Transformational Shifts in Singapore’s Healthcare Industry

Healthcare systems around the world spend trillions of dollars each year to address growing healthcare challenges. These barriers include epidemiological shifts in death rates (from maternal, perinatal and infectious diseases to cardiovascular diseases and cancers), as well as an ageing population with longer life expectancies.

Singapore stands out among countries across the world. Its constantly stable economy, focus on social inclusivity and penchant for deploying technology have aided in hastening the achievement of the country’s healthcare milestones.

OpenGov Asia had the opportunity to speak with Associate Professor Thomas Lew, Group Chief Data & Strategy Officer, National Healthcare Group to gain further insights on the future of healthcare in the nation as well as the key pillars and catalysts that drive the sector.

Technology has accelerated transformation in the health sector

COVID-19 has introduced unprecedented challenges for healthcare across the board but at the same time inspired and driven innovations at unprecedented speed. Beyond a doubt, the use of technology in healthcare has resulted in better patient diagnosis and treatment and has improved the quality of life and saved lives.

In the current context, it is likely the most important sector to benefit from technological adoption. Telehealth, for example, has proven to be fairly successful as people seek to manage their care in new and different ways during the pandemic, which has surprised some physicians.

Singapore is a densely connected city-state where the complexities of an internet-enabled telehealth consultation compete with the standard physical visit to the doctor. According to Associate Professor Lew, telehealth must be contextualised for value, grounded on trust-based relationships, in areas such as real-time biological monitoring, and round-the-clock trusted advice and alerts.

“For the healthy population, the potential of health coaching for individuals and organisations has yet to be fully realised. In order to envision telehealth beyond transactional efficiency, much remains to be done,” he explains.

Artificial intelligence and automation services and systems also significantly benefit healthcare. Yet, Associate Professor Lew believes, while AI is not in the consciousness of mainstream healthcare workers, it is ubiquitous without their realisation.

The lower hanging fruits for AI inclusion in direct care interventions continue to be mundane and predictable tasks, as well as assistive robots in ancillary or health facility production systems. AI and machine learning are probably most valuable as augmented intelligence for narrowly defined use-cases with adequate digital guardrails so that the basis for interpretation is understood and trusted. In this context, experts have recommended that, in addition to deep learning, more traditional hierarchical models of reasoning be used.

When asked about the decision-making process through data analytics, Associate Professor Lew firmly believes that “decision-making is a complex cognitive science.” He says, “NHG has always been a data-driven organisation and has made many major shifts in its strategic directions, from attention to acute care, to the ageing population, to a pre-emptive model for augmenting today’s medical model for tomorrow’s preventive health of the population.”

Data scientists, such as those at the Institute of Mental Health, Tan Tock Seng Hospital’s Office of Clinical Epidemiology, Analytics, and Knowledge (OCEAN) and NHG’s Health Services and Outcomes Research (HSOR), enable NHG to apply data for insights and translation into policy and investments in new services. By creating a shared data model, NHG can implement near real-time health-intelligence tools across the organisation.

What’s Next?

NHG’s River of Life population health strategy comprising the Living Well, Living With Illness, Crisis and Complex Care, Living with Frailty, and Leaving Well segments of care, seeks to provide holistic, integrated care from cradle to grave, and ensures that no one is left behind for his or her health needs.

NHG is focused on implementing its digital master plan in tandem with the Ministry of Health’s digital ecosystem and the national Smart Nation Digital strategy. This entails strengthening NHG’s digital front-door services to the population. In addition, NHG intends to improve its data analytics infrastructure for ingesting unstructured data, analytics workbenches and business intelligence tools to advise policy decisions and improve outcomes.

“When we collaborate with our partners through portals on shared care plans, our residents can access digital services seamlessly to augment their experience with our physical healthcare system,” Associate Professor Lew elaborates.

When asked about his current role in upskilling the workforce and bolstering the talent pipeline, Associate Professor Thomas believes in the synergy of dual-domain expertise. Many of NHG’s skilled healthcare professionals, he noted, have solid foundations for expanding their roles over and above their core experiences into health technology-related areas such as informatics, data science, data systems management, and biomedical engineering.

Arguably, the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed stress points in societies’ coping mechanisms, as well as the limits to which individual needs are balanced with the collective interest. The way forward, he emphasises, is a return to basics, based on the values and ethical systems that govern healthcare delivery. With NHG’s vision of “Adding Years of Healthy Life,” the organisation is driven to be foresighted, proactive, and responsive to changing needs.

Singapore is not lacking in potentially disruptive technologies such as 5G for remote care or real-time supervision; machine learning for augmented intelligence, drug discoveries, and biomarkers; health insights through digital phenotyping; assistive robots for preventive care of the isolated; or using blockchain for improving the data security.

“What is important is being true to the values treasured by person and community, to ensure we deliver care to those we serve with good judgement, ethos, and empathy.”

About Associate Professor Thomas Lew

Associate Professor Thomas Lew graduated from the National University of Singapore (NUS)’s Faculty of Medicine in 1985, specialising in anaesthesia and intensive care medicine, with special interests in neurological intensive care and neuro-anaesthesia. He is Group Chief Data and Strategy Officer at the National Healthcare Group (NHG), one of three public healthcare clusters in Singapore, which serves 2.2 million residents in Central Singapore. He is currently an anaesthesiologist at TTSH, where he was Chairman of the Medical Board between 2011 and 2019.

Associate Professor Lew is also Clinical Director of NHG’s Centre for Medical Technology and Innovation (CMTi), an integrated agency that supports clinician innovators in collaborating with industry and academic partners to bring new technologies to market. On practising medicine, Associate Professor Lew says, “The practice of medicine builds purpose and meaning through service to individuals and community. It is very satisfying to help patients to recover and heal, and undeservedly receive their gratitude for a new lease on life. Through these encounters, tinged with their suffering, courage, and grief, we realise the fragility of life and the limits of medicine. However, this also inspires personal growth and maturity through learned experiences, in particular the power of communications, receiving and offering empathy.”

In an era of rapid digital transformation, Malaysia recognises the importance of equipping its youth with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy. To address this crucial need, a strategic partnership has been formed to empower the next generation through youth skills development.

This alliance brings together key stakeholders from the government, the private sector, educational institutions and industry experts to collaborate on initiatives that enhance digital competencies among Malaysian youth.

The initiative aims to bridge the digital skills gap by offering comprehensive programmes that cater to the specific needs of Malaysian youth. It focuses on equipping them with the essential digital skills required for success in the modern workforce.

By developing a strong foundation in areas such as coding, data analytics, digital marketing and emerging technologies, youth will be ready to take on the challenges and opportunities in Malaysia’s digital economy.

The plans encompass a range of strategies, such as training programmes, mentorship opportunities, industry collaborations and granting access to digital resources. They not only foster technical skills but also emphasise critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and entrepreneurship.

Envisioning a future where Malaysian youth lead the way in innovation and contribute to the growth and competitiveness of the digital economy, the partnership strives to empower the next generation with these essential skills. By doing so, they not only aim to fulfil the career aspirations of the youth but also ensure their active participation in driving the nation’s progress.

Fostering Youth Skills in Malaysia’s Digital Economy

Ir Ts Dr Aziyati Yusoff, Head of Strategic Partnership for Youth Skills Development, Ministry of Youth and Sports, emphasises Malaysia’s commitment to bridging the digital skills gap among its youth and aligning them with the demands of the digital economy.

With a forward-thinking approach, she acknowledges the significance of embracing new paradigms and perspectives to stay relevant in an ever-evolving digital landscape. By recognising the need to adapt and equip the younger generation with the necessary skills, Malaysia is poised to nurture a workforce that can effectively contribute to the country’s digital transformation and global competitiveness.

“Currently ranked 33rd in technological advancement, Malaysia aspires to become a regional leader,” Dr Aziyati reveals. “While physical platforms have been emphasised, other factors like education integration, cultural wellness, societal maturity, and economic stability are also important.”

Malaysia acknowledges the significance of coding and technical skills but also places value on soft skills and adaptability. School programmes in the country emphasise a well-rounded approach by incorporating STEM activities, innovation competitions, and even sports to enhance social interaction and problem-solving abilities.

This holistic approach ensures that Malaysian youth not only develop technical proficiency but also cultivate essential interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt to various challenges. By nurturing a balanced skill set, Malaysia aims to prepare its youth for the multifaceted demands of the digital era, where both technical expertise and soft skills play integral roles in success.

Dr Aziyati acknowledges the importance of coding classes in Malaysia, recognising their role in fostering skills such as planning, problem-solving, and performance evaluation. The country’s education blueprint focuses on utilising information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance the quality of learning.

This is achieved through the implementation of online classrooms, robotics competitions, and government initiatives like the Digital MakerSpace and Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC). By leveraging these platforms and programmes, Malaysia is actively promoting the integration of technology into education and empowering its youth to thrive in the digital age.

The government promotes inclusivity and equal opportunities through various initiatives that aim to provide practical platforms for knowledge and anticipate the challenges and opportunities brought by technology.

These initiatives aim for wider engagement and to create an environment where students have access to digital resources, hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to showcase their skills.

Advancements in digital technology benefit the economy by creating jobs, improving employability rates, fostering digital content creators, supporting governmental agendas and providing a return on investment.

Smart partnerships with various ministries, including the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Communications and Digital, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Ministry of International Trade and Industry, contribute to these benefits.

“Smart partnerships ensure the relevance of training and knowledge content, while industries are open to hiring special needs graduates, offering training tailored to their abilities,” Dr Aziyati reiterates.

In the modern world, diverse cultural values and socioeconomic achievements define our lifestyles, Dr Aziyati observes. The Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint embraces the globalised nature of information systems, which facilitates cultural exchange and emphasises the impact of digital technology on societal resilience and the future-proofing of the economy.

Despite economic challenges, Malaysia’s resources and diversity have facilitated national transformations. The government understands that consistent and continuous investment in youth development through training and education is crucial for ensuring sustainable progress and national sustainability.

The education system and institutions play a crucial role in facilitating successful partnerships and collaborations. Both national and institutional levels are open to innovative ideas and opportunities for partnerships.

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry supports initiatives by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education to establish partnerships with other countries. Collaboration with education institutions from countries like the UK, USA, Australia, Germany, European nations, Asian countries and APEC nations is pursued through international knowledge exchange.

Through such partnerships, a wide array of opportunities, initiatives, incentives, and projects are being implemented to benefit the citizens. These activities span various domains, including student and cultural exchange, expert sharing, technology transfer, intellectual discourse and skill mobility.

The aim is to foster mutual growth, facilitate the transfer of knowledge and expertise and create a dynamic environment that promotes innovation and skill development among individuals. As Malaysia promotes the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it requires a highly skilled workforce and smart citizens to attract investment for a better economy.

“To facilitate execution and foster innovation in the digital economy, proper planning and provision in the areas of manpower, machinery, and methods are crucial. Some also emphasise materials and mediums,” Dr Aziyati explains. “Youth entrepreneurs can adopt these approaches to boost productivity.”

Since 2013, the Federal Government has launched various initiatives and projects, including policies on science, technology, and innovation, IoT strategy, Smart City framework, cybersecurity, and the digital economy blueprint, with implementation planned until 2025.

Dr Aziyati agrees that expanding strategic relationships with other countries becomes easier with transparency as governance is visualised through paperless documents, faster approvals, efficient repayment methods and increased output capacity.

While online application processes are already in place, information security, cybercrime, cryptography and privacy concerns must be addressed, she reveals.

Over the past five years, Malaysia has experienced political changes and evolving government institutions. Despite these fluctuations, the youth and future generations remain focused on the impact and development of the digital economy.

“To achieve successful implementation of integrated e-governance, a nation must attain key elements such as political stability, economic prosperity, social harmony, technological modernisation, environmental sustainability, and legal strength,” Dr Aziyati opines. “These factors collectively contribute to effective governance and ensure a holistic approach towards leveraging digital technology for the betterment of society.”

Sustaining the momentum of digital economy efforts and utilising strengths and opportunities can lead to enhanced business, partnerships and economic growth. Transformation and readiness for change are key factors for success, along with incorporating fresh ideas from young minds and a skilled workforce.

Dr Aziyati is convinced that aside from financial assistance, Malaysia can secure long-term stability and progress by implementing a thorough and consistent transformation programme.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports in Malaysia is responsible for the supervision and advancement of eSports players. However, there are existing challenges concerning the welfare of developers within this domain. As a result, the ministry is actively seeking new policies and measures to address and strengthen this aspect, ensuring the well-being and support of young developers in the future.

In her new role overseeing Training Management for skills institutions, Dr Aziyati continues to prioritise partnerships with industry to promote digital technology advancement. To improve governmental institutions, she proposed the following:

Increase budget allocations for youth in the digital economy
Expand youth development programmes for mastering digital skills
Provide more incentives to support youth in adapting to the fast-paced digital world
Implement transformative programs in STEM, digital education, and school projects
Foster flexible ideas for national digital improvements
Reduce bureaucracy in project decision-making processes
Encourage creativity by minimising organisational hierarchy limitations
Minimise the use of paper forms
The transition from old-school work delegations to foster flexibility through collaborative discussions and cooperative deliveries

To realise these improvements, both financial support and organisational adjustments are necessary.

The Ministry of Education has identified a concerning trend where nearly 50% of school leavers are choosing not to pursue higher education. This issue is influenced by several factors, including the high cost of education, a perceived lack of job guarantees, and the belief that courses offered may not provide sufficient marketability compared to the appeal of social media businesses and gig economy jobs.

Dr Aziyati feels it is crucial to conduct a study that examines the relevance of current school curricula, the courses offered by higher education institutions and the demands of industries. Recognising the interdependence among these entities is vital, as failure to address outdated education content and maintain the status quo could result in a substantial gap in producing high-quality graduates.

By understanding the evolving needs of industries and aligning educational programmes accordingly, Malaysia can ensure that its education system remains responsive, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the job market effectively.

“To inspire young people, it is important to emphasise the importance of passion and willingness to continuously learn, improve and contribute to society,” Dr Aziyati says. “Success requires effort and perseverance, as reflected in the quote: genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.”

While young people may encounter misleading information and failure, it is part of the learning process. She believes that patience, persistence, and perseverance are key in this journey if one’s pursuits are beneficial to society.

Dr Aziyati strongly believes that by consistently pursuing personal growth and making significant contributions, success and recognition will naturally follow. She feels that this journey should not solely revolve around personal improvement, but also include a commitment to leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

Additionally, it is crucial to acknowledge the inherent value of the learning process itself, which cannot be easily replaced. However, Dr Aziyati acknowledges that individuals may sometimes be influenced by the opinions of others and consequently choose paths that they are not genuinely passionate about.

While quick money-making opportunities may come and go, Dr Aziyati underscores the enduring value of education and the credentials earned through hard work. She encourages individuals to prioritise long-term gains, as the knowledge and skills acquired through education will have a lasting impact throughout their lives.

“By channelling the passion of young people towards constructive and educational endeavours that bring benefits to the nation, we can unleash their potential and make meaningful contributions to their personal and societal growth,” Dr Aziyati concludes.

Kementerian Sains, Teknologi, dan Inovasi (KSTI) di Malaysia merancang tujuan untuk menjadi negara berbasis teknologi tinggi pada tahun 2030. Sebagai negara dengan peringkat 33 sebagai “the most technologically advanced countries”, Malaysia optimis tujuan tersebut akan tercapai.

Upaya-upaya yang dilakukan, terutama oleh pemerintah Malaysia sendiri, menunjukkan adanya perhatian serius terhadap pengembangan ekonomi digital di negara ini. Pemerintah menyadari bahwa memiliki keahlian digital dalam era kemajuan teknologi saat ini merupakan aset yang sangat berharga dan penting bagi setiap individu, terutama generasi muda.

Dalam upaya mencapai tujuan menjadi negara berbasis teknologi tinggi, pemerintah telah meluncurkan berbagai program dan inisiatif yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keahlian digital masyarakat, terutama bagi anak muda. Pendidikan dan pelatihan dalam bidang teknologi dan inovasi telah menjadi fokus utama pemerintah dengan menyediakan akses yang lebih luas dan menyeluruh kepada masyarakat untuk memperoleh pengetahuan dan keterampilan yang diperlukan.

Peningkatan keahlian digital anak muda tidak hanya akan meningkatkan nilai individu, tetapi juga berkontribusi pada integrasi dan adaptasi negara terhadap kemajuan teknologi yang terjadi dengan cepat. Dengan besarnya jumlah individu yang memiliki keahlian digital, Malaysia dapat lebih siap menghadapi tantangan dan peluang yang ditawarkan oleh ekonomi digital.

Selain itu, kehadiran generasi muda yang terampil dalam bidang teknologi juga akan memberikan dampak positif dalam mendorong inovasi dan perkembangan industri teknologi di negara ini. Mereka memiliki potensi untuk menciptakan solusi baru, mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi, dan meningkatkan daya saing internasional.

Transformasi Keahlian Digital Berperan dalam Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Malaysia

Ir Ts Dr Aziyati Yusoff, Kepala Kerjasama Strategis untuk Pengembangan Keahlian Anak Muda, Kementerian Pemuda dan Olahraga, Malaysia, melalui wawancaranya menyatakan bahwa kehadiran generasi muda yang memiliki keahlian digital di Malaysia dapat menjadi pendorong utama dalam transformasi inovasi dan pertumbuhan ekonomi negara ini. Mereka tidak hanya memiliki kemampuan teknologi yang canggih, tetapi juga potensi untuk menciptakan solusi baru yang mengarah pada perkembangan industri teknologi yang pesat.

Dalam upaya untuk menjembatani kekosongan yang terjadi antara berbagai entitas di Malaysia, sebuah inovasi baru telah diperkenalkan yang bertujuan untuk menawarkan sebuah program yang inklusif. Inovasi ini secara khusus ditujukan untuk mendukung dan meningkatkan ekonomi digital di negara tersebut.

Program pembelajaran yang ditawarkan harus didesain dengan tujuan untuk memastikan bahwa generasi muda memiliki kemampuan yang diperlukan untuk sukses dalam ekonomi digital. Dalam program ini, anak-anak muda akan diberikan kesempatan untuk mempelajari keterampilan seperti pemrograman komputer, desain grafis, analisis data, dan teknologi terkait lainnya.

Melalui Kementerian Ekonomi dan Investasi, Kementerian Sains dan Teknologi, Kementerian Informasi dan Komunikasi, dan Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri Malaysia, dapat berkolaborasi untuk memprioritaskan anggaran dalam mendukung program-program yang berkaitan dengan keahlian transformasi digital pada anak muda Pemerintah Malaysia telah mengambil langkah-langkah penting dalam implementasi program-program digital yang bertujuan untuk memberikan pembelajaran digital kepada generasi muda.

Salah satu inisiatif strategis yang diluncurkan adalah MyDIGITAL (Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint), yang bertujuan untuk mempercepat transformasi digital negara dan mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi digital. Selain itu, terdapat juga MaGIC (Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre), sebuah pusat inovasi dan kreativitas yang bertujuan untuk mempercepat perkembangan ekosistem startup di Malaysia.

MyDIGITAL dan MaGIC adalah dua program yang menjadi fokus pemerintah dalam mengembangkan potensi digital di negara ini. MyDIGITAL bertujuan untuk merumuskan kebijakan, strategi, dan inisiatif yang mempercepat pengadopsian teknologi digital di berbagai sektor, termasuk pendidikan. Sementara itu, MaGIC berperan sebagai pusat inovasi dan kreativitas yang memberikan pelatihan, mentoring, dan dukungan bagi para startup untuk mengembangkan produk dan layanan mereka.

Dengan adanya program-program ini, pemerintah Malaysia berharap dapat menciptakan generasi muda yang terampil dalam pemanfaatan teknologi digital, meningkatkan daya saing negara dalam ekonomi digital, dan mendorong pertumbuhan ekosistem startup yang inovatif. Melalui upaya ini, Malaysia berkomitmen untuk menjadi pemimpin regional dalam transformasi digital dan ekonomi berbasis pengetahuan.

Program-program digital ini merupakan langkah positif yang diambil oleh pemerintah Malaysia untuk mempersiapkan generasi muda menghadapi tantangan dan peluang dalam era digital. Dengan membangun fondasi pendidikan digital yang kuat dan memberikan dukungan bagi inovasi dan kreativitas, pemerintah berharap dapat menciptakan lingkungan yang kondusif bagi pertumbuhan ekonomi digital dan perkembangan teknologi di Malaysia.

Aziyati Yusoff menghimbau agar pemerintah pusat dapat lebih memprioritaskan anggaran kepada program-program yang meningkatkan keahlian digital kepada anak muda. “Melalui Kementerian Ekonomi dan Investasi, Kementerian Sains dan Teknologi, Kementerian Informasi dan Komunikasi, dan Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri Malaysia, dapat berkolaborasi untuk memprioritaskan anggaran dalam mendukung program-program yang berkaitan dengan keahlian transformasi digital pada anak muda” himbaunya.

Selain implementasi program-program digital di luar sekolah, penting juga untuk memperhatikan penyertaan pembelajaran digital dalam kurikulum sekolah. Pembelajaran digital, seperti Teknologi Informasi dan Komunikasi (TIK), harus menjadi bagian integral dari kurikulum agar para murid dapat memahami dan menguasai aspek penting ini dalam kehidupan mereka.

Pengajaran TIK dapat meliputi berbagai keterampilan, seperti penggunaan perangkat keras dan perangkat lunak, penelusuran informasi secara online, literasi digital, dan pemahaman tentang etika dan keamanan dalam penggunaan teknologi. Dengan menyertakan TIK dalam kurikulum, sekolah dapat memberikan landasan yang kuat bagi para murid dalam memanfaatkan teknologi digital dengan bijak dan efektif.

Selain itu, program Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) juga dapat diintegrasikan ke dalam kurikulum sekolah. Program ini mendorong pemahaman yang mendalam tentang sains, teknologi, rekayasa, dan matematika, serta menghubungkannya dengan konteks dunia nyata.

Dalam era digital, program STEM dapat diperkaya dengan penggunaan teknologi digital, seperti eksperimen ilmiah menggunakan perangkat lunak simulasi, pemrograman komputer untuk memecahkan masalah matematika, dan pengembangan solusi teknik menggunakan teknologi terkini.

Selain pembelajaran TIK dan program STEM, proyek siswa berbasis digital juga dapat menjadi komponen yang berharga dalam kurikulum sekolah. Proyek-proyek ini memberikan kesempatan kepada para murid untuk menerapkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan digital mereka dalam konteks nyata. Misalnya, mereka dapat bekerja sama dalam tim untuk merancang dan mengembangkan aplikasi, membuat presentasi multimedia, atau melakukan penelitian online.

Melalui proyek-proyek ini, para murid dapat mengembangkan kemampuan kolaborasi, kreativitas, dan pemecahan masalah, sambil memperdalam pemahaman mereka tentang teknologi digital.

Dengan menyertakan pembelajaran TIK, program STEM, dan proyek siswa berbasis digital dalam kurikulum sekolah, para murid akan mendapatkan pendidikan yang holistik dan relevan dengan tuntutan dunia digital saat ini. Mereka akan dilengkapi dengan keterampilan yang diperlukan untuk menghadapi tantangan dan memanfaatkan peluang dalam era digital yang terus berkembang. Selain itu, ini juga akan membantu mereka membangun landasan yang kuat untuk melanjutkan pendidikan dan karir di bidang teknologi, ilmu pengetahuan, dan inovasi.

Lebih jauh, pemerintah menghadirkan kolaborasi dengan lembaga pendidikan di Britania Raya, Amerika Serikat, Australia, Jerman, negara-negara Eropa, negara-negara Asia, dan juga APEC (Kerja Sama Ekonomi Asia-Pasifik) melalui pertukaran pengetahuan internasional. Aktivitas-aktivitas dalam kemitraan semacam ini mencakup pertukaran mahasiswa dan budaya, berbagi pengetahuan antara para ahli, transfer teknologi, diskusi intelektual, serta mobilitas keahlian dan keterampilan.

Dalam mengembangkan inovasi digital, pemerintah harus menjalin kerja sama dengan sektor swasta, lembaga pendidikan, dan berbagai entitas terkait lainnya. Kolaborasi ini diharapkan dapat menciptakan ekosistem pembelajaran yang holistik dan berkelanjutan. Program ini akan dilaksanakan melalui kemitraan strategis antara lembaga pendidikan dan perusahaan teknologi, yang akan memberikan pengetahuan praktis dan pengalaman langsung kepada anak-anak muda. Hal ini bertujuan untuk menciptakan kestabilan negara ke depannya.

Cara terbaik untuk menggambarkan kestabilan dari sebuah negara adalah ketika mereka memiliki hal-hal berikut secara seimbang, yaitu stabilitas politik, kemakmuran ekonomi, harmoni sosial, modernisasi teknologi yang ramah lingkungan, dan hukum yang tegas.

Dengan demikian, inovasi ini tidak hanya bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keahlian anak-anak muda, tetapi juga untuk menciptakan lapangan kerja baru dan mempercepat pertumbuhan ekonomi digital di Malaysia secara keseluruhan. Dengan adanya program pembelajaran yang relevan dengan kebutuhan pasar, diharapkan akan terjadi peningkatan daya saing dan inovasi di sektor ekonomi digital, serta pengurangan kesenjangan keterampilan di antara generasi muda.

Dalam rangka mencapai visi ini, dukungan pemerintah dan partisipasi aktif dari berbagai pihak terlibat sangat penting. Program ini harus didukung dengan kebijakan yang mendukung, investasi yang memadai, serta pengembangan infrastruktur teknologi yang memadai. Dengan adanya kerangka kerja yang kuat dan kolaborasi yang efektif, inovasi ini memiliki potensi besar untuk mengubah lanskap ekonomi digital di Malaysia, menciptakan masa depan yang lebih inklusif, dan memberikan manfaat jangka panjang bagi anak-anak muda serta masyarakat secara keseluruhan.

Dalam mendukung program digital inklusif ini, Aziyati menghimbau agar pemerintah dapat lebih tanggap dengan cara mengurangi berbagai macam birokrasi dalam melakukan pengambilan keputusan.

Birokrasi yang kompleks dan lambat dapat menghambat inovasi dan menghambat perubahan yang cepat yang dibutuhkan dalam era digital. Oleh karena itu, perlu adanya reformasi dan penyederhanaan prosedur administrasi yang terkait dengan pengimplementasian program digital. Langkah-langkah ini meliputi mempercepat proses pengadaan teknologi, mengurangi regulasi yang menghambat perkembangan industri digital, serta memperbaiki koordinasi antarlembaga pemerintah yang terlibat dalam implementasi program digital.

Dengan meningkatkan tingkat tanggap pemerintah terhadap program digital inklusif, diharapkan dapat tercipta lingkungan yang mendukung pertumbuhan ekonomi digital, pemerataan akses teknologi, dan peningkatan kualitas hidup masyarakat secara keseluruhan. Dengan adanya kolaborasi antara pemerintah, pemangku kepentingan, dan masyarakat, serta pengurangan birokrasi yang berlebihan, Malaysia dapat melangkah maju dalam menghadapi era digital dengan lebih siap dan tanggap.

Selain langkah-langkah yang telah disebutkan sebelumnya, pemerintah juga telah meluncurkan beberapa proyek kebijakan nasional yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan dan mengimplementasikan bidang sains, inovasi, teknologi, dan transformasi digital di Malaysia. Proyek-proyek ini menjadi landasan strategis dalam mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi digital dan menciptakan lingkungan yang kondusif bagi pengembangan teknologi.

Salah satu proyek tersebut adalah Strategi Nasional Internet of Things (IoT), yang bertujuan untuk mengembangkan ekosistem IoT yang luas di Malaysia. Melalui penggunaan teknologi IoT, diharapkan dapat tercipta konektivitas yang lebih baik antara perangkat dan infrastruktur, yang akan membawa manfaat besar dalam berbagai sektor, seperti industri, pertanian, transportasi, dan layanan publik.

Selain itu, Malaysia juga telah mengadopsi kerangka kerja Malaysia Smart City yang bertujuan untuk menciptakan kota yang cerdas dan berkelanjutan. Melalui integrasi teknologi digital, informasi, dan komunikasi, diharapkan dapat meningkatkan efisiensi dan kualitas hidup di perkotaan, serta memperkuat konektivitas antara pemerintah, masyarakat, dan sektor swasta.

Pemerintah Malaysia juga telah mengambil langkah strategis dalam menghadapi tantangan keamanan siber dengan merumuskan strategi keamanan siber yang komprehensif. Langkah ini bertujuan untuk melindungi infrastruktur digital negara, data sensitif, dan privasi masyarakat dari ancaman siber yang semakin kompleks dan beragam

Dalam upaya mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi digital, Malaysia telah mengembangkan ekonomi digital yang berfokus pada inovasi, kewirausahaan, dan pengembangan industri teknologi. Melalui berbagai program dan kebijakan, pemerintah berupaya mendorong kreativitas dan inovasi, serta memberikan dukungan kepada pelaku usaha digital, termasuk startup dan UKM, untuk berkembang dan bersaing di pasar global.

Selain itu, Malaysia juga telah merancang blueprint dan kebijakan nasional yang bertujuan untuk memulai program percepatan dalam menghadapi transformasi digital. Blueprint ini menyediakan arah dan langkah-langkah konkret untuk mengintegrasikan teknologi digital dalam berbagai sektor, termasuk pendidikan, kesehatan, transportasi, dan administrasi public.

Harapannya, di 5 tahun ke depan, inklusivitas digital pada anak muda akan menghadirkan berbagai gagasan yang inovatif dan menghasilkan tenaga kerja yang berkualitas. Kalau kita berhasil konsisten untuk melakukan perubahan dan transformasi ini terus menerus, Malaysia akan menjadi negara yang stabil, baik dari tingkat ekonomi maupun sumberdaya manusia.

“Kami yakin dengan rencana ini. Melalui investasi berkelanjutan dalam pelatihan dan pendidikan pemuda, kami bertujuan untuk mempersiapkan generasi yang adaptif dan mampu bersaing secara global di Malaysia. Peningkatan sumber daya manusia dan kualitas pendidikan merupakan kunci untuk mencapai peningkatan nasional yang berkelanjutan,” tutup Aziyati.

Singapore’s Vision to be a Global Hub for Responsible AI Innovation

The prospective economic, social, and technological benefits of transforming Singapore into an open and trustworthy global artificial intelligence (AI) hub are substantial. It can place the nation at the vanguard of AI innovation and enable it to shape the future of this transformative technology.

The Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) and a major technology firm announced their intention to work together to strengthen Singapore’s AI national vision and strategy. This strategic partnership may support the adoption and development of innovative, responsible, and inclusive AI technologies to maximise opportunities arising in Singapore and the region.

Director of the Digital Economy Office at MCI, Andrea Phua, stated that they welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the tech giant as they develop their plans to support the growth of the digital economy and realise the benefits that AI brings to individuals and businesses in a safe and responsible manner.

Singapore’s technology ecosystem has access to next-generation AI infrastructure, industry-leading GPU hardware, the Vertex AI platform, and AI-managed services and tools to implement AI at scale.

The partnership will seek to::

Accelerate the development of home-grown AI technologies: A marketplace for developers and businesses to access the best of AI solutions and foundation models, allowing them to build conversational AI, enterprise search, and other capabilities;
Build a sustainable pipeline of talent for the future AI economy: Skill-building initiatives to strengthen AI capabilities and competencies, including possible assistance for eligible startups to leverage an open AI ecosystem;
Supercharge the adoption of cloud AI technologies in Singapore: Development of incubators and accelerators that encourage developers, entrepreneurs, and companies to innovate with generative AI (Gen AI) technologies; and
Root Singapore’s AI progress in Responsible AI: Possible collaboration in AI governance and Responsible AI principles implementation.

By becoming a global AI centre, Singapore can attract world-class talent, researchers, and businesses. This promotes collaboration and the exchange of knowledge, resulting in innovation and the creation of cutting-edge AI technologies.

Several industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and manufacturing, will be transformed by AI. By positioning itself as a global AI hub, Singapore can attract investments, foster local startups, and generate high-paying employment, thereby fostering economic growth and prosperity.

Singapore has the potential to become a centre for AI education and talent development. By providing high-quality training programmes, seminars, and research opportunities, the nation can produce a workforce with AI expertise. This can satisfy the increasing demand for AI professionals and alleviate the talent shortage in this field.

Singapore, as a global AI centre, can serve as a testing ground for AI-based solutions and applications. The nation’s well-developed infrastructure, supportive regulatory environment, and diverse population make it an ideal location for the deployment and development of AI technologies. This enables businesses to validate their products, gain real-world insights, and iterate their solutions.

Through initiatives such as the Model AI Governance Framework, Singapore has demonstrated a commitment to ethics and trust in AI. Singapore can influence and define international standards for responsible AI development and deployment if it continues to develop as a global AI hub. This contributes to the development of AI technologies that respect privacy, impartiality, and transparency.

Singapore, as an open and trusted global AI centre, has the potential to become a regional leader in AI. This can entice regional enterprises and organisations to cooperate with Singaporean partners, resulting in a thriving Southeast Asian AI ecosystem. Singapore’s AI leadership may also assist drive regional initiatives, boost information sharing, and improve the region’s overall capabilities.

Digital Transformation in Vietnam’s Banking Sector

Through a series of newly issued regulations and access to the national population database, banks are preparing to enhance their online money-lending services. According to Deputy Governor Pham Tien Dung of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the utilisation of the national population database will enable banks to conveniently verify and authenticate the information of new customers, streamlining the process.

Commercial banks will promote lending services on their electronic platforms based on this database. The proposed amendments to the Law on Credit Institutions contain numerous regulations that specifically address banking services conducted through electronic devices.

For quite some time, many banks have been providing online lending services, primarily for small loans. However, the legal status of this lending model has not been explicitly defined in the law. As a result, banks have been engaging in online lending with concerns that the lending contracts may be deemed invalid in the event of a legal dispute.

Furthermore, banks have been hesitant to promote online lending due to the presence of a significant volume of junk data and virtual accounts. With the establishment of the national population database, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) has collaborated with the Ministry of Public Security to authenticate 25 million customers in the credit information database. SBV aims to verify the remaining 26 million customers within the coming months.

Possessing such a vast pool of clean customer data presents banks with a valuable opportunity to promote digital services and products, particularly online lending. Granting banks access to the population database, coupled with the establishment of a comprehensive legal framework for digital banking, represents a significant opportunity for the banking industry to experience robust growth in the future. A well-defined legal framework and a reliable database serve as the fundamental pillars for enabling all banks to operate effectively within the digital landscape.

Previously, banks exercised caution in engaging in online lending due to the presence of unverified and unreliable information within the customer database. Another problem is the automatic credit appraisal and approval due to data limitations and unclear legal basis. Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive customer information posed difficulties in effectively collecting debts.

Accessing the national population database and implementing an automated appraisal and approval mechanism allow state-owned joint-stock commercial banks to address these issues. It enables individuals to conveniently obtain online banking loans at reasonable interest rates.

The traditional lending process involved multiple steps and consumed significant time and human resources. However, with the extensive customer data available to banks and the national population database, there is a hope to enhance the speed of loan processing procedures and strengthen risk management measures. This advancement allows for more efficient lending operations, reducing delays and streamlining the overall process.

Several banks have coordinated with the Police Department for Administrative Management of Social Order (C06) under the Ministry of Public Security to start testing a citizen credit scoring system based on population data. As an initial step, banks intend to offer unsecured loans for small amounts using the citizen credit scoring system. This approach will promote the retail lending of the banks.

To ensure a seamless integration between the banking system, VNeID (the electronic identification application), and the citizen credit scoring system, it is crucial for the Ministry of Public Security to promptly update the population data. State management agencies must also adjust relevant legal provisions to create favourable conditions for providing loans in the digital environment.

Indonesia Advancing Digitalisation in Public Service Delivery

President Joko Widodo, as highlighted by the Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB), has placed significant emphasis on the comprehensive digitalization of public services, evident in his signing of the Presidential Regulation on the Architecture of Electronic-Based Government Systems (SPBE) in December 2022, where the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform plays a coordinating role.

This year, Abdullah Azwar Anas, the Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, reiterated the President’s focus in 2022, stating, “Digital transformation will bring a better digital future for the Indonesian government. The services received by the public will also be fast and accurate.”

With digitalisation, people can access public services online through various devices such as computers, smartphones, or tablets. It allows people to utilise services without being limited by time or geographical location. Furthermore, through digitalisation, it is possible to reduce operational costs in managing and delivering public services. The use of digital technology enables a reduction in physical needs such as paper, printing, and logistics, which has the potential to save government budgets.

Furthermore, to create responsive public services, Anas invites all local governments, particularly Bali, along with other stakeholders, to collectively strengthen the digitalisation of public services. Local governments can learn from various public policies implemented in developed countries, including Singapore, Denmark, South Korea or the United Kingdom (UK).

In enhancing digital-based public services, Anas highly encourages local governments in Indonesia to learn from the United Kingdom’s experience in digitalising public services. He specifically selects the UK because it has pioneered the Electronic Government Architecture (SPBE) since 2005 and has ranked highly in the e-Government Development Index by the United Nations.

Anas has signed a Letter of Intent with one of the government consultant NGOs to share experiences and knowledge in transforming digital-based public services. “We need to reflect on the challenges they face and the solutions they have presented, which can serve as lessons for us,” he said.

The digitalisation of public services has become a significant concern faced by the Indonesian government this year. Previously, the Indonesian government went to Balikpapan to strengthen public policy delivery to prepare for the capital relocation to IKN (Indonesia’s New Capital). The government will integrate their services in the future, allowing users to access all government digital platforms through a single sign-in conveniently.

Additionally, Anas launched the Central Lampung District Public Service Mall before he visited Balikpapan. The facility has become the 111th MPP in the country to be opened and is now open to the public. The Central Lampung MPP has 161 different services provided by 12 Central Lampung Regency Government entities and 17 vertical/external organisations.

Currently, the government is designing the National Digital Service Integration policy by establishing nine priority digital services, including education, healthcare, social assistance, population administration, integrated state financial transactions for payment gateways, integrated civil service services, public service portal, and One Data Indonesia. These efforts are aimed at enhancing public transparency.

With the adoption of digitalisation, the public can access information regarding public services and government policies, creating greater transparency in decision-making and providing opportunities for public participation in policy-making processes.

Digitalisation drives the government to seek new and innovative solutions in delivering public services. Adopting new technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of public services. Anas believes that the success of digital transformation and government administration relies on digital leadership to oversee change and rapid utilisation of technology.

Singapore’s Retail Jobs Transformation Map

Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry launched the Jobs Transformation Map (JTM) for Retail as a guiding resource to help retail companies plan and ensure that their workforce is equipped with the necessary skill sets to meet evolving business needs.

Following the release of the Retail Industry Transformation Map (ITM) 2025 in October last year, Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and Workforce Singapore (WSG) collaborated with the Ministry of Manpower to create the JTM, which was supported by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).

Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF), in collaboration with the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), has been designated as a programme partner for the Jobs Skills Integrator for Retail (JSIT-R).

The JSIT-R is a dedicated intermediary that offers retailers end-to-end solutions for workforce transformation, staff training, and job matching services. When engaging with retailers, the JSIT-R will consult the JTM.

Retail trade associations and chambers (TACs) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SNEF and NTUC to demonstrate their support for the JSIT-R and the implementation of the JTM. TACs are committed to reaching out to and collaborating with over 1,100 member companies and other retailers to accelerate employment transformation for their workforce of about 94,000 employees.

To ensure that the Retail sector can continue to attract and retain talent while also creating quality jobs, a study was conducted to identify future industry trends as well as anticipate how future job roles and required skill sets must change to create new opportunities and meet evolving business needs.

Four major trends and opportunities have been identified:

Shifts in consumer needs as a result of changes in lifestyle, preferences, and awareness;
Emergence of new retail models (e.g., omnichannel, customer-centric retail experience, and innovative business model) that enable enhanced brand and shopping experiences;
Using data analytics and improvements in retail technology to increase productivity and efficiency;
Create a resilient and agile supply chain to improve inventory management and enable more fulfilling alternatives in an increasingly complicated and turbulent supply chain environment.

The JTM analysis highlighted existing work roles that are likely to change somewhat or significantly, such as sales associates and store managers. Changes such as new technology and shifting consumer needs will transform these jobs.

A fundamental recommendation in the JTM report for adapting to these trends and technology improvements is to transform the workforce through human capital development programmes that include training, job redesign, and skills-based career progression pathways.

Such efforts would allow employees to focus on more value-added work and plan their evolution, which would help the growth of businesses.

Some emerging job roles include Sustainability Specialist, Product Innovator, Customer Experience Manager, Customer Intelligence Analyst, Omni-channel Manager, Digital Marketer, Digital Transformation Manager, UI/UX Designer and Full Stack Developer.

Further, retailers can stay competitive in a continuously changing industry by utilising data analytics and developments in retail technology. It helps them to provide personalised experiences, optimise operations, and boost customer satisfaction, resulting in higher profitability and long-term success.

The utilisation of data analytics and improvements in retail technology is critical for merchants looking to increase productivity and efficiency. Retailers can obtain important insights into customer behaviour, preferences, and market trends by leveraging the power of data analytics.

This data enables them to make data-driven decisions, improve inventory management, personalise marketing efforts, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Hong Kong Advancing Autonomous Driving and C-V2X Tech

The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) and a driverless vehicle company, established by a Chinese multinational technology corporation, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaboratively advance the implementation of autonomous driving and C-V2X technology in various scenarios within Hong Kong. The partnership also aims to explore opportunities for cooperation in developing High-Definition Maps (HD Maps), thereby enhancing Hong Kong’s smart mobility ecosystem.

The Vice President of Communication Technologies at ASTRI and the Head of Business Development at the driverless vehicle company signed the agreement. The signing was witnessed by the Chief Operating Officer of ASTRI and the Head of the international arm of the company.

As part of this collaboration, the two parties will extend the implementation of C-V2X technology to additional scenarios. The driverless vehicle company will provide support to ASTRI in the research and development of roadside infrastructure. Specifically, the company will deploy its Operating System of Intelligent Road Side (Smart Road Air OS) at the Sha Tin Smart Mobility Public Testing Route, aiding ASTRI in its endeavours.

This partnership capitalises on the tech company’s expertise in developing C-V2X infrastructure, autonomous driving software, and intelligent transportation operations, along with ASTRI’s strong research and development capabilities in 5G communication technology, AI, smart mobility, C-V2X technology, and road-testing experience. By merging these strengths, the collaboration aims to expedite the deployment of C-V2X technology across various scenarios in Hong Kong.

To address the distinctive urban environment of Hong Kong, both parties will additionally explore opportunities for cooperation in the development of High-Definition Maps (HD Maps). These efforts will focus on enhancing the technology and usability of HD maps through experimental projects. By collaborating on this aspect, the aim is to create more accurate and comprehensive mapping solutions that cater to the specific needs of Hong Kong’s urban landscape.

ASTRI has been actively involved in the research and development of C-V2X technology since 2015. With support from the Smart Transportation Fund of the Transport Department, ASTRI launched one of the world’s largest C-V2X public road tests in Hong Kong in 2021. This extensive test covered a 14km route from Hong Kong Science Park to Sha Tin town centre, allowing for the study and testing of C-V2X technology in various real-world scenarios on Hong Kong’s roads. The focus was not only on the technology itself but also on the necessary network and infrastructure.

Currently, the second phase of C-V2X public road tests is underway. The primary objective is to enhance road and pedestrian safety while improving traffic efficiency. This is achieved through the efficient, accurate, and rapid sharing of information leveraging one of ASTRI’s Hero Technologies: a high-speed, reliable, and low-latency 5G network solution.

In addition, the establishment of the “Smart Mobility (C-V2X) Technology Alliance” in April 2023 further enhances Hong Kong’s smart mobility ecosystem. This alliance promotes collaboration among the government, industry, academia, and research institutions, fostering cooperation on smart mobility and related technologies. The ultimate goal is to accelerate the implementation of C-V2X technology and infrastructure in Hong Kong, positioning the city as a model for smart cities.

Meanwhile, the company serves as a pilot unit for the state’s transportation sector. Its intelligent transportation business, along with its affiliated companies, is dedicated to spearheading the modernization of China’s intelligent transportation systems.

Their mission is to develop a world-class, integrated transportation system that aligns with the high-quality standards of being safe, convenient, efficient, green, and economical. Their efforts are in line with the overarching goal of achieving a transportation system that prioritizes people’s satisfaction, provides robust protection, and sets a global benchmark in terms of excellence.

The Association for Operating Systems of Intelligent Road Side was established in Beijing on 17 May 2023. This association introduced the Operating System of Intelligent Road Side (Smart Road Air OS 1.0) to the industry. The company, as one of the key technology contributors, will continue to adhere to the guiding principle of “Open Capabilities, Shared Resources, Accelerating Innovations, Sustainable Success.”

The company aims to foster the development of the smart transportation industry through an efficient, innovative, and mutually beneficial open-source association. By actively participating in this association, the company seeks to promote collaboration, encourage the sharing of resources and capabilities, and drive accelerated innovation within the smart transportation sector.

June 6, 2023

8th Annual Malaysia OpenGov Leadership Forum 2023, 22 JUNE 2023 - CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

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Transformational Shifts in Singapore’s Healthcare Industry

Singapore’s Vision to be a Global Hub for Responsible AI Innovation

Digital Transformation in Vietnam’s Banking Sector

Indonesia Advancing Digitalisation in Public Service Delivery

Singapore’s Retail Jobs Transformation Map

Hong Kong Advancing Autonomous Driving and C-V2X Tech

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