HCLTech will launch an AI Lab in Singapore to advance AI-driven business solutions across Southeast Asia. HCLTech, a prominent global tech firm, has announced plans for a new AI and Cloud Native Lab in Singapore, set to open in 2025. The facility, supported by Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB), will become the company’s fifth global AI lab, adding to its current locations in the US, UK, Germany, and India. This new lab aims to accelerate AI-driven transformations for businesses across Southeast Asia by leveraging HCLTech’s AI solutions, including its AI Force and AI Foundry platforms.
The lab will collaborate with educational institutions such as Nanyang Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic to promote skills development. Through this partnership, HCLTech aims to facilitate knowledge-sharing and nurture young talent and mid-career professionals in AI. The announcement, made by HCLTech Chairperson Roshni Nadar Malhotra, was attended by representatives from the Singapore Ministry of Digital Development and Information, along with senior members from both polytechnics.
“Our Labs serve as collaborative spaces where companies can develop blueprints for AI and GenAI-led innovations,” said Vijay Guntur, HCLTech’s Chief Technology Officer. He emphasized that the Singapore lab would support the country’s goal of becoming a regional AI innovation hub.
Singapore’s National AI Strategy Drives Innovation
Singapore has recently emphasized AI adoption as part of its National AI Strategy 2.0, introduced in 2023. This strategy reflects the government’s commitment to building a safe, responsible AI ecosystem. The initiative focuses on sectors such as finance, manufacturing, and SMEs, encouraging companies to adopt AI responsibly. HCLTech will launch an AI Lab in Singapore to support Singapore’s goal of becoming an AI innovation hub.
Philbert Gomez, Executive Director of Digital Industry Singapore (DISG), highlighted HCLTech’s lab as an asset to Singapore’s AI ambitions. “DISG has been a driving force in AI adoption across industries. HCLTech’s AI Lab will help local companies scale AI solutions efficiently,” he stated.
HCLTech’s Strong Track Record in Singapore
With a presence in Singapore for over 40 years, HCLTech has built a solid foundation in the region, working with various prominent clients. As the hub for HCLTech’s Southeast Asian operations, Singapore has seen several pioneering projects led by HCLTech, including the development of Asia’s first Wi-Fi-based patient tracking system and initiatives in collaboration with the Singapore government.
The new lab aligns with HCLTech’s mission to equip businesses in Singapore and Southeast Asia with advanced AI solutions. By expanding its AI capabilities globally, HCLTech’s Singapore lab will play a critical role in developing the next wave of AI-driven business solutions across the region.
HCLTech’s Market Performance and Shareholder Confidence
While HCLTech’s shares remained stable at approximately Rs 1,758.25 during the announcement, the company saw increased investment from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) and Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) in the September quarter of FY25. The new lab underscores HCLTech’s commitment to enhancing regional innovation, positioning the company for further growth in the AI space.
HCLTech will launch an AI Lab in Singapore, its fifth global lab, joining locations in the US, UK, Germany, and India. By launching its fifth AI lab in Singapore, HCLTech aims to reinforce its presence in the Southeast Asian market while addressing the region’s AI talent gap. Collaborating with institutions like Nanyang Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic, the lab is poised to develop specialized skills for young talent and mid-career professionals. This approach aligns with Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0, which encourages industry-specific AI adoption and responsible AI use. HCLTech’s partnerships with educational institutions can play a crucial role in nurturing a skilled workforce that supports Singapore’s AI vision.
However, the lab must find innovative ways to tackle industry-specific AI challenges in financial services, manufacturing, and SMEs, making a clear distinction from other global labs or training programs. Only then can it make a significant impact in Singapore’s crowded tech ecosystem.
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