Building a strong AI core for a robust digital economy

THE application of artificial intelligence has certainly come a long way, especially in the past year. Despite attempts to sensationalise AI, we have witnessed unprecedented gains in our understanding of the impact of AI-driven technologies in everyday life. Building on this progress, AI is poised to journey into the mainstream through 2018 and beyond. In June, Minister for Communications and Information, S Iswaran, announced that the Singapore government will be setting up an advisory council on the ethical use of AI and data, supported by a five-year research programme. Sharing how "innovative technologies bring economic and societal benefits, as well as attendant ethical issues", the minister underscored the need for solid regulatory frameworks to build public trust in emerging technology.