Singapore is working towards becoming an intelligent hub, with plans to incorporate technology in our daily lives. We have also recently been ranked as Asia’s smartest city by the 2024 Smart City Index*. How do Singaporeans feel about moving into a digitally transformed future? To find out more, RySense polled respondents from our online panel, HappyDot.sg, in April 2024 on their awareness, sentiments and perceptions of some emerging and possible future technologies.
Public sentiment on technology differs across age groups
Across the population, at least 1 in 3 Singaporeans feel optimistic yet cautious about Singapore adopting new technologies. Younger Singaporeans exhibit more positivity, while those above 35 years old are more likely to feel overwhelmed. Among those above 55, 1 in 5 (21%) reported feeling anxious. (Figure 1)
Almost 6 in 10 (57%) find it hard to keep pace with technological advancements
Among this group, the majority display an encouraging motivation to catch up with technology. (Figure 2)
Receptivity towards newer technologies – healthcare and convenience preferred
Singaporeans feel most positively about adopting new technologies that either increase convenience or pertain to healthcare. However, if these technologies carry the potential for ethical implications, their openness to adoption decreases considerably. For example, between having a microchip implanted in the brain to control a prosthetic limb and to control computers, the former was about three times more palatable (58% in Figure 3 vs 19% in Figure 4) to Singaporeans.
Privacy and data protection a top concern of innovating new technologies
Among the ethical implications of innovating new technologies, almost 8 in 10 (77%) cited privacy and data protection as one of their key concerns. Half of the population (more of those above 55 years old and unemployed) registered concerns about new technological innovations’ impact on job security, decision-making based solely on AI/machines and AI/machines programmed with data that is not representative of the entire population. (Figure 5)
Moving towards a future powered by technology
While Singaporeans recognise the importance of technology in their lives and are willing to keep up with the latest technological developments, reservations persist. Governance frameworks to address ethical concerns and manage trade-offs can help enhance trust in new technology. Additionally, addressing the challenges faced by Singaporeans in adapting to new technologies can prepare the population for a future with technology that looks promising and less daunting.
