Recognition
Centre for AI Innovation (CEAI), Global Group Executive Chairman, Prof Dr M Nazri Muhd Crowned World’s No. 1 AI Thought Leader in Thinkers360 Global Rankings 2026
Singapore, 5 October 2026 – In a landmark recognition of exceptional leadership and influence in the global artificial intelligence landscape, Prof Dr M Nazri Muhd — serial entrepreneur and Group Executive Chairman of the Centre for AI Innovation (CEAI) Global — has been ranked No. 1 among the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Artificial Intelligence 2026 by Thinkers360, a leading global platform for identifying and ranking influential thought leaders across business and technology.
The announcement, published on the Thinkers360 platform and accessible at thinkers360.com, recognises 50 exceptional individuals across 14 countries and territories who are actively shaping the discourse around AI strategy, responsible adoption, innovation, and the future of work. The ranking is determined through Thinkers360’s patented algorithm, which evaluates original curated content, professional experience, and multi-dimensional influence spanning entrepreneurial, authorship, speaking, and advisory roles — assessing both the quality and quantity of contributions.
Prof Dr M Nazri’s ascent to the pinnacle of this global list is a distinction that reverberates well beyond Singapore’s borders. As a serial entrepreneur — not an academic scholar — his influence is grounded in the practical, real-world application of AI across industries and markets. Leading CEAI Global, he has championed frameworks for AI adoption that are both commercially viable and ethically responsible, bridging the critical gap between technological capability and human-centred implementation. His work resonates with policymakers, business leaders, investors, and communities alike, making his recognition particularly significant given the breadth of audiences his ideas reach and influence.
The 2026 list reflects a genuinely global conversation, with thought leaders drawn from the United States (24 representatives), the United Kingdom (7), India (4), Australia (2), Germany (2), Singapore (2), the United Arab Emirates (2), and single representatives from Canada, Georgia, Greece, Hong Kong SAR China, Morocco, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Singapore’s dual representation — with Prof Dr M Nazri at No. 1 and Amenallah Reghimi at No. 14 — underscores the city-state’s increasingly prominent role in the international AI ecosystem.
From a policy perspective, this recognition carries meaningful weight. Governments worldwide are racing to establish credible national AI strategies, and the inclusion of thought leaders from across the Global South and emerging economies signals a maturing, more inclusive global dialogue on AI governance. Singapore, long regarded as a model for tech-forward policymaking, now has its most prominent individual voice recognised at the highest international level.
For the broader business and investment community, rankings such as these serve as important navigational tools. In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping supply chains, financial services, healthcare, education, and public administration, identifying credible, principled voices who can translate complexity into actionable strategy is invaluable. Prof Dr M Nazri’s top ranking positions CEAI Global as a key reference point for organisations seeking trusted AI leadership.
Civil society and community advocates have equally noted the significance of the recognition. AI’s trajectory will be shaped not merely by technologists, but by those who ensure its benefits are equitably distributed and its risks responsibly managed. Entrepreneurial leaders who operate at the intersection of innovation and impact — as Prof Dr M Nazri does — are essential to ensuring AI serves humanity broadly, not just selectively.
For students, researchers, and the next generation of innovators, this milestone offers an important signal: meaningful AI leadership is not confined to the largest economies or the most established institutions. It can emerge from entrepreneurial conviction, consistent thought leadership, and an unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in service of a better world.
As artificial intelligence continues its rapid evolution, the recognition of voices like Prof Dr M Nazri Muhd affirms that progress is most meaningful when it is led with both intelligence and integrity.
Spokesperson Quote
“Being ranked No. 1 globally by Thinkers360 is deeply humbling, but more importantly, it is a reaffirmation of purpose. AI is not merely a technological phenomenon — it is a civilisational shift that demands responsible stewardship, entrepreneurial courage, and genuine human-centred thinking.
This recognition belongs to every organisation, policymaker, entrepreneur, and community that has engaged with CEAI’s work and trusted us to help navigate this transformation. It reinforces my belief that meaningful AI leadership transcends geographical boundaries, industries, and institutions. What truly matters is our collective ability to translate technological advancement into meaningful progress for humanity.
My commitment remains unchanged — to ensure that artificial intelligence serves people first, empowers organisations and communities, drives inclusive and sustainable growth, and is governed with integrity. The journey towards a more intelligent, equitable, and human-centred future is only beginning.”
Prof Dr M Nazri Muhd, Group Executive Chairman, Centre for AI Innovation (CEAI), Global