Singapore Releases AI Agent Governance Framework

Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) released the Model AI Governance Framework for Agentic AI in January 2026 for AI agents that autonomously read files, modify data, and process payments. Although this framework is a set of non-binding voluntary guidelines, it is expected to become a standard reference document for audit institutions and major enterprises.

4 Core Dimensions

The framework presents the following 4 dimensions to manage the risks of AI agents:

• Access Control: Clearly defining the scope of access for agents in advance
• Human Accountability: Ensuring substantive accountability rather than formal 'human oversight'
• Technical Logging: Technically recording all actions and decision-making processes
• User Transparency: Continuously informing end users of the agent's activities and status

Real-World Risk Scenarios

The framework presents scenarios of risks that may occur when all 4 dimensions fail. For example, it warns that unlike simple chatbots, autonomous agents can cause immediate damage when errors occur, illustrated by a scenario where an invoice approval agent quietly processes fraudulent invoices for 6 weeks.