IPS-Nathan Lecture by Mr Philip Yeo — Lecture II

Neither Civil Nor Servant: Singapore’s Disruptive Economic Playbook
In this three-part lecture series, Neither Civil Nor Servant: Singapore’s Disruptive Economic Playbook, former Chairman of the Economic Development Board (EDB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), and SPRING Singapore (now Enterprise Singapore), Mr Philip Yeo will share his bold and unconventional approach to shaping Singapore’s economic future. As IPS’ 16th S R Nathan Fellow, he will examine the past, present and future of Singapore’s economic strategy across three interconnected themes: economic development; research and development (R&D) and innovation; and enterprise growth.

A firm believer in talent development, Mr Yeo has mentored young leaders and established scholarship programmes to cultivate Singapore’s next generation of industry pioneers. Reflecting on Singapore’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub, the strategic role of innovation in driving progress, and the journey of local enterprises expanding internationally, Mr Yeo will offer insights into the key drivers of Singapore’s economic transformation, including the creation of high-quality jobs and opportunities for Singaporeans, and the challenges ahead.

Through this series, Mr Yeo will provide a thought-provoking perspective on the strategies that have shaped Singapore’s economic resilience and global relevance.

Transforming Singapore’s Economy Through Research and Development
The development of the Biomedical Sciences Industry (BMSI) in Singapore is a success story, characterised by good planning, global partnerships and government investment in talent, infrastructure and capabilities. The BMSI has become one of Singapore’s key economic drivers, creating jobs and enabling economic diversification. Leveraging our strong manufacturing base, Singapore has a research and development ecosystem catalysed by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR).

This lecture provides an overview of Singapore’s biomedical sciences strategy, with a focus on catalysing innovation activities.

1:30 min
Lecture by
Mr Philip Yeo
16th S R Nathan Fellow for the Study of Singapore

28:22 min
Question-and-Answer Session Moderated by
Dr Lisa Ooi
Assistant Chief Executive, A*STAR

Date: 27 Mar 2025
Time: 04.00 pm - 05.30 pm

To find out more about the event
https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/ips/events/...

Watch the full series here
   • 16th S R Nathan Lectures by Mr Philip Yeo  

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