Singapore, in its unwavering commitment to technological advancement, has unveiled the Singapore National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0) in 2023, marking a significant step in its journey towards becoming a Smart Nation. This strategic move builds upon the foundation laid by the initial National AI Strategy introduced in 2019, representing a notable shift in focus across three key dimensions.
Necessity Over Opportunity: Mastering AI for Prosperity
The transformation from perceiving AI as an opportunity to deeming it a necessity underscores Singapore's dedication to mastering artificial intelligence. Recognizing the expanded landscape of opportunities and risks, the nation views AI not merely as an accessory but as a core element crucial for sustained prosperity and relevance in shaping its future.
Global Outlook: From Local to Global Collaboration
A pivotal shift from local to global perspectives emphasizes the significance of a worldwide approach in AI endeavors. Singapore acknowledges the necessity of engaging with global networks, collaborating with leading minds, and pooling resources to effectively address the intricate challenges posed by AI. This global outlook positions Singapore as a key player in influencing the trajectory of AI on the world stage.
Systems Enhancement: From Projects to Comprehensive Systems
The transition from individual projects to comprehensive systems underscores Singapore's commitment to fortifying capabilities, infrastructure, and resource foundations. By cultivating a robust ecosystem and facilitating the exchange of ideas, the nation aims to amplify and manage the impact of AI across various sectors, ensuring a holistic integration into the economy and society.
Goals of NAIS 2.0: AI for the Public Good
Guided by the vision "AI for the Public Good, for Singapore and the World," NAIS 2.0 focuses on two core goals - Excellence and Empowerment.
Excellence: Singapore aims to cultivate peaks of excellence in AI, directing capabilities towards addressing global challenges such as population health and climate change. The objective is to advance the field and maximize value creation for the greater good.
Empowerment: NAIS 2.0 seeks to empower individuals, businesses, and communities to use AI with confidence, discernment, and trust. The goal is to make AI a great equalizer, providing necessary capabilities and resources for people and businesses to thrive in an AI-enabled future.
Driving the Vision: 10 Enablers Across 3 Systems
To realize the vision and goals, Singapore will leverage 10 enablers across three systems. These actions, to be undertaken over the next 3-5 years, will adapt to the fast-moving developments in AI, cutting across various domains.
Applications of AI in Singapore: Real-World Impacts
The article also explores real-world examples illustrating the applications of AI in Singapore, including Project Pensieve—a screening tool for early detection of dementia, SELENA+—a deep-learning AI software system for detecting eye conditions, and the OneService Chatbot—a tool streamlining the process of gathering resident feedback in real-time.
Unity in Diversity: Working Together for Success
Ultimately, the success of Singapore's National AI Strategy hinges on collaborative efforts from Singaporeans, businesses, researchers, the government, and global partners. The article invites readers to contribute and be part of Singapore's AI journey, emphasizing the importance of collective action in realizing the nation's AI ambitions.
