Making a Call? From 1st March, Start with a '6'!

Singapore, 28 Februrary 2002 | For Immediate Release

The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) wishes to remind the public that beginning 1 March (tomorrow), Singapore will adopt an 8-digit numbering format.

The digit '6' will be added in front of every 7-digit fixed line telephone and facsimile number. If the number is 765 1234, it will become 6765 1234 on 1 March. Numbers that are not affected include:

- Mobile and pager numbers beginning with digit '9';

- Emergency telephone numbers such as '999', '995';

- Numbers beginning with '0' and '1', e.g. International Direct Dial (IDD) access codes, 1800 toll-free numbers, '1900' premium service numbers.

Overseas parties calling Singapore also have to add a '6' in front of the Singapore number, i.e. (65) 6756 1234.

For more information, members of the public may refer to IDA's website at www.ida.gov.sg, and select the section "New Phone Numbering Format". They may also contact their telecommunication service providers or the IDA should they have any queries.

SingTel 1800-8-DIGITS (1800-8-344487)
StarHub 1800-STARHUB (1800-782 7482)
IDA 1800-ADD-A-SIX (1800-233 2749) or email: 1stDial6@ida.gov.sg

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ISSUED BY CORPORATE COMMUNICATION DIVISION
INFOCOMM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE

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About Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore

The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) is a dynamic organisation with an integrated perspective to developing, promoting and regulating info-communications in Singapore. In the fast-changing and converging spheres of telecommunications, information and media technologies, IDA will be the catalyst for change and growth in Singapore's evolution into a vibrant global info-communications technology centre. For more information, please visit www.ida.gov.sg.

For media clarification, please contact:

Ms Chia Sher Ling
Manager, Corporate Communication
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
Tel: (65) 6211-1840
Email: chia_sher_ling@ida.gov.sg

Questions on how the 8-digit numbering format will impact specific services offered by the telecommunication service providers can be directed to:

SingTel
Mr Chia Boon Chong
Senior Corporate Communications Manager
Tel: (65) 6838-2022
Fax: (65) 6733-1350
Email: boonchong@singtel.com

StarHub
Ms Jeannie Ong
Assistant Vice President
Corporate Communications
Tel: (65) 6825-5168
Email: jeannieo@starhub.com.sg