Singapore to launch applied AI initiative, two large-scale research programmes under strategic plan

Singapore will launch an applied artificial intelligence initiative and two large-scale research programmes — with one focusing on semiconductors and microelectronics and the other on healthy ageing — as part of its next five-year strategic plan. Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat gave this preview in Parliament today, saying that investments from 2026 to 2030 will be finalised later this year. Singapore has already pumped in S$120 million to put AI into practice, using it to make scientific discoveries. Now, the aim is to do more of that and develop key sectors like healthcare, finance and connectivity. Nasyrah Rohim reports.