News
Government to form two new regulators in second half of 2016.
Singapore on Monday announced it will restructure its telecoms and media regulators in light of the convergence of the two sectors.
Due to launch in the second half of 2016 the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the Government Technology Organisation (GTO), will replace the Info-communications Development Authority (IDA) and the Media Development Authority.
The IMDA will develop and regulate the converging telecoms and media sectors in the interests of consumers and enterprises, said a statement from Singapore’s Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI). The government also plans to form the Personal Data Protection Commission, which will be part of the IMDA, and will take responsibility for maintaining public confidence in the way the private sector uses personal information.
"The infocomm landscape has evolved over the years, and the pace will quicken with growing infocomm and media convergence. Our government agencies responsible for infocomm and media must ensure they are optimally structured, to help Singapore benefit from and exploit opportunities in the new digital economy," said Chan Yeng Kit, chairman of the IDA.
"It will pave the way for a more harmonised regulatory framework, and integrated approach to industry development," added MDA chairman Niam Chiang Meng.
Meanwhile the GTO will lead Singapore’s digital transformation efforts in the public sector, encouraging citizens to participate in the co-creation of digital public services. It will also help government agencies take advantage of new technology, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data, among others.
The restructuring is due to begin on 1 April.
