Singapore to Form National AI Council for Strategic Guidance

Singapore's Initiative to Establish a National AI Council

Singapore is taking a significant step towards harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) by planning to establish a national council focused on AI. This initiative, announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during a speech in parliament, aims to provide strategic direction for the use of this emerging technology.

Wong emphasized that AI is advancing at an impressive pace, with the potential to significantly enhance productivity, uncover new discoveries, and transform lives. While acknowledging concerns about misinformation and job displacement caused by AI, he stressed the importance of addressing these challenges head-on and ensuring that AI serves the needs of the country.

He encouraged Singapore to move beyond individual pilots and isolated experiments, urging a more comprehensive approach to scaling up AI usage across various industries. "Fear cannot be Singapore’s response," Wong stated. He highlighted that allowing uncertainty to paralyze the nation would result in falling behind in a rapidly evolving world.

"We must act with clarity and resolve. AI is a powerful tool, but it is still a tool. It must serve our national interest and our people," he added, noting that he will also serve as the chairperson of the AI council. This council will be responsible for providing strategic direction and driving Singapore's AI agenda.

Singapore, known for its small size, has been increasingly leveraging technology to overcome structural challenges such as limited natural resources, an aging population, and a tight labor market. The government recently announced an investment of over S$1 billion (US$793 million) in public research on AI through 2030 to strengthen its capabilities and enhance global competitiveness.

" We define how AI is developed and used in Singapore. We will set clear rules to ensure it is applied responsibly and safely," Wong said during his speech. This commitment reflects Singapore's determination to lead in the responsible development and application of AI while maintaining a strong focus on national interests and the well-being of its citizens.