AIFN Book Review Podcast
With all the hype around Google’s NotebookLM podcast capability, I thought why not give it a try and created an AI-First Nation (AIFN) podcast. So, I uploaded the PDF copy of the book to NotebookLM, and within 10mins or so, the podcast was generated.
I must say I am impressed, although it got a few things incorrect and maybe was over enthusiastic about certain things, but I would say generally it captured the essence of AI-First Nation. Listen to the podcast below and let me know what you think over at the AIFN community.
I have also included a NotebookLM generated summary of the AIFN book just for completeness.
Have fun with Google’s NotebookLM!

AI Singapore: A Blueprint for an AI-First Nation (AIFN)
*** Generated by NotebookLM ***
“AI-First Nation” is a book authored by Laurence Liew, chronicling AI Singapore’s journey and outlining a blueprint for nations and organizations aiming to harness the transformative potential of AI.
The book highlights AI Singapore’s strategic initiatives, led by Liew, to propel Singapore to the forefront of the global AI landscape.
Foundational Programs Driving AI Innovation and Adoption
AI Singapore, under Liew’s leadership, implemented key programs to address talent scarcity, accelerate AI adoption, and democratize AI knowledge:
- 100 Experiments (100E): This flagship program, central to AI Singapore’s innovation strategy, connects AI researchers with industry partners to develop and deploy real-world AI solutions, bridging the gap between research and practical applications. The 100E program has evolved over time to address industry needs. Initially structured as a 12-24 month research-focused initiative, it transitioned to the 100E for Industry (100E4I) track, featuring a shorter 5-month project cycle to deliver production-quality Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). This shift reflects AI Singapore’s agility in adapting to industry demands for faster and more tangible results.
- AI Apprenticeship Programme (AIAP): AIAP is the cornerstone of AI Singapore’s talent development strategy. It equips aspiring AI engineers with practical skills through a rigorous 9-month full-time program, combining intensive deep-skilling in AI and software engineering with hands-on experience on real-world projects. The program’s success is evident in its impressive outcomes. 70% of apprentices receive at least one job offer before graduation, with 99% securing employment within six months of completion. This underscores AIAP’s effectiveness in addressing the AI talent shortage and preparing individuals for successful careers in the field.
- LearnAI: LearnAI comprises a suite of programs designed to democratize AI knowledge across a broad audience. Initiatives such as AI for Everyone (AI4E) demystify AI for the general public, AI for Industry (AI4I) provides technical training for professionals, and tailored programs cater to students and even young children. This comprehensive approach to AI education ensures that Singapore’s workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
Addressing Challenges and Evolving to Meet Industry Needs
“AI-First Nation” emphasizes AI Singapore’s proactive approach to tackling challenges:
- Talent Scarcity: Recognizing the lack of qualified AI engineers in Singapore, AI Singapore created AIAP to cultivate a pipeline of local talent. This initiative proved instrumental in addressing the shortage and equipped individuals with the practical skills needed to contribute to the industry.
- Industry Apprehension: To address the lack of awareness and exaggerated fears surrounding AI, AI Singapore developed AI4E to educate and demystify AI for the public. This program effectively transformed skepticism into enthusiasm and acceptance, fostering a more receptive environment for AI innovations.
- Data Limitations: The sources highlight the challenges posed by inconsistent, incomplete, or error-ridden data, hindering AI model development. AI Singapore’s implementation of the baseline model requirement prior to project approval aimed to mitigate these challenges by ensuring data readiness from the outset.
Achieving Global Recognition and Putting Singapore on the World Map
“AI-First Nation” underscores AI Singapore’s impact and global recognition:
- International Collaboration: AI Singapore’s programs, particularly AIAP and 100E, attracted international interest, leading to collaborations with countries like Egypt and Malaysia seeking to replicate these successes. The AIAP-X initiative extends the AIAP model to other nations, demonstrating AI Singapore’s commitment to global AI talent development.
- Participation in GPAI: Liew’s leadership role in the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), particularly in the Innovation and Commercialisation Working Group, showcases Singapore’s thought leadership and contribution to shaping global AI agendas. The development of the AI4SME portal, spearheaded by AI Singapore within GPAI, provides a valuable resource for SMEs seeking to adopt AI effectively.
A Blueprint for the Future
“AI-First Nation” provides a compelling blueprint for establishing an AI-driven ecosystem:
- Government Investment: The book emphasizes the importance of government support in building AI infrastructure, fostering talent development, and funding AI projects.
- Industry Adoption: AI Singapore’s success in connecting researchers with industry through the 100E program highlights the importance of industry collaboration and real-world problem-solving.
- Academic Contributions: The close collaboration between AI Singapore and academic institutions is crucial for nurturing AI research talent and driving innovation.
- Public Awareness: Programs like AI4E demonstrate the need for widespread AI literacy to demystify the technology and empower individuals to embrace its potential.
Laurence Liew’s book “AI-First Nation” offers a practical roadmap for nations and organizations to leverage AI for societal and economic benefit. It emphasizes a holistic approach encompassing research, talent development, industry adoption, public awareness, and global collaboration.