AI Influence Profile
Ong Ye Kung
Positioning
Member of Parliament. Spoke in 6 AI-related parliamentary debates (2016–2026), most often on AI in Healthcare and AI Governance & Regulation.
Parliamentary AI record (6)
Regulatory Framework for AI-developed Drugs and Implications on Clinical Trials, and Adequacy of Data Protection Safeguards for National Patient Data
2026-05-06 · Parliament 15
Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health in writing whether the Ministry has studied if AI-developed drugs can shorten or bypass clinical trials; if so, how their regulatory approval would differ from conventional products; what regulations currently govern AI healthcare innovations; and whether existing personal data protection and cybersecurity safeguards can prevent data leakage when AI accesses national patient data for product conceptualisation. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung replied that both AI-developed and conventionally developed drugs must meet the same international standards of quality, safety and efficacy — no shortcuts. The Health Sciences Authority's regulatory approach is aligned with international agencies such as the US FDA and the European Medicines Agency, which have set out key principles on the responsible use of AI in drug development. Patient data is robustly protected, including under the Personal Data Protection Act, and the Government will continue to monitor developments and strengthen safeguards as needed. The reply affirmed a "same standards" principle: AI does not change the evidentiary bar for drug approval.
MOH Committee of Supply 2026 — Preventive Healthcare & AI
2026-03-05 · Parliament 15
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung used the MOH Committee of Supply debate to announce that Singapore has officially become a super-aged society (over 21% of the population aged 65+). MOH unveiled the ACE-AI predictive tool (developed by Synapxe) for diabetes and hyperlipidaemia risk screening, anchored on an "AI-enhanced, not AI-decided" principle, with rollout to all Healthier SG clinics from early 2027. Other measures: BRCA1/2 genetic testing subsidy from December 2026 (up to 70%); MediShield Life cover for preventive surgeries (mastectomy in Q3 2026, salpingo-oophorectomy in Q4 2026); and higher MediSave chronic and preventive care limits (raised from 500/700 to 700/1000 from January 2027), benefiting 910,000+ patients.
Supporting Healthcare
2023-05-10 · Parliament 14
The debate focused on continuing support for healthcare beyond the pandemic, with particular emphasis on mental health in academia. MPs noted that academic pressure drives high rates of anxiety and depression among researchers and graduate students, calling for attention to mental health. The government did not respond directly. The core debate: balancing academic performance pressure with mental-health protection.
Credibility and Adoption of AI-based Diagnostic Solutions
2023-05-08 · Parliament 14
The question focused on the credibility of AI-based diagnostic solutions and the regulatory considerations for wider adoption. The government noted AI is already widely used in Singapore healthcare, with safety, clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness as preconditions for adoption. It outlined the existing regulatory framework, upcoming governance guidance, and ethical considerations. The core debate: balancing tech innovation with safety oversight.
Committee of Supply − Head U (Prime Minister's Office)
2019-02-28 · Parliament 13
Questions focused on how the Public Service can use AI and data analytics to lift efficiency, integrate services, and meet citizen needs. MPs emphasised that technology should be citizen-centred and avoid mechanical enforcement, with the government pushing high-tech, high-touch, and high-adaptability transformation in the public sector to lift productivity and service quality.
Committee of Supply – Head J (Ministry of Defence)
2016-04-07 · Parliament 13
MPs raised the defence budget, emphasising a complex, evolving national security environment including terrorism, South China Sea disputes, North Korea's nuclear threat, and piracy. The government cited SAF's build-up achievements and the need to address diversified security threats. The core debate: balancing limited resources with multi-front defence demands.