Possibility of Sentient AI Developing in Singapore's Networks and Systems

Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether the Government has done any studies or research on the possibility of sentient Artificial Intelligence (AI) developing and evolving in our networks and systems; and (b) if so, whether the Government has any safeguards against the possible damage that rogue sentient AI could cause in the networks and systems of critical areas, such as defence, finance and transport infrastructure.

There is no evidence that today's artificial intelligence (AI) systems are sentient and the Government has not conducted studies specifically on "sentient AI" arising in our systems. If AI capabilities advance significantly in the future, that would be a global development. In the meantime, we focus on practical safeguards – strong cybersecurity controls, access restrictions, monitoring and human oversight – to protect Government systems and critical services.