Singapore has officially unveiled Smart Nation 2.0, a major update to its national digital transformation strategy first introduced in 2014. The refreshed vision includes a S$120 million (US$92 million) investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption, stronger digital infrastructure resilience, and enhanced protections against online harms and cyber abuse.
The announcement was made by Singapore Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong on October 1, 2024. Smart Nation 2.0 is built around three key pillars: Trust, Growth, and Community, which will guide how technology is deployed to improve lives and strengthen Singapore’s digital future.
“These goals will serve as our compass, shaping how we harness technology to uplift lives and create a thriving digital future for all,” Wong said during the launch.
AI Takes Center Stage in Singapore’s Digital Future
Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a cornerstone of Singapore’s Smart Nation 2.0 strategy. According to Wong, the digital landscape today is vastly different from when the original Smart Nation initiative was launched a decade ago.
He described generative AI as a “once-in-a-generation technology” with the potential to transform industries, drive innovation, and unlock new economic opportunities.
To accelerate AI-driven innovation, the government will invest S$120 million in a new AI for Science initiative, led by the National Research Foundation (NRF).
The initiative aims to develop and deploy AI methods and tools across scientific disciplines, helping researchers improve productivity and accelerate discoveries. Key focus areas include:
- Advanced materials research
- Biomedical sciences
- Healthcare innovation
- Emerging technologies
The program will foster collaboration between AI specialists and domain experts, creating a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers equipped with both AI expertise and deep scientific knowledge.
Singapore also plans to strengthen international partnerships, enabling local researchers to collaborate with global institutions, close capability gaps, and build new areas of expertise.
New AI Education Programs for Teachers and Students
As part of its long-term talent development strategy, Singapore will launch the Smart Nation Educator Fellowship in 2025.
The six-month program will help senior educators and teacher leaders gain deeper insights into emerging digital technologies and AI. Participants will be encouraged to translate their knowledge into curriculum design and innovative teaching practices that can benefit schools across the country.
In addition, the government will introduce a new “AI for Fun” module for students starting next year. The program will provide hands-on opportunities to explore AI technologies through experimentation, creativity, and prototype development.
Strengthening Digital Infrastructure Resilience
Beyond AI, Smart Nation 2.0 places significant emphasis on building a more resilient and secure digital ecosystem.
The government plans to introduce a new Digital Infrastructure Act in 2025 to enhance the resilience, reliability, and security of critical digital services.
Unlike traditional cybersecurity regulations, the proposed legislation will address a broader range of risks, including:
- Technical misconfigurations
- System failures and outages
- Fire-related incidents
- Cooling system failures
- Physical threats to digital infrastructure
The move reflects Singapore’s recognition that disruptions to essential digital services can arise from both cyber and non-cyber incidents.
New Agency to Combat Online Harms and Cyber Abuse
To improve online safety, Singapore will establish a dedicated agency focused on addressing online harms, including cyberbullying, harassment, and other forms of digital abuse.
The new body will be supported by legislation that gives victims stronger avenues for redress. Under the proposed framework, victims will be able to seek civil remedies against perpetrators of online harm.
The agency will also be empowered to act on behalf of victims, directing offenders and online service providers to quickly stop harmful activities. This will provide an additional layer of protection beyond existing regulatory mechanisms and court-based processes.
Ensuring No One Is Left Behind in the Digital Age
Wong emphasized that Singapore’s digital transformation must benefit all segments of society.
As the nation continues to navigate rapid technological change, the government remains committed to strengthening digital inclusion and ensuring that every citizen can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
Singapore will continue investing in programs that leverage technology to strengthen social connections, preserve cultural identity, and enhance community engagement.
“Smart Nation 2.0 is a whole-of-nation movement, with every Singaporean and stakeholder contributing to building a thriving digital future for all,” Wong said.