Gov’t invests in quantum tech to combat cyber threats

It launches two quantum programmes to manage healthcare and finance data.

Two new quantum engineering programmes (QEP) were introduced to be one step ahead of "malicious actors" continue to proliferate cyber attacks, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said.

In a speech at the Asia Tech X Singapore Summit, Heng was discussing how cyber threats should be addressed by being “one step ahead of malicious actors.”

He said the cyber landscape is also evolving, with quantum technology as a game-changer to curb cybersecurity risks.

Whilst strong encryption is secure for digital networks, Heng warned that there is computing power to break the encryption.

He further pointed out that quantum computing, which is more than 150 million times faster than the fastest supercomputer, can be used to bridge the gaps in encryption.

With this, the government’s two QEP were launched to manage sensitive data related to healthcare and finance as well as deploy quantum-safe communication technology in energy grids.

These programmes include a national quantum computing hub, that will further strengthen talent development and get better access to quantum tech, and a national quantum fabless foundry, which will support micro and nanofabrication of quantum devices across partner cleanrooms. 

“Our investment in quantum computing and quantum engineering is part of our approach of trying to anticipate the future, and proactively shaping the future that we want,” said Heng.