United Overseas Bank (UOB) has been announced as a participant in Enterprise Singapore’s Champions of AI programme, a national initiative aimed at transforming businesses through artificial intelligence (AI). The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong at the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) event.
UOB’s ambition under the programme is to scale trusted AI with measurable impact, aiming to generate S$900m in economic value by 2030. The bank plans to develop and industrialise enterprise AI from its Singapore headquarters, deploying capabilities across ASEAN and beyond. This initiative will embed AI across customer journeys, employee workflows, and business operations to enhance decision-making, services, and transactions.
The bank’s strategy includes three key thrusts. Firstly, UOB aims to transform into an AI-native bank by building a trusted enterprise intelligence layer, enabling businesses to access data and transact across ASEAN. The bank has already deployed over 300 AI use cases and plans to focus on scaling these initiatives for consistent enterprise-wide impact.
Secondly, Project AURA will deploy generative and agentic AI at scale across five priority domains, including anti-money laundering and credit origination. This project aims to grow revenue, enhance productivity, and lower risks.
Lastly, UOB is investing in its workforce by equipping 32,000 employees with AI skills. The bank’s Innovation Talent Associate Programme (iTAP) provides new graduates with hands-on experience in AI and technology.
Deputy Chairman and CEO Wee Ee Cheong stated, “UOB embraces AI to better serve customers, strengthen our business, and unlock new opportunities across ASEAN.” He emphasised the importance of moving with purpose and trust in the AI journey.
