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Singapore’s tech landscape is set for a new trajectory with the appointment of Mr Russell Tham, Head of Emerging Technologies at Temasek Holdings Pte Ltd, as the Chairman of the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) Board. Effective from March 15, 2024, Mr Tham succeeds Mr Chan Yeng Kit, who served as Chairman for nine years.
Mr Tham, an IMDA Board Member since October 2020 and Chairperson of the Technology Sub-Committee since April 2023, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His expertise in advising IMDA on digital technologies and policy implications positions him well to lead IMDA into the next phase of Singapore’s tech journey.
The Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) and IMDA expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Chan’s leadership. As Mr. Tham assumes the chairmanship, there is anticipation of continued guidance and leadership in shaping Singapore’s tech landscape in the years ahead.
Mr Chan, also the Permanent Secretary (Health), has had a profound impact on Singapore’s tech evolution. His tenure saw the merger of Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) and the Media Development Authority (MDA) into IMDA in 2016, aligning with Singapore’s Smart Nation vision. Under his stewardship, initiatives like the Intelligent Nation 2015 (iN2015) Masterplan and the Infocomm Media 2025 (ICM 2025) Masterplan laid the groundwork for Singapore’s digital future.
IMDA continued to shape Singapore’s Digital Future. From deploying 5G standalone wireless networks to upgrading the Nationwide Broadband Network for 10Gbps access, the agency has spearheaded future-ready digital infrastructure. Initiatives like SMEs Go Digital, CTO-as-a-Service, and TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) have propelled digitalisation across enterprises while fostering a globally competitive digital workforce.
Mr Chan’s leadership extended IMDA’s influence globally, showcasing Singaporean creations on various platforms. Domestically, he championed a safe and inclusive Digital Society, engaging seniors and collaborating with the private sector through the Digital for Life national movement.
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) is ramping up efforts to expand and elevate the nation’s tech talent pool while prioritising the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). With a focus on pre-employment training and mid-career upskilling programs, IMDA aims to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of driving AI innovation across industries.
IMDA is investing $20 million over three years to bolster AI-related SG Digital Scholarships and overseas internships, providing students with invaluable industry exposure and hands-on experience. These efforts align with IMDA’s commitment to scale up the TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) program and offer over 180 AI-related courses under the Information and Communications (I&C) Jobs Transformation Map (JTM).
IMDA’s collaboration with industry partners and associations aims to create job opportunities and foster skills-based hiring practices. The TeSA for ITE and Polytechnics Alliance (TIP Alliance) has secured 800 good tech job opportunities for graduates, while over 200 companies have pledged support for skills-based hiring, doubling since its launch.
To enhance students’ industry readiness, ITE and Polytechnic students now undergo year-long internships, providing them with immersive experiences and valuable skill development opportunities. IMDA’s co-funding support for stipends facilitates companies in offering these extended internships, ensuring students gain practical insights into tech roles.
IMDA’s comprehensive approach to talent development and AI adoption underscores Singapore’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of tech innovation. By nurturing a robust talent pipeline and fostering industry collaboration, IMDA aims to propel Singapore’s tech ecosystem towards sustained growth and competitiveness in the global arena.
