A look back at how women have been driving Singapore’s innovation and progress

It wouldn’t be hyperbole to say that Singapore’s growth – from a small island nation into the global hub it is today – was shaped by women. In the early days of our independence, education and job opportunities were made more accessible to women. This led to a shift in women’s place in society – as well as the choices we have today. In turn, these choices contributed to Singapore’s progress and prosperity.

A prime example is Pearleen Chan, who led the Civil Service Computerisation Programme. Started in 1981, it was a forward-thinking initiative designed to streamline government operations and enhance public services through IT. Her work not only set a global standard, but also paved the way for Singapore’s e-government, allowing for better digital efficiency. The legacy of Pearleen, along with other trailblazing Singaporean women in tech and innovation, underscores the vital role women have played in shaping our country’s progress. Their contributions prove that innovation has always been driven by accessibility, much like how in a digital world, accessibility and connectivity aren’t just a convenience – they lay the foundation for the future.

Enter Singtel’s 5G+, the next evolution of 5G. Its reach is further and deeper, making connectivity more reliable and secure than ever, setting the stage for a future where innovation and opportunity go hand in hand.

Unlocking new possibilities

Did you know that Singapore’s first robotics-driven smart factory for EV manufacturing runs on Singtel’s 5G technology? This development with Hyundai Motor Group enables highly automated, precision manufacturing, positioning Singapore as a hub for smart manufacturing in the region.

Beyond the factory floor, Singtel’s 5G+ turns Singapore into a test bed for global innovation, enabling significant transformation across key industries, such as driving the world’s largest fully-automated shipping port, and enhancing the operational efficiency of Changi Airport with AI and automation.

As the world’s first provider to launch app-based 5G slicing, Singtel also gives enterprises the ability to prioritise connectivity resources to power specific apps. This ensures reliable, strong performance even in high-traffic environments, keeping businesses and innovations running seamlessly.

Celebrating the women driving innovation

This International Women’s Day, Singtel celebrates the women driving Singapore’s progress – their resilience, reinvention, selflessness, and the choices they’ve made. Still, much remains to be done. While women make up 41 per cent of Singapore’s tech workforce, only 14 per cent hold board positions in tech firms.

As a leader in communications technology, Singtel isn’t just driving innovation – it’s championing the people behind it. Women represent 33 per cent of its workforce, 31 per cent of management, and 46 per cent of its board – a number that is significantly higher compared to the industry standard. The impact ripples nationwide. Singtel’s 5G+ powers women across Singapore, from businesses to families, igniting a multi-generational workforce that drives progress.

With companies like Singtel championing change, the next 60 years of Singapore will be defined by bold ideas, groundbreaking technology, and limitless possibilities – driven by both innovation and inclusion.

Brought to you in partnership with Singtel, the inspiring Innovators featured in our SG60 issue are women who are driving Singapore’s progress through their bold choices and achievements. With their stories of resilience, reinvention and selflessness, we hope to inspire and empower the next generation of women to take charge of their paths and turn possibilities into reality. Singtel wishes all women a Happy International Women’s Day and Happy SG60.

To learn more about the 60 women who have shaped Singapore as we know it today, click here.