The Asia Academy of Digital Economics (AADE) is honored to announce its invitation to serve as a key member of the Resource Panel for Professor Dr. Neo Kok Beng, recently appointed Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) for the 2026–2028 term. As a distinguished Council Member of AADE, Dr. Neo’s invitation marks a significant deepening of the Academy’s involvement in the high-level policy-making landscape of Singapore.
A Three-Pillar Vision for Singapore’s Future
In his invitation, Dr. Neo outlined a comprehensive policy agenda for 2026 aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all Singaporeans through three strategic themes: A Vibrant Economy, A Caring Society, and A Resilient Nation. AADE will provide expert insights and research to support these initiatives, ensuring that digital economic perspectives are integrated into national legislative discussions.
1. A Vibrant Economy: Driving Innovation and Enterprise
A central focus for the 2026 term involves anchoring Singapore as a global "Technology Capital". The panel will identify specific opportunities in technology commercialization and propose initiatives to scale Singapore’s technology enterprises globally. Key agenda items include:
- Through-Train IPO Process: Developing streamlined funding mechanisms for technology startups to accelerate their path to public markets.
- RIE Integration: Leveraging Research, Innovation & Enterprise (RIE) to transition Singapore further into a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
2. A Caring Society: Proactive Citizenry
Moving beyond traditional social welfare, the panel will advocate for "Active Caring". This includes a target of recruiting 1,000 foster parents to meet societal needs through a "Holistic Fostering" ecosystem. Furthermore, the panel aims to digitize charitable giving, such as "donating a meal" via QR code at local hawker stalls to support beneficiaries with dignity and variety.
3. A Resilient Nation: Integration and National Security
As Singapore enters its status as a "Super-Aged Society" in 2026, the panel will focus on the integration of new citizens and national resilience. Key projects include:
- Redefining National Service: Proposing the expansion of voluntary service within uniformed groups (SAF, SPF, SCDF) for new citizens to foster deeper social interaction and understanding of the general population.
- Digital Discernment: Equipping the population with the tools to discern geopolitical influences and external pressures transmitted through digital media.
Advancing the AADE Strategic Missions
For AADE, this partnership directly operationalizes its mission of Pioneer RegTech and Digital Connectivity. By contributing to policy discussions on digital discernment and the tokenization/digitization of charitable giving, the Academy is applying the principle of "governing technology with technology" at a national level.
Furthermore, AADE’s involvement in the economic pillar reflects its commitment to Digital Inclusion. Ensuring that startups have clear paths to capital and that the digital economy benefits the broader citizenry aligns with the Academy’s vision of a resilient, secure, and equitable digital future.
"This invitation is a testament to the Academy's growing influence as a platform for global digital economic research," said an AADE spokesperson. "We look forward to supporting Dr. Neo Kok Beng in his parliamentary duties to drive meaningful impact for Singapore’s ecosystem."
About AADE
Headquartered in Singapore and registered with the United Nations ECOSOC, the Asia Academy of Digital Economics (AADE) is the leading platform for digital economic research and global exchange in Asia. The Academy focuses on empowering stakeholders through strategic capacity building and fostering true global cooperation through its strategic missions of Digital Inclusion, Digital Connectivity, and Pioneer RegTech.