Shopee cuts jobs in Singapore amid AI push (www.channelnewsasia.com)

E-commerce giant Shopee has announced significant job cuts at its Singapore headquarters, affecting hundreds of developer roles globally, which represents about 8% of its developer workforce. This decision aligns with Shopee's ongoing strategic shift toward artificial intelligence, as the company aims to bolster its capabilities in this rapidly evolving sector. Employees reportedly received notifications of layoffs through instant messaging and in-person meetings, with the company offering severance packages that comply with local guidelines. The significance of this move lies in Shopee's commitment to AI as a foundational capability, which its parent company, Sea, believes is essential for future growth. Sea aims to double down on AI investments, having recently established an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence in Singapore to enhance innovation across its platforms. Despite rising operational costs and previous layoffs linked to profitability challenges, Sea's latest quarterly report indicates increased earnings, suggesting a potential rebound as the company expands its focus beyond e-commerce. This pivot could reshape the competitive landscape within Southeast Asia's tech industry, driving advancements in AI application across various business sectors.