Singapore launches new Hybrid Quantum Classical Computing initiative

The initiative, announced at the SupercomputingAsia 2025 conference, is led by the National Quantum Office

Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information, announced the Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing at SCA2025..

Singapore has launched a new initiative to leverage the strengths of classical supercomputers and quantum computers working together. 

At the opening event of the SupercomputingAsia 2025 (SCA2025) conference on 11 March 2025, Guest-of-Honour and Minister for Digital Development and Information Mrs Josephine Teo announced the new Hybrid Quantum Classical Computing (HQCC 1.0) initiative in her speech. 

“In strategic areas, the ability and willingness to invest for the long term is an advantage. For example, this approach has allowed Singapore to build a strong base in quantum computing and engage meaningfully with leading players today,” she said. 

“We will take a further step forward today to seed capabilities in hybrid quantum-classical computing through the new HQCC 1.0 initiative.” 

HQCC 1.0 will focus on developing engineering and scientific talent in hybrid quantum-classical computing, equipping Singapore with the expertise needed to lead in this emerging field. It also aims to advance middleware development and hybrid algorithms, enabling seamless quantum-classical integration and maximising computational efficiency. 

Singapore’s National Research Foundation has set aside $24.5 million to seed capabilities in this field. The grant will be used to support research in hybrid computing middleware, algorithms and software tools, enabling closer integration between high performance computing and quantum technologies. 

HQCC 1.0 will be led by Singapore’s National Quantum Office. It builds on the expertise of the National Quantum Computing Hub (NQCH), leveraging the infrastructure of the National Supercomputing Centre (NSCC) Singapore, alongside the middleware and software development expertise from A*STAR Institute of High Performance Computing and the Centre for Quantum Technologies. 

“The HQCC 1.0 Initiative is a strategic step in advancing Singapore’s quantum computing capabilities through bridging quantum and classical systems. By developing a robust hybrid quantum-classical computing ecosystem, we aim to accelerate real-world applications in areas such as computational biology, finance, and logistics. This initiative will also help grow a critical mass of talent and industry collaborations.” said Mr Ling Keok Tong, Executive Director of the NQO. 

“Hybrid quantum-classical computing represents a new frontier for Singapore where the unique qualities of both technologies are being brought to bear to strengthen Singapore’s competitive edge on the global stage,” said Dr Terence Hung, Chief Executive of NSCC Singapore. 

At SCA2025, NSCC Singapore also signed two Memorandums of Understanding with chip manufacturer AMD and CSC Finland respectively to advance and accelerate skills and capability building in both supercomputing and quantum computing. 

This article was adapted from a press release by NSCC Singapore. 

Other media: 

CNA: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/watch/firms-can-access-ai-tech-through-new-pilot-scheme-4993581  

HPC Wire: https://www.hpcwire.com/2025/03/10/singapore-launches-hybrid-quantum-hpc-push-at-sca2025/ 

The Edge Singapore: https://www.theedgesingapore.com/digitaledge/digital-economy/singapore-supercharges-hpc-quantum-computing-and-ai-research-245-million