The past few months witnessed significant developments in Singapore’s efforts to manage and promote AI governance and data centers in response to the growing demand for AI. On May 30, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) launched Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI (MFG-Gen AI) and the Green Data Center (DC) Roadmap. Mindful of the existing risks and new ones introduced by generative AI, MFG-Gen AI (i) aims to create a balanced approach in addressing generative AI concern and facilitating innovation as well as (ii) calls for key stakeholders to foster a trusted AI ecosystem through accountability and trusted development and deployment, among other dimensions.
Speaking at the opening of Personal Data Protection Week 2024, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo identified 3 practical steps that Singapore is taking to strengthen AI governance in Singapore: introduce a set of safety guidelines for Generative AI model developers and app deployers, support more use of Privacy Enhancing Technologies - or PETs - in AI, and adopting a regional approach towards shaping the development of standards. Over 70 entities, including mix of local & international companies, audit firms, and government agencies such as the US Department of Commerce, endorsed the MGF-Gen AI as a comprehensive approach to addressing generative AI related concerns.
To support Singapore ambitions towards a digital economy amidst the rapid evolution of AI and other digital services, the Green Data Center (DC) Roadmap charts a sustainable pathway for the continued growth of DCs in Singapore through partnerships with industry to drive energy efficiency. IMDA plans to partner with industry on two fronts: improving energy efficiency at hardware and software levels and accelerating DC’s use of green energy. The roadmap aims to provide at least 300 MW of additional capacity in the near term, with another 200 MW allocated only for operators who use green energy options. With the goal of balancing the need to boost digital economy through DCs and achieving the country’s net zero targets by 2050, IMDA will support developers to adopt enhanced standards and certifications for energy efficiency.
On July 15, the United States and Singapore signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to strengthen data, analytics, and artificial intelligence cooperation. Under this SOU, both countries have pinpointed essential areas for collaboration in quality data, ethical AI development and usage, and talent management.
