SBS Transit’s Sign Language Virtual Assistant clinches win at Singapore Business Review National Business Awards 2026

Its AI-powered sign language virtual assistant addresses accessibility gaps for deaf and hard-of-hearing passengers.

SBS Transit, Singapore’s leading public transport operator, was recognised in the Transportation category at the Singapore Business Review National Business Awards 2026 for SiLViA — the nation’s first AI-powered sign language virtual assistant. This initiative promotes greater accessibility by empowering deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) commuters to travel independently and confidently on public transport.

Leveraging advanced AI technologies, including Natural Language Processing (NLP), Speech Recognition and Sign Language Generation, SiLViA translates MRT station announcements into sign language in real time. Commuters can also speak to SiLViA or type in their travel-related questions, and she will respond in sign language, speech and text. Her signing movements and facial expressions are designed to be lifelike and natural, ensuring her responses are clear and effective for DHH commuters.

Developed in collaboration with NUS start-up, FingerDance, and validated by the Singapore Association for the Deaf (SADeaf), SiLViA bridges a critical service gap by providing real-time, accessible communication for DHH commuters in a fast-paced public transport environment. Its primary differentiator lies in its human-centred design shaped through extensive research, interviews and field observations involving DHH commuters, sign language interpreters, and public transport staff. Through continuous co-design and testing with SADeaf, the team has ensured that the technology is culturally accurate and user-friendly, making it both practical and impactful in everyday public transport use.

Following a successful public trial at the North East Line Chinatown MRT Station in 2024, which achieved a 99.7% translation success rate, SiLViA was fully deployed at the same station the following year. Within the first two months of deployment, SiLViA translated over 15,000 station announcements and responded to nearly 1,600 commuter enquiries.

Designed for scalability, SiLViA’s modular system allows new sign languages and vocabularies to be added easily, without major overhauls. This adaptability has supported its international expansion, with the solution currently being adapted for deployment at a train station in Abu Dhabi using Emirati Sign Language.

SiLViA demonstrates how AI, guided by empathy, can deliver measurable business value whilst creating meaningful social impact. It sets a new benchmark for accessible service excellence in Singapore and beyond, whilst reinforcing SBS Transit’s position as a leader in innovative, inclusive and sustainable public transport solutions.

The Singapore Business Review National Business Awards is a prestigious programme that celebrates the remarkable achievements of homegrown companies in Singapore. The awards recognise transformative business initiatives, innovative strategies, and impactful projects that have enabled these companies to build a strong reputation in the competitive landscape of the Lion City.

The Singapore Business Review National Business Awards is presented by Singapore Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional contributions to the local business landscape in Singapore, please contact Danica Avila at [email protected].