OpenAI to set up office here, focus on advancing regional tie-ups

ChatGPT-maker's move signals long-term plans to tap growing pool of tech talent here

- Osmond Chia

ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, the San Francisco-based company synonymous with bringing generative artificial intelligence (AI) into the spotlight, will open its second office in Asia in Singapore later in 2024.

The Singapore office - the company's fourth international branch - will focus on advancing regional collaboration, including work with national programme AI Singapore on generative AI models that are tuned to understand and reflect cultures and languages in Southeast Asia.

OpenAI's expansion here signals the start-up's long-term plans to tap Singapore's growing pool of tech talent and deepen its roots in the region, acting as a hub for its Asia-Pacific (Apac) partners.

Chief executive Sam Altman said in a statement on Oct 9: "Singapore, with its rich history of technology leadership, has emerged as a leader in AI, recognising its potential to solve some of society's hardest problems and advance economic prosperity.

"We're excited to partner with the Government and the country's thriving AI ecosystem as we expand into the Apac region."

Mr Altman, 39, last visited Singapore in June 2023 during a world tour to discuss AI-related issues and address concerns about the rapid roll-out of its signature product, ChatGPT, which brought generative AI into the mainstream.