FEELING “ANXIOUS” ABOUT AI
Mr Wong acknowledged that not everyone feels ready for the shift.
“Many Singaporeans are anxious about AI. They ask: will it replace jobs? Will it be harder to keep up? Will the next generation still have good opportunities?” he said. “These concerns are real.”
But Singapore has navigated “major technological transitions” before, he added. When he entered the workforce in the mid-1990s, tools like Excel were just taking off – offices needed fewer data entry clerks, but demand grew for accountants and analysts who could use the tools to create more value.
“AI is far more powerful than spreadsheets. So the impact on our workplaces will be much greater.”
Authorities will take “deliberate steps” to ensure the benefits of AI are shared broadly, including bolstering SkillsFuture and merging Workforce Singapore and SkillsFuture Singapore into a new entity.
“The government will provide the tools, the pathways, and the support. But we also need Singaporeans to step forward. Do not let anxiety or uncertainty hold you back from learning and using AI,” said Mr Wong.
“AI is here to stay. So, embrace it, learn it, use it and master it.”
