My Internship (Jonathan Chan)

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My internship with EMA was the first one that I had ever embarked on as a student. I entered on my first day with both anticipation and trepidation, but the latter dissolved immediately when I first met the officers there, giving way to 8 very fruitful and meaningful weeks of learning through contribution.

I was attached to the Industry Development Department, where my primary focus was on the Electric Vehicle (EV) Test Bedding project. In this portfolio, I was exposed to both the government policy analysis of EV implementation conducted by EMA, and the economic cost-benefit analysis of the policy conducted by professional economists from the Energy Studies Institute (ESI). It allowed me to see how thoroughly a policy that affected the nation had to be analysed for all implications before implementation actually took place.

In addition, my Deputy Director allowed me the opportunity to be exposed to assignments that dealt with the big picture of the organisation, such as the crafting divisional KPI, and writing forum talking points for the Chief Executive. These experiences impressed upon me how the senior management managed the organisational objectives by channelling resources towards certain projects, and ensuring that the organisation’s communications with the public remained consistent with government standards and protocol.

The working environment in EMA made one of the deepest impressions on me through my internship. The officers were always friendly and willing to engage me, whether in work or in an informal setting; and each one was highly motivated about their work. The office facilities provided a comfortable and conducive environment to complement the valuable human capital, giving rise to a place where every person felt good about giving their best for the organisation and for their nation.

I unreservedly credit EMA with epitomising organisational excellence, and I express my appreciation to each person in the organisation who has not only made my internship a most memorable one, but has also given me a most positive impression of the Singapore Public Service.