Committee of Supply 2026 debate, Day 3: Jasmin Lau on Institute of Digital Government to rebuild outdated systems

The government must understand its citizens continuously, build in a modular way and develop capabilities for complexity. It will upgrade the skills of public officers and rebuild many of its outdated systems over time. Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Jasmin Lau, who said this in parliament on Monday (Mar 2), pointed out if done well, citizens will feel the difference; their experience with government will feel simpler, clearer and more human. The Ministry of Digital Development and Information will establish the Institute of Digital Government, together with the Civil Service College. It will equip public officers with digital, data, design and AI skills. It will focus not just on technology, but on designing solutions that are citizen-centric and secure. Ms Lau said the government needs to address the outdated systems that no longer support its needs. These systems are inflexible, expensive and difficult to integrate, she said. Rebuilding the systems will take time, but the government is committed to this effort because it is foundational to digital transformation, she added.