IBM & Singapore Partner on AI Model to test SEA-LION (1 for Southeast Asia)!

IBM and AI Singapore (AISG) have partnered to test SEA-LION, a large language model (LLM) designed specifically for Southeast Asia. The collaboration aims to enhance AI accessibility, scalability, and governance in the region. By integrating SEA-LION into IBM’s AI ecosystem, businesses can leverage localized AI solutions to drive innovation and efficiency.

IBM and AI Singapore Collaborate to Trial SEA-LION LLM for Business AI

IBM and AI Singapore (AISG) have partnered to test the SEA-LION large language model (LLM) within IBM’s AI technology ecosystem, including the watsonx platform. This initiative aims to offer businesses more choices in selecting AI models that best fit their needs. The collaboration also involves integrating SEA-LION into IBM’s AI use case library and Digital Self-Serve Co-Create Experience (DSCE), allowing developers, data scientists, and engineers to leverage localized generative AI for enhanced productivity.

Advancing AI in ASEAN: Open and Scalable Solutions

Catherine Lian, IBM’s General Manager and ASEAN Technology Leader, underscored the importance of SEA-LION in addressing linguistic challenges across ASEAN. She highlighted IBM and AISG’s shared vision of fostering an open AI ecosystem to promote accessibility and inclusivity in the region.

This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by enabling businesses, researchers, and developers to access advanced AI technologies tailored to local needs. By prioritizing linguistic diversity and regional challenges, the collaboration supports the development of AI solutions that empower enterprises, drive innovation, and create new opportunities for economic growth across Southeast Asia.

Leslie Teo, Senior Director of AI Products at AISG, reinforced this perspective, emphasizing the value of public-private collaboration in strengthening AI capabilities within Southeast Asia. He expressed enthusiasm about working with IBM to drive wider adoption of SEA-LION, ensuring businesses can implement AI solutions effectively and responsibly. By leveraging SEA-LION’s capabilities, organizations can enhance their AI-driven workflows, improve automation, and optimize decision-making processes. This collaboration aims to provide enterprises with scalable, efficient, and secure AI solutions tailored to their unique operational needs.

Additionally, it fosters knowledge sharing between public and private sectors, encouraging innovation while maintaining ethical AI practices. With IBM’s expertise and AISG’s regional focus, the partnership will support businesses in overcoming challenges related to AI deployment, compliance, and integration across various industries.

Ensuring Responsible AI Implementation

IBM and AISG are committed to embedding AI governance principles into SEA-LION, helping organizations manage AI compliance, risk mitigation, and model lifecycle oversight. This collaboration aims to support businesses in deploying AI safely and in alignment with regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.

By integrating AI governance into SEA-LION, IBM and AI Singapore (AISG) seek to help organizations manage risk, transparency, and accountability in AI applications. The initiative will provide tools and frameworks for businesses to monitor AI performance, address biases, and ensure ethical AI use. Additionally, it will support enterprises in navigating evolving regulations and implementing responsible AI strategies. This partnership underscores the commitment to fostering trust in AI while enabling businesses to innovate confidently in Southeast Asia.