Singapore – At the ATxSummit 2024, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat announced a substantial investment of nearly S$300 million into the National Quantum Strategy (NQS), positioning the nation as a leader in quantum technology development. This initiative, funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and driven by the National Quantum Office (NQO) at A*STAR, aims to advance the quantum industry over the next five years.

In addition to the quantum strategy, DPM Heng unveiled the Green Data Centre (DC) Roadmap to support digital sustainability and launched new AI governance frameworks. These efforts underline Singapore’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.

Quantum Technology Initiatives

The NQS will focus on four main areas:

1. Scientific Excellence: The Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) will be transformed into a national R&D centre with nodes at partner institutions like A*STAR and local universities. This will consolidate research talent to drive national quantum research priorities.
2. Engineering Capabilities: Enhancements to the Quantum Engineering Programme 3.0 (QEP 3.0) include the new National Quantum Sensor Programme (NQSP), which will collaborate with industry partners on research projects. Additionally, the National Quantum Processor Initiative (NQPI) will develop local capabilities for quantum processor design.
3. Talent Development: The National Quantum Scholarships Scheme (NQSS) aims to produce up to 100 PhD and 100 Master-level quantum professionals over the next five years, addressing the workforce needs in quantum research and industry.
4. Innovation & Enterprise Partnerships: Investments will foster a vibrant quantum ecosystem through industry collaborations. The National Quantum Computing Hub (NQCH) will enhance innovation and enterprise efforts, driving partnerships to translate quantum R&D into real-world applications. The National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+) will offer commercial quantum-safe solutions by the end of this year.

Green Data Centre Roadmap

Dr Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information, introduced the Green Data Centre (DC) Roadmap at the Digital Sustainability Forum. The roadmap aims to add at least 300 megawatts (MW) of capacity through green energy deployments, promoting sustainable data center growth.

The initiative focuses on:

1. Energy Efficiency: Accelerating the use of best-in-class technologies to maximize energy efficiency and economic potential.
2. Green Energy: Expanding the use of green energy in data centers to enhance capacity and sustainability.

AI Governance and International Collaboration

Singapore is also spearheading AI governance with the release of the Model AI Governance Framework (Generative AI) and the development of the Digital Forum for Small States (DFOSS) AI Governance Playbook in collaboration with Rwanda. These frameworks aim to align with global AI principles and ensure safe AI practices.

At the Digital FOSS Ministerial Dialogue, leaders discussed the importance of international cooperation on AI governance. Singapore and Rwanda’s collaboration on the DFOSS AI Governance Playbook will provide guidance for small states in AI development and governance.