Certis unboxes 'robocop' as it explores use of humanoid robots

SINGAPORE, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore-based tech security powerhouse Certis has received its first humanoid robot, marking a new step in its push to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics could reshape frontline operations in an increasingly tech-driven services sector.

The robot, developed by robotics firm Agibot, was delivered last week under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the two companies in February. Under the agreement, both parties will explore how humanoid robots might be used in security and integrated facilities management, although Certis said no deployment decisions have been made for now.

Described as a research and evaluation initiative, the partnership will focus on understanding how humanoid robots could eventually complement human roles in complex operational settings, at commercial buildings, transport hubs or customer-facing environments, in the areas of security, operations and facilities management, as a start.

"This collaboration represents a shift in how we think about technology integration," said Mr Leonard Oh, chief executive of Certis' technology services business. "We are exploring how humanoid robotics might complement our workforce and integrate with our existing operational ecosystems in meaningful ways — whether by enhancing service touchpoints, improving responsiveness, or unlocking new modes of human-technology interaction."

The robot will be tested for integration with Certis' existing platforms, including its proprietary Mozart orchestration system, which enables coordination across security, facilities and customer service operations. The company emphasised that it is not conducting a live deployment at this stage, but instead is studying the robot's capabilities, interface compatibility, and potential fit within its wider operational ecosystem.

This is the first time Certis is employing the use of a humanoid robot, though it has deployed other forms of robotics in recent years. These include autonomous mobile surveillance units used for patrolling high-security sites, and earlier-generation service robots that were trialled in commercial buildings for tasks such as thermal screening, temperature taking and concierge assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new robot differs from previous deployments in its humanoid design and AI capabilities, which are aimed at enabling human interaction, navigation and service delivery in indoor environments. It features mobility functions and interactive elements, and is designed to operate alongside human staff, rather than replace them.

Agibot's general manager of sales, Mr Xiong Jilin, said the partnership would allow the firm to explore real-world deployment scenarios, especially in service environments with high operational demands.

"This partnership will allow us to test how humanoid robots can be applied thoughtfully and responsibly in real-world settings, and test the usability and acceptance of using such robots in security, facilities management and guest management settings," he said.

The move comes as Singapore steadily increases its adoption of robotics and automation across sectors, particularly in response to labour shortages and a national push toward productivity gains. The country's National Robotics Programme has backed research and pilot projects across areas such as cleaning, logistics, healthcare and transport. Autonomous floor-scrubbing robots are now a common sight in shopping malls and airport terminals, while delivery bots have been trialled in residential estates and university campuses.

"This partnership between Certis and Agibot speaks to Singapore's strength as a trusted global hub for robotics and embodied AI innovation and adoption," said Mr Tung Meng Fai, Executive Director, National Robotics Programme. "We are encouraged that Certis is taking the lead to explore new solutions and technologies to augment its workforce and uplift the security industry."

In the private sector, hospitality chains, hospitals and public infrastructure operators have also adopted robotic assistants for concierge, navigation and logistics tasks.

Despite the growing presence of robots in the public sphere, humanoid robots remain relatively uncommon in operational use, due to higher costs, technological complexity, and evolving questions around user interaction, safety and scalability. Certis acknowledged that humanoid robotics remained in its early stages, with part of a longer-term strategy to assess what role such technologies could play in augmenting its services for its customers.

"While the capabilities of humanoid robots are promising, practical integration still requires careful consideration—across people, processes and platforms," Mr Oh said.

"Ultimately, our goal is to shape technology that works alongside people, not in place of them."

About Certis (www.certisgroup.com)

Backed by decades of experience in security, Certis is a leader today in smart integrated operations, leveraging technology to power transformations in security, manpower, facilities and property management solutions.

Guided by our Operational Design First philosophy, our vast service offerings capitalise on our strong security heritage and deep operational expertise, enhanced with applied AI solutions for better decision making and outcomes. Central to our approach is our unique Business Process Re-engineering and Operations (BPRO^®) framework, where we help customers manage change and enhance efficiencies through design thinking and a problem-solving approach.

Incorporated in 2004, Certis is headquartered in Singapore, with an international presence extending to Australia and Qatar. We are a trusted partner dedicated to our clients' success, supported by our 26,000-strong global team, always striving to make our world safer, smarter, better.

SOURCE Certis