The Singaporean government unveiled its updated National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2.0 on December 4, laying out its comprehensive plan to embrace innovation and tackle challenges in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).
This revised AI strategy is structured around three distinct systems and is underpinned by 10 “enablers” driving these systems, with 15 action steps aimed at ensuring the functionality of these systems. Singapore's initial AI strategy was initially introduced in 2019.
The updated strategy adopts a systems-oriented approach, focusing on three pivotal areas within society: the "drivers of activity," "people and communities," and "infrastructure and environment." A key initiative involves Singapore's ambition to establish new AI "centres of excellence" within local companies, aiming to foster sophisticated AI value creation across critical sectors.
Another significant aspect of the plan involves equipping government agencies with the requisite expertise, technical prowess, regulatory tools, and enhancing the AI proficiency among all public servants in Singapore.
In alignment with this strategic vision, Singapore aims to harness its government capabilities to generate resources that support the integration of AI within the public sector. The nation intends to bolster its pool of "AI practitioners" by increasing the number of local experts to 15,000 and keeping the doors open to global talent through expanded AI-focused training programs and technological enhancements.
Singapore has already witnessed more than 2,700 individuals securing employment through various technical training programs in AI development, demonstrating progress in this domain. Emulating many other countries globally, Singapore is committed to augmenting its computing power. To this end, the nation aims to strengthen partnerships with key industry stakeholders like chip manufacturers and cloud service providers and bolster support for local computing companies. The implementation of these action steps is slated for the next 3-5 years to advance Singapore's aspirations in the field of artificial intelligence.
Singapore joins the ranks of other nations emphasizing AI development. Recently, the UK declared its intention to invest £300 million in acquiring and operating two AI supercomputers, aiming to expand its influence in the global AI arena. OpenAI, a leading AI developer, disclosed its collaboration with Dubai-based G42 to extend its operations into the Middle East. In parallel, the United States, a prominent chip manufacturing hub, initiated tighter export controls on technology used by specific countries to bolster and sustain advanced AI systems.
