In this digital age, where fast, ubiquitous internet access and social media platforms have become the norm, the role of the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) has never been more crucial.

MCI takes the lead in crafting a vibrant and dynamic digital landscape, developing policies that shape the future of Singapore’s digital economy, and works with stakeholders to build a trusted cyberspace to safeguard our interests online. MCI also communicates and explains Government policies, so that Singaporeans are well-informed and engaged on national and social issues.

Passionate about the field of communications, MCI Information Service Scholars Fabian Siau and Afifa Shafana are making significant contributions in the Government communications, digital, and technology domains. They are committed to fulfilling MCI’s mission of creating a thriving digital future for all.

Fabian is an Assistant Manager in the Media Analytics and Operations Department, focusing on timely and accurate media sensing and analysis on Whole of Government (WOG) issues to facilitate stronger decision-making and provide support for critical WOG media operations. As for Afifa, she is an Assistant Manager (Translation) in the Public Communications Division, focusing on integrated public communications to engender trust in the Government.

We spoke to both Fabian and Afifa to learn more about their scholarship journeys and the passion that they have for their work.

What motivated you to apply for the MCI Information Service Scholarship?

Fabian: Since young, I have been fascinated by how language is used and received as a communicative tool. I discovered the MCI Information Service Scholarship through BrightSparks while serving my NS. MCI is a good fit for me as it promises ample career development opportunities and a dynamic work environment with regular postings across agencies to expand my repertoire of knowledge and skills.

Afifa: I chanced upon the MCI Information Service (Translation) Mid-Term Scholarship during the end of my second year at NUS Law school. While I had the requisite skills to complete the law curriculum, I felt that the legal fraternity and private sector might not be the best fit for me. I did a self-reflection about my academic journey only to realise that I had a considerable amount of experience in translation work and enjoyed every piece of translation work that I have done. So, I took the leap of faith and applied for this scholarship!

How did the scholarship enhance your academic experience while you were studying?

Fabian: The scholarship was instrumental in providing the flexibility and freedom for me to pursue my academic and intellectual goals. For example, I had the opportunity to attend summer school in 2019 at Stanford University as a visiting undergraduate student, which was an invaluable experience for me.

Afifa: I agree with Fabian. With the scholarship, I was encouraged to take up more electives relating to the languages and Singapore’s regional relations that I was particularly interested in. Besides covering the high cost of my law degree, the scholarship also helped to facilitate my transition to the translation industry. I was given the opportunity to intern at MCI’s Translation Department, where I experienced the type of translation work that was carried out and acclimated to the work culture.

Fabian, tell us what your typical workday at MCI is like.

As part of the Media Analytics and Operations Department, my responsibility includes monitoring and analysing the ever-evolving news landscape. I am also given the opportunity to host and organise media events and meet local and foreign journalists. There is no typical workday at MCI as the work here is dynamic!

Afifa, you work in the Translation Department. What do you find most meaningful about your translation work?

Seeing my translation work printed on public signboards and brochures! I am proud that my translation work can help to eliminate language barriers in Singapore. And with Singapore being a commercial hub in the international economic landscape, comparable and competent translation standards are necessary to support Singapore’s future growth when cooperating with neighbouring countries and the region.

How would you describe the work culture at MCI?

Fabian: I would describe it as collaborative. I am encouraged to approach my colleagues and bosses for support and guidance. People are understanding and flexible about working arrangements to cater to the individual’s working style and departmental needs. I also find it remarkable that our bosses practise servant leadership in how they work with us at every step of the way instead of simply delegating assignments. The senior management and HR are also receptive and proactive in organising events, feedback sessions, welfare checks, and more to ensure their officers are looked after.

Afifa: It is very welcoming! From the day I joined MCI, I was able to integrate well with the team. There is strong cohesion between the department officers. Colleagues are very forthcoming and always ready to offer a helping hand and walk you through things that you are not familiar with.

Fabian, what possibilities are there for scholars who are joining MCI?

The Information Service is a unique place to be in, and its officers can look forward to a myriad of career development opportunities. Officers are posted to different agencies about every two years, which exposes them to a wide range of issues. MCI also makes sure that each posting is substantially different in terms of skill sets so that each officer is adequately equipped with different skills, such as strategic communications, media relations, and marketing communications.

Afifa, what advice would you give to someone considering applying for a scholarship with MCI?

If you have a passion for your mother tongue language and linguistic areas, a strong curiosity about translation or an interest in communication, you should consider applying for this scholarship. For someone like me who has taken the leap of faith, I can testify that it is worth it!