Empowering Migrant Workers in Singapore through AI: Building a LLM-Powered Chatbot that Speaks to Their Hearts
At AI Singapore, we are deeply committed to the principle that AI must be a force for good, enhancing the well-being of all communities that form the backbone of our society.
In Singapore, migrant workers play a vital role in society – from building our homes and infrastructure to caring for our families and loved ones. Yet, many face difficulties in navigating daily life in their new environment, from understanding their rights to finding support for stress and isolation. Today, to address these daily challenges, we are proud to share the development of a purpose-built chatbot powered by SEA-LION in collaboration with Google and the Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants & Itinerant People (ACMI), to provide migrant workers with efficient, 24/7 access to accurate and relevant information drawn from official publicly available sources such as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website, as well as access to necessary services, all in their own native languages (e.g. Burmese, Filipino or Indonesian). This initiative is designed to be the essential initial point of assistance for migrant workers, recognizing the critical nature of these services.
AI Singapore and Google building and testing the chatbot with Migrant Workers
A Companion for Everyday Challenges
Our AI-powered chatbot was built with one goal in mind — accessibility. Many migrant workers encounter barriers such as language differences, limited access to reliable information, and unfamiliarity about local systems.
The chatbot helps users:
- Understand employment rights and responsibilities
- Navigate healthcare and community services
- Access mental wellness resources
- Find guidance on financial literacy (e.g. opening a bank account)
- Receive culturally sensitive support in multiple Southeast Asian languages
Available anytime, the chatbot acts as a trusted, non-judgmental companion—speaking the same language as its users and providing clear, reliable guidance in moments that matter most. Designed with migrant workers in mind, the chatbot communicates fluently in their native languages (e.g. Burmese, Filipino or Indonesian), capturing the tone, expressions, and cultural familiarity they know by heart. Many users have shared that interacting with the chatbot feels like talking to someone from their hometown—someone who truly understands them and is easy to connect with. This sense of familiarity builds trust, comfort, and connection, transforming technology into a source of genuine human support.
More Than a Tool — A Bridge to Knowledge
As part of this initiative, we conducted educational sessions to introduce migrant workers to artificial intelligence, large language models, and the chatbot. These sessions increased awareness within the migrant worker community about the rapidly evolving digital world and how these technologies can support their daily lives when used thoughtfully.
The sessions covered:
- Understanding AI and chatbots — what they are and how they work
- Practical uses of AI tools — how platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Meta AI can help with everyday tasks
- Using AI wisely — recognising limitations and risks, and learning how to use these tools safely and responsibly
By demystifying AI, we support workers in gaining the knowledge and confidence to make the most of technologies that increasingly shape everyday life, while strengthening digital literacy within the migrant worker community.
AI educational sessions conducted by AI Singapore for migrant workers
Built Together: A Community Collaboration
This initiative would not have been possible without the collaboration of dedicated partners across Singapore’s ecosystem. These partnerships ensured that the chatbot was designed with real needs at the center rather than assumptions. Through listening sessions, field research, and continuous feedback loops, we co-created a solution that reflects lived experiences.
AI Singapore in ACMI
Responsible AI at the Core
Because we developed the chatbot using our own LLM (i.e. SEA-LION), we were able to prioritize:
- Data privacy and security
- Bias mitigation and inclusive language
- Clear guardrails for sensitive topics
- Continuous improvement based on community feedback
We understand that trust is earned — especially when serving vulnerable communities. Responsible AI design was not an afterthought; it was foundational.
Technology With Purpose
This initiative reflects our broader belief: AI should not only optimize businesses — it should strengthen communities. Migrant workers contribute enormously to Singapore’s growth. Supporting them in navigating life here is a collective effort—one built on collaboration, shared care, and a commitment to move forward together. We are deeply grateful to our partners, volunteers, and team members who made this possible. Together, we have built more than a chatbot — we have built a bridge between AI and humanity.
Looking Ahead
We remain committed to expanding language coverage, strengthening partnerships, and deepening AI literacy programs. Our goal is simple: To ensure that the power of our own AI technology uplifts those who contribute so much to Singapore. Because true innovation is not measured by algorithms. It is measured by the lives we improve.
Contact Us
We welcome partnerships, collaborations, and conversations with organizations that share our commitment to empowering migrant communities.
If you would like to:
- Partner with us
- Support the initiative
- Deploy the chatbot within your organization
Please reach out to us at sealion@aisingapore.org. Together, we can use AI to create meaningful impact.
Supported By
We would like to also express our sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for their invaluable support and guidance throughout this initiative.