Digital development drives economic growth by enabling innovation, productivity improvements, and new business models. It fosters the creation of digital industries, job opportunities, and entrepreneurship.
With this, Huai-Jen Lee, the deputy minister of Taiwan, recently met with a group led by John McGuinness, the head of the Ireland-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Association and the chairman of the House of Representatives Finance Committee. The two sides discussed fostering digital development, information security, and the creation of a digital nation.
To transform Taiwan from a digital island to a global model of digital democracy and innovation, the Ministry of Digital Affairs (moda), the engine driving Taiwan’s digital development, expects to realise the vision of a smart nation by connecting citizens and technology, enhancing industry and security, and introducing digital instruments and open mindsets.
This is based on the mission that “cybersecurity is national security,” and with “proactive defence” as its core value. Also, the nation aggressively encourages ministerial collaboration to help the public and private sectors turn into digital businesses, speed up industrial digital innovation, and maintain cybersecurity.
The two sides discussed information security, the digital transformation of small and medium-sized businesses, and digital governance.
With the experience of developing a website for a universal cash distribution of NTD$6,000 (SGD$282) this year, Deputy Minister Huai-Jen also discussed the promotion of barrier-free government websites and pertinent policies and measures.
He also conferred the measures and efficacy of government guidance for small and medium-sized businesses in promoting digital transformation with the example of Taiwan Cloud Marketplace (TCloud).
The policy goal of building a diversified heterogeneous communications backup system to enable the nation to maintain smooth communications in emergency situations was illustrated by Deputy Minister Huai-Jen using the prior case of the moda in establishing microwave and non-synchronous satellite communications in Matsu.
In his response, Chairman McGuinness said that he had a good understanding of the moda’s experience in promoting the government’s digitisation and the transformation of the digital industry, as well as its efforts to strengthen digital resilience in the face of cybersecurity threats. He also expressed admiration for Taiwan’s efforts in promoting the industry’s digitisation and the government’s official web accessibility seal.
Countries with a focus on information security and digital development have an advantage in the global market. They increase their standing in the field of developing technologies, encourage innovation, and attract investment.
Besides, processes are streamlined, jobs are automated, and effective data management is made possible by digital technologies. As a result, numerous sectors see greater service delivery, lower costs, and more production.
Wider access to important services including education, healthcare, governance, and financial services is made possible by digital progress. It reduces the digital divide, supports diversity, and improves the social and economic well-being of everybody.
Also, sensitive data is protected from unauthorised access, breaches, and online dangers by information security. It maintains confidence in digital networks by ensuring the protection of private data, intellectual property, and crucial infrastructure.
To keep users’ trust, digital progress prioritises privacy protection. Protecting people’s privacy rights requires effective information security measures, data encryption, and regulatory compliance.
Industry and government processes can be transformed with the help of digital development, which promotes productivity, creativity, and adaptability. It enables firms to adopt cutting-edge technology and maintain their relevance in a digital environment that is continually changing.
To collaboratively handle global concerns, collaboration and information sharing on digital development and information security are essential. International cooperation aids in the development of shared standards, the eradication of cyber threats, and the promotion of a safe and welcoming online community.
