Human factor key to driving CFE proposals

The release of the Committee on the Future Economy’s (CFE) report bodes well for Singapore (“CFE charts S’pore’s way forward: Who dares, wins”, Feb 10). It takes a proactive approach to help us stay relevant for the future.

However, the best policy is only as good as its implementation. We cannot escape the human factor in ensuring its success. One way to strengthen our international ties is to tap the Singaporean diaspora globally. They may have left, but they may still retain ties to their motherland. Tapping this network of Singaporeans abroad could allow us to leverage the familiar and instant rapport that it brings. They act as bridges and inroads into unfamiliar terrain.

Data and its accessibility are also key in this information age. Timely decisions rest on good data that are shared by all in both the private and public sectors. It is imperative that information flows freely across all domains so that measures are coordinated and more effectively carried out.

For agencies tasked with spearheading the various initiatives proposed in the CFE report, they must work hand-in-hand with various stakeholders in a timely manner and keep their eyes on the big picture. Public servants should have a pioneering streak in them.

Local companies must expand abroad, given the limited local market. But first, they must want to. They must leave our shores with an open mind and adapt to foreign sensitivities and practices.

Many may find scouting for workers who are willing to travel and knock on doors in strange places daunting. Thus, employers must recognise and reward such rare talent, to encourage more to venture forth. We must embrace the “world is our oyster” mindset.

To raise productivity, the use of technology is imperative for both the production of goods, and in delivering services. But we must not dehumanise every aspect of work or displace workers too quickly. Workers should ease into new roles with proper training. It is only natural to feel insecure during the transformation.

With our economy maturing amid an uncertain world, it is daunting but not insurmountable to find our place in the sun. Our good reputation of being hardworking and trustworthy should get us through new doors. But first, we must believe we can succeed.