DUBAI, Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Prime Minister’s Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, said that the UAE and Dubai’s success reflect the importance of the country’s vision to co-create the future, as it is imperative that governments embrace strategic foresight, earn the trust of its people and partners to achieve long-term sustainable growth
This came during his speech at a panel discussion on “Future Proofing Risks” at the Dubai Future Forum. The panel also included Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, and Jeanette Kwek Huixian, Head – Centre for Strategic Futures, Prime Minister’s Office – Singapore. The panel was moderated by Eric Noël from the “Canada Towards 2030” Project.
“When we think of governance, we think of the future and envisioning a destination like no other. We commit to it and deliver. In the UAE, our scenario planning is always centred on co-creation. For instance, our UAE Centennial Plan 2071 involved everyone – from leadership, experts, government employees, to schoolchildren. We believe in this philosophy, where the leadership’s vision and our people are at the core of development,” Lootah said.
Governments should always think ahead, and strategic foresight is imperative, he added. “The culture and leadership are the main pillars of Dubai’s and the UAE’s success. The UAE’s leadership has always believed in forward-thinking. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, always says that we are in the business of serving people. For us, the future is limitless and for all of us to conquer – all we need is to think positive, and opportunities are there for us to make a difference.”
Speaking during the panel discussion, Sophie Howe highlighted the importance of legislation to safeguard future generations. “Wales was the first country in the world that enacted a law called the Well-Being of Future Generations Act in 2015. We are committed to long-term goals, which accelerate the country’s progress. It is all about integrating the holistic vision for the country’s future and involving citizens in co-creating solutions. Embracing a strategic foresight is vital for future generations, and the United Nations is also contemplating adoption of the model globally. However, legislation is only the starting point,” she said.
Jeanette Kwek Huixian noted, “Planning for the future is critical for governments and scenario planning is tremendously helpful. The Centre for Strategic Futures is a manifestation of how the Singapore government institutionalises foresight, decision-making and preparing a toolkit for the future. We connect ideas to have a broader global perspective and look at the world through a new lens to think and act differently. The future is exciting.”
Source: Emirates News Agency