New initiatives to boost SME digitalisation in Singapore
Singapore has introduced 20 updated Industry Digital Plans (IDPs), focusing on bolstering cybersecurity and providing advanced integrated solutions to elevate the digital capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These enhancements aim to address the evolving challenges of a post-Covid era while aligning with the latest industry trends.
The revamped Food Services IDP, launched on Monday (Nov 21), is the first among 20 sector-specific updates. Jointly developed by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Enterprise Singapore, this plan introduces advanced solutions tailored to the food services sector, including robotics, waste management, and smart kitchen systems. Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information, Tan Kiat How, emphasised the importance of SMEs adopting cybersecurity and data protection practices, highlighting the difficulties smaller businesses face in navigating these areas.
The Food Services IDP aligns with the Food Services Industry Transformation Map 2025, which targets labour challenges and shifts in consumer preferences, such as e-commerce and digital ordering. Service robots at Heavenly Wang, a café in Changi Airport Terminal 2, demonstrate how technology is already reducing operational inefficiencies.
The broader IDPs will incorporate the following improvements:
Expanded Foundational Solutions: Generic digital tools for tasks like payroll management and document processes will now include accessible options for new SMEs.
Advanced Integration: Solutions designed to enhance connectivity across value chains and enable data analytics will assist businesses in making informed decisions.
Cybersecurity Roadmap: New guidelines will help SMEs adopt the right tools and practices to safeguard systems and protect customer data.
Tailored Training Programmes: Digital training roadmaps will be updated to reflect the new solutions, focusing on change management and workforce adaptation.
These enhancements aim to simplify SMEs’ digitalisation journeys, ensuring that solutions remain relevant and impactful while empowering businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape.
