The current approach risks focusing on producing certified AI users when the nation also needs more AI builders, said Leslie Teo, a senior director at AI Singapore, the national AI research and development program established in 2017. The US, China and other major economies are investing heavily in AI research, computing power and talent development to build domestic capabilities. Countries that rely entirely on AI systems developed elsewhere risk having little influence over how the technology evolves or whose interests it serves. Its AI Singapore program has developed SEA-LION, a large language model designed for Southeast Asia and used by regional companies including GoTo Group. Still, the question facing Singapore is ultimately about capability rather than participation: whether the country can develop enough people capable of building AI systems, rather than simply train workers to use them, Teo said.

Source: The Edge Markets March 13, 2026 02:45 UTC