The Straits Times · 25 Sep, 11:30 · Technology briefing

Smart tech like robotics, automation to be used at more BTO sites from 2027: Chee Hong Tat

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Singapore's Building and Construction Authority has announced that smart technologies, including robotics and automation, will be deployed at more Build-to-Order (BTO) housing sites starting from 2027. This strategic shift aims to address persistent manpower shortages in the construction sector while enhancing productivity and safety standards. The initiative represents a significant step towards industrialising the housing development process, moving away from traditional manual labour methods. By integrating advanced technological solutions into public housing projects, the government intends to streamline operations and improve overall efficiency within the industry. This policy change signals a broader transformation in how residential infrastructure is planned, executed, and delivered across Singapore, marking a pivotal moment for the nation's built environment sector.

Employer demand for AI in Construction skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This shift fundamentally alters the construction landscape, making technical proficiency as critical as physical labour. You must now prioritise skills in operating, maintaining, and managing automated systems. Traditional roles are evolving; if you ignore this trend, your relevance will diminish rapidly. Focus on upskilling in robotics integration, digital twin technology, and advanced project management methodologies. Professionals in site supervision should master data analytics to monitor automated workflows efficiently. For engineers, understanding the interface between hardware and software is now non-negotiable. Do not wait for the 2027 rollout. Start learning about Building Information Modelling and automation protocols today. Identify courses that bridge traditional construction knowledge with smart tech applications. By proactively adapting your skill set, you position yourself as an indispensable asset in this new, tech-driven era of housing development.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are AI in Construction, Building Information Modelling, Project Management and Engineering — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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