Singapore’s Singtel partners with Nvidia to build a research lab for companies that care about data sovereignty

Fortune

by Angelica Ang

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Singtel, Singapore’s largest telecommunications company, has announced a partnership with U.S. technology giant Nvidia to establish a new “center of excellence” focused on AI and data sovereignty. This initiative aims to support businesses, including banks, hospitals, and government entities, by designing advanced data centers capable of processing large amounts of local data securely. The center, set to launch in June, will also create an ecosystem for AI model developers and app builders, enabling companies to scale their AI applications effectively. The partnership underscores Singtel’s strategic shift away from traditional mobile services, which have faced declining revenue due to competition from messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. As a result, the company is doubling down on its digital infrastructure and AI initiatives, such as building an “AI grid” with liquid-cooled, hyper-connected data centers. This move aligns with Nvidia’s broader goal of expanding its global presence in AI research and infrastructure. Singtel’s CEO highlighted that while chips form the foundation of AI, the real value lies in developing robust AI systems and infrastructure. The company’s efforts to future-proof its business include projects like a new data center in Johor, Malaysia, and a joint venture with private equity firm KKR to acquire ST Telemedia Global Data Centres. These investments position Singtel as a leader in Asia’s growing AI and digital transformation space. For businesses, this collaboration matters because it addresses the critical need for secure, localized data processing and AI-driven decision-making. By focusing on data sovereignty and cutting-edge infrastructure, Singtel and Nvidia are helping organizations navigate the complexities of modern AI adoption. This partnership not only strengthens Singapore’s position as a global hub for

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/24/2026