WE THANK Mr Lai Tuck Chong for his suggestions ("Exciting potential of being a Smart Nation"; Tuesday).
We are heartened that Mr Lai is excited by the potential of the Smart Nation Programme.
Sensors are an example of how technologies can be integrated into our daily lives, not merely to collect data but also to provide solutions that enhance our environment and the quality of our lives.
For example, a system of sensors in the home can help to monitor the safety of the elderly, and notify a neighbour or next of kin if help is required. Such a system will be useful for our ageing society and is currently on trial in a few HDB flats.
Mr Lai referred to Professor Dani Rodrik's article on the need for "public venture funds" ("Moving from welfare state to new innovation state"; last Friday).
Currently, government agencies such as Spring, the National Research Foundation and the Infocomm Development Authority do run various schemes to invest equity in promising start-ups to help them grow and commercialise nascent technology.
Mr Lai also mentioned the idea of crowdfunding. This is an interesting idea that we will explore further, and can form another source of support for technological innovations from our start-ups.
Tan Kok Yam
Head, Smart Nation Programme Office
Prime Minister's Office
