Page 47 - Implementing ITU-T International Standards to Shape Smart Sustainable Cities: The Case of Singapore

Implementing ITU-T International Standards to Shape Smart Sustainable Cities –
The Case of Singapore

Suggested action for other aspiring
Measures adopted by Singapore smart sustainable cities
(based on Singapore’s experience)

Within its Smart Nation initiative, Singapore Smart city systems tend to generate large volumes
recognizes that data security is critical to ensure of data, including sensitive data containing
that citizens’ data are protected and that systems personal informational of citizens. As such,
and applications are available and operate as appropriate measures must be taken to ensure
needed. that collected data are secured and protected by
law, to thwart misuse of information and
unauthorized access.

Singapore is developing the Smart Nation Sensor City stakeholders could introduce similar e-
Platform (SNP) to enable greater connectivity and platforms that will foster the integration of ICTs
situational awareness by gathering and sharing into urban operations and create a network of
useful data from sensors and other IoT devices. devices for public use and benefit.

Singapore launched the “Research, Innovation Urban stakeholders should study the needs of
and Enterprise 2020” plan, one aspect of which is their city carefully and invest judiciously in
investment in promoting research and programmes through which advancements in ICT
development in ICTs. can be brought about. Such programmes should
be directed at exploring the role of ICTs in
facilitating (cost-effective) socio-economic
growth.

Further actions needed for Singapore and other aspiring smart sustainable cities

Curbing cyberbullying
Accompanying improved access to the internet among children and young adults, is
an increase in cyberbullying cases around the world. Aspiring smart sustainable cities
should take note of the adverse effects that cyberbullying has on the emotional
development of children and young adults. Accordingly, policies and legislative
frameworks should be enacted to protect individuals from trauma caused by
cyberbullying and punish those responsible for it.
Note: Singapore has adopted the Protection from Harassment Act 2014 (PHA) which
criminalizes harassment, stalking and other anti-social behaviour. This statute also
aims to curb cyberbullying and online harassment in the future. Singapore also places
strong focus on Cyber-Wellness education to nurture students as responsible digital
learners and positive peer influences to each other. Cyber-Wellness is taught in the
formal curriculum in schools and reinforced through school-wide programmes and
events such as the National Summit on Cyber-Wellness Student Advocacy. There are
also resources provided for schools to engage students, teachers, and parents on cyber
issues. Singapore has an Inter-Ministry Cyber-Wellness Steering Committee to
coordinate the Government’s efforts in promoting Cyber-Wellness for youths.

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