Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How officiated at MINDEF/SAF's Digital Innovation Day (DID) 2019 Opening Ceremony at Kranji Camp III this morning, where he viewed digital innovations that were exhibited at the event, and interacted with innovators and digital advocates.

Speaking at the event, Mr Heng emphasised the importance of leveraging technology to enhance the National Service (NS) journey, and to better prepare the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) servicemen to defend Singapore. He said, "We can do this by being open to proactively digitalising current processes, such as those involving NS training and administration…to ensure greater efficiency, and access to a range of information and services for greater convenience…train more effectively with digital enhancements…(and) also enhance safety…" Mr Heng also noted Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)'s and the SAF's good progress in promoting a culture of everyday innovation. He said, "In MINDEF and the SAF, there are many resources to help individuals upgrade their digital competencies. The Digital Innovation Day, for example, is a key platform to showcase digital innovation and transformation achievements, encouraging a culture of continuous digital upskilling and innovation."

The DID 2019 Opening Ceremony was also attended by senior MINDEF and SAF officers, and industry partners.

Over 4,000 MINDEF and SAF personnel are expected to attend DID 2019, which takes place over two days from 9 May 2019. Digital innovation projects, such as Smart Camp and SafeGuardian, are part of the 37 NS Digital Journey projects exhibited at the event. Besides the exhibits, the event features more than 20 seminars, technology and innovation talks by industry leaders and speakers from MINDEF and the SAF. There are also hands-on digital learning workshops and a make-a-thon where Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) develop innovative solutions to ease an NSF's transition to work or school after their Operationally Ready Date.