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Rethink what innovation can mean in Singapore

Innovation is touted as a quality that Singapore will need to propel itself to greater heights (‘Businesses need more help to innovate: Panel”; Feb 10).

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Yogaananthan Theva

Innovation is touted as a quality that Singapore will need to propel itself to greater heights (‘Businesses need more help to innovate: Panel”; Feb 10).

If we are to confront the stereotype of Singaporeans’ penchant for pragmatism, however, the fundamental question to ask, and answer, is how innovation can flourish here.

In a phase of global development spurred by those who experiment with revolutionary ideas, pragmatism may be an outmoded trait. Perhaps part of the solution lies in rethinking what innovation represents.

Innovation is conventionally associated with technology and groundbreaking ideas, but it can also be perceived as a mindset that continuously seeks new ways to improve the lives of others.

This can involve making incremental changes that, over time, grow to make an impact. It can also involve advocating ideas or projects nurtured by curiosity and passion.

From this perspective, innovation can occur not only in designated districts or industries but also in the everyday circumstances of Singaporeans. But fear of failure still represents a barrier.

The challenge of engendering innovation is as much a matter of culture as it is of government policy. It does not help that the failure to succeed is often stigmatised.

Some might lament that the Government should do more to create an environment conducive to trial and error. For a change, let us not look to the Government for all solutions.

Change can start with the citizenry, from the bottom up. It can start in our personal lives and the way we treat loved ones who head off the beaten track. Some might regard this as idealistic, but consider that culture is but an accumulation of people’s actions. If we were to shift our inclinations away from being solely result-oriented, it is possible to engender a national cultural change.

I am not advocating reckless fearlessness or blind faith in any idea. Fear is part of being human and keeps us in check, but it should not stifle our capacity to innovate.

If a cultural change gains a firm hold in our society, it is not hard to imagine Singapore thriving as a vibrant, innovative and inclusive city.

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