imbX 2009 opens with new initiatives for business and public

Darius Chang | Jun 16, 2009

(Credit: Kelvin Low/CNET Asia)

Amidst a challenging economic downturn, Singapore's Infocomm (ICT) sector was one of the few to show continued growth in 2008, with revenue increasing by 12.4 percent to S$58.1 billion (US$39.8 billion). To take advantage of the constantly evolving ICT climate, IMBX 2009 will see the launch of several new initiatives while extending and enhancing current programs.

This year, the infocomm tradeshow is hosting two new events, the iGov Global Exchange and Next Generation Broadband Forum. The former showcases how technology has changed the way the Government interacts with the public, while the Broadband Forum hits on the future of connectivity and what it means to businesses.

There will also be a host of new ICT initiatives to address industry needs. The Singapore Media Fusion plan will build on the 2003 Media 21 program and seek to strengthen the digital innovation and creativity landscape in Singapore. The Infocomm Development Authority (IDA)'s Infocomm Training and Attachment Program (iTAP) helps fresh graduates and ICT professionals to gain a foothold in the industry. Its Infocomm Leadership and Development (iLEAD) program works with industry leaders to determine the qualities and skills required for the next generation of ICT professionals.

Singaporeans can also expect faster Wireless@SG speeds, with bandwidth increasing to 1Mbps in the near future, though there may be a cap imposed for free access. The program, launched in 2006, will be extended by four years to March 2013, giving users and even foreign visitors Internet access at various hotspots across the island. Underprivileged Singaporeans will also get more financial aid to get connected, with the qualifying monthly income cap for IDA's NEU PC Plus program raised to S$2,500 and recipient co-payments reduced via a two-tier subsidy scheme. The new Broadband-Only-Scheme will provide subsidized three-year broadband connectivity for households with school-going children under the Financial Assistance Scheme.

But enough about programs and schemes. With the various gadgets and mobile phones being showcased at CommunicAsia 2009 at the Singapore Expo, the CNET Asia team is raring to bring you news on the latest cutting-edge mobile devices at the four-day tradeshow which ends Friday. Check here for daily updates.

Filed under: Handhelds, Mobile Phones
Leave a comment | Bookmark | Share