Prime Minister Lawrence Wong launched Smart Nation 2.0 on 1 October 2024, emphasising growth, community, and trust as key pillars to navigate Singapore’s technological future.
SINGAPORE, 1 October 2024 – Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong delivered a keynote speech at the launch of Smart Nation 2.0, marking a new chapter in Singapore’s digital journey. Held at the Punggol Digital District, the event brought together government officials, industry leaders, and community representatives to discuss the nation’s evolving technological landscape. Building on the achievements of Smart Nation 1.0, which saw the widespread adoption of technologies such as cashless payments and digital government services, Smart Nation 2.0 focuses on three main goals: Growth, Community, and Trust.
In his speech, Wong highlighted the progress made over the past decade, citing the increased convenience of daily life through digital innovation and Singapore’s resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic due to robust digital infrastructure. He also stressed the importance of adapting to emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), which he described as having the potential to revolutionise industries in ways yet to be fully understood.
Smart Nation 2.0 aims to further enhance AI research, increase public engagement in digital literacy, and develop secure, reliable digital systems. Initiatives like the “AI for Science” program and the new Smart Nation Educator Fellowship will equip Singaporeans, especially students and educators, with the skills needed to navigate the future of AI. Wong also addressed the risks of technology misuse, emphasising new legislation to tackle online harms and the introduction of a dedicated agency to support victims of digital threats.
Wong concluded with a call to all Singaporeans to contribute to this shared vision, positioning the Smart Nation initiative as a collective effort toward building a better, more inclusive digital future.
Source: PMO
