In a view to promote the use of novel technologies by Ministries and Departments, the cabinet has approved the introduction of a Sandbox Framework (the “Framework"). The framework would enable public organisations to bypass the lengthy procurement processes and engage directly consult with innovative companies and start-ups to develop applications geared at resolving specific issues. The objectives of the Framework are mainly to:
• encourage and stimulate Ministries and Departments to implement innovative technology solutions through proof of concept models on a non-committal and without prejudice basis to Government;
• foster collaboration between the public sector and private sector in the development and testing of innovative solutions;
• attract local or international service providers as well as incubators to share their expertise on innovative technologies or systems such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, ePayment, Electronic Document Management System, Collaborative Software and eSignature;
• provide deeper insights into the technology solution before deployment on a larger scale; and
• provide opportunities for public organisations to try innovative technology solutions to a particular problem with minimal potential risks.