Mixed sentiments on generative AI in Singapore workplaces

Generative AI is reshaping workplaces, sparking enthusiasm among business leaders and employees, but concerns about its impact persist.
By: | October 9, 2023
Topics: Digital Transformation | Employee Experience | News | Singapore | Southeast Asia

Generative AI technologies, such as large language models, are rapidly transforming workplaces, and both employees and business leaders are aware of the potential impact.

A report found that nine in 10 business leaders in Singapore (18% strongly agree, 73% somewhat agree) believe that generative AI technologies can enhance employees’ work quality and support daily tasks. This sentiment is echoed by almost three-quarters of employees (7% very comfortable, 67% somewhat comfortable) who expressed comfort working alongside generative AI technologies. Moreover, 68% of employees incorporate generative AI technologies into their daily work, with varying degrees of integration (5% to a large extent, 26% to a moderate extent, 37% to a small extent).

While enthusiasm for AI integration is palpable, concerns linger. Specifically, 41% of the 650 working professionals surveyed in NTUC LearningHub’s Future Jobs and Skills Report 2023 worry that generative AI technologies will eventually replace their jobs. Other concerns include security (52%), legal and ethical considerations (40%), their own digital fluency and proficiency (31%), and the potential for inaccuracies or biases in AI-generated output (29%). Business leaders share these concerns, particularly the challenge of transitioning employees to higher-value job roles (40%).

READ MORE: Generative AI adoption surges in Singapore’s workplaces

The report also highlighted that nearly four in five business leaders (21% very aware, 55% somewhat aware) are aware of the current use of generative AI technologies by their employees, with 63% actively promoting their use. However, only 41% of employees feel that their organisations encourage the use of these technologies.

Sean Lim, CHRO at NTUC LearningHub, said, “To ensure successful and safe integration of AI at the workplace, it is essential that employers adopt an employee-centric approach. Open communication channels and collaboration are necessary to involve employees in AI adoption and provide them with the assurance that AI will augment their jobs rather than replace them.”