Merlions and Next-Gen AI Ecosystems

Waiting for takeoff to the Feather Field, a small break, then on to the Merlion.

(Newark Haneda Singapore)

I spend a lot of time talking and writing about the huge tech-infused change waves heading our way. Most companies and countries are simply:

Not Prepared and Not Preparing.

Singapore is a rare, really well-done, outstanding example

Some details:

Singapore’s anticipatory AI strategy sets a global standard.

Singapore has positioned itself as the world’s most proactive nation in preparing for AI disruption, demonstrating an anticipatory rather than reactive approach that sets it apart from other global powers. The city-state consistently ranks in the top 3 globally across multiple AI readiness indexes.

Unlike the United States’ market-driven approach, China’s state-controlled model, or the EU’s precautionary regulatory stance, Singapore has crafted a distinctive “third way” that balances innovation promotion with responsible governance.

Government strategy demonstrates unprecedented anticipatory planning

Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0), launched in December 2023, represents a $1+ billion commitment over five years with a clear vision of “AI for the Public Good, for Singapore and the World.”

The government’s approach spans three coordinated systems: activity drivers (industry, government, research), people and communities (talent, capabilities, placemaking), and infrastructure and environment (compute, data, trusted environment, leadership). This whole-of-government coordination contrasts sharply with the fragmented approaches seen in larger nations.

Economic transformation strategy targets comprehensive workforce preparation

Singapore’s economic preparation for AI disruption is remarkably comprehensive, with quantified targets and substantial investments that far exceed most other nations relative to size.

Their SkillsFuture ecosystem is offering over 1,300 AI-related courses through the MySkillsFuture platform. The globally recognized AI Apprenticeship Program (AIAP) provides intensive 9-month training with monthly stipends and strong placement rates in AI roles. AIAP Unlike many countries that focus primarily on upskilling tech workers, Singapore’s approach spans all sectors with 23 Industry Transformation Maps integrating AI adoption strategies.

The government is also doing smart collaborations with the likes of Google, Microsoft, Salesforce, and HPC, and includes the very deep end of the tech pool with Agentic AI, national-level LLM, hybrid quantum AI test, and a GenAI SME sandbox. Again, intentional and smart public-private partnerships. Of course, there is a huge government AI approach for the workings of government itself, eat your own dog food sort of thing.

The workforce preparation strategy includes proactive policies addressing AI’s impact on employment, with Workforce Singapore offering up to 90% salary support for reskilling mid-career workers through Career Conversion Programs across 30 sectors. This preventive approach differs significantly from other countries that primarily offer support after job displacement occurs.

Singapore’s anticipatory approach is characterized by strategic iteration and adaptation rather than static policy-making. Which might be the most enlightened part of this. This is embedded in their Smart Nation 2.0 approach/program.