Yesterday evening, at the Italian Embassy in Singapore, we had the pleasure of hosting Quantum is Everywhere — a unique event that brought together science, technology, art, and diplomacy in celebration of the 60° anniversary of Italy–Singapore diplomatic relations and in celebration of the UNESCO International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, IYQ.
What hundred years ago belonged solely to the realm of theoretical physics is now becoming a core part of global innovation strategies. As stated by Ambassador Dante Brandi in his opening remarks, “Italy and Singapore have embraced this transformation — building new bridges in research, technology, and creativity. Our two countries first formalised scientific collaboration in 2016, and in 2023 we took a major step forward with the signing of the First Executive Programme, where quantum technology emerged as a key area of joint focus”.
But what truly made the event special was the dialogue between brilliant minds who embody this intersection of science and imagination.
BJ Han, CEO of SiliconBox, brought an industry-shaping perspective on semiconductors and the future of quantum-enabled hardware — a field where both Italy and Singapore are investing heavily. Dr. Alessandro Luongo, researcher at the Centre for Quantum Technologies, offered a compelling dive into the future of quantum computing and related benefits and risks. From the artistic side, Prof. Ina Conradi-Chavez, a multidisciplinary artist and academic at Nanyang Technological University Singapore, explored how quantum concepts can inspire new forms of visual storytelling. And Wan Kyn Chan, contemporary artist, reflected on the aesthetic of quantum — reminding us that complexity can also be beautiful.
We are especially grateful to Dr. Nicola Bianchi, our Scientific Attaché, whose dedication continues to deepen scientific diplomacy, and to Marco Scaioli, Director of DZE Asia Pte Ltd, for curating an event that challenges conventional boundaries and connects disciplines in meaningful ways.
Because when science meets diplomacy, and art meets innovation, we don’t just imagine the future — we begin to shape it.
