HackitRx Singapore's Build for Good Stewards Session

Supporting Communities Through Meaningful Innovation

A*STAR Global Network (A*GN) was pleased to support HackitRx Singapore 2026 as the F&B sponsor and event supporter for the latest session in its Build for Good Stewards journey, a series that brings together builders, innovators and changemakers to explore how technology and innovation can be harnessed for positive societal impact.

Exploring What Makes a Problem Worth Solving

The session centered on a fundamental question faced by many innovators: How do you identify a problem that is truly worth solving, and develop a solution that creates lasting value?

Moderated by Ashley Saliba, the discussion featured speakers Dr Alvin Ngeow, Wendy Wong and Nigel Lim, who shared lessons from their experiences building solutions across different sectors and communities. Their insights highlighted not only the importance of identifying needs, but also of understanding the broader context in which those needs exist.

Looking Beyond the Immediate Challenge

A key theme that emerged throughout the conversation was the importance of zooming out. The speakers encouraged participants to look beyond individual pain points and understand the wider systems, experiences and journeys surrounding a problem.

The session was complemented by an opening address from Mr. Beh Kian Teik, which set a reflective and thoughtful tone for the evening, reinforcing the importance of dialogue, learning, and community within the A*STAR Global Network.

A Meaningful Evening of Exchange

The discussion was engaging and wide‑ranging, punctuated by moments of insight, humour, and thoughtful exchange. Participants welcomed the opportunity to reflect on Singapore’s journey, the responsibilities of leadership, and the role that science, technology, and talent play in shaping a resilient and inclusive future.

Meaningful innovation often begins with understanding people first. Rather than designing solutions in isolation, innovators should strive to develop a deep appreciation of the communities they hope to serve and how new ideas can fit naturally into their lives. As Dr Alvin aptly summarised, impactful innovation is about “building with them, by them, for them.”

From Ideas to Sustainable Solutions

Beyond identifying important problems, the panel also explored the practical realities of transforming ideas into solutions that endure. Participants were encouraged to focus on validating core concepts before investing heavily in refinement and additional features.

The discussion highlighted the value of starting small, learning quickly through prototyping, and prioritising what truly matters to users. Equally important was recognising when a solution is ready to create impact, rather than endlessly pursuing perfection. Ultimately, sustainable innovation requires balancing experimentation with discipline, ensuring that solutions remain relevant, scalable and fit for purpose over time.

Lessons for Builders and Changemakers

The session offered valuable perspectives for aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators and problem-solvers. Participants were reminded that successful innovation is not driven solely by technology or novel ideas, but by a clear sense of purpose, a commitment to listening, and a genuine understanding of the communities they seek to serve.

These insights reinforce the importance of designing solutions that are grounded in real needs and capable of delivering lasting benefits beyond the initial launch or implementation.

Advancing Innovation for Public Good

As an organisation committed to advancing science, technology and innovation for societal impact, A*STAR is proud to support platforms such as HackitRx that encourage thoughtful discussions on how innovation can contribute to the public good.

A*GN thanks the HackitRx team for creating opportunities for collaboration, learning and meaningful dialogue. We look forward to supporting future initiatives that inspire individuals and communities to build solutions that make a positive and lasting difference.