SCS Cloud Conference 2019: Seizing Opportunities in Cloud

As Singapore transitions to a digital economy, cloud computing will be a key enabler in boosting the competitiveness of the tech sector and other businesses. This was a core message in the keynote address given by Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Minister of State for National Development and Manpower, at the SCS Cloud Conference that took place on 24 January 2019 at the Amara Hotel.Mr Zaqy's speech also emphasised the direction of Infocomm Media Development Authority's (IMDA) Services & Digital Economy Technology Roadmap (SDE Tech Roadmap). "A priority of the roadmap is to move Infocomm and media solution providers towards the cloud-native architecture, so they can be more cost effective and agile in addressing customers' needs," he said.

SCS President Howie Lau subsequently added during his welcome address that cloud will continue to be the foundation for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and blockchain, which in turn are the new frontiers for enterprises as they innovate. However, Howie cautioned that cloud also brings challenges of its own, making it critical to understand these issues as cloud is adopted across various industries.

In conjunction with the proceedings of the Conference, Cloud Computing Chapter President Dr Anton Ravindran launched the Cloud Body of Knowledge (BoK) Second Edition as a knowledge resource for professionals from other industries, as well as other segments of the tech industry. A printed copy was presented to Mr Zaqy and Howie. Introducing the book, Dr Anton said, "The second edition offers an update on how far cloud computing has progressed and where it's heading. Particularly, it highlights three key challenges confronting cloud computing - security, standards and skills, which the Cloud Computing Chapter is actively working with GovTech, IMDA and Information Technology Standards Committee to tackle."

Co-sponsored by IBM, Tata Communications, Singtel and e2i, the Cloud Conference 2019 attracted more than 150 participants, including many enterprise end users.