Tech Week Singapore 2024

A Global Technology Epicentre

Held at Marina Bay Sands from 9 to 10 October 2024, the 10th edition of Tech Week Singapore focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and transformative technologies that are reshaping digital transformation across Asia. The event drew over 26,000 attendees and featured more than 550 international speakers, solidifying its position as the region’s nexus for discourse on technology and its future frontiers.

Starting out with Cloud Expo Asia and Data Centre World as two co-located events, Tech Week Singapore has since expanded in scale and scope alongside the rapid growth of the tech ecosystem. Today, it comprises a mainstage conference and seven co-located shows: Cloud Expo Asia, DevOps Live, Cyber Security World, Data Centre World, Big Data & AI World, eCommerce Expo, and Technology for Marketing. Andy Kiwanuka, Managing Director of CloserStill Media Asia Pacific, said, “Tech Week’s evolution has been really driven by the industry itself, which has gone through exciting progression and innovations. The advancement and technology that's happening now is unprecedented.”

Kiwanuka emphasised the strong support received by Tech Week Singapore from government agencies like the Infocomm Media Development Association and Singapore Tourism Board, praising their “commitment to enhancing technology in Southeast Asia”. This dedication, he believes, has cemented the country’s position as a leader in AI, innovation, and technology implementation, making it the perfect stage for events like Tech Week Singapore.

Beyond discussing the power of AI in today's digital world, the conference included keynote sessions and panel discussions that delved into various aspects essential to ensuring AI’s sustainable development in the midst of widespread adoption. This focus on responsible AI underscores Singapore’s growing prominence as a hub for ethical and innovative technological advancement, a point further emphasised by Open AI’s announcement during the event of its plan to open a Singapore office.

Daryl Pereira, Director & Head of 'Office of the CISO' at Google Cloud for Asia Pacific, who spoke on the Tech Week Mainstage on Day 2, also highlighted Singapore's distinctive advantage as an English-speaking international hub and launching pad for new businesses, with many global companies basing their Asian headquarters here.

“There is an ongoing stickiness to Singapore where you get funding support, bench strength from the local population, and the ability to bring in foreign talent with new ideas developed elsewhere. It creates a unique dynamic you don’t find in other conferences. Here you see many different ideas from across the world converging in one spot,” said Pereira.

Tech Week Singapore showcased a breadth of technological innovation through its seven meticulously curated co-located shows that touched every aspect of the digital landscape, from AI and cyber security to technology infrastructure. The event offered technology professionals invaluable opportunities to network, explore cutting-edge solutions, and gain insights into the latest industry trends. Returning attendees like Matt Farley, Director, Infrastructure & Technology at the Asian Development Bank, found it valuable for identifying potential vendors and sourcing innovative solutions to address specific technological challenges. 

For exhibitors like Tobias Focke, Expert Sales Director Asia at STULZ, Tech Week Singapore provided a crucial platform to showcase their latest innovations, stay on the market pulse, and engage directly with customers. “It is a great opportunity to present our new products, show customers we are in line with market needs, and see what our competitors are doing,” Tobias explained, emphasising the importance of allowing customers to physically interact with and experience the quality of the brand’s products firsthand. 

Focusing on technology infrastructure and innovation, Cloud Expo Asia served as a pivotal event for connecting technologists and business leaders, offering expert insights and services to accelerate digital transformation plans. DevOps Live provided a dedicated platform for examining enterprise-scale cloud and DevOps adoption challenges, while Data Centre World Asia, the region's premier independent data centre event, expanded this year with a 75% increase in exhibition space.

Complementing these were events focused on business and security technologies. Cyber Security World assembled global security experts to discuss the latest cyber threats and protective strategies, marking its first partnership with ISACA for continued professional education. Big Data & AI World created a comprehensive conference experience for data practitioners, decision-makers, and architects. The eCommerce Expo offered crucial insights for businesses navigating the dynamic digital retail landscape, while Technology for Marketing featured the latest digital marketing tools and solutions.

Major tech companies such as Amazon Web Services, Meta, Microsoft, and TikTok Shop participated in the co-located events, adding further prestige to Tech Week Singapore.

More than just a conference, Tech Week Singapore is a catalyst for innovation, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and attracting global talent and investment. The event supports the development of Singapore's digital economy and reinforces its global reputation as a technology hub.

The conversations, connections, and insights generated across two action-packed days will continue to fuel innovation and progress, ensuring that the momentum built at Tech Week Singapore translates into lasting advancements across Asia and beyond.