The Movie in Our Minds: Singapore in 10 Years

Winning Entry:

Elizabeth Heng, Civil Service College (CSC)

“The Balancing Act”

In 2035, the city-state hums with the rhythm of progress. Sleek autonomous vehicles weave through towering sustainable buildings, while holographic displays advertise the latest productivity apps and personalised health solutions.

The film follows the intertwining lives of ordinary Singaporeans: a young couple navigating the gig economy while raising a child in a "smart" HDB flat, an ageing hawker struggling to preserve his culinary heritage amidst the rise of automated food courts, and a civil servant wrestling with ethical dilemmas in an AI-driven government.

"The Balancing Act" explores the tensions between tradition and innovation, individual aspirations and societal expectations, and the search for meaning and connection in an increasingly digital age.

Thank you for your intriguing idea, Elizabeth! You win a $100 Seek Sophie gift card to power your adventures into the future!

Other Entries:

Lee Wei Jie, Workforce Singapore (WSG)

“Silver Horizons: Singapore 2035”

In 2035, Singapore's "silver cities" redefine retirement living. These high-rise communities offer a cruise-like experience on land, catering to the nation's ageing population with gourmet dining, VR gaming lounges and AI health monitoring. Rooftop gardens and indoor farms provide fresh produce, while smart mobility solutions ensure easy navigation.

The film follows 75-year-old Mei Ling as she moves into "Skyline Meadows". Initially reluctant, she discovers a world of possibilities: adaptive fashion boutiques, cultural hubs and opportunities to contribute to the gig economy. As Mei Ling forges new friendships and rediscovers her passion for tech innovation, she becomes entangled in a light-hearted mystery involving a missing AI companion.

"Silver Horizons" showcases how Singapore has turned the challenge presented by its ageing population into an opportunity, creating a model for active, fulfilling senior living that's admired worldwide.

Shahrin Bin Mahmud, Ministry of Education (MOE)

“Code & Soul”

As AI is used to govern homes, classrooms and workplaces, humanity grapples with the evolving role of technology. The story follows Mei, a passionate teacher resisting an education system dominated by AI tutors; and Arjun, a tech innovator championing efficiency over empathy. When a glitch in Singapore’s central AI sparks societal unrest, Mei and Arjun must reconcile their beliefs to prevent chaos.

Education becomes the film’s heart, demonstrating how technology and humanity can coalesce. Mei’s classroom blends AI-driven customisation with storytelling and relationships, showing students how critical thinking and empathy bridge progress and tradition. During the climax, a student uses this hybrid approach to solve the glitch, underscoring that education isn’t just about innovation—it’s about nurturing the soul.

“Code & Soul” inspires audiences to reflect on this question: How do we balance technology’s promise with our shared humanity?

Eileen Chen, Health Sciences Authority (HSA)

“Singapore, Redefined”

In 2035, Singapore would have undergone a revolutionary transformation. From changes to education, healthcare and climate resilience, to supporting flexible work arrangements with state-of-the-art infrastructure, technology has dramatically improved the lives of Singaporeans.

Despite these rapid advancements, Singapore has maintained its multicultural harmony, with new digital platforms playing an instrumental role in fostering intergenerational and intercultural understanding. These platforms facilitate cultural exchange, language learning and collaborative projects, strengthening social cohesion in an increasingly digital world.

“Singapore, Redefined” tells the story of a flourishing nation driven by progress, innovation and care for its people.

Jayanadani Jaganathan, Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

“Tomorrow, Together”

In 2035, Singapore stands as a beacon of progress. With the seamless integration of AI, our everyday lives are enhanced through inclusivity, improved working conditions, sustainability and the prioritisation of the well-being of members of society.

Told in interconnected stories that follows three characters—Wendy (65), a former administrative assistant who is struggling to find her place amidst rapid digitalisation; Raj (35), a sustainability engineer working on a groundbreaking project to create a city-wide network of self-sustaining buildings; and Zoe (22), a fresh graduate with a disability who navigates the job market using advanced assistive technologies.

“Tomorrow, Together” depicts the resilience, empathy and power of collaboration. It reminds us that the future is not built by technology alone, but by the compassion and courage of those who dare to dream.