SINGAPORE: Chairmanship of Asean 2018 will present it a worthwhile opportunity to lead the region in developing its various digital economies, said Ravi Rajendran, managing director (Asia’s south region) at multi-cloud data management company Veritas.
He told The Business Times in a recent interview that the “strong policy underpinning Singapore’s digital development” will go a long way to accelerate digitalisation across South-east Asia – particularly in healthcare and digital trade. As Asean chair this year, Singapore is focusing on innovation and resilience with the digital economy as a key thrust, he noted.
“Digital connectivity and the use of data as an economic resource have enabled Singapore to transcend its resource limitations. Singapore has put in place a strong strategy to promote ICT (information and communications technology) in terms of skills and infrastructure, at both business and individual levels.
Singapore is in a “unique position or sweet spot”, given the trust associated with “Brand Singapore”, he said. “As a digital hub, individuals and businesses must be prepared to share their data – only possible if there is trust – and to try new technologies.”
Mr Rajendran highlighted that in the 2017 Digital Evolution Index (DEI), which tracked progress made by 60 countries in developing their digital economies and integrating connectivity into their citizens’ lives, Singapore was identified as one of three standouts (alongside New Zealand and UAE) with a concerted policy-led digital strategy to turn technology into a source of competitiveness.
“To stay competitive globally, businesses in Singapore need to transform their company culture to meet the demands of the fast-changing digital world,” he said. “Creating a culture that embraces fail-fast and yet collaborative mindset will foster innovative ideas and approaches.
