Singapore, November 23, 2024 – A high-level delegation from the Expenditure Efficiency and Project Authority (EXPRO), led by Chief Executive Eng. Abdulrazzaq Al-Aujan, has concluded a productive visit to Singapore, aimed at exploring avenues for improving government spending efficiency and fostering collaboration with key Singaporean government entities. This visit underscores EXPRO's commitment to leveraging international expertise and innovative solutions to enhance the effectiveness of public expenditure within Saudi Arabia.
During the visit, the delegation engaged with several leading Singaporean organizations renowned for their pioneering work in government efficiency, environmental sustainability, and public policy. One of the primary stops was the Singapore National Environment Agency (NEA), where the delegation gained valuable insights into the agency’s advanced use of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive efficiencies in critical sectors. The NEA has been at the forefront of using AI technologies to reduce water loss, curb carbon emissions, and improve waste recycling systems, all of which align with EXPRO’s objectives of integrating cutting-edge solutions into Saudi Arabia’s public sector operations.
In addition to their discussions at the NEA, the delegation toured the Port of Singapore, one of the busiest and most technologically advanced ports in the world, and its innovation center under the Singapore Maritime and Port Authority. The visit provided EXPRO representatives with a first-hand look at the maritime sector’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. They also visited the Marina Barrage, where they learned about the operations of the National Water Agency, gaining insights into Singapore’s integrated water management system, which has become a global model for sustainable water usage and conservation.
Further enriching the delegation’s visit, they engaged with the Saudi Ministry of Education’s initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education, specifically focusing on the impact of these efforts on efficient public spending. This exchange of ideas was designed to explore how best practices in education can contribute to the optimization of governmental resources.
A key highlight of the visit was the delegation’s meeting with the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, where discussions centered around the exchange of expertise in public policy, governance, and training. The school, known for its global influence in shaping forward-thinking policy leaders, provided a platform for sharing knowledge on how to create more effective public policies that prioritize cost efficiency without compromising on quality.
The delegation also held discussions with the Singapore Ministry of Health, exploring collaborative opportunities to improve healthcare expenditure efficiency. The meeting focused on best practices for implementing cost-effective healthcare solutions, with an emphasis on ensuring high standards of care while maximizing the value of public funds.
Additionally, the EXPRO delegation visited the Ministry of Digital and Information Development, where members engaged in discussions about the role of modern technologies in transforming government services. The conversations included strategies for addressing the evolving technological needs of government agencies and facilitating the adoption of digital tools to improve service delivery and enhance public sector performance.
The visit to Singapore represents a significant step for EXPRO in its ongoing efforts to implement innovative solutions and best practices in the management of public resources. Through these valuable exchanges, the delegation gained a deeper understanding of Singapore’s approach to efficient governance and is poised to apply these lessons to further enhance the effectiveness of public spending and project execution in Saudi Arabia.
With a focus on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and technological adoption, EXPRO’s mission is to ensure that Saudi Arabia’s public sector remains at the forefront of efficient governance, sustainable development, and innovation. This visit to Singapore has not only deepened ties between the two nations but also paved the way for future partnerships that will contribute to the success of both countries' long-term goals in public sector efficiency and development.