S G 60 A Starbanksondeeptechecosystemininnovationdrive

Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, August 12th 2025 at 17:48 GMT by The Straits Times
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Singapore's A*Star Drives Innovation Through Deep-Tech Ecosystem

In a feature article from The Straits Times, the spotlight is on Singapore's Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star), which is positioning itself as a pivotal force in the nation's innovation landscape, particularly as Singapore marks its 60th year of independence. The piece delves into how A*Star is leveraging a robust deep-tech ecosystem to propel economic growth, foster cutting-edge research, and address global challenges. Deep tech, as highlighted, refers to advanced technologies rooted in scientific breakthroughs, such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, quantum computing, and advanced materials, which require substantial research and development (R&D) before commercialization.

The article begins by outlining A*Star's evolution since its establishment in 1991 as the National Science and Technology Board, later restructured into A*Star in 2002. Over the decades, it has grown into a powerhouse with over 5,000 researchers across more than 20 research institutes and centers. This growth aligns with Singapore's broader strategy to transition from a manufacturing-based economy to one driven by knowledge and innovation. A*Star's chairman, Chan Yeng Kit, emphasizes the agency's role in building a "vibrant deep-tech ecosystem" that integrates academia, industry, and government. This ecosystem is designed to nurture startups, attract global talent, and translate research into practical applications that benefit society and the economy.

A key theme is A*Star's focus on collaborative partnerships. The article details how A*Star works closely with universities like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), as well as multinational corporations such as Procter & Gamble and Siemens. These collaborations have led to breakthroughs in areas like precision medicine and sustainable urban solutions. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic, A*Star's researchers developed rapid diagnostic kits and contributed to vaccine development efforts, showcasing the agency's agility in responding to crises. The piece quotes Frederick Chew, A*Star's chief executive, who stresses the importance of "open innovation" – a model where ideas flow freely between public and private sectors to accelerate progress.

Delving deeper into deep tech, the article explores specific initiatives. One highlight is the Singapore Deep Tech Alliance, an A*Star-led platform that connects startups with mentors, funding, and infrastructure. This alliance aims to bridge the "valley of death" – the challenging phase where promising research struggles to secure investment for scaling. Examples include advancements in quantum technologies, where A*Star's Institute of High Performance Computing is pioneering quantum algorithms for drug discovery and financial modeling. Another area is biotechnology, with A*Star's Bioprocessing Technology Institute developing cell therapies for cancer treatment, potentially revolutionizing healthcare in Asia.

The article also addresses Singapore's ambitions in sustainability. A*Star is at the forefront of green technologies, such as carbon capture and utilization, aligning with the nation's goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Researchers are working on innovative materials like advanced membranes for water purification and energy-efficient batteries. These efforts are supported by government funding, including the Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 plan, which allocates billions to R&D. The piece notes how A*Star's urban solutions, like smart city technologies, are being exported to other countries, enhancing Singapore's reputation as a global innovation hub.

Talent development is another cornerstone. A*Star invests heavily in scholarships and training programs to build a skilled workforce. The article features stories of young scientists, such as those in the A*Star Graduate Academy, who are tackling interdisciplinary challenges. For example, AI researchers are applying machine learning to optimize supply chains, reducing waste in logistics – a critical need in a trade-dependent economy like Singapore's. The agency also emphasizes diversity, aiming to increase female representation in STEM fields and attract international experts through initiatives like the Global Young Scientists Summit.

Looking ahead, the article paints an optimistic picture of A*Star's role in Singapore's future. With SG60 as a backdrop, it reflects on how far the nation has come from its early days of industrialization to becoming a leader in deep tech. Challenges like geopolitical tensions and talent competition are acknowledged, but A*Star's strategy includes fostering resilience through diversified research portfolios. Chew envisions a future where deep-tech innovations drive not just economic value but also societal impact, such as personalized healthcare and climate resilience.

The piece underscores the economic multiplier effect of A*Star's work. For every dollar invested in R&D, there are significant returns in job creation and GDP growth. Startups spun off from A*Star, like those in medtech and agritech, have attracted venture capital and created high-value jobs. The article cites examples such as a company developing lab-grown meat, addressing food security in land-scarce Singapore.

In essence, the article portrays A*Star as the engine of Singapore's innovation drive, banking on a deep-tech ecosystem to navigate an uncertain world. By integrating research with real-world applications, A*Star is not only advancing technology but also ensuring Singapore remains competitive on the global stage. This comprehensive approach, blending public policy, private enterprise, and academic rigor, positions the agency as a model for other nations aspiring to build knowledge economies. The narrative concludes with a call to action: for Singapore to continue investing in deep tech to secure a prosperous, innovative future beyond SG60.

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Read the Full The Straits Times Article at:
[ https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/sg60-astar-banks-on-deep-tech-ecosystem-in-innovation-drive ]