SG is flexible but careful with AI approach, says deputy prime minister

Deputy prime minister and trade and industry minister Gan Kim Yong has reportedly said Singapore's approach towards the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is to be nimble and flexible within ethical limitations and guidelines. 

During a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Gan reportedly made his point after Haslinda Amin, a Bloomberg Television anchor suggested that Singapore has no established regulation in relation to AI. 

Gan corrected the claim and stated that the republic has developed a semi-detailed code of conduct for how AI should be deployed and created in an ethical way, according to The Straits Times. He also added that Singapore takes the matter seriously. 

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With regards to regulation, Gan reportedly noted that the country's authorities tread lightly when applications in AI are still being tested. However, he affirmed that Singapore still keeps a close eye on the technology's development during its early stages. 

Prior to Gan's comments, during a discussion about Asia's opportunities in an AI-driven era, Thai minister of commerce Pichai Naripthaphan reportedly stated Thailand wishes to be more like Singapore in upskilling its workforce, noting that it needs to build people to be intelligent. 

In a separate panel discussion on the role of companies in the AI era, Gan reportedly said Singapore's manufacturing sector is evolving with its deployment of automation and AI, and ensure that the benefits of said transformation will be equally shared by businesses and the workforce. 

Gan also said that the country has designed policies for sectors to encourage the use of modern technologies. However, companies and businesses are urged to take the lead in the evolution of its manufacturing facilities. 

The deputy prime minister reportedly added that the government has developed strategies to ensure each sector is well-equipped for the future, including the SkillsFuture scheme. The SkillsFuture scheme offers training and subsidies for workers who have lost income to acquire a diploma or degree. 

Earlier this week, a survey by Ipsos and Google revealed that over half (58%) of Singaporeans are thrilled about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the future, with 42% concerned about its risks. The global study "Our life with AI: From innovation to application", found that global AI usage has jumped to 48% and excitement about its potential now exceeds concerns.

According to a sample of 1,000 Singaporeans, the survey found that 59% of Singapore residents have used generative AI in the last year, showing a 10% increase as compared to 2023 (49%). This statistic is above the global average of 48%. 

Professionally, AI is being viewed as more than just a productivity booster but also as a tool for strategic elevation. With 75% Singaporean AI users already leveraging it for work, AI is being actively used to enhance writing, brainstorming, and problem-solving.

Furthermore, it's proving invaluable for digesting complex information and lengthy documents. This widespread adoption across diverse applications highlights the transformative impact AI is having in Singapore.

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