Singapore’s Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim said yesterday that the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) and the Media Development Authority (MDA) will merge into a single entity to capitalise on the ongoing convergence of the media and telecoms sectors.

The new Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will develop and regulate the “converging infocomm and media sectors in a holistic way” and recognise the importance of the digital economy in transforming many sectors in the economy, the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) said in a statement.

Koh Boon Hwee, chairman of Infocomm Media Masterplan Steering Committee, said: “Advances in technology have blurred the distinction between broadcasting and telecommunications. The reorganisation is not only timely but a positive development. I am confident that the newly merged IMDA will help the industry navigate the evolving environment and develop the necessary capabilities to stay relevant.”

MCI said the IMDA will also expand its regulatory capabilities for a converged infocomm media sector to protect the interests of consumers and foster pro-enterprise regulations. The Personal Data Protection Commission will be part of the new IMDA.

Public sector agency
The government will also create a new agency to lead Singapore’s digital transformation efforts in the public sector. The Government Technology Organisation (GTO) will support the country’s smart-nation initiatives and help drive new e-government services.

IDA managing director Jacqueline Poh will take over as head of GTO, and MDA CEO Gabriel Lim will take the helm at IMDA. IDA executive deputy chairman Steve Leonard will be appointed IMDA’s deputy chairman, a non-executive role. His current contract expires in May.

The new units will be established in the second half of the year, and minister Yaacob said that IDA and MDA will be reorganised starting from 1 April.