Microsoft unveiled its inaugural Southeast Asia research laboratory, establishing a strategic hub for artificial intelligence across the region. The facility, Microsoft Research Asia (MSRA) Singapore, will develop industry-specific AI applications and nurture local tech talent.

The Economic Development Board (EDB) supported this landmark moment for the city-state, according to the manpower minister. Microsoft has contributed significantly to the innovation and digital ecosystem over 35 years.

This new lab operates as a key node in Microsoft’s global research network. It prioritises multi-domain innovation, focusing initially on agentic AI and foundation models for healthcare, finance, and logistics.

A major initiative involves a partnership with a health group to advance AI for precision health. This aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy and deliver personalised patient care.

Other research includes advancing spatial intelligence with local universities. They develop embodied AI for smart environments, adapting AI for cultural contexts to ensure reliability.

The lab also focuses on talent development, supporting the national AI strategy to cultivate 15,000 AI practitioners by 2030. It creates high-value roles for researchers and scientists, mentoring doctoral candidates via an EDB-supported programme.

Jermaine Loy, EDB’s managing director, stated, “The establishment of Microsoft Research Asia’s first lab in Southeast Asia reflects our commitment to partner leading tech players to deliver real-world impact through AI, from Singapore”. He expects the lab to create opportunities in healthcare and finance.

Guest Idea

Jermaine Loy
Managing Director
Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)

Jermaine Loy assumed the role of Managing Director for the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) on 1 March 2025. He also chairs the DesignSingapore Advisory Board and serves on the Boards of SG Growth Capital, the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. Before joining EDB, Loy was the Principal Private Secretary to then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong from April 2021 to December 2024. His extensive public service background includes work at the Ministry of National Development, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Trade and Industry. Loy holds an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management and a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the Technical University of Munich.