SINGAPORE: Rising public expectations and global competition challenge the nation’s public service to adapt and innovate continually, said Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing during the opening of the Public Service Festival on 8 July 2024 at One Punggol.
Key Focus Areas
Chan highlighted the need for more seamless and integrated services for citizens, improved coordination across government agencies, and enhanced career development for public servants. “We must build a public service where agencies come together, facilitate trade-offs, and ensure timely decisions to improve experiences for both citizens and businesses,” he explained.
Adapting to Challenges
- Tighter manpower and budget constraints
- Increased public expectations
- Environmental considerations due to climate change
With one in four Singaporeans expected to be over 65 by 2030, Chan pointed out that this demographic shift will significantly impact healthcare spending—projected to triple compared to 2015, tightening fiscal resources.
Innovative Solutions
One key innovation is the ServiceSG initiative, consolidating 600 services from over 25 agencies — a move designed to eliminate the need for citizens to visit multiple offices. This streamlining aims to enhance service delivery efficiency.
Chan also announced the launch of a Career Fitness Movement, introducing training programmes to help public officers develop skills relevant to various career stages. This initiative aims to foster a workforce ready to meet future challenges.
Recognition of Excellence
During the festival, 140 awards were presented recognising agencies and individuals for exemplary service. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) received the Transformative Agency of the Year Award for innovating passport-less clearance, enhancing both efficiency and security.
Looking Ahead
Chan concluded with a warning against complacency. He noted that many jurisdictions are advancing quickly, underscoring the necessity for Singapore to keep improving and innovating. As he put it succinctly, “Success must not become the albatross for our future.”