Dr. Victor Khoo’s appointment as co-chair signifies Singapore’s leadership in global geospatial policymaking.
SINGAPORE: A director at the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) has made history as the first Singaporean appointed as co-chair of the United Nations Expert Group on Land Administration and Management. Dr. Victor Khoo, who serves as the director of survey and geomatics at SLA, will take on this role for three years starting from August, as announced in a press release on Tuesday (Sep 27).
Established in 2015, the UN Expert Group comprises geospatial professionals from over 28 countries across Europe, South America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Geospatial data, which correlates directly with specific geographical locations, is typically represented on maps.
The SLA has actively promoted the use of geospatial technologies as part of Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative. The authority emphasized that Dr. Khoo’s appointment reflects a “strong recognition” of Singapore’s accomplishments in land registration, management, and the digitalization of land ownership.
“This appointment not only positions Singapore at the forefront of global geospatial policymaking but also reinforces our status as a hub for geospatial innovation and economic activities,” noted SLA.
In light of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, Dr. Khoo highlighted the importance of location data obtained through mapping. He and the Singapore team will share insights with the UN Expert Group regarding Singapore’s experience in 3D mapping, which produces high-resolution geospatial data and 3D city models. These efforts will focus on initiatives related to coastal protection, solar panel deployment, and urban greening.
“Geospatial technology can play a pivotal role in tackling pressing climate change issues such as rising sea levels and coastal damage,” Dr. Khoo stated.
Colin Low, SLA’s chief executive, remarked that investing in geospatial capabilities has yielded significant social and economic benefits for Singaporeans and their businesses. The SLA is committed to exploring collaborative opportunities with the international community to further advance the adoption of geospatial technology in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
