13-5-2024 (SINGAPORE) Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has outlined plans to enhance government communication with the public, including an increased frequency of press conferences, as he prepares to assume the role of Singapore’s fourth prime minister.
In a media briefing on Monday (May 13), following the announcement of his new Cabinet lineup two days before his official swearing-in, Mr Wong underscored the importance of transparent communication, particularly amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged the value of frequent press conferences held during the pandemic’s peak to disseminate updates and policies to the public.
While Mr Wong clarified that he does not intend to replicate the weekly press conferences held during the pandemic, he expressed the intention to convene press briefings as needed to address significant developments or changes in government policies.
Explaining the decision to rename the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) to the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), Mr Wong emphasised that this move signifies more than a mere change in nomenclature. He elaborated on the ministry’s expanded role in driving Singapore’s digital agenda, highlighting the integration of initiatives previously overseen by various agencies, such as the Smart Nation and Digital Government Office (SNDGO) and the Government Technology Agency (GovTech), under the Prime Minister’s Office.
The consolidation of these efforts aims to foster a cohesive national digital strategy, encompassing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo echoed this sentiment, emphasising the ministry’s evolving role in digital development and its increased focus on cybersecurity, data protection, and digital infrastructure regulation.
The renaming of MCI to MDDI, effective from July 8, reflects the ministry’s broader digital portfolio and its commitment to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era.
