Artificial Intelligence and Digital Trust

Singapore is a country at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Trust, two fields that seek to enable societies, governments, and businesses to make better use of data in a trusted manner. Both these fields enjoy strong government support, with several new efforts to further innovation and deployment and a measured and pragmatic regulatory approach.

A significant development in AI governance was Singapore’s Model Artificial Intelligence Governance Framework, which came in first in the “Ethical Dimensions of the Information Society” category at the annual World Summit on the Information Society held in Geneva, Switzerland in 2019. Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) subsequently launched AI Verify, the world’s first AI Governance Testing Framework and Toolkit, at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland in May 2022. 

Singapore has also taken the lead in AI best practices in the region with the issuance of 2 ASEAN AI Governance and Ethics Guides (2024, 2025) in collaboration with the 9 other ASEAN members. Both Guides are modelled on Singapore’s AI governance frameworks.   

As AI technology is a fast-moving and fast-evolving field, Singapore regulators regularly issue and update guidance materials to assist the industry in their use of AI and develop checklists and toolkits for organisations to assess how their AI systems measure up against internationally-accepted AI governance principles. For organisations, keeping up isn’t optional – it’s essential.The Singapore Government has also launched the National Digital Trust Centre in June 2022, with funding from IMDA and the National Research Foundation, to spearhead Singapore’s research and development efforts in key areas of trust technologies including, for example, Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs). The private sector has also been very active in this field, with a leading trade association hosting the world’s first Digital Trust Forum in Singapore in October 2022.

Our team comprises well-established technology and regulatory lawyers with extensive experience in their respective fields and diverse professional backgrounds (covering private practice, industry and the public sector). When required, we also tap on the technical expertise of our in-house senior cybersecurity and privacy engineer (who also works closely with our Data Protection, Privacy & Cybersecurity practice).

Our clients span the entire AI ecosystem - from foundation model developers to legal technology companies leveraging these foundation models, to companies developing their own AI solutions or procuring them from other companies. We also advise companies looking to procure the high-performance computing resources (GPUs) required for training AI models whether for their own use or for third-party use.

We have advised our clients on compliance with Singapore laws and regulatory frameworks relating to AI, data governance and processing of data, and drafted/reviewed the necessary contractual documents for them for procuring or providing the AI solution. We have also advised on various intellectual property and liability issues arising that may arise from the use of AI in the workplace (for example, in assessment and decision-making) and to produce work product such as marketing materials, images and code for software applications.

AI and Digital Trust are exciting, developing spaces, with laws and regulatory frameworks that continue to evolve, both domestically and internationally — and we are fully equipped to advise you on the following:

• legal, regulatory and governance issues relating to the development and deployment of AI in your organisation, including compliance with applicable laws, development and implementation of internal governance frameworks and addressing related ethical issues and risks
• implementing Singapore’s Model Artificial Intelligence Governance Framework, and other guidelines or legislation on the use of AI
• drafting and reviewing contracts for procuring or supplying AI-related technology and related services
• IP protection strategies for AI innovations
• Procuring the computing resources (e.g., GPUs) for AI model development

We also provide customised training sessions for companies on legal, governance and ethical issues arising from AI use. The training can be tailored for any level, from procurement teams to the C-suite. We have worked with companies across different industries (e.g. insurance, hospitality, retail) to deliver such customised trainings.

• Conducted training for board members of a leading Asian insurer on the legal and ethical issues arising from the use of AI
• Advised a Japanese IT company developing AI-powered solutions to monitor employee productivity on privacy, IP and liability issues, coordinating a solution for deployment across multiple Asian jurisdictions
• Advised an MNC in the hospitality and entertainment business on the procurement of an AI solution for customer sentiment analysis
• Assisted a leading online platform company in China with reviewing agreements with vendors for the purchase of cloud computing services, addressing foreign export control regulations from a Singapore-law perspective
• Advised an MNC on template contractual clauses to limit its liabilities where it uses AI to provide services to its customers, or develops AI solutions for its customers
• Advised a leading frontier AI model developer on the deployment of its generative AI services in Singapore including a proposed web-search function
• Advised on the interaction of Singapore and approximately 10 overseas export control regimes for advanced semiconductors (chips), semiconductor manufacturing equipment and quantum and AI-related technologies to develop compliance strategies for companies
• Advised a local startup on their procurement of high-performance computing resources (i.e. Nvidia GPUs) to train AI models and reviewing and drafting Infrastructure-as-a-Service contractual documents
• Advised a foreign defence company subject to US export controls on the interaction of their disclosure obligations with the Singapore Official Secrets Act 1935
• Advising an Asian regulator on the laws (covering data localisation, data protection, infrastructure and export controls) required for the setup of data centres in their special economic zone

• Advised on the interaction of Singapore and approximately 10 overseas export control regimes for advanced semiconductors (chips), semiconductor manufacturing equipment and quantum and AI-related technologies to develop compliance strategies for companies
• Advised a local startup on their procurement of high-performance computing resources (i.e. Nvidia GPUs) to train AI models and reviewing and drafting Infrastructure-as-a-Service contractual documents
• Advising an Asian regulator on the laws (covering data localisation, data protection, infrastructure and export controls) required for the setup of data centres in their special economic zone

Our team monitors legal developments in AI governance and regulation around the world. We have developed a series of articles on AI-related topics, including an explainer of Singapore’s Model AI Governance Framework and addressing how AI is regulated, or may interact with, other fields.

Working together with Drew Academy, we provide solutions that reflect our deep understanding of underlying technologies, the risks and uncertainties involved and practical business considerations.

For more information about our publications on AI (and other technology topics), please visit the Drew Academy’s webpage at www.drewnapier.com/Academy/Artificial-Intelligence.

Our team has also contributed articles in the following publications:

• International Comparative Legal Guide: Generative AI and Cyber Risk in Singapore Expert Analysis Chapter 2026, available here.
• ​International Comparative Legal Guide: Generative AI and Cyber Risk in Singapore Expert Analysis Chapter 2025, available here.
• The Legal 500: Artificial Intelligence Comparative Guide 2025 (Singapore), available here.
• The Legal 500: Artificial Intelligence Comparative Guide 2024 (Singapore), available here.
• The Legal 500: Artificial Intelligence Comparative Guide 2023 (Singapore), available here.
• Chambers Global Practice Guides – Artificial Intelligence 2025 (Singapore) available here.
• Chambers Global Practice Guides – Artificial Intelligence 2024 (Singapore) available here.
• Chambers Global Practice Guides – Artificial Intelligence 2023 (Singapore) available here.
• Global Legal Insights: AI, Machine Learning & Big Data Laws, and Regulations 2026, available here.
• Global Legal Insights: AI, Machine Learning & Big Data Laws, and Regulations 2025, available here.
• Global Legal Insights: AI, Machine Learning & Big Data Laws and Regulations 2024, available here. 
• Global Legal Insights: AI, Machine Learning & Big Data Laws and Regulations 2023, available here. 
• Lexology Panoramic Next: Artificial Intelligence 2025, available here.
• Lexology Panoramic Next: Artificial Intelligence 2024, available here.

Asian Legal Business Southeast Asia Law Awards
Southeast Asia Technology, Media and Telecommunications Law Firm of the Year 2025

Lim Chong Kin – Southeast Asia Data Privacy and Protection Lawyer of the Year 2024

Cheryl Seah – Singapore Rising Star 2025
Clients and industry partners commend Seah's "strong ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes with clarity" and that she is "well attuned to commercial, business and market considerations."

Lexology 100: Data (formerly the GDR 100)
Listed as one of the world’s top data law firms by Law Business Research for 5 consecutive years

The practice “accurately identifies our needs without much prompting” and is able to “tailor a comprehensive scope of services which met our objectives, timeline and budget”. The client also praises the team’s extensive network, which is “able to connect us with reputable law firms in other countries to assist us on the personal data protection project, so while we communicated with Drew & Napier only, the team smoothly coordinated the project with foreign law firms”.

One client notes Chong Kin’s “impressive” knowledge of personal data protection law and appreciates ability to provide advice on a “regulator’s stance and rationale for the law”.

Another client praises David N. Alfred for his ability to “quickly analyse complex issues and provide robust analysis on compliance processes”.

“The firm provides a seamless and personalised service that gives you surety that the lawyers in charge are considering your matters after putting down the phone. It doesn’t attempt to bill for every bit of advice, and doesn’t give constant disclaimers to fend off liability, which is a sign of confidence. In urgent situations, its lawyers are prepared to give advice directly, without insisting upon written instructions. The firm has a wide global network which gives easy access to reputable and reliable lawyers in other jurisdictions – it has relationships with these and so isn’t just name dropping.”

“Whether you have a fat or lean legal budget, Chong Kin remains consistent as a true partner and far-sighted adviser. His knowledge of data protection law is impressive but, best of all, he is able to advise about the regulator’s stance and the rationale behind the law. He is also incredibly responsive and gives matters his personal attention.”

Chambers Asia Pacific
Data Protection (Asia-Pacific region) 2026 – Band 4

TMT 2026 – Band 1 for 19 consecutive years
Lim Chong Kin – Band 1
David N. Alfred – Band 4

"The firm has the ability to understand the stakes on the table, the complexity and sensitivity of the situation and advise accordingly, providing direct and honest feedback."
"Drew & Napier provides a holistic service, allowing it to take an integrated approach to assisting clients. The team, led by thought leaders in the field, has very deep experience and expertise."
Clients appreciate that "They have a good depth and breadth of expertise and experience in their teams so can handle complex and sophisticated matters".
A client remarks: "Drew & Napier has an understanding of intricacies of data protection requirements, and an ability to come up with pragmatic solutions".
"Drew & Napier are able to handle complex mandates relating to data protection and cybersecurity, fintech, and technology procurement and regulations; they're equipped to offer the full breadth of services surrounding the TMT sector."
"The firm is a relationship builder that focuses on their clients' needs. They have impeccable interpersonal skills and are always willing to go the extra mile."
"The firm is extremely knowledgeable in the areas we have discussed. Everyone we interacted with understands the issues from a commercial point of view."
"It was awesome - they are so fast and very hands-on."
“Areas of strength include telecoms and media regulations, as well as data protection issues.”

Singapore Business Review
Cheryl Seah - identified as one of Singapore’s 20 most notable lawyers under 40 for 2024 for her work on AI matters

The Legal 500 Asia Pacific
Data Protection & Cybersecurity 2026 – Tier 1 for 2 consecutive years; Tier 2 in 2024
David N. Alfred – Leading Individual for 3 consecutive years

Recommended Lawyers
Lim Chong Kin for 3 consecutive years
Anastasia Su-Anne Chen for 3 consecutive years

'No other local firms have individuals who have comparable experience with the Singapore data protection regulator. This allows the Drew lawyers to have a very good handle on how the regulator thinks and what their priorities are.'
‘Drew & Napier is the firm I consistently recommend to clients when they need support on data protection and cybersecurity.'
'Very experienced in international work. Exceptional team with real depth. You know you are putting clients in safe hands.’
‘A capable team with experience, domain expertise, and deep bench strength.’
‘Lim Chong Kin is a standout leader in his field who is authoritative and respected in his advice and insights.’
'Anastasia Su-Anne Chen comes with deep experience, domain expertise, and provides advice that is relevant, useful, and solutions-oriented.'
‘The team has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to data protection, with the answers at the tip of their fingers.’
‘The Drew & Napier team excels in data protection and cyber security. Chong Kin, David, and Su-Anne have built a specialised practice group that draws from a wealth of experience, and one that stays up to date with the ever-evolving landscape of data privacy laws and regulations and AI governance. They understand the complexities and challenges of being in the regional data protection space, which allows them to provide tailored and effective legal solutions.’
‘Drew & Napier is one of the foremost technology and data legal practices in Singapore. Lim Chong Kin runs a very efficient and tight ship, and provides valuable insights based on his experience working with policy makers and regulators.’
‘David Alfred, as the former chief counsel of the Singapore Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC), has in-depth understanding of data protection laws in Singapore and ASEAN. His ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and his deep understanding of our industry's nuances have consistently impressed me.'
‘Lim Chong Kin is outstanding in grasping the needs of the in-house team and addresses every piece of work with high professionalism.’
‘David Alfred and Anastasia Su-Anne Chen are both amazing. Their advice is very practical and can be applied easily to our company's business.’
'Anastasia Su-Anne Chen brings with her deep industry and regulatory experience. Her attention to detail and ability to anticipate potential legal issues is admirable and gives me confidence.’
“Lim Chong Kin and his team give realistic and practical advice for our engagement. They are able to provide effective solutions.”
“Anastasia Su-Anne Chen’s subject matter expertise truly shines through when dealing with novel problems.”
'Anastasia Su-Anne Chen comes with deep experience, domain expertise, and provides advice that is relevant, useful, and solutions-oriented.'
‘The team has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to data protection, with the answers at the tip of their fingers.’
‘The Drew & Napier team excels in data protection and cyber security. Chong Kin, David, and Su-Anne have built a specialised practice group that draws from a wealth of experience, and one that stays up to date with the ever-evolving landscape of data privacy laws and regulations and AI governance. They understand the complexities and challenges of being in the regional data protection space, which allows them to provide tailored and effective legal solutions.’
‘Drew & Napier is one of the foremost technology and data legal practices in Singapore. Lim Chong Kin runs a very efficient and tight ship, and provides valuable insights based on his experience working with policy makers and regulators.’
‘David Alfred, as the former chief counsel of the Singapore Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC), has in-depth understanding of data protection laws in Singapore and ASEAN. His ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and his deep understanding of our industry's nuances have consistently impressed me.'
‘Lim Chong Kin is outstanding in grasping the needs of the in-house team and addresses every piece of work with high professionalism.’
‘David Alfred and Anastasia Su-Anne Chen are both amazing. Their advice is very practical and can be applied easily to our company's business.’
'Anastasia Su-Anne Chen brings with her deep industry and regulatory experience. Her attention to detail and ability to anticipate potential legal issues is admirable and gives me confidence.’
“Lim Chong Kin and his team give realistic and practical advice for our engagement. They are able to provide effective solutions.”
“Anastasia Su-Anne Chen’s subject matter expertise truly shines through when dealing with novel problems.”

TMT 2026 – Tier 1 for 3 consecutive years (2024- 2025, 2009 - 2019); Tier 2 for 4 consecutive years (2020 – 2023)

Lim Chong Kin – Hall of Fame for 7 consecutive years, previously a Leading Individual for 9 consecutive years

Recommended Lawyers
David N. Alfred for 6 consecutive years
Anastasia Su-Anne Chen

“What potential clients will appreciate about this team is their deep bench strength and strategic sophistication. Their understanding of complex, nascent legal landscapes is matched by their responsiveness and clarity. This is essential for clients like ours operating in high-stakes, evolving domains.”
“What we have valued most in this team is they're calm under pressure, their willingness to innovate, and their collaborative spirit. They are not only legal advisors but true partners, invested in our mission, generous with their time, and always attuned to the real-world impact of their work.”
“Their exceptional combination of legal prowess and technical acumen has earned them a well-deserved reputation as pioneers in the industry.”
“Deep subject matter expertise and an ability to quickly obtain informal guidance from regulators on murky issues. Superbly responsive and comprehensive.”
“The team is solid in the Singapore market. Reliable and commercial.”
“…responsive, collaborative and progressive as a firm.”
“…team at Drew & Napier LLC is one such remarkable ensemble, carving a niche for themselves in the field of tech law.”
“Lim Chong Kin is approachable and always willing to provide practical and useful advice.”
“Lim Chong Kin is knowledgeable, experienced, responsive, and practical in advice.”
“Drew & Napier’s telecoms team, and especially its leader Chong Kin Lim, are simply fantastic. Chong Kin is responsive, friendly, and thorough. He has deep expertise, and he also maintains an active understanding of our business needs and requirements.”
“Chong Kin Lim stands out because of his responsiveness, reliability, relationships with regulators and deep expertise.”
“The team has deep insight into local TMT regulatory policies, rules and enforcement practices.”
“The team is very collaborative, dependable and able to turn around work within the deadlines given.”
“Lim Chong Kin is approachable, respectable and yet personal in his service.”
“Provides a truly excellent service in terms of responsiveness, business acumen and practical knowledge”
“Fantastic” and “deserve strong recognition for their client focus”
"Excellent legal knowledge and in-depth understanding of the regulator"

Lexology Index (previously Who’s Who Legal)
Lim Chong Kin
Global Guide: Artificial Intelligence 2026 – Regulatory & Compliance – Recommended Lawyer
Thought Leader: Telecoms, Media & Entertainment 2026 – Telecoms & Media for 2 consecutive years
Thought Leader: Telecoms, Media & Entertainment 2026 – Entertainment for 2 consecutive years
Global Guide: Telecoms & Media 2026 – Recommended Lawyer for 8 consecutive years
Global Elite Thought Leader: Data 2026 – Data Privacy & Protection for 2 consecutive years
Global Thought Leader: Data 2026 – Information Technology
Global Guide: Data 2026 – Data Security – Recommended Lawyer
Thought Leader: Data 2026 – Data Privacy & Protection
Thought Leader: Data 2026 – Information Technology
National Guide: Southeast Asia – Data 2025 – Recommended Lawyer for 5 consecutive years
National Guide: Southeast Asia – Competition 2025 – Recommended Lawyer for 5 consecutive years
Global Guide: Competition 2025 – Recommended Lawyer for 7 consecutive years
Global Elite Thought Leader: Data 2025 – Data Security
Global Elite Thought Leader: Data 2025 – Information Technology
Global Guide: Data – Information Technology 2024 – Recommended Lawyer for 6 consecutive years
Global Guide: Data – Data Privacy & Protection 2024 – Recommended Lawyer for 3 consecutive years

David N. Alfred
Global Guide: Data 2026 – Data Privacy & Protection – Recommended Lawyer for 2 consecutive years
Global Guide: Data 2026 – Data Security – Highly Recommended Lawyer; Recommended Lawyer  
Client Choice 2026: Data
National Guide: Southeast Asia – Data 2025 – Recommended Lawyer

Anastasia Chen
Global Guide: Data 2026 – Data Privacy & Protection – Highly Recommended Lawyer; previously Recommended Lawyer  
Global Guide: Data 2026 – Data Security – Highly Recommended Lawyer; previously Recommended Lawyer  
Global Guide: Data 2026 – Information Technology – Recommended Lawyer
Client Choice 2026: Data – Information Technology
National Guide: Southeast Asia – Data 2025 – Recommended Lawyer for 2 consecutive years

Cheryl Seah
Global Thought Leader: Artificial Intelligence 2026 – Transactional and Advisory (this is a category above “Highly Recommended”)
Global Guide: Artificial Intelligence 2026 – Regulatory & Compliance – Recommended Lawyer (only 3 lawyers in Singapore are ranked for this area of work)
Cheryl Seah draws the praise of peers and clients as "a thought leader in the field of artificial intelligence", owing to her "diligent, intelligent and thorough" approach.
Client Choice of Counsel for Artificial Intelligence in Singapore 2026
“Cheryl is without a doubt a leader in the field of artificial intelligence” “meticulous and in depth knowledge on the practice area, both locally and across jurisdictions”, described as “diligent, intelligent, thorough and extremely analytical” and “her ability to quickly ease into new environments with cultural awareness and sensitivity makes her unique”.

asialaw Profiles
“Proactive, responsive, timely and solutions-oriented.”