As Singapore and the rest of the world become increasingly connected, staying safe online has never been more important. But often, there’s too much information to absorb, making it overwhelming for many. The annual Digital for Life Festival 2023, spearheaded by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), aims to simplify this complex landscape. The festival, featuring major tech companies like Amazon, offers activities and insights on online safety, security, and emerging technologies.
The event spans three weekends starting on October 28 and is set in various local communities. It collaborates with over 120 private, public, and community partners, providing different experiences in three main zones.
Festival locations and times
The festival will be open to the public from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM and takes place at the following locations:
- Kampung Admiralty Community Plaza on October 28 and 29
- Heartbeat@Bedok on November 4 and 5
- Toa Payoh Hub on November 11 and 12
Admission is free, making it accessible for everyone.
Mastering essential digital skills
In the “Learn” zone, you can get to grips with digital skills crucial for modern life. This area focuses on topics like online safety, responsible use of digital platforms, and general cyber-security. Parents will find this zone particularly useful, as it offers guidance on how to help children navigate the digital world safely. Notable contributors include government agencies such as the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore and the National Library Board and industry players like DBS Bank, Microsoft, Google, and Singtel.
Discover new technologies
The “Explore” zone is designed as an interactive space to get up close and personal with the latest tech advancements. From Artificial Intelligence to immersive experiences like Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality, you’ll have the chance to try out these innovations yourself. Companies like Amazon, Smobler, and Buzz AR will be there to showcase how these technologies can improve daily life.
Get involved in digital inclusion
The “Play a Part” zone encourages attendees to actively engage in shaping a more inclusive digital society. Here, you can support the Digital for Life movement, a national initiative launched in 2021 to promote digital learning for all ages and backgrounds. Doreen Tan, Assistant Chief Executive of Strategic Planning and Digital Readiness at IMDA, invites everyone to participate, stating, “It has something digital that is useful and relevant for everyone, whether youths, families with young children, and seniors.”