Robot manufacturers acknowledge challenges but see potential for transformative adoption across sectors.
SINGAPORE: Amid a persistent manpower crunch, Singapore is turning to robotics to alleviate labor shortages and attract young talent into critical industries. Robots are being deployed to assist in physically demanding roles, from healthcare to construction, while offering new career paths for the next generation.
Professor Quek Tong Boon, Chief Executive of the National Robotics Programme, highlighted the focus on developing robots for high-risk and high-demand roles, such as assisting nurses or inspecting newly constructed buildings. “These technologies aim to lighten workloads and improve efficiency,” he told CNA.
Tackling Labor Constraints
In some restaurants, robot servers now assist staff by carrying heavy trays, reducing physical strain.
“This job can be physically exhausting, but with robot servers, employees can focus more on customer service,” said Mr. Jaden Kim, Managing Director of Bear Robotics, a company specializing in robots for the hospitality sector.
Similarly, Weston Robot aims to attract younger talent to industries like facilities management by integrating robotics. “Robots can take over labor-intensive tasks, while young professionals manage and service these machines,” explained Dr. Zhang Yanliang, Chief Scientist and Co-founder of Weston Robot.
Challenges in Adoption
Despite the potential, robot manufacturers face hurdles, particularly in talent acquisition.
“As a small company, competing against larger firms offering attractive packages is tough,” said Dr. Zhang. Additionally, infrastructure limitations, such as delivery robots being unable to access lifts, hinder widespread adoption.
Observers believe public sector leadership in automation adoption could narrow the gap between technology and practical application.
“The robotics journey is thrilling but unpredictable,” said Mr. Dylan Ng, CEO of LionsBot International, a smart robotics firm. “Every innovation is a new frontier.”
Diversity in Robotics
While robotics has traditionally been male-dominated, more women are entering the field. At the FIRST Global Challenge, an international robotics competition held in Singapore, over 35% of participants are young women.
Jane Wang, Co-founder of Roceso Technologies, transitioned from engineering to robotics, focusing on healthcare innovations like exoskeleton devices to assist people with disabilities. “There is immense potential to design solutions that transform lives,” she said.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Robotics is also becoming a passion for children and youth.
At the School of Robotics, students like Cayleigh Zhuo, who started building robots at five, are honing both technical and creative skills. “It inspired me to bring my ideas to life,” said Cayleigh, who hopes to teach robotics in the future.
Institutions such as Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) have also invested in robotics labs to spark interest among students. A team of NP students recently won the National Robotics Competition for developing a robot capable of moving wind turbines.
First-year engineering student Wong Le Yang noted, “The experience taught us to adapt quickly and persevere through challenges.”
Building a Robotic Future
Singapore’s robotics push is fostering innovation, improving job efficiency, and nurturing talent. As industries increasingly embrace automation, the country is positioning itself at the forefront of integrating robotics into daily life, though significant challenges remain.
