Government Encourages Responsible AI Innovation with AI Verify Toolkit
SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has stated that the country is not pursuing AI regulation at this time, despite growing global calls to address the risks associated with AI. Instead, Singapore is focusing on responsible AI usage by encouraging collaboration on AI Verify, a pioneering AI testing toolkit launched in 2022. AI Verify allows firms to perform technical tests on AI models and document compliance processes, with companies like Singapore Airlines and IBM already participating in the pilot program.
Lee Wan Sie, IMDA’s director for trusted AI and data, explained that Singapore’s current strategy is to observe and learn from industry practices before deciding on potential regulatory measures. “We want to understand how AI is being used before considering regulations,” she said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with industry players, other governments, and research institutions, especially given Singapore’s size and limited resources.
Minister for Communications and Information, Josephine Teo, highlighted the role of the private sector in promoting ethical AI use, stating at the Asia Tech x Singapore summit that steering AI towards beneficial applications aligns with Singapore’s approach to AI.
While other regions, including the EU and China, have started implementing AI regulations, Singapore’s approach promotes a controlled but open environment for AI development. Singapore’s reputation as a safe testing ground for technology is further reinforced by openness and regulatory support, noted Stella Cramer, APAC head of Clifford Chance’s tech group, underscoring Singapore’s position as a key player in responsible AI innovation.
