Singapore allocates more than $1.1 billion to enhance public AI research

Quick Overview

• Singapore commits more than S$1 billion ($1.14 billion) to AI research through 2030.
• Emphasis on responsible and resource-efficient AI along with talent growth.
• Funding designated for the application and adoption of AI in various industries.
• Prior investments have included S$500 million for AI infrastructure in 2024.
• AI Singapore introduced the Sea-Lion language model in 2023.
• Recent updates to Sea-Lion boost language support for Southeast Asian dialects.

Strategic AI Investment by Singapore

The Singapore government has unveiled a major investment exceeding S$1 billion ($1.14 billion) in public AI research, aimed to be executed by 2030. This program seeks to enhance the country’s capabilities and competitiveness on a global scale within the rapidly progressing AI domain.

AI Research Focus Areas

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information has specified key focus areas, such as the creation of responsible and resource-efficient AI technologies. The investment will also concentrate on developing AI talent from pre-university levels to academic faculty roles. This holistic strategy ensures a continuous flow of skilled individuals ready to advance AI innovation.

Application and Adoption by Industries

A portion of the funding has been set aside for enhancing capabilities that facilitate AI adoption and application across a variety of sectors. This strategic initiative aims to boost the practical use of AI, promoting economic growth and technological development within Singapore’s industrial arena.

Past Investments in AI Infrastructure

In 2024, Singapore earmarked S$500 million ($569 million) for high-performance computing facilities, providing crucial infrastructure for AI growth in both public and private sectors. This funding demonstrates the nation’s dedication to sustaining a robust and enabling environment for AI advancement.

AI Singapore and the Sea-Lion Language Model

AI Singapore, a national program focused on creating advanced AI capabilities, has received significant funding of over S$500 million. In 2023, AI Singapore researchers launched an open-source large language model called the Southeast Asian Languages in One Network (Sea-Lion), supported by S$70 million in funding. The model has been effectively adopted by companies, including GoTo from Indonesia.

In October 2025, an improved version of Sea-Lion was released, featuring enhancements in languages such as Burmese, Filipino, Indonesian, Malay, Tamil, Thai, and Vietnamese. These developments underline Singapore’s commitment to fostering AI accessibility and innovation in the region.

Conclusion

Singapore’s substantial investment in AI research highlights its strategic commitment to evolving cutting-edge technologies and developing talent. With a strong focus on responsible AI, industrial application, and solid infrastructure, the country is well-positioned to enhance its global competitiveness and stimulate innovation across Southeast Asia.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the total investment that Singapore is dedicating to AI research?

A: Singapore is committing over S$1 billion ($1.14 billion) to public AI research by 2030.

Q: What are the main research priorities for this funding?

A: The priorities include developing responsible and resource-efficient AI and cultivating AI talent from pre-university to faculty levels.

Q: In what ways will the investment assist industries in Singapore?

A: Part of the budget is dedicated to aiding the adoption and application of AI within industries, fostering technological progress and economic growth.

Q: What previous funding has been allocated for AI infrastructure?

A: In 2024, Singapore invested S$500 million ($569 million) to enhance high-performance computing resources to facilitate AI innovation.

Q: What is the Sea-Lion model and who has utilized it?

A: The Sea-Lion model is an open-source large language model created by AI Singapore, utilized by companies such as Indonesia’s GoTo.

Q: How has the Sea-Lion model been updated recently?

A: In October 2025, an updated version was launched with enhancements for Southeast Asian languages, including Burmese, Filipino, Indonesian, Malay, Tamil, Thai, and Vietnamese.