Pauline Ng, Deputy Director (Investigation), Investigation Systems, Policing Programme Management Centre (PPMC), HTX, Singapore

1. How do you use technology/policy to improve citizens’ lives? Tell us about your role or organisation.

To me, both technology and policy are crucial in improving citizens' lives. Policy offers guidance and direction on the responsible use of technology, whereas technology is an enabler that creates solutions. Both need to work together to drive a positive change and improve lives.

I am currently a Deputy Director at the Policing Programme Management Centre (PPMC) and I lead multiple teams in managing the portfolio of projects and assisting the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in developing its technical capabilities in the areas of Investigation, Enforcement, Licensing and Operational Logistics. As a tech officer, I need to collaborate closely with SPF members to pinpoint critical needs and state-of-the-art tools that can support SPF in its mission to prevent, deter and detect crime.

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 2. What was the most impactful project you worked on this year?

I have worked on many interesting projects over the past years. In 2024, one interesting project I worked on was the Frontline Issuance (FIS) project, which involves a one-stop authorisation and inventory management system for armaments, operational equipment and vehicles for SPF. With this, officers can significantly reduce manual administrative work to perform a higher order of work through digitalisation and streamline work processes. FIS has harnessed science and technology as a force multiplier to increase Home Team operational readiness, efficiency, and productivity.  

3. What was one unexpected learning from 2024?

One unexpected learning that comes to mind is related to a personal interest – running, or more specifically, long-distance running. I’ve never been a fan of running long distances because I always find myself thoroughly exhausted by the end of it, but I recently discovered a form of jogging, also known as Niko Niko Pace, that I’ve come to enjoy. The goal of this form of running is not to push oneself hard during runs, but to maintain proper posture and jog at a walking pace. Thanks to this new technique I learned, I can now do a slow jog effortlessly for more than an hour while still maintaining a conversation. Interestingly, I think this approach is one that we can adapt for our careers – keep things at a steady pace so that we don’t suffer from burnout!

4. What’s a tool or technique you’re excited to explore in 2025?

Since I have found the right breathing technique to use for slow jogging, I hope I can complete a marathon in 2025.

5. Everybody’s talking about AI today – give us your hot take on AI and what it means for the public sector.

AI has gained substantial attention and is undoubtedly going to be a potential game changer in the Government and Public Sector. I do believe that everyone recognises the potential of AI to enhance human capabilities, streamline operations and assist our daily work. We must embrace AI since the benefits it can bring to our public services are exponential.

However, it is not a silver bullet. I think any AI solution must be thoughtfully designed, and the results produced by AI should be ethically sound. AI governance and usage should also be strictly regulated. To ensure that no bias concerns develop, quality checks must be implemented on the training data as well as on the results produced by AI.

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6. What are your priorities for 2025?

I think AI, machine learning and data analytics are still relevant and important for 2025. As such, I hope to bring in AI solutions to further improve the work efficiency and operations of the Home Team. Of course, there will be a need to take into account ethical considerations and promote transparency too.  Another priority for 2025 is to eat right, sleep well and exercise regularly so that I can stay healthy both physically and mentally. 

7. What advice do you have for public sector innovators?

Innovation plays a key role in driving positive change and we must continuously innovate and improve to better prepare for future challenges. Working in the public sector frequently requires us to address intricate, systemic issues, and we need not only creativity but also tenacity, resilience, and empathy.  My advice would be to:

1. Challenge the status quo and not be afraid to challenge and propose bold ideas. 
2. Embrace collaboration. No one has all the answers and we should be open to diverse perspectives.
3. Iterate and experiment. Start small and take heed that incremental improvements can also lead to major breakthroughs. 
4. Be curious and stay hungry to learn. We must have an inquisitive mind and be eager to learn new technology.

8. Who inspires you today?

I don’t have a specific source of inspiration, but I do like that Steve Jobs quote that goes: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

This resonates with me because I truly believe that if we like the work that we are doing, we will find true meaning and purpose in our work. I’ve also found that finding purpose in my work also allows me to bring in new perspectives, challenge assumptions and turn ideas into concrete actions and outcomes.