Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat officiated the inauguration at the National University of Singapore (NUS), underscoring the significance of RNA research for the nation’s health and economic future.

RNA biology is recognized as a rapidly expanding field that is crucial for Singapore's future health and economic needs, with RNA molecules playing essential roles in genetic processes.

On March 24, 2025, Singapore launched the National Initiative for RNA Biology and Its Applications (NIRBA), a $130 million research program aimed at enhancing the country's RNA research capabilities.

NIRBA aims to foster collaboration among key institutions, including NUS, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), to establish world-leading research in RNA science.

The initiative will create 'Innovation Clusters' for agile research development and operationalize pathways to leverage health and economic benefits from RNA research.

Professor Ashok Venkitaraman will lead NIRBA, focusing on addressing diseases like cancer and cardio-metabolic syndromes that disproportionately affect Asians.

Singapore's existing capabilities in genomics and precision medicine provide a solid foundation for advancing RNA-based therapeutics, with initiatives like PRECISE-SG100K linking genetic ancestry to disease prevalence.

Research under NIRBA will concentrate on four strategic areas: the impact of Asian genetic diversity on RNA biology, the effects of RNA modifications on immunity, RNA transport mechanisms, and the actions and clearance of RNA-based drugs.

Over the next seven years, the funding will also support training for researchers, recruitment of international talent, and resource sharing for local research staff.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of RNA molecules, particularly through mRNA vaccines, which have led to a surge in RNA-based therapies targeting various diseases.

As of the end of 2023, at least 25 RNA-based therapies have been approved by the US FDA, with over 125 more undergoing clinical trials for various health conditions.

While NIRBA primarily focuses on human health, it also addresses applications in agriculture, food safety, veterinary medicine, and synthetic biology.