Remuneration for Those who Contribute Works for National Multimodal Large Language Model Programme

Ms Usha Chandradas asked the Minister for Communications and Information (a) whether the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has plans to remunerate writers, authors and publishers who contribute their works for the purpose of training the National Multimodal Large Language Model (LLM) Programme and, if not, why not; (b) what steps are being taken for the launch of the National Multimodal LLM Programme; and (c) which communities is IMDA engaging with to obtain feedback on the creation of the Programme.

The National Multimodal Large Language Model Programme (NMLP) was launched in December 2023 as a research programme to build up Singapore's capabilities in developing LLMs that can better understand the multi-lingual and multicultural context of Singapore and Southeast Asia.

The NMLP is still a nascent effort. So far, researchers have benefitted from data, such as those from open government publications and records as well as contributed content from partners for which no remuneration was required. In any case, we will continue to adopt a consultative approach for Generative AI projects trained in the local and regional context. IMDA has engaged a range of organisations and associations to understand their views. Specifically for the local writer's community, the Infocomm Media Development Authority is working with the National Arts Council for outreach and has also partnered the not-for-profit organisation, SingLit Station, to conduct a survey on their willingness to be involved in research efforts.