Singapore hosts Merck’s first digital hub away from US, Europe

Germany-based Merck has opened a Digital Hub in Singapore, the science and technology company’s first outside of the United States and Europe. 

Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), the Digital Hub is intended to propel advancements within the healthcare and semiconductor industries.

Wan Yee Goh, SVP and head of healthcare at Singapore EDB, said this latest investment by Merck is a show of confidence in Singapore’s digital capabilities. 

Goh said Merck’s Digital Hub will enrich our local ecosystem and help advance digital innovation and talent across healthcare, semiconductor, and artificial intelligence (AI). 

“Merck’s engagement in growing the digital presence in Singapore underscores the pivotal role of data and artificial intelligence as cornerstones of the future economy,” she added. 

Laura Matz, chief science and technology officer at Merck, said Singapore’s strong commitment to digital innovation and adoption has provided a substantial advantage to various sectors, including health tech and semiconductors.

“This initiative is set to spearhead innovation and foster collaborative technology integration, not only in Singapore but also on a global scale,” said Matz.

The Merck Digital Hub brings in the expertise of Syntropy and Athinia, both of which enable secure data collaboration among participants in the healthcare and semiconductor industries. 

These platforms help data owners integrate and curate their data across their organisations. The secure AI-enabled data flow can help unlock efficiencies while ensuring stakeholders maintain control of their intellectual property. 

The Merck Digital Hub adds to Merck’s existing Singapore footprint with around 500 employees in its three business sectors — life science, healthcare, and electronics.