IMDA unveils more digital initiatives for Kampong Glam

E-payments, virtual in-store tours, and delivery services will be available for shoppers.

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) tapped 150 merchants to use more digital initiatives in Kampong Glam, an announcement revealed. IMDA has also partnered with Enterprise Singapore, One Kampong Gelam (OKG), and the Singapore Malay Chambers of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) for the project in the retail area.

During the first phase of the transformation plan, the neighbourhood will adopt e-payments, digital map listings and virtual in-store tours, shopping delivery services and an integrated point-of-sale system.

Also read: Grab to offer cashless payment in Kampong Glam

To aid its implementation, parliament member for the Jalan Besar group representation constituency Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim has been appointed as the project’s special advisor who will engage with key stakeholders and provide guidance on the development and prioritisation on the digital transformation of the neighbourhood.

“Most merchants recognise the benefits of digitalising their businesses but they need some help to make the first step,” minister for communication and information S Iswaran said. “This where the associations, industry partners and government agencies can provide the resources and support.”

A Memorandum of Intent was signed between Temasek Polytechnic (TP) School of Business, IMDA, and OKG to increase immersion of TP students in assisting merchants on digitalisation following their initiative that helped more merchants establish online listings and virtual tours on digital maps such as Google Maps.

“Strengthening our digital presence helps our merchants better connect to a younger generation of locals, as well as overseas visitors, to give them a chance to experience our unique mix of retail experiences and cultural heritage,” OKG chairman Saeid Labaffi commented.