Singapore has unveiled an updated version of its National AI Strategy, known as Nais 2.0, aimed at establishing the country as a global leader in artificial intelligence. This ambitious plan focuses on contributing to AI breakthroughs and solutions that will have global value, while ensuring responsible and equitable distribution of benefits both locally and internationally.

Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong presented the updated strategy at the Singapore Conference on AI, emphasizing the long-term potential of AI in revolutionizing key sectors. “We aim to scale up AI for compelling use cases in industries such as advanced manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, education, and public services,” Wong stated, highlighting the focus on bringing both domestic and international benefits from AI advancements.

The new strategy includes 15 key initiatives to be implemented over the next three to five years. Among them are the development of AI-specific training programs, the establishment of dedicated physical spaces for AI, and measures to attract top AI talent. Singapore also plans to strengthen its AI research capabilities and boost international collaborations in AI governance and innovation.

Focus on Talent and Infrastructure
A major component of Nais 2.0 is increasing the country’s AI talent pool, aiming to expand from the current 4,500 AI professionals to 15,000. The strategy also includes redesigning the AI Apprenticeship Program and encouraging company-led AI training to support AI-enabled business transformations across various industries. Singapore’s ability to attract world-class AI experts is also central to the plan, with initiatives designed to create flexible working arrangements, part-time employment opportunities, and hybrid roles for global AI talent.

On the infrastructure side, Nais 2.0 will focus on increasing high-performance computing capacity in collaboration with chipmakers and cloud providers. This will ensure that Singapore has the necessary computing resources for cutting-edge AI research and development. Additionally, the government plans to allocate sufficient carbon budgets for data centers and invest in privacy-enhancing technologies to address ethical concerns related to data use in AI applications.

Boosting Industry Adoption and Public Service Productivity
To encourage broader adoption of AI within Singapore’s business community, the updated strategy emphasizes enhancing the enterprise digitalization toolkit. Tailored support will be provided to businesses looking to implement AI solutions, particularly in key sectors like healthcare, financial services, and advanced manufacturing.

Public sector services are also set to benefit from AI integration, with plans to improve productivity and optimize processes. The government aims to use AI to solve complex challenges in areas such as public healthcare, security, and education, enhancing overall efficiency and service delivery.

Global Collaboration and Governance
Nais 2.0 places significant importance on Singapore’s role in the global AI landscape. The strategy highlights the country’s commitment to playing a leading role in international AI governance, fostering collaboration with key global partners, and contributing to responsible AI discourse. Singapore will work with international bodies to ensure that AI development adheres to global standards of safety, fairness, and accountability.

Simon Chesterman, senior director of AI governance at AI Singapore, commented that the updated strategy reflects the nation’s holistic approach to AI, ensuring that the benefits are widely shared across society. “This new strategy puts down a marker that says we are open to AI and open for business,” he said.

With Nais 2.0, Singapore is positioning itself to become a major hub for AI innovation, fostering collaborations, attracting global talent, and contributing to AI solutions that will benefit not only Singapore but the world.

The strategy’s success will depend on effective implementation and continued investment in the necessary infrastructure, research, and talent development to ensure that Singapore remains at the forefront of AI advancements.