SINGAPORE, 26 August 2024 – TechLaw.Fest, Asia’s premier law and technology conference, returns next month, bringing together global leaders from the legal, technology, academia and government sectors to discuss the intersection of law and technology, with a particular focus on generative artificial intelligence (GenAI).

Now in its seventh year, TechLaw.Fest will be held at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre on 11 and 12 September 2024. Co-organised by Singapore's Ministry of Law and the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL), this year's conference will focus on GenAI's impact on various areas including creativity, the fair use of foundational models and the future of private law.

Experts will also compare AI regulations across jurisdictions, including the EU and China, and discuss global trends and their influence on regional AI governance. Additionally, the sessions will address the dangers of deepfakes and misinformation, with a focus on international policy developments in relation to AI, such as the EU’s Digital Services Act.

The conference opens with a fireside chat between Mr Edwin Tong SC, Singapore’s Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, The Honourable Justice Aedit Abdullah from the Supreme Court of Singapore, and Mr Mike Yeh, Regional Vice President, Corporate External and Legal Affairs, Microsoft Asia. Their conversation will discuss the opportunities, challenges and regulatory aspects of the use of AI in the legal sector, as well as the role of legal professionals in the age of AI.

The Honourable Justice Kwek Mean Luck from the Supreme Court of Singapore will deliver opening remarks on day two, where he will unveil how SAL is using technology to deliver more efficient services for its members and the public. 

SAL Chief Executive Mr Yeong Zee Kin said: “AI is rapidly changing the legal profession, and it’s vital for legal practitioners to not only adapt but take proactive steps in this transformation. As AI advances, staying ahead of the curve and understanding its profound impact on legal practice and societal norms is essential for professionals in the field."

“TechLaw.Fest 2024 is more than just a conference. It’s a dynamic platform for innovative minds and influential voices to come together to tackle the pressing issues of AI governance and ethics. Our goal is to create a vibrant dialogue that empowers legal professionals with the insights and skills they need to thrive in this new era.”

The discussions will be complemented by a legal technology exhibition where innovators will demonstrate the latest advancements in legal technology and engage in tech talk stage sessions.

Passes for TechLaw.Fest begin at $250 for SAL members and $350 for non-SAL members.