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Ten years ago, Singapore embarked on the Smart Nation initiative, envisioning a future where technology enriches lives and provides opportunities for all. Today, technology is deeply ingrained in the daily lives of Singaporeans, simplifying tasks for 84% of the population, with over half showing openness to embracing new technological advancements.
The Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) emphasises three primary pillars in Smart Nation development: Leveraging technology to enhance collective capabilities, Upholding trust in the digital realm and Safeguarding the integrity of our factual infrastructure.
Members of Parliament have underscored advancements in AI, pledging over SG$1 billion in the next five years to catalyse AI endeavours in Singapore. While AI holds immense potential across various sectors, Singapore has also invested in quantum technology and other emerging fields.
Acknowledging the growing interest in AI, the government is committed to fortifying Singapore’s AI ecosystem and addressing associated risks. December saw the launch of the updated National AI Strategy (NAIS2.0), building upon investments made since the inception of the initial strategy in 2019.
NAIS 2.0 aims to elevate excellence in leading economic sectors and Smart Nation priorities. Plans include collaborating with 100 companies to establish AI Centers of Excellence, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, and bolstering the infrastructure supporting AI activities.
Singapore seeks to attract and nurture talent across AI communities, launching initiatives like a new AI Visiting Professorship and an AI Accelerated Masters Programme to cultivate a pipeline of Singaporean AI researchers. Efforts also aim to triple the pool of AI Practitioners to 15,000 over the next five years.
Empowering the workforce as confident AI users is crucial to mitigate job displacement due to AI. The government, in collaboration with NTUC, invests in upskilling and reskilling programmes tailored to industry needs. The Jobs Transformation Maps (JTMs) encompass over 1.4 million workers, with sector-specific initiatives offering 180+ AI-related courses.
This year’s Budget has allocated substantial funding to SkillsFuture Credits and the Level-Up Programme, ensuring mid-career Singaporeans have access to re-skilling opportunities. Initiatives like NLB’s MakeIT programme promote hands-on learning, allowing participants to explore emerging technologies.
In the Public Sector, both formal and informal learning experiences are provided to enhance AI capabilities. Tools like Pair, a secure version of ChatGPT, aid public officers in tasks such as writing, brainstorming, research, and coding, benefiting approximately 35,000 officers.
Ensuring trust in the digital domain while maintaining human connections amidst increasing digitalisation is imperative. Initiatives like ServiceSG Centres and IMDA’s Digital Ambassadors cater to diverse needs, ensuring accessibility to digital public services for all. Moreover, libraries continue efforts to promote reading and lifelong learning, including initiatives like NLB’s mobile library service, MOLLY.
Addressing security and resilience in digital infrastructure is crucial. An inter-agency task force led by MCI is enhancing regulatory frameworks and exploring non-regulatory measures to complement existing laws and regulations.
Enterprises and consumers also play crucial roles in ensuring the security and resilience of digital infrastructure and services. Enterprises are encouraged to develop robust business continuity and incident recovery plans, while consumers should be prepared to seek alternatives in the event of digital service disruptions.
Regarding the risks associated with quantum computing, Singapore has taken significant steps, including the launch of the National Quantum Safe Network Plus (NQSN+), expected to be operational by the end of this year.
Singapore’s commitment to Smart Nation development encompasses leveraging technology for collective capabilities, upholding trust in the digital realm, and safeguarding the integrity of factual infrastructure. Through strategic investments, collaborative initiatives, and proactive measures, Singapore aims to harness the potential of emerging technologies while mitigating associated risks to ensure a vibrant and resilient digital future.
