Public communications and engagement are vital for maintaining citizens’ trust in the government. At the heart of this endeavour is the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), which is dedicated to fostering clear and effective communication between the Singapore Government and citizens. Through a range of efforts, MDDI seeks to amplify, explain, and engage the public on national and social issues.

Taking on this important work are MDDI Scholars Chan Yuan Ting and Muhammad Zulhilmi Bin Zulkiffli. Yuan Ting currently serves as a Manager (Translation) in MDDI’s Public Communications Division. She spends her days working to bridge language barriers and ensure that the Government’s messages are accurately conveyed in the four main languages, fostering inclusivity and trust.

Zulhilmi is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Politics and International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Having gained valuable experience through internships with MDDI, he is eager to leverage his skills and knowledge as an Information Officer upon graduation.

We had the opportunity to speak with both scholars to learn about their enriching journeys with MDDI.

Zulhilmi, what got you interested in politics and international relations?

I have always been interested in studying political issues and policies across diverse global contexts. As domestic politics is inextricably linked to foreign affairs, I felt that it was important to study how politics operates at both levels to affect policymaking, and vice versa.

As the government’s communications specialists, Information Officers must not only devise creative and engaging ways to communicate public policies, but also understand public sentiment on current issues and channel these insights to the relevant agencies for their consideration. To that end, my background in politics and international relations has provided me with an in-depth understanding of analysing global issues from different perspectives.

What sparked your interest in translation as a career, Yuan Ting?

Growing up in a Mandarin-speaking family, I found myself constantly code-switching and translating when communicating with elderly relatives, teachers and peers. While the process could be a hassle, it made me curious about the structural differences between English and Chinese and how to transition between these languages more seamlessly. I also began paying more attention to how subtitles are translated when watching TV shows or films, eventually leading me to explore translation as a possible career path that aligns with my strengths and interests.

That’s interesting! What made you apply for your respective scholarships?

Zulhilmi: I first applied for the MDDI Information Service (Translation) Scholarship on the advice of my Mother Tongue teacher, given my interest and fluency in Malay and English. However, the application form also had the option to apply for the MDDI Information Service Scholarship, so I decided to give that a try too. After going through the scholarship selection process, which simulated the various tasks of Information Officers, I realised how intense yet interesting and rewarding the job can be. Speaking to other MDDI scholars during the tea session further cemented my interest in the Information Service and I was set on embarking on a career with MDDI as an Information Officer!

Yuan Ting: I came across the scholarship brochure in school and was drawn by the flexibility offered as the scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines and would allow me to pursue my interest in niche fields like Chinese studies. Moreover, I find MDDI’s role in raising local translation standards and enhancing the effectiveness of public communications in our official languages deeply meaningful, as this helps to improve language inclusivity in Singapore and ensures that local communities have equal access to information.

Tell us more about your internship experiences at MDDI, Zulhilmi

After completing my National Service, I spent several months interning at the Community Outreach Department, which provides communications support for the Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs. From the very start, I was involved in various projects as my colleagues gave me guidance and support to ease me into the role. In fact, on my very first day, I was tasked with providing media monitoring support for the Committee of Supply debates in Parliament- talk about on-the-job training! As I gained more experience, my supervisors entrusted me with significant responsibilities such as drafting social media posts for the Minister and developing communications plans for various events.

In my second stint with MDDI, I interned at the Media Analytics and Operations Department, where my day-to-day tasks included monitoring local and foreign media to analyse how local issues are framed and perceived by the public. In that role, I was also able to apply the data analytics skills that I had learnt during my summer school programme at Harvard University by carrying out sentiment analysis of social media comments on current topics in Singapore.

I look forward to coming back to Singapore soon and applying my skills and knowledge as an Information Officer. Whether it’s by communicating policies in creative ways or keeping citizens engaged in policymaking, I’m excited to work in a dynamic, fast-paced yet meaningful career.

Yuan Ting, what does work in the Translation Department at MDDI entail?

In the Translation Department, we assist in translating key Government communications materials and coordinating various initiatives overseen by the National Translation Committee (NTC). This includes our SG Translate Together web portal and translation-related outreach events. The NTC is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and I am part of the organising team for a series of commemorative events and a translation conference.

A typical workday is usually divided between deliberating word choices, researching terminologies, and engaging in the day-to-day tasks of event planning. Currently, I am also on an attachment programme at MDDI’s Joint Communications Centre, which provides valuable insights into whole-of-government information operations.

I am grateful for MDDI’s nurturing and collaborative work culture, which is extremely beneficial for fresh graduates in our first job. Colleagues are always willing to share ideas and support each other to learn and grow together.

Finally, what advice do you have for students applying for a scholarship with MDDI?

Zulhilmi: Don’t just focus on your academic achievements! While grades are certainly important, focus instead on what makes you unique, whether that’s your background, interests or even hobbies! Throughout my time at MDDI, I’ve come across people with varied interests and skills from talented artists to creative writers. There is no single trait that defines the ideal candidate, so let your uniqueness shine through!

Yuan Ting: Don’t be afraid to explore different academic interests and disciplines that appeal to you! Public communications and information services are evolving very quickly and intersect many areas of study. The programmes you choose may tie back to your career development and future endeavours at MDDI in the most unexpected ways.