20 July, 2017
Info-communications Media Development Authority
The Info-communications Media Development Authority ("IMDA") was formally established on 1 October 2016 as the designated regulator of both the infocomm and media sectors. It is the product of a merger between the Information Development Authority and the Media Development Authority in an effort to streamline the framework governing the infocomm and media industries.
This formation of the IMDA, a joint regulatory body of both the infocomm and media sectors is in recognition of the growing convergence between traditional telecommunications providers and the infocomm media sector.
The IMDA also incorporates the Personal Data Protection Commission ("PDPC"), and through the PDPC, will be responsible for promoting and regulating data protection in Singapore.
Government Technology Agency
The new Government Technology Agency ("GovTech") was created on 30 September 2016 with the aim of playing an operational role by incorporating technological changes in the public sector, through cooperation with the private sector. This reflects the Singapore government's focus to on adopting emerging technology such as robotics and artificial intelligence in the government sector.
GovTech will work closely with public agencies to develop and implement digital services, platforms and solutions in the public sector.
GovTech will also be the implementing agency for the new Smart Nation and Digital Government Office, a new body formed under the Prime Minister's office and created to strengthen the Singapore government's organisation ability to exploit opportunities offered by recent technological advances.
For further information, please contact:
Andy Leck, Principal, Baker & McKenzie.Wong & Leow
andy.leck@bakermckenzie.com
