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Ethan Yam
Singapore
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A two-day REACH learning journey

Panellists take questions in a room with a DBS banner
The DBS stop on the REACH learning journey

I recently attended a 2-day programme organised by REACH Singapore, and it gave me a clearer view of how Singapore prepares for an increasingly complex future.

Over the two days, I learnt more about the work of the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Singapore. It was insightful to see how digital governance, public communication, diplomacy, and national interests are connected in Singapore’s broader approach to resilience and long-term planning.

The learning journey also brought us to organisations from different sectors, including Makino Asia Group and DBS Bank. Makino gave me a closer look at the manufacturing sector and the role of advanced industry in supporting Singapore’s economy. DBS, on the other hand, helped me better understand how banking, technology, data, and productivity come together in a fast-changing financial landscape. It was a pleasant surprise when the Country Head of DBS Singapore Him Chuan LIM 林鑫川 himself graced the event and gave us insights into the AI relevancy in the jobscape.

A key highlight was hearing directly from Minister for Health, Mr Ong Ye Kung, and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Mr Eric Chua. Their dialogue and AMA sessions gave me wider perspectives on healthcare, the economy, the job market, and the responsibilities that Singaporeans have in shaping the country’s future.

What stood out to me most was that nation-building is not only about large policies or major institutions. It is also about how different sectors work together, how decisions are made under uncertainty, and how individuals continue to stay informed, curious, and engaged.

My biggest takeaway is the importance of asking better questions.

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Originally published on LinkedIn. View the original post ↗