In a recent address, Minister Josephine Teo reflected on Singapore’s ongoing digital transformation and the pivotal role of digital technologies, particularly AI, in this evolution. She highlighted the country’s commitment to leveraging AI’s potential to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and stimulate economic growth.
Minister Teo highlighted Singapore’s proactive stance in developing its AI ecosystem, underpinned by the National AI Strategy (NAIS 2.0), which was refreshed in December last year. This strategy outlines key enablers designed to achieve the vision of AI for the Public Good, both locally and globally.
The initiative was further emphasised at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where Minister Teo introduced international consultations for the Model Governance Framework for Generative AI, underscoring Singapore’s commitment to AI safety alongside its advancement.
The recent months have seen significant progress through various initiatives, including research programmes, scholarships, and talent attraction schemes. The government is also investing in new, greener infrastructure to support expanding compute capacity and strengthening AI expertise through international partnerships with the US and China. These collaborations aim to promote interoperable standards and broaden access to AI knowledge.
Singapore’s AI landscape is increasingly vibrant, with applications emerging in unexpected areas. For instance, at the Build for Good accelerator programme, a project used machine learning to analyse bird audio recordings from Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. This initiative, developed by NUS students and LTA engineers, demonstrates AI’s potential to support conservation efforts and highlights the innovative spirit of Singapore’s AI community.
Commercially, AI is making notable strides. DBS, for example, has developed over 600 AI/ML models and 300 use cases, generating an economic value of SG$180 million. In terms of AI safety, the introduction of tools like AI Verify and Safety Guidelines for Generative AI Model Developers reflects Singapore’s dedication to mitigating AI risks. The AI Ethics and Governance Body of Knowledge 2.0, launched by the Singapore Computer Society, complements these efforts by providing valuable industry-led insights into responsible AI use.
A key focus of Minister Teo’s address was on empowering the workforce through skills upgrading, aligning with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s emphasis on lifelong learning. The aim is to prepare a broad spectrum of professionals – not just technologists – to thrive in an AI-driven future. This approach is exemplified by the updated Skills Framework for Infocomm Technology (ICT), which will incorporate generative AI skills and serve as a vital resource for professionals across various fields.
Efforts to enhance training for educators are also underway, with plans to shorten the certification process for industry practitioners to qualify as trainers. This accelerated pathway, developed in collaboration with IMDA and SkillsFuture Singapore, will support the broader dissemination of AI skills and knowledge.
In addition to broad-based skills upgrading, targeted upskilling in specific sectors is crucial. The Jobs Transformation Maps (JTMs) are instrumental in identifying how AI impacts different fields, such as accountancy and creative industries. For example, AI is increasingly used by auditors to detect anomalies and by creative professionals to enhance their work, such as generating AI-powered videos and optimising marketing content.
The Singapore Computer Society’s partnerships with industry associations, including the Association of Advertising and Marketing Singapore and the Singapore Association of Motion Picture Professionals, will provide targeted training for creative professionals, further supported by IMDA’s TechSkills Accelerator programme.
Minister Teo’s address underscores Singapore’s commitment to advancing its AI ecosystem with a balanced approach of boldness and prudence. As AI continues to transform industries and public services, ongoing efforts to address risks and foster innovation will be crucial in building a resilient and forward-looking AI environment in Singapore.
