As part of its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, Singapore looks to establish itself as a global hub for developing, test-bedding, deploying, and scaling AI solutions.
This will enable the island state to seize the new opportunities brought about by the technology. As such, harnessing AI to transform Singapore's economy and improve the lives of citizens is the next key step of the country's Smart Nation journey.
The plan was announced on November 19 by Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister in-charge of the Smart Nation Initiative and Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the opening session of the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona.
Smart Nation and Digital Government Office (SNDG) said in a press release that Singapore's approach to AI will be human-centric. The focus will be on the use of the technology to deliver impactful social and economic benefits to Singaporeans.
"As a small open economy, Singapore welcomes opportunities to collaborate with businesses and talents over the world to realise our National AI strategy," the agency said.
Moving forward, Singapore will also tap into international partnerships in areas such as data sharing and digital identity cross recognition. This is to facilitate cross border AI collaboration to solve common challenges.
In the Model AI Governance Framework published in January 2019, detailed and readily implementable guidance were provided to private sector organisations to address key ethical and governance issues when deploying AI solutions.
SNDG added that it will work closely with key stakeholders to develop AI-related policies and standards, in order to promote the responsible and secure use of AI for global and societal benefit.