Good afternoon, esteemed guests. It’s an honor to stand before you today, addressing a topic that is both crucial and increasingly relevant: preparing Singapore for the AI-enabled future. This annual luncheon, hosted by NUS-ISS, brings together a diverse group of individuals and institutions, all united by a shared vision of shaping a competitive and innovative nation. As we gather to celebrate the 10th edition of the NUS-ISS Learning Festival, we reflect on a decade of success in nurturing digital leaders and innovators. But the question remains: How do we ensure Singapore’s continued prosperity in a rapidly changing world? The answer lies in our ability to adapt and evolve, embracing the opportunities presented by AI while mitigating its potential threats. The government’s Economic Strategic Review, led by myself and my cabinet colleagues, outlines a comprehensive strategy to enhance Singapore’s global competitiveness. Among the key areas of focus, the development of our human capital stands out as a critical imperative. As a small nation without natural resources, our workforce’s quality has been the driving force behind our progress over the past six decades. And this investment in our people will continue to be our greatest asset as we strive for SG100. To achieve this, we must equip Singaporeans with the skills and mindset to thrive in an AI-driven world. At the heart of this endeavor is the Committee to Strengthen Human Capital, which brings together diverse stakeholders from the private sector, educational institutions, and unions. Our goal is to ensure that Singaporeans are not just AI-ready but also globally-ready, possessing the cultural intelligence and adaptability to navigate diverse markets and seize emerging opportunities. One of the key challenges we face is the rapid advancement of AI technology. While AI has the potential to revolutionize industries and enhance our capabilities, it also poses risks. We must prepare for a future where AI-generated content dominates the internet, and where the line between human and machine-created content becomes increasingly blurred. This is why the concept of AI-augmented humans is so crucial. By combining human intuition with AI’s computational power, we can create a powerful synergy that surpasses both human and machine capabilities. This is not just a theoretical concept but a practical reality. Consider the example of centaur chess, where human players and AI collaborate to achieve victory. In the business world, this translates to a workforce that embraces AI, using it to augment their skills and drive innovation. To support this transformation, we need to build a future-ready jobs and skills system. This involves creating a more agile ecosystem that can adapt to the rapid pace of technological change. Our educational institutions, such as NUS-ISS, play a pivotal role in this process. By integrating real-world problems into the curriculum, we can prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Take the case of Chua Khiong Kiat, an alumnus of NUS-ISS’s Graduate Diploma in Systems Analysis. His journey from civil engineering to the startup world exemplifies the power of practical, industry-relevant education. Similarly, Maureen Tan’s experience at NUS-ISS’s Master of Technology in Artificial Intelligence Systems demonstrates how future-ready education can empower professionals to advocate for strategic and responsible AI adoption within their organizations. However, our efforts to enhance human capital go beyond education. We must also level up the AI competencies of our existing workforce through continuous training and education. This ensures that our workers can adapt to the increasing integration of AI in various industries. The Master of Technology in Software Engineering program at NUS-ISS is a testament to this approach, equipping students with the skills to develop complex data pipelines and AI-driven applications while fostering cross-cultural leadership. As we conclude this luncheon, let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. AI is not a threat but a catalyst for progress. By investing in our people and developing an AI-ready and globally-ready workforce, we can position Singapore as a leader in the human-AI partnership. This is not just a goal but a necessity, as we strive to secure Singapore’s future in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Thank you.