A non-techy op-ed on a techy subject blockchain

Having attended the largest blockchain lifestyle event in Asia last week @blockliveasia, I had gained a deeper grasp of what blockchain is and what it can mean for the future. To many, blockchain is as fluid and intangible as what the future brings while others see blockchain as nothing more than bitcoin (though this impression that blockchain is bitcoin is a less than accurate understanding of blockchain or bitcoin).

Admittedly, it is hard for anyone to grasp the potential of something they cannot see or touch. It is precisely because of this absence of tangibility that makes lifestyle events like blockliveasia so much more valuable to both the community and society.

Personally, the event made blockchain “REAL” as it showcased numerous companies and their applications of blockchain in the flash. Now in the minds of attendees, blockchain can be associated with payment for public transport, payment for coffee, usage in accounting, usage to secure personal data when browsing the internet. The list goes on. I suppose in this sense, the event broadens the minds of attendees to see blockchain beyond just bitcoin.

The open concept and minimalist exhibitor booths accentuates the transparency and interconnectedness of blockchain. And having an almost endless flow of workshops, panel discussions, talks and even a business pitching segment shows how blockchain applications are as varied as the industries. More importantly, the themes and topics were varied from education to financial sector, to retail, to venture capitalists investments. One cannot help but gain a broader understanding of blockchain beyond its daunting computer codes.

Personally, the jam-packed event lineup, gave me a sense of urgency to catch panel discussion after panel discussion to expand my perspectives on blockchain. #REALTALK and #MOON stages.

To organize such an event is no small logistical feat. Not to mention financial outlay considering it was held at Marina Bay Sands. It is owing to the passion of frontrunners like the folks at #BlockLifeAsia Jiawen Ngeow Joey Lim Anna F.G. Santiago Georgie Fong who pave the way and set the benchmark that enable the blockchain community to grow and integrate with mainstream society.

In my view, this link is crucial for bringing blockchain into mainstream consciousness in the spirit as it was envisioned by a person (or group of persons) under the name Satoshi Nakamoto but that’s just my personal take on the matter.