Manulife Launches Singapore Center to Accelerate Responsible AI

Manulife has inaugurated an Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence in Singapore, positioning the insurer to scale advanced technologies that streamline operations and elevate client interactions.

The insurer intends to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) to simplify and accelerate insurance processes while enhancing personalised advice and engagement, according to a media release issued on Friday.

CEO Benoit Meslet said that «AI allows us to deliver better, faster, and more personalised service to customers», emphasising the value of technology in reinforcing trusted human relationships.

Targeting Use Cases Across the Insurance Value Chain

Underwriting, distribution, operations, and customer engagement are core focus areas, with development guided by transparency and security principles. This approach signals a push to build differentiation in service delivery and cost efficiency while future-proofing the workforce.

Singapore’s deep innovation ecosystem, strong digital infrastructure, and regulated AI governance framework provide an ideal foundation for experimentation and talent development. The company plans to expand AI hiring over the next three years, covering data science, AI governance, and engineering.

Scaling Best Practices Across the Regional Insurance Market

As part of the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s Pathfinder Programme and other research partnerships, Manulife aims to contribute to industry-wide standards for responsible AI.

Mark Czajkowski, Chief AI Officer for Manulife Asia, said that «responsible innovation, governance, and impact» remain central to its enterprise strategy.

Long-Term Bet on Technology-Driven Value Creation

By integrating advanced analytics and automation into core operations, Manulife is aiming to capture productivity gains and deliver more intuitive financial protection solutions.

The initiative underscores a broader industry shift where AI investment is no longer optional but a decisive lever for competitive growth.