Singapore's small size gives it an edge in building AI-ready workforce: DPM Gan

Being small can be an advantage for Singapore in the global race to build an artificial intelligence-ready workforce, said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong.

- Sheila Chiang Business Correspondent

"Being very compact, (it) is a lot easier for us to push down this training and upgrading programme on AI and Al literacy. In countries with huge populations, it's a lot harder to do so," he said.

He was speaking during a fireside chat alongside DBS chief executive Tan Su Shan on day one of the Singapore FinTech Festival 2025 at Singapore Expo.

Singapore wants to look at AI at three different levels, Mr Gan said.

At the first level, Singapore wants to make sure companies, big or small, and their customers have a basic understanding of Al, he said.