Singapore – The Singaporean government is expanding its collaboration with private enterprises to accelerate the digital transformation and strengthen the artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Through new partnerships with key companies such as Alibaba Cloud, ST Engineering, and Prudential Singapore, the government aims to actively support SMEs in adopting cloud technologies, enhancing cybersecurity, and utilizing generative AI. This move is interpreted as a strategic step to ensure the continued growth of Singapore's digital economy, a core driver of its economy, and to secure the global competitiveness of its SMEs.

 
Digital Economy, A Key Driver of Singapore's GDP

Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Singapore's Ministry of Communications and Information and Ministry of National Development, emphasized that the digital economy currently accounts for approximately 18% of Singapore's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during his speech at the 'Asia Tech X Singapore' conference on Tuesday (local time). He stated, "Despite global uncertainties, we expect technology, especially AI, to continue driving quality economic growth." Singapore has shown consistent growth, with the Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of its digital economy exceeding US$22 billion in 2023, and projected to reach US$29 billion by 2025. This growth trajectory is largely attributable to a series of proactive digital transformation policies pursued by the Singaporean government, including the 'Smart Nation Initiative' launched in 2014 and the 'National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0)' announced in December 2023.

 
Bridging the Digital Divide for SMEs Through Government-Private Collaboration

Minister Tan stressed that despite the government's introduction of various digitalization initiatives, strong partnerships with industry stakeholders are essential. Accordingly, Singapore has prepared tailored support programs to help SMEs overcome challenges in their digital transformation journey and lead in the AI era.

As part of these new collaborations, Alibaba Cloud will focus on enhancing the digital capabilities of up to 3,000 SMEs and digital solution providers. With an emphasis on cloud technology and AI, they will provide practical training and support to help SMEs adapt to the rapidly changing digital environment. Alibaba Cloud has already facilitated digital transformation in various ways, including supporting the internationalization of Singaporean SMEs in cooperation with DBS Bank.

ST Engineering will launch programs to provide SMEs with the knowledge and tools needed to identify cyber risks and strengthen their cybersecurity posture. As the frequency and complexity of cyberattacks increase, SMEs become more vulnerable. These programs will be crucial for protecting corporate assets and ensuring business continuity. ST Engineering is already collaborating with the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) to implement programs aimed at enhancing the cyber resilience of SMEs.

Prudential Singapore will provide practical experience and training to SMEs on implementing generative AI solutions. Generative AI holds the potential to bring transformative changes across various business areas, including marketing content creation, customer service automation, and data analytics. Leveraging its expertise in actively utilizing AI technology in the financial services sector, Prudential Singapore will help SMEs effectively adopt and utilize generative AI. This is expected to contribute to increased corporate productivity and the creation of new business opportunities.

 
Comprehensive AI Strategy and SME Support Policies

Through its National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0), Singapore is investing over S$1 billion (approximately US$738 million) over the next five years to foster AI talent, build infrastructure, and secure advanced computing resources. Furthermore, the 'AI for Science Initiative' actively promotes interdisciplinary research, and a responsible AI promotion policy systematically manages ethical aspects that may arise during technological development.

In addition, the Singaporean government is concretizing the widespread adoption of AI by SMEs through policies such as 'SMEs Go Digital.' This policy aims to help SMEs grow based on digital technologies, improve operations through digital solutions, and generate new revenue. It focuses on promoting the use of digital technologies, especially AI, by SMEs through collaboration among government agencies, relevant organizations, research institutes, and companies.

 
Investing in the Future

Singapore's expanded partnerships demonstrate a long-term vision for the continuous growth of its digital economy and the strengthening of SMEs' innovation capabilities. The adoption of advanced technologies, including AI, will be a crucial driving force for enhancing national competitiveness by increasing productivity and creating new industries and jobs. Singapore is expected to successfully integrate these technologies into the SME ecosystem through close collaboration with the private sector, further solidifying its position as a global digital leader.