The potential and concerns of quantum computing coexist. Yang Liming: We must take proactive measures to address risks | Lianhe Zaobao

Quantum computing is expected to profoundly reshape the economy and various industries, much like artificial intelligence (AI), but it also brings complex challenges that must be approached with caution.

The Minister for Digital Development and News, Yang Liming, expressed this view during a speech at the IBM Quantum Summit on Thursday (October 23).

She pointed out that quantum computing has already shown application potential in areas such as financial modeling, biopharmaceuticals, energy optimization, and geospatial analysis. Although this technology helps solve problems that have been difficult to tackle in the past, it could also be used for malicious purposes, such as breaking encryption technologies that protect sensitive data and communications.

She stated, "This concern has prompted the international community to take proactive measures to ensure that systems are prepared before risks materialize. Governments around the world recognize the strategic significance of quantum technology, and we must shift from passive regulation to proactive planning to lay a solid foundation for technologies that have potential, far-reaching impacts but are difficult to predict."

However, the development of quantum technology still faces challenges such as a shortage of talent, high research and development costs, and inadequate infrastructure.

Yang Liming said that what the government can do is promote the development and collaboration in the scientific field, establish a skilled and sustainable talent pool, and support the transformation of research results into scalable and commercially viable solutions.

Further Reading

Cybersecurity Agency launches new guidelines on quantum and proxy AI security to help the industry mitigate potential risks of emerging technologies HSBC establishes a quantum excellence center locally, focusing on quantum security solutions

In addition, Singapore is establishing a National Quantum Computing Center to provide researchers and businesses with a commercial cloud quantum computing platform, bringing together industry partners and experts to jointly develop quantum solutions. One application is simulating molecular interactions to accelerate drug development, which helps shorten drug development cycles and reduce healthcare costs

National University of Singapore and IBM Collaborate to Accelerate Frontier Research

On the other hand, the Artificial Intelligence Research and Innovation Center jointly established by the National University of Singapore and IBM has officially launched. IBM is responsible for providing a full-stack AI infrastructure and a series of open models to collaborate with the National University of Singapore to accelerate frontier research in artificial intelligence and quantum technology, with one key focus being geospatial models.

Chen Zekai, head of IBM's quantum business development, revealed in an interview that this research combines physical and artificial intelligence models to predict weather and climate. For example, airports can predict landing conditions four to six hours before a flight takes off.

He said, "We also use geospatial models to map and monitor situations such as floods and wildfires. For instance, during a flood, some roads may be impassable, and geospatial models can help rescue teams find the fastest route to reach areas in need of assistance as quickly as possible."

Meanwhile, Chiang Mai University in Thailand has signed two memorandums of understanding with IBM to develop artificial intelligence geospatial models to address challenges such as natural disasters, air pollution, and flooding by joining the research innovation center and the IBM quantum network.

Chiang Mai University has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the National University of Singapore to explore opportunities for joint research and development of next-generation artificial intelligence and quantum technology