Singapore's Cutting-Edge Transportation Innovation: A Game-Changer
Published on: March 10, 2024
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) is collaborating with AI Singapore and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research to launch the National Multimodal LLM Program (NMLP), a S$70 million ($52.3 million) initiative. Funded by Singapore’s National Research Foundation, this program aims to enhance the country’s research and engineering capabilities in multi-modal large language (LLM) models.
The NMLP seeks to address a critical gap in the current landscape of LLM models, which are predominantly Western-centric. This initiative is tailored to develop models that are sensitive to the Southeast Asian context, understanding the unique linguistic characteristics and multilingual environment of Singapore and the region.
The partners in this program highlight its significance in advancing AI research and innovation in Singapore, utilizing resources such as the National Supercomputing Centre. The initiative is a part of Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 plan and supports the national AI strategy 2.0, launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong.
The strategy's goal is to position Singapore as a global leader in AI solutions by 2030, focusing on developing and deploying scalable, impactful AI solutions in sectors crucial to citizens and businesses. The NMLP is expected to contribute significantly towards this ambition.
In addition to technological advancements, the NMLP will focus on building skilled AI talent in Singapore. It aims to foster a thriving AI industry with LLM-enabled solutions, enhancing productivity and creating new business opportunities. The program also prioritizes building a trusted environment for AI usage, deepening the understanding of LLMs and furthering research in AI governance.
Dr. Ong Chen Hui, assistant chief executive of Biztech Group at IMDA, emphasizes the program’s role in reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to becoming a global AI hub. The initiative is expected to foster industry collaboration across borders and drive AI innovation in Southeast Asia, particularly through the development of large language AI models for regional languages.
The NMLP represents a strategic effort by Singapore to harness the potential of AI in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the region's diverse cultural and linguistic landscape. This initiative is a testament to Singapore's proactive approach in the realm of AI development and governance.