S'pore to back Commonwealth in using tech for development: PM

Republic believes in AI's transformative power, using it for public good, he says

- Goh Yan Han

Singapore believes in the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) and will support fellow Commonwealth states in using technology for development, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Oct 25.

At the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm) in Apia, Samoa, PM Wong said states can use digital technology to build more resilient societies in the face of global challenges.

"We look forward to working with our Commonwealth aiga (Samoan for family), especially fellow small states, to use technologies for the good of our people, our economies and the world, and in the process, to build a secure and resilient future," he added.

PM Wong, who is also Finance Minister, arrived in Samoa on Oct 23 for the biennial summit involving leaders and officials from 56 member states.

In his remarks on Oct 25, he noted that the meeting's theme of "One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth" is especially relevant in the uncertain world today.

There are conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, while geopolitical rivalries continue to sharpen, with consequences for everyone, PM Wong said.

"So it is important as a Commonwealth family, we find ways to bolster our individual and collective resilience," he added.

He highlighted digital technology as one area of cooperation.

Singapore has been using AI for the public good, said PM Wong.

This includes to predict and manage extreme rainfall, optimise growth and yield on fish farms, and detect and diagnose diseases.

The Republic is also continuing to invest in new AI capabilities for students and small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as for science and research, he added.