day. Thus, the main element that determines whether you will be successful in implementing a healthier lifestyle is discipline.

Enjoy the full version of my talk in TEDxMCKL back in 1 September 2018:

Entertainment, My Personal

“Ride On” Movie Review: Jackie Chan Pays Homage to Kung Fu Stuntmen

Thanks to a giveaway hosted by fellow influencer Kiflimally, I was able to win two tickets to the premiere screening of Ride On at Dadi Cinema Pavilion KL on April 7th, 2023. Jackie Chan plays Luo Zhilong, a forgotten and ageing stuntman caught up in a custody battle over his beloved stunt horse. The film, directed by Larry Yang Zi, pays homage to Chinese film history and the contributions of kung fu stuntmen.

While Chan co-leads the story with Chinese actress Liu Haocun 刘浩存 and actor Guo Qilin 郭麒麟, his equine co-star, Red Hare 赤兔, steals the show with an emotional connection to Chan’s character. Some notable stars like Andy On 安志杰, Joey Yung 容祖儿, Wu Jing 吴京, Stanley Tong 唐季礼, Ray Lui 吕良伟, and Aarif Rahman 李治廷 play supporting and cameo roles.

Unlike Chan’s usual action-packed dramas, Ride On is a film that touches the heart, with satisfying fight scenes complemented with genuine emotional moments. I was surprised by how much I cried throughout the movie, especially during the scenes with Red Hare and Chan’s character. Both of them connected and expressed their emotions so well.

Happy 69th Birthday to Jackie Chan

Overall, the Ride On premiere was a memorable event, especially given that it occurred on Jackie Chan’s 69th birthday. Fans of Chan and Chinese film history, as well as anyone looking for a touching and heartwarming story, should see this film.

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