The Straits Times Podcasts

S1E67: Gen AI won't take your job away. Here's why

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Why older workers with deep domain expertise have a unique advantage in the AI era, how companies can fix the "broken rung" for fresh graduates.

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Ten years ago, the message to the workforce was: "Learn to code." Today, the mandate has shifted to learning AI and prompting chatbots. But as the goalposts move again toward autonomous AI agents that can take over complex workflows, is the Singaporean workforce ready?

In this episode, assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong explores the realities of the AI transition with her guests: Laurence Liew, director of AI innovation at AI Singapore, and Koh Chee Kiong, deputy CEO of WizVision. The 66-year-old recently took up a course in Gen AI and uses AI agents at work.

They also discuss why older workers with deep domain experience have a unique advantage, how to fix the broken rung for fresh graduates entering an AI-assisted corporate world, and why adopting AI is much less daunting, and much more conversational, than you might think.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:04 Why workers have a bigger advantage over fresh graduates with Gen AI

8:05 Gen AI understands broken English

9:53 How young professionals can build industry judgment if AI automates entry-level work

17:39 AI has been implemented decades ago, and will continue to be deeply integrated in work flows by 2035

21:12 Debunking the plumber myth: Why blue-collar jobs aren't AI-proof

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S1E147: Is your psychologist actually qualified? How to check in Singapore

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Clearing the air on what different types of psychologists do.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

The Ministry of Health has announced that five key psychological subdisciplines will be registered under the Allied Health Professions Act, with details expected to be out in early 2027. This move aims to enhance the safety and public trust associated with psychological services and the profession as a whole.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to two council members of the Singapore Psychological Society to find out more about the different roles of psychologists.

They delve into how a clinical psychologist and an educational psychologist may help a client, what one can do to determine if a potential psychologist is the right person to help you, and why registration is important.

The guests are Mr Adrian Toh and Dr Cassandra Neo. Adrian is a clinical psychologist in private practice while Cassandra is a psychologist who works at a public hospital and is trained in educational psychology.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:35 What do psychologists do?

4:10 How might a clinical psychologist and an educational psychologist collaborate to help a primary school student who is not doing well in school?

16:30 Ahead of the registration of psychologists, what can you do to find the right psychologist?

19:55 The different types of psychologists

22:46 How do psychologists qualify for the Singapore Register of Psychologists?

25:19 Why registration is important; reports of potentially harming behaviours of psychologists

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E64: Putrajaya 30 years on: The capital that never quite replaced Kuala Lumpur

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Find out why it has become a paradox decades after its founding.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

Putrajaya, founded in 1995, turned 30 in 2025. As Malaysia’s administrative capital and inspired by Paris, it was supposed to replace the former tin-mining colony that is Kuala Lumpur.

Failure of urban planning that prioritised government offices and grandiosity over organic city life are some of the perceptions cited as to why the city has not lived up to its original promise.

The Straits Times’ Malaysia correspondent Hadi Azmi, who recently moved next door to Putrajaya, tells host and foreign editor Li Xueying, about the disconnect between the ambitious vision for Putrajaya and the ground reality.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:47 The vision and reality of Putrajaya

8:13 The “unfinished bridge” and Putrajaya’s shelved monorail system

10:31 Lack of political will leads to urban planning issues

13:28 Lessons from Putrajaya’s township designs

19:22 Hadi’s personal insights and experience in Putrajaya

Read Hadi Azmi’s article here: https://str.sg/CF3t

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E85: Traffic deaths hit a 10-year high: What's happening on our roads?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:51:53 +0000

A recent report card of our behaviour on the road has shown that we’ve become worse motorists.

Traffic deaths have hit a 10-year high, the number of people injured in accidents has risen from 2024, and speeding violations jumped by 25.9% in a year.

These figures were detailed in the annual road traffic statistics for 2025 by the Traffic Police, which were reported on Feb 26.

We have smart cars, tons of traffic cameras and strict laws to regulate good behaviour on the road, but why have the statistics become worse? Are we just bad road users or are there other factors involved?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I speak with

Ms Bozy Lu, a lawyer and partner at Han & Lu Law Chambers LLP, specialising in road accident claims and community law, and
Mr Jason Lim, chairman of the Riding Safety Association of Singapore, a motorcyclist interest group. He also co-owns Roads.sg, a platform that, at its heart, advocates for road safety.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:16 Why are our roads like that?

5:16 Our devices are making us distracted

7:06 “Please make this guy famous.”

10:39 Do drivers see speed limits as a suggestion?

13:43 “My passenger is chasing me like there’s no tomorrow.”

18:54 Why skills and decision-making key to bikers’ safety

26:46 Firmer legal action needed against jaywalkers?

32:15 What kind of driver or pedestrian are we on the road?

36:48 Are we an entitled bunch on the road?

38:42 Think of another person’s point of view: Bozy

43:57 What needs to change to fix our road culture?

46:00 Why road safety is everyone’s problem

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

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S2E35: Why is S’pore even considering nuclear energy?

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Fossil fuel supply chains are unstable, and renewable energy alone can’t meet all its energy needs.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Singapore is exploring the use of nuclear energy to meet its energy needs, and has taken several steps to build its knowledge and expertise in this area.

But why does the small city-state even need to consider such a controversial energy resource, especially given historical nuclear incidents?

And why is the business-as-usual option to continue with fossil fuel use no longer as viable as before? Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the global nuclear renaissance, and Singapore’s role in it, in this episode.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:05 How is the global nuclear renaissance shaping up?

3:47 Let’s talk about Singapore’s nuclear context.

10:32 Historical concerns vs benefits - can new nuclear tech win over critics?

14:33 Singapore’s energy conundrum – ensuring stable, secure and affordable power

17:41 Is nuclear energy safe? And what steps are needed to boost safety?

23:47 Are we there yet? Is fusion energy the future?

Read more on The Straits Times: https://str.sg/sLPM

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

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SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E37: Do I have too much insurance?

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

What does being overinsured mean and what can I do about it?

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.

The question people always have when buying insurance is: how much? And not just how much it costs, but how much is enough?

How can you tell if you have too much insurance?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what being overinsured means and how to review your policies.

Her guest is Life Insurance Association’s executive director Chan Wai Kit.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:36 What are riders and do I need them?

6:14 Why are riders so expensive?

8:10 Do I need my own policies if I already have corporate insurance?

12:00 Why do premiums increase with age?

14:48 How to tell if I’m spending too much on insurance?

20:09 What happens when I cannot pay for my premiums?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.

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S2E63: Malaysia’s education gamble: UEC option and lowering school age

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

From considering UEC path to starting school at six – is Malaysia's education overhaul built to last?

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For our February episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Zurairi A.R. are joined by Eddin Khoo, historian, writer, educator, and founder of Malaysian traditional culture conservation group Pusaka.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:08 There are more encroachment into the Chinese minority in Kelantan now. What has changed in the last five years?

7:35 PAS’ return to federal government seems imminent. What lessons should non-Muslims draw from Kelantan’s experience?

11:19 Has the government found a durable solution on Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) or will this just spell more trouble in the future?

16:23 PM Anwar seems to have found a political balancing act on UEC. How sustainable is this?

19:38 Was the rollback on the Standard One readiness test responsive governance or poor planning?

22:12 What do Malaysians actually want from the education system?

26:52 If you were elected mayor of KL, what would you fix first?

Where Muslims pray in ‘Beijing Mosque’ and a Chinese community finds its way https://str.sg/chinese-minority-kelantan

Malaysia makes Malay and history compulsory for Chinese independent school route to public universities: https://str.sg/7BNQ

After Sabah drubbing, debate reignites over little-known exam that could break up PM Anwar’s coalition: https://str.sg/n6yA

Who should run KL? Study into local polls stirs fears over demographics: https://str.sg/ci5e

Read Zurairi A.R.’s articles: https://str.sg/DCfr

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Host: Zurairi A.R. (zurairi@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E84: Is owning a car in Singapore now out of reach?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:41:23 +0000

Will the recent changes to the preferential additional registration fee (PARF) rebate and the current COE prices turn away car buyers?

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced in his Budget speech on Feb 12 that the PARF rebate will be lowered by 45 percentage points.

The maximum rebate a car owner can expect to receive will be halved from $60,000 to $30,000.

If you're looking to buy a car, should you go for a new car, a second-hand ICE vehicle, or just give up that dream altogether?

In this episode of The Usual Place, ST’s senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe and veteran automotive consultant Say Kwee Neng share their thoughts.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:21 What is the significance of the PARF?

4:21 Is the PARF rebate reduction a “stick” to get buyers to choose EVs?

8:56 A stealthy wealth tax?

14:53 The implications of older EVs on the road

19:11 The iPhone vs older EVs comparison

24:11 What’s happens to the used car market now?

27:06 Most cost-efficient option now

30:36 Are your dreams of owning a car over?

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E66: Who says Singapore is hot, boring and expensive?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Booming arrivals, stubborn humidity – but dull and overpriced?

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Singapore’s tourism pitch is not just about selling its picture-perfect skyline; it’s also about showcasing its rich multiculturalism, leaning into its talent in hosting world-class events, and taking visitors on a journey to discover how a young nation is defining its own identity.

In this episode, senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei speaks with Ms Jean Ng, assistant chief executive of Experience Development at the Singapore Tourism Board, and Mr Matin Mohdari, head of Public Policy for Southeast and South Asia at online travel company Expedia Group about Chinese traveller sentiment, events as demand drivers, cooling the city, and how AI could reshape tourism by 2040.

They unpack Singapore's 2025 performance, why “hot, boring, expensive” perceptions among some Chinese travellers matter, and how STB is adjusting for younger, social-media-led free-and-easy visitors through partnerships, IP, and precinct storytelling.

The conversation also looks at practical ways to soften the tropical heat, what Singapore offers versus rival Asian cities, and the balance between premium experiences and everyday affordability.

Finally, they explore Tourism 2040 – the roadmap to hitting between $47 and $50 billion in tourism receipts by then – and how AI can boost productivity behind the scenes, while keeping the human stories that make a place emotionally resonant.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:54 “Too hot, too boring, too expensive”

13:14 Singapore can’t change its climate, but it can make the outdoor experience more enjoyable

16:54 Singapore’s edge over other Asian cities

24:48 Going after “quality tourism” in Singapore’s Tourism 2040 roadmap

38:10 What Singapore needs to loosen control over, to be emotionally resonant

S2E36: Top 3 things in Budget 2026 for young people

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

This year's Budget spotlights more ways to invest your CPF and how to deal with AI.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.

Another year and another Budget speech, with goodies given out by PM Lawrence Wong.

But is the Budget just about CDC vouchers and subsidies? What exactly is in it for young people?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what matters for young people in Singapore's Budget 2026.

Her guests are DBS financial literacy expert Shawn Lee and OCBC executive director of wealth advisory Afdhal Rahman.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 How does the new investment scheme by CPF work?

4:58 What to consider before investing your CPF

11:00 SGX vs Nasdaq

14:30 AI as a central theme of the Budget

21:36 Are handouts of $200 to $400 enough for cost of living issues?

25:40 What do you want to see next in Budget 2027?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E62: Singaporean tech founders on building global companies in US

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

From a phone plan for cat parents to a keyless life: Two Singaporean founders share tips from their US start-up journeys

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US Bureau Chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

In this episode, US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar chats with Jasmin Young and Anthony Chow about how they established successful businesses in the US.

Jasmin Young has launched and led several Silicon Valley-based startups including Gather, which aims to build the world's first AI-based telco. She also steered Netreo, an enterprise software business, which was recognised by Inc 5000 as a fastest growing private company for eight consecutive years until 2024. She teaches at University of California, Berkeley and the National University of Singapore.

Anthony Chow, the chief executive officer and co-founder of Igloo, has unlocked a key part of the sharing economy. His firm creates smart locks, devices and enterprise software for homes, commercial properties and infrastructure worldwide. It has logged one billion unlocks annually and was named ‘International Startup of the Year’ at the Austin A List Awards 2025. A Stanford graduate, he also serves as an adjunct assistant professor at the National University of Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:26 What’s Meow Mobile?

2:38 What’s Igloo?

9:14 Using AI to help connect people & products at scale

12:37 How can start-ups stand out in a crowd?

16:28 Why Anthony sent his smart locks into space

20:21 It’s a marathon, not a sprint

23:19 Jasmin’s biggest breakthrough during Covid

26:37 Does the Singapore brand help?

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Bhagyashree Garekar’s LinkedIn: https://str.sg/gD6E

Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E34: 30 by 30 no more: What is S’pore’s plan for local food production?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

As local farms keep closing, will stockpiling, import diversification and global partnerships be enough to safeguard Singapore’s food security?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The past few years have not been fertile ground for the growth of Singapore’s local farms. Many agri-food businesses have closed or scaled down their operations amid a high operating cost environment. Last November, the Singapore Food Agency finally announced that it will be dropping its original “30 by 30” target, under which Singapore aimed to produce 30 per cent of its nutritional needs locally by 2030.

There are other efforts in place to safeguard the food import-dependent country’s food security, such as import diversification, stockpiling and global partnerships. But with climate change wrecking havoc on crop yields and recent geopolitical events disrupting long-standing bilateral relationships, can Singapore afford not to have a strategic plan for local production? Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the challenges in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

3:38 Why do farms in Singapore keep closing?

10:49 What are the four pillars in Singapore’s approach to safeguarding food security?

12:48 With climate change affecting crop yields, how effective will import diversification and intergovernmental pacts be in ensuring food security?

16:05 Other than securing supplies of food, what are other areas to look at to boost food security?

Read more on The Straits Times: https://str.sg/sLPM

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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S1E83: Budget 2026: Will AI lead to more inequality?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:40:28 +0000

The conversation over the key announcement from Budget 2026 continues.

On Feb 12, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong unveiled a record $154.7 billion Budget, how the Government is doubling down on its AI push. For Singaporeans worried about the cost of living, there was household relief in the form of payouts and CDC vouchers.

In this episode of the podcast, Second Minister for Finance Indranee Rajah discusses the reason for the big AI push and how the Government planning to deal with the downsides of AI like job losses and its environmental impact?

Also joining the conversation are Singapore Management University’s Assistant Professor of Political Science Nathan Peng and the SGTech co-chair of AI, Cloud, and Data Chapter Mr Gunasekharan Chellappan.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:22 Will CDC vouchers be a permanent fixture of the Budget?

5:34 Could Budget 2026 have helped lower income families more?

10:05 “Some people don’t feel like their lives have gotten 2.5 times better.”

12:58 Why do people perceive they aren’t doing well?

18:27 Don’t look at AI as new technology: Guna

21:25 ‘E-nannying’ should stop: Nathan

25:00 Anxiety over being made redundant by AI

30:20 Healthy concern vs unwarranted anxiety?

35:25 Losing the human connection over AI

40:17 Will there be more regulation with stronger AI push?

42:24 Mitigating the negative environmental effects of AI

45:42 How to pick which AI course to take

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

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S2E61: Strategic calculations behind India's trade deals flurry

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

India's new trade pacts with the EU and US, and the big question: Will Delhi revisit its decision to abandon RCEP?

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 45 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

A flurry of trade agreements announced by India – first, a “mother of all trade deals” FTA with the European Union, and days later, a framework deal with the US that saw Washington slashing its punitive tariffs on Indian exports to levels just below that of Vietnam and Malaysia, involves wider strategic calculations on every side.

In this wide-ranging conversation, host Ravi Velloor speaks with Ambassador Jawed Ashraf, Chairman of India Trade Promotion Organisation and former foreign policy aide to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Having served as envoy to Singapore and France, he weighs in on the thinking behind the deals, India’s newfound confidence to sign on to market-opening agreements, and the chances of India revisiting its decision to abandon the Asean-backed RCEP, or Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

They both discuss India’s trade imperatives, the tighter embrace by India of the European Union which is itself adjusting to a multipolar world, and how quality trade agreements help set the stage for foreign direct investment flows and stronger strategic ties. They also chat about the calibrated opening that India is making with China, even as it is not yet ready to revisit entering RCEP.

Highlights (click/tap above)

1:08 India withdrawal from RCEP and focus on bilateral relations

5:15 A greater alignment of trade with geopolitics

8:46 Roots of India’s “self-confidence” to sign trade deals

11:07 What the trade deals mean for ordinary Indians

14:11 EU looks to India, Taiwan in the AI age

18:14 EU-India, and a message to the US

20:53 Did Trump negotiate with a “gun to India’s head”?

24:18 Why stress on defence in US-India trade deal

27:01 RCEP: A calibrated opening is ongoing with China

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S1E82: Budget 2026: Why is Singapore betting big on AI?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:08:22 +0000

The strong push towards artificial intelligence and support for vulnerable groups such as lower-income families were two big themes that emerged at Budget 2026.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who is also the Finance Minister, just delivered his first Budget since the new government was elected last year.

How will businesses be affected by these measures, and how will the Singapore workforce adapt? In our push for new avenues of growth, are there worries about Singaporeans being left behind?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I speak with National University of Singapore political science lecturer Rebecca Grace Tan and Singapore Business Federation chief policy and operating officer Musa Fazal about what they made of this year’s Budget.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:12 First reactions to Budget 2026

3:57 What did this year’s Budget miss?

6:12 Using CDC vouchers for strawberries

9:15 Are we dependent on handouts?

14:25 How can AI benefits be spread across society

19:45 The reality of businesses using AI now

24:30 High global talent wages will raise business costs

28:38 Are we ensuring no one’s left behind as S’pore purses growth?

34:51 Growth in the economy, but fewer jobs?

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

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S1E65: Temporary or permanent relief? The future of CDC vouchers

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Government support measures such as CDC vouchers were meant to cushion soaring inflation. But are they fiscally sustainable?

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Temporary government handouts like the CDC vouchers were meant to cushion the impact of Covid-19 and soaring inflation due to supply shocks that were caused by global events like the war in Ukraine.

But with inflation cooling to trend levels, can Singaporeans wean off the ‘free money’ reliance from CDC vouchers that were meant to be temporary?

In this episode - which comes out a day ahead of Budget 2026 - ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks to independent economist Song Seng Wun; and sociologist Clara Lee, research fellow at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy’s Institute of Policy Studies.

Apart from how the CDC voucher scheme has since become a staple of the government’s support package, they delve into different forms of welfare Singaporeans now receive, and the impact on small businesses should the scheme be withdrawn.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:11 Impact on heartland merchants should CDC vouchers be withdrawn

9:42 Why are we using 'emergency' vouchers in a recovering economy?

15:49 Exiting from the policy of handing out CDC vouchers

20:43 Digital infrastructure to distribute CDC vouchers are now well-established: Clara

22:45 Redefining welfare state?

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S1E146: Is it safe to exercise with joint pain? An orthopaedic surgeon explains

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Resting too much can weaken muscles, worsening joint pain in the long run, says an expert.

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Problems affecting bones, joints, muscles, and tendons are the leading contributor of disability among all ages worldwide.

These problems arising from musculoskeletal disorders comprise diverse conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues, which may result in pain and loss of function.

The disorders, which include conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, low back pain, and other degenerative conditions, are especially common in older adults.

However, they are not an inevitable part of aging.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to surgeon-scientist, Assistant Professor Bryan Tan to find out more about what one can do to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

They touched on strength training, what one can do about exercise after a flare of knee osteoarthritis, and not waiting till there is no pain to resume exercising.

Prof Tan is an orthopaedic surgeon at Woodlands Hospital, and the co-chair of the musculoskeletal integrated care work group at NHG Health.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:48 What are musculoskeletal conditions?

6:55 It’s never too late to build your muscles and bones

8:45 The more you don’t use your muscles, the weaker they will become

18:21 Hyrox or not, everyone should be engaging in physical activity

20:27 How to get back to your exercise routine after a flare of your knee osteoarthritis?

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E60: Hong Kong’s tolerance for shortcuts has turned deadly

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Hong Kong prides itself on being a first world city. So how did such a thing like the Tai Po fire happen?

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

On Nov 26, 2025, a fire swept through Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, killing 168 people.

What also perished in that inferno was a certain trust in the system to keep everyone safe.

The Straits Times’ Hong Kong Correspondent Magdalene Fung, a long-time resident of the city, talks to host and foreign editor Li Xueying about her experience covering the disaster.

She also wrestles with the question of how Hong Kong’s tolerance for cutting corners cuts both ways. There is ingenuity. But the acceptance of quick, convenient fixes has also resulted in a society that collectively allowed the fire to happen.

Highlights (click/tap above):

01:04 On the ground, covering the fire

03:52 A system that failed

09:54 But a society that also helped

11:03 Low standards and quick, convenient fixes

16:12 The fire doors are still not closed

Read Magdalene Fung’s article here: https://str.sg/JyX2y

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S1E81: She became a plumber, he chose the woodworking life. What drew them to blue-collared work?

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:25:51 +0000

When it comes to charting their career paths, it’s likely most young Singaporeans would opt for white-collared jobs.

Hands-on skilled trades? Not so much.

Yet, The Straits Times reported in January that a growing number of younger people are choosing to go into traditional skilled trades such as plumbing and landscaping.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I speak with two millennials who have chosen not to follow the conventional script and have built businesses with their own hands.

Ms Geraldine Goh, 31, is a licensed plumber, who started her own business Agraffe in 2017 after a stint as a facilities management officer at a town council. She was studying mechanical engineering at a university, but dropped out after two years.

Meanwhile, Mr Ahmad Alhabshee, 36, started his own furniture company Urban Salvation about 11 years ago. He designs and handcrafts bespoke wooden furniture using sustainably sourced materials.

He branched out on his own after he was slighted by a former employer, who judged him for not having enough academic qualifications.

What convinced both of them to take on blue-collared work and become their own bosses? What does it mean to go against expectations in a society that still measures success with grades and paper qualifications?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:50 The misconceptions of being a female plumber

8:53 Why I dropped out of NTU to work at a town council

12:32 The harsh reality of the furniture business

20:05 30 years of experience vs. a licence

28:35 Why modern men can’t fix a $1 door hinge

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

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S1E64: Dr Becky, millennial parent whisperer, on screentime and modern parenting

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Are we using phones constructively to help kids to learn or assist adults in coping?

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

One of the most fraught challenges of modern parenting is our love-hate relationship with screen time. From school bans on phones in school, to the everyday reality of dual-income working parents who just need their child to eat dinner in peace, how much is too much screentime and who should be responsible?

Are we using phones constructively to help kids to learn or assist adults in coping? And in a dopamine fuelled always-on world where we are expected to be 24/7 ready for work, are we asking our offspring to do something we ourselves fail at?

Opinion editor Lin Suling gets answers from Dr Becky, who’s been called the millennial parent whisperer by Time Magazine, on the sidelines of the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos in January.

With millions of followers on Instagram tuning into her snappy videos, Dr Rebecca Kennedy is also a bestselling author, a clinical psychologist, the CEO of Good Inside, and mother of three.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:59 Is there a place for phone bans in schools?

3:45 What’s wrong with kids watching videos during mealtimes?

5:10 Parents are always on their phones for work so why should kids listen?

8:06 Is society intolerant towards misbehaviour in restaurants, airplanes and public areas?

9:58 Might we be over-parenting?

11:23 Is there a minimum age when kids can sit by themselves?

12:40 Dr Becky’s message to people unsure about having kids

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S2E33: From Greenland to deep sea mining: Is geopolitics killing climate action?

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Yes, it’s a scary time. But more than ever we need to talk about climate and nature.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Right now, it seems we’re in an ‘ice age’ for climate action. Geopolitics is all we can talk about and it’s pretty much wiped climate change and nature from the headlines. Wars and conflict, trade rows, attacks on climate policies and science and the fracturing of multilateralism have created a more fraught and uncertain world.

Some countries and businesses have weakened their environmental targets and policies, even as the climate and nature crises worsen. So what can be done? Can the shift to bilateral and regional climate and energy agreements replace unified global action? Can renewable energy remain a powerful uniting force? And how can we get climate and nature back into the headlines?

Join hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions and more in the latest episode of The Straits Times’ Green Pulse podcast.

Have a listen and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:51 For all the talk of fossil fuels, renewables are stealing the show

7:59 Rush for resources and the Greenland reality check

12:59 Weakening of multilateralism is changing the way we talk about climate and nature.

18:51 Focus on climate and nature might be in a rut. What will it take to refocus minds?

25:33 The human touch. Journalists need to put people at the centre of their environment stories.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S2E35: Investing in stocks or stuff?

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Is it better to buy stocks or invest in tangible things?

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.

Logan Paul’s Pokemon card has gone for over US$1 million. But do physical items and collections really help your money to grow?

How do Pokemon cards, Labubus and Marvel figurines measure alongside traditional stocks as investments?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the stocks versus the 'stuff'.

Her guests are avid collector Ian Cheng and eToro market analyst Zavier Wong.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:26 How do stocks compare with items?

8:12 Rare cards that appreciate from $100 to $600

9:00 Why did Pokemon card prices rise?

11:26 Logan Paul’s US$5 million Pokemon card

17:00 Collections that depreciated in value instead

22:08 What should I do if I want to become an investor in cards?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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S2E33: How to invest in 2026

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Tech stocks still shine, but beware the bubble.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

2025 has been a turbulent year, and 2026 will also be marked by uncertainty.

So amid such global turmoil, what should we invest in?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to grow your money in 2026.

Her guests are Gen Z investor Kass Phai, who is also a family wealth consultant at Unicorn, and veteran market watcher Ven Sreenivasan.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:26 Where are the markets going in 2026?

7:00 Should we still buy tech stocks?

10:37 Risk vs volatility

16:00 Other sectors to invest in

22:00 Should we invest in the SGX?

29:00 Other investment assets to hold

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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S1E80: Has Trump ‘ruptured’ the global order? What can Singapore do?

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:21:04 +0000

After the World Economic Forum in Davos, it’s clear that global diplomacy has grown more confrontational and transactional. So what’s the game plan for Singapore now?

In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha speaks with ST opinion editor Lin Suling, who was in Davos last week, and Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy dean Joseph Liow about how we can work with American president Donald Trump’s conventional style of foreign policy.

The consensus was that ignoring the US is not an option, and that Trumpism is here to stay, even after the US president steps down.

As for Singapore, it’s not our style to “tahan”, said Suling, using the Malay word for endure. “Our mantra is to adapt and find new opportunities, and to get on the train.”

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:34 What was it like watching Mr Trump speak at Davos?

4:39 Is the world order “rupture” exaggerated?

8:23 How to avoid getting in the crosshairs of the US

14:14 Why it’s not possible for S’pore to ice out US

21:14 S’poreans need to be flexible in outlook and purpose

26:48 Will Trump’s moves influence other big powers to invade other countries?

29:48 “Might is right” has been normalised: Suling

32:54 Great powers have “no qualms” shoving rules aside: Joseph

35:19 Trump called out the dysfunction of the United Nations

37:19 Are countries FOMO about not being on the Board of Peace?

42:10 Should we just wait out the next three years of Trump’s presidency?

45:28 Trumpism is here to stay, even if Trump isn’t here: Joseph

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

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S1E63: Forced to kowtow until he bled: Why some men stay in abusive marriages

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

A counsellor of a support group reveals why some men choose to tolerate physical, emotional and psychological abuse in their marriages.

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Spousal abuse cases in Singapore rose significantly in 2024 to 2,136, up from 2,008 such cases in 2023, according to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).

While official figures did not give a breakdown of these cases by gender, the defamation case of Johnny Depp against his ex-wife Amber Heard and post-Covid-19 awareness have encouraged more men to step forward, said a counsellor who runs a specialised support group for battered husbands.

To find out more in this episode, assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks with Josiah Yeo, a counsellor at Lutheran Community Care Services (LCCS), who started its support group for abused husbands in 2022.

Mr Yeo details how one of the abused husbands in the support group was beaten with golf clubs and made to slap himself in public. He was even locked out of the house and made to kowtow in front of the door 30 times, before he could get into his home.

Apart from abusive marriages, Mr Yeo also gives some pre-marital advice on what are some red flags to look out for, especially in the dating stage.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:49 Impact of Johnny Depp’s defamation suit on men in Singapore

9:31 When do abused husbands finally walk away from a marriage?

14:05 Why men don’t confide in their friends

18:40 Three reasons men stay in abusive marriage

19:11 Breaking the "bro code": How to check on a friend without making it awkward

32:39 Dating red flags - how to spot a potential abusive spouse

Read more on abused spouses: https://str.sg/aqjX

Helplines

Family violence

National Anti-Violence & Sexual Harassment Helpline: 1800-777-0000 (24 hours)
AWARE Helpline: 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
Care Corner Project StART: 6476-1482 (weekdays 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm; except public holidays)
TOUCH Family Support: 6317-9998
Lutheran Community Care Services: 6441-3906 / connect@lccs.org.sg

Mental well-being

National Mindline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)
Tinkle Friend (for primary school-age children): 1800-2744-788

Counselling

Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366
We Care Community Services: 3165-8017
Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293
Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990

Online resources

mindline.sg/fsmh
eC2.sg
chat.mentalhealth.sg
carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E59: China's fossil fuel addiction exposes a strategic vulnerability

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

There is also a human cost to China's clean energy transition.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and Greater China bureaus.

For January, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai teams up again with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian.

Dramatic developments in Venezuela and Iran, both important oil suppliers for China, have exposed Beijing’s vulnerability in terms of energy security.

Oil only accounts for around 18 per cent of China’s energy mix but most of this is imported.

While both regimes have enjoyed solid ties with Beijing, the reality is there is little China can do directly to preserve its interests there.

Domestically, China has achieved remarkable success in its clean energy transition. But the human cost of this effort, particularly when it comes to poorer communities, should not be underestimated.

Clean tech may have played a part in China’s soft power rise (BYD electric vehicles and solar panels are obvious examples), but there is no guarantee that this will translate into a stronger hand geopolitically.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:02 Are China’s interests in Venezuela dead in the water?

4:58 Impacts of developments in Venezuela, Iran on upcoming Trump-Xi meeting

7:37 Is China prepared to use force to defend its energy security interests?

09:44 The human cost of China’s clean energy transition

14:11 Challenges in clean energy storage, distribution

17:28 Clean tech fuels China’s soft power rise

20:14 Existential survival instinct: Running out of energy

S1E79: Are central kitchen meals coming to every Singapore school?

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:33:17 +0000

There has been a buffet of discussion as pre-packed food for students have been in the spotlight recently.

Some schools have had to turn to prepared meals from centralised kitchens because of shrinking student numbers and a lack of canteen stallholders.

But this has not been to everyone’s taste.

Bento boxes from airline caterer SATS made the news after pictures of unappetising servings at Hwa Chong Institution (HCI) surfaced online in early January.

It prompted a flurry of discussion both on and offline, as everyone weighed in with their thoughts from the colour of the boxes – turquoise – to the dishes served to what pre-packed meals takes away from the recess experience.

The media was later invited to HCI to taste the food and speak to students, who gave reviews about the SATS pre-packed meals. The school’s principal said the menus will be refined, and SATS will relook recipes and food presentation.

Then on Jan 14, concerns emerged over food safety after 60 primary school pupils came down with suspected food poisoning after consuming food prepared by Gourmetz, the school’s caterer.

In this week’s episode of The Usual Place, I chat with two canteen stall operators, Ms Nurkusmawati Kasim, who runs a Western food stall in a primary school, and Ms Grace Lim, who operates a snack stall in a primary and secondary school, about their experience providing meals for students.

Jalan Besar GRC MP Shawn Loh, who is the group managing director of food conglomerate Commonwealth Capital Group, joins us to discuss whether there are alternatives to the central kitchen model.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:55 Were the reactions to Hwa Chong Institution bento boxes overblown?

6:17 Why Grace and Wati chose to work in school canteens

9:22 Crafting menus for students

11:54 Healthy meals affects operating cost

14:43 Can you make money as a canteen stall vendor?

18:25 I just wanted to kill time when my son’s at school: Wati

20:47 Why central kitchens work for schools

22:13 Why Shawn champions a model where prepped ingredients are cooked on-site

25:35 Wati’s experience as a former air stewardess is handy when feeding masses

27:24 Do we romanticise recess time?

32:24 Cafeteria model offers control over nutritional value of food

34:50 What would entice people to become canteen vendors?

37:03 “Meal prep is the least efficient way.”: Shawn

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

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S2E32: Should we just give up on cultivated meat?

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Lab-grown meat. The way of the future or a hard act to swallow?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty get their teeth into cultivated meat, a topic that was very much in the headlines a few years back. Singapore was the first nation to approve the sale of cultivated chicken meat in 2020 but investment in the sector, after much fanfare, has slowed.

So is there still potential for this sector to take off? The pay-off could be huge if companies can create safe, tasty and affordable beef, chicken, lamb and even seafood in bioreactors instead of relying on huge tracts of land and the sea. Meeting the needs of billions of people, could slash the impacts on the environment and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Is this your vision of the future? Or still too soon to say? Let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:24 What is the difference between cultivated meat and plant-based alternatives?

3:24 Why the interest in cultivated meat? What are the environmental benefits?

6:20 How cultivated meat products are made and why is the process challenging?

12:14 If companies succeed, the prize could be huge but there are still hurdles

20:32 Stay the course: Cultivated meat could become an important tool to fight climate change

23:04 Better information, better decisions by consumers. For instance: CO2 content labels on food products

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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S2E34: Being kinder to yourself during job changes

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Learn how to better reconcile the mixed feelings that come with work transitions.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

It seems like one of life’s cruel ironies.

Do well, and go far together in a bonded team, and yet further progression may require you to move on elsewhere. If this is a familiar scenario to you, fear not.

ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts Mr Aneel Singh Gill, a psychologist with Talk Your Heart Out, an online and face-to-face therapy platform. He helps clients navigate work-related issues.

Hong Yi, who has been with The Straits Times since 2021, is also hosting in his final podcast as he transitions to a new role elsewhere - and what better topic to talk about than this?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:07 Why might someone feel a sense of loss despite exciting times ahead?

4:13 How to identify and reconcile mixed feelings towards impending change

11:59 Looking past “Stockholm syndrome” after leaving a toxic workplace

15:22 What makes the transition from school to first job especially hard

Read an askST Jobs column on leaving well-loved colleagues: https://str.sg/qGTR

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E58: Trump’s Venezuela strike: The good, bad & the ugly

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

We dissect the abduction of a sitting president and predict what might come next.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US Bureau Chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

Was it all about oil? Transnational crime cartels? Or China? In this episode, US Bureau Chief Bhagyashree Garekar chats with Hoover Fellow Joseph Ledford and veteran oil analyst Carl Larry to understand Washington’s real game in Venezuela.

Dr Joseph Ledford is a Hoover Fellow and the Assistant Director of the Hoover History Lab at the Hoover Institution. His research focuses on the exercise of American power, especially in the Western Hemisphere.

Mr Carl Larry is a Sales Manager at Enverus MarketView with over 25 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, covering financial, commercial, and physical aspects of the market.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:31 The 3 goals of the US military operation in Venezuela

3:45 So, was it about oil?

6:31 Is the world going to get cheaper petrol now?

7:54 Why does the US not want China as a ‘neighbour’?

16:42 Why was Machado not made president?

21:26 Will the US’ shale miners be hurt?

23:58 Lessons from Iraq and clues for Asia

26:45 How will the US recover from the reputational hit?

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Bhagyashree Garekar’s LinkedIn: https://str.sg/gD6E

Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E78: Pritam Singh no longer Leader of the Opposition, what next for WP?

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 06:44:42 +0000

Workers’ Party chief Pritam Singh has been removed as Leader of the Opposition by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, a day after Parliament debated his suitability for the role.

PM Wong has invited the WP to nominate another elected MP. But the person put forth has to be an MP who has not been implicated in the earlier findings of the Committee of Privileges that looked into former MP Raeesah Khan’s conduct in Parliament.

The saga started in 2021 when Ms Khan lied in Parliament. It led to an inquiry by the COP to uncover the sequence of events of who knew what, and when. Mr Singh was later convicted by the courts for lying to the COP.

What happens now, and are cracks beginning to show within the party, especially as some cadres have called for a special conference?

On this episode to discuss the Parliament debate and the implications of Mr Singh losing the role are:

Mr Peh Shing Huei, a regular commentator on Singapore politics and a former ST news editor. He is also the founding partner of content agency The Nutgraf, and author of several books about politicians and people in government, and
Singapore Management University’s Associate Professor of Law Eugene Tan, who is a political analyst. He was also a former Nominated Member of Parliament.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:47 Lifting of the WP whip for debate about Pritam Singh

5:08 “It wasn’t a good day at the office for Parliament.”: Prof Tan

9:57 Pritam vs Tharman: What’s the difference in cases?

14:22 Will there be a political cost to the PAP for this motion?

17:14 Was it the right move for WP MP to bring up PAP MP’s indiscretion?

22:23 Fatigue about the matter

25:23 “This is closing the loop.”: Prof Tan

27:55 Are the cracks showing in the WP, despite show of unity in Parliament?

30:15 Possible leadership challenge within the WP?

34:29 This issue an “albatross” around the WP’s neck: Prof Tan

41:51 Peh on why Pritam didn’t resign first

42:57 What does removing the LO office mean for S’pore politics?

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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S1E62: Education vs. AI - Can schools balance ChatGPT and character-building?

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

As AI reshapes work and life, schools are changing too. But before we redesign education, should we ask what it’s really for?

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Education is one of the few institutions almost every Singaporean passes through - and one of the most contested. From debates about declining attention spans to rising anxiety, we now wonder about the role of artificial intelligence in classrooms. Questions about standards, equity, excellence and inclusion continue to surface.

Schools are expected to prepare students not just for jobs, but for citizenship and for lives that feel meaningful. Sometimes these expectations are in tension with one another as we grapple with the AI revolution that’s underway.

In this episode, we ask a more fundamental question: What purpose does education serve in a world increasingly driven by technology and AI?

And how should our answers change when the world students are entering - shaped by AI and rapid technological change - may look radically different from the one schools were designed for?

Joining the discussion with Deputy Opinion Editor Mubin Saadat are Ms Elisha Tushara, The Straits Times education correspondent who spent a decade teaching before moving into journalism, and Dr Liu Woon Chia, Director and researcher at the National Institute of Education and co-founder of its Motivation in Educational Research Laboratory.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 AI impact on education

11:55 What do PISA and OECD studies tell us?

15: 03 Friction in learning

19:35 A focus on human qualities in learning

26:35 AI as a teacher’s tool

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Mubin Saadat (mubin@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S1E145: OCD (Pt 2): 4-day treatment and the Bergen approach

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

The science of getting unstuck from OCD in four days.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is often misunderstood. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is frequently misunderstood. Although the term is often used casually, it is a potentially severe disorder that can drastically disrupt a person's life.

However, it is highly treatable. Yet, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated for years.

To learn more about OCD, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to two psychologists who specialise in the treatment of OCD for a two-part series on what the disorder is about and how the Bergen approach treats OCD in just four days?

They are Dr Jackki Yim, Principal Clinical Psychologist & Deputy Head of Anxiety Service, Department of Mood & Anxiety at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and Ms Tammie Kwek, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Department of Mood & Anxiety, IMH.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:56 How is OCD treated?

6:00 What does the Bergen treatment entail?

11:00 Is it for everyone suffering from OCD?

14:05 What is the “homework” that patients have to do?

21:52 How should families accommodate a family member living with OCD?

Listen to OCD Part 1: The hidden reality and a new way out - https://str.sg/yBjG

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

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S2E57: Asia's drone wars: Who's buying Predators and Reapers?

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

As Asia’s militaries show an increasing appetite to deploy drones – most recently during the Thai-Cambodian skirmishes and the brief India-Pakistan conflict in May, 2025, we speak to the chief executive of the company that makes lethal Unmanned Aerial Systems such as the Predator, Reaper and Sea Guardian.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 45 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Ravi speaks with Dr Vivek Lall, Chief Executive of General Atomics Global Corp, on trends in modern warfare, the rise of data-driven hi-tech weapons, weapons that ‘loiter’ in the air awaiting command from the ground and space as the next frontier of contestation.

They also focus on UASs – in warfare and potentially for civil use – and discuss whether unmanned drones have raised the risk of warfare by not putting pilots directly in harm’s way.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:46 'The future is in unmanned systems'

5:45 ‘Hey, there’s an UAV flying right alongside me’

7:00 Asian militaries buying Predators and eyeing EMALS: India, Japan, Taiwan, Asean

14:05 Can US go it alone in defence research?

16:43 Does unmanned raise risk of war?

20:32 ‘There will always be pilots’

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

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S1E77: New year, new job? What’s in store for job seekers in 2026?

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:31:23 +0000

Finding a new job may be on your resolution list this year, but will it be the right move in 2026?

Much of the job market in 2025 was dominated by uncertainty and mixed signals.

Fresh university graduates shared – and documented on social media – their struggles landing interviews and jobs, despite sending out multiple resumes.

Retrenchments climbed in the third quarter of 2025 after dipping in the previous two quarters, while job vacancies continued to fall, according to the Ministry of Manpower’s third-quarter labour report. There were 69,200 job openings in September, down from 76,900 in June, the report said.

Meanwhile, the workforce was constantly cautioned about how artificial intelligence could reshape – and potentially displace – many roles.

Will it be more of the same in 2026, or will the market turn in favour of job seekers?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I want to find out how job seekers can navigate the market and what kind of upskilling we need to make career changes.

Joining me on the podcast are:

Ms Serla Rusli, a LinkedIn career expert who advises job seekers on career matters based on hiring and job market trends, and
Ms Joyce Bijl, business development director for Asia-Pacific and the Middle East at ManpowerGroup, a global company that deals with workforce solutions.

We’ll also discuss whether more employees will continue with “quiet quitting” or “job hugging”.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:50 Why companies are ‘cautious’ with hiring despite better GDP growth

6:36 Use existing network instead of mass applying for jobs

12:44 How to use LinkedIn to gauge the job market

18:04 How to future-proof your job against the AI disruption

35:03 Trending in 2026 - move over “quiet quitting,” here comes “quiet cracking”

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producers: Elizabeth Law & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

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YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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S1E144: OCD (Pt 1): The hidden reality and a new way out

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

OCD is more than a quirk.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is often misunderstood. Although the term OCD is often used casually, it is a potentially severe disorder that can drastically disrupt a person's life.

However, it is highly treatable. Yet, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated for years.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:37 Clearing misunderstandings about OCD

5:46 An example of OCD

11:19 How can parents respond to their children who have OCD?

Listen to OCD Part 2: 4-day treatment and the Bergen approach - https://str.sg/hZaB

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

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S2E31: “Not entirely on the road to hell”: Will the world get real on climate action in 2026?

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Green Pulse hosts share what’s worth looking out for on the environmental front in Singapore and South-east Asia

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

For the first episode of 2026, Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss whether the new year will add wind to the sails of the climate movement, or whether it will be another year of climate action being stuck in the doldrums.

David seems optimistic about certain developments, such as the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty. But Audrey is more cautious on other fronts. Singapore’s carbon tax is expected to go up from $25 per tonne of emissions in 2025 to $45 per tonne in 2026 and 2027, but will “allowances” given to emitters dampen the signal a carbon tax is supposed to send?

Who do you agree with? Let us know!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:45 Key events for 2026 - High Seas Treaty ahoy!

5:33 Can climate agreements really deliver on their promises?

11:03 ‘Less talk, more tangible action this year, please.’

16:43 What’s the weather forecast for 2026?

19:31 Let’s talk about positive things – will global CO2 emissions peak in 2026?

23:08 To sum up: Good to be cautiously optimistic – it’s not all gloomy!

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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S2E56: The one design feature that makes Taiwan ‘ugly’

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Metal window grilles were meant to keep households safe from burglars but they have been fingered as eyesores.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

One of Taiwan’s names is "Formosa" - given by Portuguese sailors who sighted the island in the 16th century and called it “Beautiful Island” given its natural wonders such as mountains, forests and hot springs.

In more recent times though, Taiwanese officials and designers have complained about a man-made blight across its cities: ubiquitous, often rusty, metal grilles criss-crossing windows.

Together, foreign editor Li Xueying and Taiwan correspondent Yip Wai Yee, surface a larger discussion about the pace of urban renewal in Taiwan - a challenge that many Asian cities face, given the competing imperatives between urban renewal, heritage conservation and the rights of homeowners.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:00 The ugly truth about Taipei's buildings

2:06 Taiwan's window bars mystery

4:53 The beauty behind the rust

7:42 Challenges in urban redevelopment

12:12 Cycling and pedestrian safety in Taiwan

Read Yip Wai Yee’s article here: https://str.sg/7U6y

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S2E31: Should you buy gold now?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Gold prices have soared in 2025 but here are things to consider before buying your first gold bar.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Gold has never looked shinier, especially as a safe haven in a volatile world.

It reached highs when things were the most volatile, with Trump’s tariffs and then the federal government shutdown.

But should you buy gold, how do you go about it and what are the considerations to be taken first?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to make good use of the current gold rally.

Her guests are OCBC Managing Director of Investment Strategy Vasu Menon and ST business journalist Timothy Goh.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:34 Why have gold prices been soaring?

6:50 What does gold as a “safe haven” mean?

10:02 Is this the right time to buy gold?

16:00 When do gold prices come down?

19:56 Physical gold versus paper gold

24:13 Tips for first-time gold investors

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E74: Why are buyers willing to pay $900,000 for 3-room resale HDB flats?

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 04:00:18 +0000

At least four three-room resale Housing Board flats were sold for between $900,000 and $935,000 in the first 11 months of 2025. What’s driving these eye-watering prices for smaller units, and how does this affect buyers who see three-room units as an accessible way to own a first home?

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

In this episode of The Usual Place, host Natasha Ann Zachariah speaks with Mr Nicholas Mak, chief research officer at property portal Mogul.sg, and Mr Patrick Chee, property agent and founder of real estate portal Homeseller SG.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:49 Million-dollar 3-room HDB flat to happen “in the next ‘bull run”: Patrick Chee

6:13 Who buys pricey 3-room HDB flats?

8:34 Majority of 3-room HDB flat are still transacted in the range of $500,000

15:14 Property prices outlook

21:36 Previous property bubbles

30:32 Does sentiment play a role in flat prices

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E29: Unpopular Opinion: Some gifts are clutter and real Christmas trees are overrated

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

We’re not Scrooges, we just want a less wasteful Christmas.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Christmas is just around the corner, and many are diving into frantic gift shopping and feast planning. But as Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty ask in this episode, do these traditions really spark joy – or do they just add clutter, waste and unnecessary spending? Tune in for practical tips on a clutter-free, eco-friendly Christmas, from smarter gift-giving to reducing food and packaging waste. Do you agree with their takes, or are they just being Christmas grinches?

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:00 How to give sustainable gifts that people actually want

6:30 Regifting – faux pas or a sustainability win?

8:17 Is Christmas gift wrapping environmentally friendly?

15:11 The lowdown on reducing food waste at Christmas feasts

18:10 The debate over real vs fake Christmas trees

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E55: From Zara Qairina to Harimau Malaya: A gripping 2025 for Malaysia

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Malaysia’s 2025 was marked by a stormy PKR election, school violence, and a scandal rocking its football team.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For our December episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Zurairi A.R. are joined by Nik Nazmi, a member of Parliament from PKR, and former minister of natural resources and environmental stability.

We look back at the Malaysian stories that shook 2025, from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Cabinet vacancy and the death of Zara Qairina amid rising school violence, to the scandal engulfing Harimau Malaya’s heritage players.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:18 Cabinet vacancy and unity government leadership

11:13 Who leads PKR next? Is it Nurul Izzah's turn?

16:07 Are authorities failing to protect Malaysian children?

19:51 Band-aid solutions to solve school violence

25:41 Criminal case for footballers' citizenship spoofing

28:08 Can Harimau Malaya recover its football credentials?

32:21 Rolling back the time zone to UTC+7 for an extra hour of sunrise

The curious case of four missing Cabinet ministers in Malaysia https://str.sg/A9fZ

Death of student in Sabah raises hurdle for Malaysian PM Anwar as he faces tough state polls soon https://str.sg/hpptQ

Malaysia fans fear Asian Cup blow as Fifa probe casts doubt on naturalised players https://str.sg/p62X

Malaysia faces renewed calls to rewind the clock, 40 years after shifting to UTC+8 https://str.sg/qnuM

Read Zurairi A.R.’s articles: https://str.sg/DCfr

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Host: Zurairi A.R. (zurairi@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E54: Why the US dollar is so sticky

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Find out why the world is likely to stay dollar-centric even as countries try to toggle away from the greenback.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

Harvard historian Mary Bridges, the author of Dollars and Dominion, explains why the world is likely to stay dollar-centric even as China, Russia, India and many countries try to toggle away from the greenback and into rival currencies like the yuan or the euro.

In this episode, Dr Bridges, the Ernest May Fellow in History & Policy at Harvard University’s International Security Programme, tells US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar that while the world is becoming multipolar and diversified, the thick layer of institutions, relationships and trust built around the US dollar mean that any transition will take a very long time.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:59 How the US dollar became the king of currencies

3:58 How the US banks went into Asia

11:17 Will the US dollar lose its dominance?

19:17 Are crypto-currencies encroaching on dollar dominion?

21:11 Are Trump’s tariffs spurring de-dollarisation?

23:49 Why China’s BRI is also a currency play

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Bhagyashree Garekar’s LinkedIn: https://str.sg/gD6E

Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E76: SEA Games 2025: Athletes Kerstin Ong and Amanda Lim on chasing their sporting dreams despite struggles

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 09:35:28 +0000

It’s been about 10 days of excitement at the SEA Games, and Team Singapore has been going all out to make their mark.

Hurdler Kerstin Ong and swimmer Amanda Lim have returned home after their events and will join The Usual Place podcast to talk about their experiences in Thailand.

One is just getting started, and the other has bid farewell to the SEA Games stage.

Kerstin, 28, finally made her debut at the regional meet after a decade of trying to qualify.

But the race came with its own hurdle. The national records that she and fellow hurdler Ang Chen Xiang set in their respective events on Dec 12 were considered invalid due to timing system issues.

Meanwhile, Amanda won gold in the women’s 50m freestyle event.

Post-race, the 32-year-old announced that this would be her last SEA Games. It was her 10th outing at the regional meet, where she has won 21 golds, five silvers and two bronzes.

In this episode, I chat with Kerstin and Amanda about what went down during their events, what’s next for them, and the challenges of juggling training with work.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:51 Kerstin's pov on the technical issues that affected her race timings

9:46 Amanda was gunning for gold at her last SEA Games

15:26 Amanda remembers her late father's impact on her swim career

26:46 How these athletes juggle work, training and even nosebleeds

36:40 We basically trying to survive: Kerstin and Amanda on funding most of their training

40:42 Why is it difficult for athletes to get funding?

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E11: Paying more for green travel: Are levies and carbon taxes enough?

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Which means of various green transportation can decarbonise the most?

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

From October 2026, travellers departing Singapore will contribute to the purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). But is this levy enough to tackle aviation’s carbon problem?

Hosted by ST senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe, the panel - comprising Mr Andrey Berdichevskiy, partner and associate director of Boston Consulting Group and Professor S. Viswanathan from Nanyang Business School - discusses the hard-to-abate aviation sector, the true cost of green flying, and whether we should rethink that long-haul trip to visit the northern lights.

Back on the ground, the conversation shifts to the return of the Robo-taxi. Are autonomous vehicles the solution to our “last mile” woes in estates like Punggol?

Plus, the experts share practical advice on the “Avoid, Shift, Improve” framework, from taking the train to KL, to swapping a steak for a salad in helping commuters to keep it “wheel and green”.

This episode was recorded and filmed on Dec 2 at SPH Media’s revamped auditorium, in front of a live audience of 60 ST readers. It was the sixth and final ST Podcast Live! Session for 2025, capping a special series celebrating The Straits Times’ 180th anniversary.

Highlights (click/tap above):

01:43 The cost of greening skies in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and for flights out of SG

04:45 Why increasing ticket prices doesn’t dampen travelling

12:09 A practical framework for greener mobility choices, from Zoom calls to high-speed rail

19:47 The return of autonomous vehicles like the Robo-taxi

31:38 From giving up the car to adopting a "flexitarian" diet - what else can individuals?

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

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S2E30: Why Greta Thunberg’s shock protests in Venice can backfire

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

How to turn anger about environmental issues into constructive action in Singapore and beyond.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

With the world settling for yet another watered down deal at the UN climate conference COP30, combating climate change is in an uphill battle.

Some activists have even taken matters into their own hands to provoke stronger action. In November, climate activist Greta Thunberg joined environmental group Extinction Rebellion in dyeing the waters of Venice’s iconic canals green with a non-toxic liquid to highlight the effects of climate collapse.

In this episode co-hosted by ST environment correspondents Shabana Begum and Ang Qing, they discuss whether individual actions can help make a meaningful difference to the global problem.

They are joined by Mr Veerappan Swaminathan, chief executive officer of consultancy Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) Group. He also co-founded Repair Kopitiam, an initiative that helps residents fix their household items to reduce waste.

Also unpacking the issues is National University of Singapore assistant professor Alisius Leong, who investigates public opinions on environmental and health issues.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:36 How can individual actions make a difference

12:56 Do protests about climate change work

18:12 Which environmental issues in Singapore deserve more attention

25:36 How can the public participate in conversations about nuclear energy

SG Eco Fund:: https://www.mse.gov.sg/take-action/sgecofund/

Repair Kopitiam: https://repairkopitiam.sg/

Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2

Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT

Follow Ang Qing on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ichp

Read her articles: https://str.sg/i5gT

Follow Shabana Begum on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/83Ge

Read her articles: https://str.sg/5EGd

Hosts: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg) & Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team, ST Outreach & Engagement Team & Studio+65

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Watch ST Podcasts Live events so far: https://str.sg/uGmo

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S2E32: How a young entrepreneur’s own business helped her discover new career

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

She shares why and how she is moving on from a student business she co-founded.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Imagine starting a business after finishing your A-level exams, and then growing that business from strength to strength with two outlets in the heart of town within five years alongside your undergraduate studies.

Now imagine making the tough decision to take all that one has learned into a new adventure: the first job, one that was never on the radar previously.

That is the journey of a young entrepreneur who speaks to ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi on the latest episode of Headstart On Record.

The guest was:

Ms Desiree Chang, co-founder of Woofie, a thrift and vintage apparel business with an online store and two outlets in Bugis.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:22 How did the business start?

3:03 How was it like to balance studies with a business?

6:52 Finding a sustainable middle-ground in entrepreneurship

11:42 How did the skills learned translate into her job search?

15:52 Tips for aspiring student entrepreneurs

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

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Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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S1E75: Why are Singaporeans still falling prey to scams? An expert explains

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:32:09 +0000

Frequent police advisories, daily news stories, a repeated “Add, Check, Tell” mantra – Singaporeans should be better at recognising scams by now.

Yet many continue to fall prey to scammers who keep adapting and refining their approach.

So far in 2025, more than 31,200 cases of scams have been reported, with victims losing over $750.3 million. Last year, the amount lost to scams crossed the $1 billion mark.

In this episode of The Usual Place podcast, I speak with Mr Jeffery Chin, deputy director of the Singapore Police Force’s Scam Public Education Office.

Set up in 2023, the office is staffed by police officers, civilian officers and psychologists who work closely together to drive anti-scam public education efforts.

We’ll discuss how scams have evolved over the years, what makes a person an “ideal” scam victim, and why people end up becoming money mules.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:47Jeffrey’s personal brushes with scams and having nearly lost £500

9:59 Why young people fall for job scams

21:22 How Jeffrey exposed a love scam in seconds using a simple trick in reverse image search

24:05 When victims get their self-image threatened

28:59 Is there anti-scam fatigue?

32:56 Why sharing information about scams is a form of community service

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

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Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

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S1E61: Can Singapore ever stop being a 'Fine City'? The psychology of etiquette on public transport

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

New laws were passed to penalise littering, eating and drinking, as well as playing loud music or videos on public transport. Is legislation effective in regulating inconsiderate behaviour?

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Behaviours of inconsiderate commuters on public transport and interchanges are set to be regulated under new laws passed in Parliament in Oct 2025.

Examples of inconsiderate behaviour include littering, eating and drinking, as well as playing loud music and videos on mobile phones.

The latest legislation follows a slew of laws that regulate behaviours in Singapore, raising the question if we can ever shake off Singapore’s reputation of being a ‘fine’ city.

To find out more, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks to two sociologists.

They are Assistant Professor of Sociology (Education) at the School of Social Sciences at the Singapore Management University, George Wong; and Research Assistant Professor and head of the Urban Psychology Lab in the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities at the Singapore University of Technology and Design, Samuel Chng.

Highlights (click/tap above):

11:24 How people demonstrated civic behaviour during the Covid pandemic

18:25 The technological reason for seniors blasting videos and music

22:28 Empowering bus drivers to deal with inconsiderate commuters

26:10 How other countries regulate civil behaviours in public transport

29:46 The lady commuter that ‘broke’ the system

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S2E53: Inside the secret Albatross file on Singapore’s Separation from Malaysia

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Our guest reveals pioneer leaders’ differing views on Singapore’s Aug 9, 1965 split from Malaysia.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ chief columnist Sumiko Tan speaks to Janadas Devan, senior adviser at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, on how the The Albatross File: Inside Separation sheds fresh light on the decisions that led to Singapore’s independence.

Edited by Susan Sim, the 488-page volume is co-published by Straits Times Press and the National Archives of Singapore, and was launched by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Dec 7 alongside an exhibition at the National Library.

Mr Janadas, who coordinated the book, explains that Singapore’s 1963 merger with Malaysia was fraught from the outset, with the 1964 race riots further straining ties. Finance Minister Dr Goh Keng Swee kept a private file he code-named “Albatross”, a reference to the bird in Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s famous 1798 poem, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, symbolising the burden of the troubled merger.

Documents inside the file range from an early Cabinet memo by Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew to the final Separation Agreement, and includes Dr Goh’s handwritten notes of his meetings with Malaysian leaders.

Mr Janadas highlights how merger with Malaysia was a fundamental aim of Mr Lee’s People’s Action Party. It is something young Singaporeans today might find hard to understand, he acknowledges.

But the merger was problematic, and proposals for a looser federation eventually collapsed, derailed by unclear terms and British anxieties as Indonesia’s Confrontation was then raging.

Dr Goh led the talks for Singapore, navigating sensitive issues and political tensions. Within the Singapore leadership, views differed on whether Singapore should — or could — make it alone. Dr Goh pushed for going separate ways as the best option, while ministers Toh Chin Chye and S. Rajaratnam opposed separation once they learnt of it. Mr Lee was deeply torn, but ultimately authorised the move. Within a few years, Singapore's leaders concluded that Separation was the best outcome for Singapore.

Mr Janadas also reflects on his father, Mr Devan Nair, who was the only PAP MP voted into the Malaysian Parliament at the time. When the two sides separated, his father decided to stay on in Malaysia, only returning to Singapore in 1969.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:11 The political climate of the 1960s

7:59 Why young Singaporeans may struggle to understand why the PAP pushed for merger with Malaysia

9:32 Early trouble after merger in 1963; Umno lost 3 seats it contested in Singapore GE to PAP’s Malay candidates

13:13 Was a looser federation ever an option?

17:23 The role of the British as Singapore and Malaysia leaders tried to work through their disagreements

18:35 What did Lee Kuan Yew mean by making life intolerable for the Malaysian leadership?

27:35 Diverging views: Lee always wanted a looser federation but Dr Goh felt separation was the answer

32:45 How Mrs Lee says that the closest her husband came to a nervous breakdown was August 9th, 1965

39:03 Janadas on how his father, Devan Nair, refused to accept Separation at first, before being convinced by Lee to eventually return

44:32 Do Singaporeans today underestimate how fragile the nation’s early years were?

Buy the book: The Albatross File: Inside Separation (Standard/Collector’s Editions) https://www.stbooks.sg/products/the-albatross-file-inside-separation-collectors-edition

Book tickets to the exhibition opening Dec 8 at the National Library Building: https://thealbatrossfile.nlb.gov.sg

Host: Sumiko Tan (sumiko@sph.com.sg)

Read Sumiko’s articles: https://str.sg/Jbhe

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S2E52: US in decline; Trump's 'Donroe Doctrine' is worrying Asia

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Our guest expert explains the Americas-focused doctrine, inspired by the 19th-century Monroe Doctrine’s hemispheric stance.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 45 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Ravi speaks with Don McLain Gill, the eminent Filipino geopolitical expert and strategist, on declining US influence in Asia and the ‘Donroe’ Doctrine.

They discuss the doctrine’s precursor, the Monroe Doctrine, and how key American allies in Asia are reacting to talk of the Donroe Doctrine.

Ravi and Gill also discuss the potential of a ‘G-2', or Group of Two, which would include just the US and China. This, too, is a concept that many Asian nations with their own view of their place in the world, actively resist.

Highlights: (Click/Tap Above)

1:24 What is the Donroe Doctrine?

4:47 Implications for Philippines

7:30 Reactions of allies Japan, South Korea, Australia, and quasi-ally India

13:10 ‘G2’ & the Donroe Doctrine: Clear concerns

16:11 A misguided strategy? US-China gap narrowing

19:47 Quad, Squad and increasing mini-laterals minus US

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

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S1E143: Helping children understand and manage their emotions

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A psychiatrist's guide to your child's emotional well-being.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Many parents spend time teaching their kids essential skills like reading or spelling but they often forget to teach them a key skill that will determine their success, their relationships, and their overall happiness. That is emotional regulation.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to Dr Ong Say How, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. He’s the chairperson of creative services and youth committee at SAMH and a senior consultant psychiatrist at the Institute of Mental Health.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:49 What exactly is emotional regulation?

6:40 Signs that a child might be struggling emotionally

11:14 It’s ok to tell your children that you’re concerned about them

15:00 Screen time limits can help with a child’s ability to handle boredom and regulate mood

20:51 Parents must be role models

22:24 What parents can do to repair the damage after losing their cool?

24:13 You don’t have to shield your child from negative feelings

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

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S2E51: Taiwan’s message to China: We are not alone

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The island’s diplomatic space may be shrinking but it wants to engage the world on its own terms.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and Greater China bureaus.

For November, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects with Taiwan correspondent Yip Wai Yee.

They discuss Taiwan’s foreign policy preoccupations and the implications of the Beijing-Tokyo spat over remarks made by Japanese leader Sanae Takaichi on cross-strait tensions.

Up against an increasingly dominant China, Taiwan is adopting what it calls “integrated diplomacy” as it seeks to buttress relations with like-minded partners.

At the same time, the normalisation of so-called grey-zone tactics by the mainland against the island carries risks for Taiwan’s societal resilience and its ability to respond in the event of an actual attack.

All eyes are on the next round of talks between American President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in the first half of 2026, as this could have far-reaching implications on Taiwan’s role on the global stage.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:49 Taipei’s “integrated diplomacy”

4:12 China-Japan spat over Taiwan

7:46 Shift in approach for cross-strait ties

10:35 What’s at stake when Trump and Xi meet in 2026

13:51 Leverage in tariff talks with the US

15:22 Grey-zone tactics

19:27 Breakthrough at European parliament

21:31 China Taipei or Chinese Taipei?

S1E73: Primary 1 registrations: Should kids be automatically assigned to schools?

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 07:26:56 +0000

How far would you go to get your child enrolled at a primary school of your choice?

One woman repeatedly lied about her home address to get her daughter a spot at the primary school the mother wanted in 2023.

But the school discovered the truth, and she was handed a one-week jail sentence in November for subverting the admissions process.

While her sentence has raised eyebrows, she’s not the only one to have attempted this, with other parents over the years having been fined between $4,000 and $5,000 over similar attempts.

In a 2007 case, a parent was jailed after lying about his residential address in order to get his daughter into a certain school in Bukit Timah.

Data from the Ministry of Education showed that between 2020 and 2024, there were about nine such cases each year.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I speak with three guests about why some parents think they need to game the system to get their child a good education.

They are:

• Pooja Bhandari, founder of non-profit EveryChild.SG, which looks to raise awareness about the need for education reforms and the well-being of children in Singapore,

• Esther Foong-Tan, a family life education specialist, who helps families work on their interpersonal relationships by equipping parents with up-to-date resources and training, and

• Assistant Professor of Sociology Jacqueline Ho, who teaches at Singapore Management University. Her research is focused primarily on the Singaporean education system.

In this pre-recorded episode, we discuss: Is this just ‘kiasu’ culture taken to extremes? And what’s driving parents to go to such lengths for a place at a “good” primary school?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:16 Emotional impact on the child whose parent was jailed for lying about their address

4:54 Unfairness in the P1 registration system

11:26 How inequality in society builds anxiety in parents

23:32 Bullying in an elite school

35:54 How the lack of information about school culture has spurred anxiety among parents

38:20 Could an automatic allocation to primary schools create a fairer admission system?

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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S2E50: How to read Trump right and why he and Xi get along

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Our expert guest explains why he predicts both men will seek good vibes in 2026.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

In this episode, US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar hosts her special guest - Harvard Professor Graham Allison - who tells her how he manages to read Trump right, by taking him seriously, looking at his patterns amid all his statements, and noticing the trend lines.

Prof Allison is the Douglas Dillon Professor of Government at Harvard University where he has taught for five decades. He is a leading analyst of national security with special interests in nuclear weapons, Russia, China, and decision-making.

He has also written books, including Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides’s Trap?, published in 2017. He also had another book out earlier in 2013 - Lee Kuan Yew: The Grand Master’s Insights on China, the United States and the World - which has been a bestseller in the US and abroad.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:31 How well do Trump & Xi vibe? Getting a sense of their agendas for 2026

7:34 What do Trump and Xi want from each other?

9:31 Will Trump get hawkish on China ahead of 2026 election?

13:52 Why is Trump muted on China-Japan spat over Taiwan?

18:50 Why Trump is different from any other US president

21:48 How today’s China looks at today’s America

24:43 Will China be the world’s sole superpower?

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Follow Bhagyashree Garekar on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/gD6E

Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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S1E72: Will AI take our jobs? Jasmin Lau, Goh Hanyan say what they think

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:19:36 +0000

It has been about six months since Jasmin Lau and Goh Hanyan stepped into politics after careers in the civil and public service.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Now they are both political office holders across several ministries, taking on new responsibilities and getting used to being in the public eye.

They are also the co-chairs of the Committee on Technology and Innovation – one of five committees that are part of the Economic Strategy Review.

In a nutshell, the review looks at how Singapore can stay economically relevant and competitive amid geopolitical tensions and tech disruptions.

They will be dropping by The Usual Place podcast to chat about what the past couple of months have been like and the biggest adjustments they have had to make.

We’ll also discuss the committee’s plans on how to accelerate artificial intelligence transformation across the economy and encourage enterprises to adopt AI, as well as feedback they have garnered from speaking with business owners.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:43 Reallocating time spent after landing political office positions

4:29 The most challenging portfolio

6:48 Switching between national and municipal issues

12:09 “Never a dull day, even for the family” - how their children are adjusting

20:58 Last-mover advantage in adapting AI - feedback from CEO closed door session

26:36 Don’t panic, the AI wave is not coming tomorrow for your jobs: Jasmin

35:29 How AI cannot replace the human touch

38:11 AI companions are scary

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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S2E10: Parking.SG, the summons auntie is coming!

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The popular Parking.SG app was supposed to help parking wardens issue summons. What happened?

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

The Parking.SG app handles a million sessions a month, with under half of them being ended early and the motorist getting a refund. Half of them are Apple users, and the rest use Android smartphones. To think that it all began as a project to help the parking warden.

In this episode, host and senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Ms Amelia Fong, the product manager for Parking.sg and a policy officer at Open Government Products (OGP), a division of the Government Technology Agency of Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:21 The technology behind the original Parking.SG app

4:00 User statistics

8:00 Considerations to make the app senior-friendly

11:56 Annual hackathon for new technology solutions

19:00 Keeping the app working 24/7

20:57 Becoming a product manager at OGP

Learn more about Parking.SG: https://www.parking.sg/

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E28: COP30: How it will affect lives, jobs and politics in Singapore, SE Asia

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Why climate conferences are the only forum that can unite the world in fighting climate change.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Annual UN climate conferences, or COPs, have become giant gatherings that bring together governments, business, scientists, civil society and much more, showing the world wants to fight climate change, showcase solutions and rewire the global economy.

But can COP30 and future climate summits really make a difference to heatwaves, floods, green jobs and climate finance – or are they just full of hot air?

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they unpack why climate COPs matter to everyday lives, jobs and politics in South-east Asia and beyond.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:59 Why are climate COPs so important?

3:40 More money needed for adaptation investments and tools to measure progress

7:46 How to scale climate cash up to US$1.3 trillion a year – that level of funding could transform communities in SE Asia

10:39 COPs: A showcase for solutions to cut emissions and boost adaptation

18:33 Boosting green jobs as nations focus on cutting emissions

22:49 The Paris Agreement targets: Driving regional partnerships to boost green investments and strengthen climate politics

26:31: A tale of the hare and the tortoise….

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E30: Budgeting for three holidays in 2026

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

More holidays a year sounds great but ensure they stay within budget by using these hacks.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Instead of saving for a home, young people are now saving for travel and leisure. Over half of young workers said saving for trips is among their top financial goals, a survey showed.

So travel is clearly a top of mind issue for Singaporeans. But how do we budget for three trips a year?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to achieve your vacation dreams.

Her guests are Revolut’s Head of Strategy and Operations Ashley Thomas and ST travel journalist Sarah Stanley.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:23 How early do you plan for 2026’s trips?

4:00 Are more people doing three holidays a year?

8:00 How to set budgets for a trip

16:22 Using AI to plan holidays

18:00 Where are the upcoming popular spots?

21:00 Travel deals and ways to save money

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E49: Inside the mind of Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first woman PM

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Our guest expert looks at her political approach, as well as her personal side.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 45 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Ravi speaks with Professor Tomohiko Taniguchi, foreign policy adviser to the Cabinet of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and one of the most authoritative voices on Japan about the ascend and likely impact of Sanae Takaichi.

They discuss Ms Takaichi’s first diplomatic encounter with US President Donald Trump, her hardline approach to defence, and China, Japan’s shifting priorities in Asean as Philippines rises in salience and Indonesia declines, Tokyo’s dread of Trump’s ‘G-2’ talk, the future of the Quad security dialogue, and her approach to economic policy.

They also discuss Ms Takaichi’s softer, personal side – her early life, propensity to ride powerful motorbikes, marriage to the same man twice and finally, the question: Now that Japan has its first woman PM, is it time to consider an Empress for Japan?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:00 Shinzo Abe’s protege? Yes, and no.

5:00 Asean summit and first encounter with Donald J Trump

10:00 Japan’s dread of Trump’s “G-2” talk

12:00: Defence thrust, and the nuclear question

18:30 China, Japan’s key neighbour

22:30 For Tokyo, Indonesia dips while Philippines rises

26:00 Is Quad dead in the water?

31:00 Japan and foreigners

36:10 Sanae Takaichi: woman, wife, rocker, biker

41:20 After woman PM, an Empress for Japan?

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani & Chen Junyi

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E71: How can we get Singapore consumers to buy locally farmed produce?

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:54:34 +0000

Dig deeper into why Singapore's food sustainability targets have changed.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

The original goal was for farms here to produce 30 per cent of the country’s nutritional needs, which include fish, eggs and vegetables. Now it's 20 per cent of Singapore's fibre and 30 per cent of protein needs by 2035.

Natasha speaks with Ken Cheong, chief executive of the Singapore Agro-Food Enterprises Federation and Ray Poh, founder of Artisan Green, an indoor farm that grows pesticide-free crops – about what measures are needed to help local farms grow and why egg farmers are doing well.

What will help every farm become a "good farm" and should we have CDC-type vouchers to get consumers to buy local produce?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:31 Why was the initial goal so difficult to achieve?

4:37 Economies of scale lowers operational costs

7:55 Why transport is the biggest bugbear for local produce

21:56 Why local eggs are safe to be eaten half-boiled

28:52 Will CDC vouchers push more to buy local produce?

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E60: Are teachers in Singapore multi-tasking too much?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Apart from their vocation, teachers also handle administrative work and counselling.

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Teachers in Singapore work longer than their peers in other advanced economies. They spend less time teaching but more on planning, counselling and communicating with students’ parents, according to the Teaching and Learning International Survey (Talis) released on Oct 7, 2025.

In total, the Talis survey polled 194,000 teachers in 55 education systems across Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries.

Teachers in Singapore work an average of 47.3 hours a week, higher than the overall average of 41 hours. Approximately 3,500 teachers and respective school principals across all 145 public secondary schools and 10 randomly selected private secondary schools participated in the survey from April to August 2024.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong examines why this is happening, and whether there is any way their workload and stress can be reduced.

In the studio with her is Ms Sarah Tan, a former secondary school teacher with 17 years of experience and taught till 2020, but now gives tuition. She is also a mother of two children aged 13 and 15.

Mr Manogaran Suppiah was formerly the principal of Anderson Serangoon Junior College. He first started out teaching for 16 years, before moving to different departments within the Ministry of Education, including becoming the founding executive director of Academy of Singapore Teachers (AST). In 2022, he retired from his career spanning over 40 years.

Highlights (click/tap above):

7:23 Teacher workload: Why it has gone up

11:08 How technology adds to and can also lighten workload

14:10 Learning to use AI tools?

18:18 Administrative duties, parents' expectations

23:20 On teachers having to 'parent' students?

28:43 Mid-career switches from other professions to teaching: Different perspectives

30:00 Why education leaders must find out from teachers what is meaningless

33:08 School leaders, heads of departments and teachers: What's lacking?

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E48: The two rules that Parisians broke in the hot summer of 2025

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Spoiler: Politics, and the private lives of politicians.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

For more than a century, it was quite accepted in France that Presidents and male politicians could have mistresses, and no one would pry into their private lives.

But public attitudes are changing, and this is manifested in persistent curiosity about President Emmanuel Macron and his wife - who have now taken the unprecedented step of filing a lawsuit to battle scurrilous allegations.

In this episode, ST's foreign editor Li Xueying hosts global affairs correspondent Jonathan Eyal, who takes his skewer to double standards, culture wars and conspiracy theories that are fuelling the change.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:48 Paris in summer: A hotbed of scandals

4:11 Climate and political heat

7:01 Changing political privacy norms in France

9:29 The role of social media and disinformation

13:31 Macron’s political challenges and scandals

Read Jonathan Eyal’s article here: https://str.sg/cDua

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E70: What’s with the fixation over brand-name schools?

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:31:37 +0000

This follows a debate over a school's alumni reaction to an ST report on a major scam operation.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

It was a crime report meant to highlight the suspects behind a major scam operation, but a nugget of information sparked an uproar over a school’s image.

Last week, The Straits Times reported that two brothers and their cousin were the alleged masterminds running the operation from Phnom Penh.

The group ran a government official impersonation scam that was allegedly responsible for 438 scam cases involving losses of at least $41 million.

The 27 Singaporeans suspected of being members of the organised criminal group are now wanted by the Singapore police.

But that was not what readers were talking about online.

What drew attention was a detail in the Oct 30 report that one of the wanted men, Finan Siow, was said to be a former Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) student who once played for the school’s rugby team.

That information – featured in both the article and an infographic – didn’t sit well with the Anglo-Chinese School Old Boys’ Association, which said the school had been singled out.

ST explained its editorial decision.

But the furore around that piece of information, especially from the school’s alumni on social media platforms, was curious.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I speak to two well-known social commentators – comedian Rishi Budhrani, and comedy writer and communication strategist Benjamin “Mr Miyagi” Lee – to find out why we are so fixated on brand-name schools?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:01 Mr Miyagi and Rishi disclose which school they used to attend

3:39 On the ACS Old Boys’ Association’s forum letter

6:56 Rishi and Benjamin on their own reaction to the ST report

8:34 Brand name schools: Baggage and expectations

13:50 Mr Miyagi on his son’s choice of schools

11:49 Judge on merits and achievements, not school links

16:29 School alumni networks have worth too

22:58 Different experiences of school life

30:14 Education is so valued in Singapore, hence such debates

30:48 Old boys: Making the news for wrong reasons

Read more: ACS Old Boys’ Association’s forum letter and response from ST: https://str.sg/pG4E

Read Natasha Ann Zachariah’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E142: Boys with nine hours of sleep are less likely to grow fat

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Boys who slept nine hours or more every night had a lower obesity risk and less dangerous fat.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

A recent A*Star study found that boys who slept at least nine hours every night had a 51 per cent lower obesity risk and less abdominal fat.

Abdominal fat, particularly fat around internal organs, is more strongly linked to metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease than overall body weight.

Published in the journal Obesity (Oct 2025), the study used MRI imaging to examine how sleep habits relate to fat distribution in 10-year-olds in Singapore.

In this episode, host and ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo finds out more from the study’s authors Dr Cai Shirong and Dr Navin Michael, about the importance of sleep and how sleep deprivation can increase the risk of obesity and overweight in children.

Dr Cai And Dr Navin are principal scientists from the A*Star Institute for Human Development and Potential.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:48 Does catching up on sleep during the weekend reduce the risk of obesity?

7:07 Why was there a weaker association between sleep deprivation and obesity in girls?

8:00 Prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents

15:45 Why do we prefer burgers over salad when we are sleep deprived?

17:38 Sleep can help regulate cognition in children

19:43 Examples of caffeinated beverages consumed by children

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E27: Can the insurance industry keep up with climate change in SE Asia?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Vital need for insurance to bridge the region’s ‘protection gap’ and drive the green transition.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Insurance is a safety net and is increasingly vital as climate change risks grow and as more people, homes and businesses are in the path of disaster. But in South-east Asia, the majority of people do not have access to insurance. And the region is facing worsening threats from floods, sea-level rise and heat stress.

Only 5 to 7 per cent of all climate-related losses are insured in South-east Asia, says Mr Daniel Fairweather, head of food security systems and biodiversity at Howden, an insurance broking firm.

But there is plenty of hope to bridge this “protection gap”, he tells Green Pulse podcast hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty. There are insurance products that can help communities when disaster strikes by rapidly releasing cash payments to meet emergency needs. Mutualised insurance risk pools that combine premiums can also pay out in times of need.

Two things are key: Insurers need to work closely with governments and businesses to better assess climate risks and vulnerabilities. Secondly, spread the financial risk by building connections across the region, such as linking up local and national insurance mechanisms, such as risk pools.

“Every risk is insurable,” Mr Fairweather says, adding that insurance coverage is also critical to accelerate green investments in the region.

Have a listen, and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:04 What are some of South-east Asia’s top climate change risks?

4:51 Will insurance losses increase mainly because of climate change or for other reasons, too?

9:10 What are some of the insurance products that can protect communities in the region?

16:06 In some places in the US, insurance coverage has been withdrawn. What’s the reason for this?

24:28 What about the role of insurance in boosting green initiatives in South-east Asia. Is it a catalyst?

28:28 Can the insurance industry thrive despite the rapid march of climate change?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E29: Will AI steal your lunch? What Singapore workers need to know

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Find out how to choose the right employers, training and career paths to ride the wave.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

We are in the thick of it. Artificial intelligence (AI) has already taken root in our personal and professional lives, and is set to reshape society even more.

How best to set ourselves up for success for the years to come? What is the support at hand to help us make better career choices?

In this episode, host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for Manpower, as well as for Culture, Community and Youth.

MOS Dinesh shares more about who the hotly-scrutinised and recently launched Graduate Industry Traineeships (Grit) are meant for, and why it has taken the form it has.

Joining the discussion is Ms Elsie Ng, director for talent solutions in Singapore for professional networking platform LinkedIn. She shares how both employers and workers are reinventing themselves for AI.

This is a jam-packed episode that cannot be missed.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:43 What prevents people from taking the first step in upskilling?

9:17 How have skill requirements changed in recent times?

13:40 Huge demand in 'people' skills; why career research is important

17:36 What happens to those who find their efforts aren’t enough to keep up?

24:47 Grit is meant for those who can’t directly enter growth sectors

31:10 Nurturing ready trainees for when the role is eventually created

Take the Career Health quiz: https://careerhealth.sg/quiz/

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E69: Megan Khung abuse case: How can we fix the system that failed her?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 08:16:35 +0000

Megan Khung would have turned 10 a few weeks ago, if she were still alive today.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Instead, five years after her death, the findings by a review panel detailed how, within a year, there were several lapses at various agencies that could have helped her.

The panel’s report came after the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) said in April it would conduct a review of Megan’s case.

The girl died in 2020 after suffering physical and emotional abuse by her mother Foo Li Ping and her mother’s then-boyfriend Wong Shi Xiang.

The report’s timeline detailed what happened from the time staff members at Megan’s pre-school found bruises on her body to when the couple were arrested for murder, highlighting gaps in communication among agencies, lags in escalating the matter and a lack of follow-ups.

These agencies include Child Protective Service and the police.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I will discuss what the panel’s findings and recommendations tell us about accountability in the system, the complexities of navigating child abuse cases, and how we can do better to protect the most vulnerable among us.

I speak with ST’s senior social affairs correspondent Theresa Tan and director of clinical services at social service agency Pave Integrated Services Soh Siew Fong.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:26 When abuse is dealing with life and death

8:12 Did the many helping hands framework fail?

10:00 When child protection is more than just hiring social workers

10:47 Supervising case workers

17:40 Why do social workers hesitate to make police reports?

30:06 How to attract new case workers

33:42 When physical punishment becomes abuse

41:35 Keeping children safe goes beyond case work

Read Natasha Ann Zachariah’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Pave Integrated Services: https://str.sg/fgUd

National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline (NAVH): https://str.sg/JPwNL

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E18: How a viral song made Singaporean singer Regina Song famous

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Hear from home-grown singer Regina Song, one of the most streamed Singapore artistes in the past year.

Synopsis: Synopsis (headphones recommended): The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In this special episode of Music Lab, ST’s music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts Regina Song, one of the most streamed Singapore artistes in the past year.

The 21-year-old first encountered fame when her 2024 song, The Cutest Pair, went viral on TikTok.

A song from her debut album Fangirl, it has since garnered 54 million streams on Spotify alone.

But as she discusses in the podcast interview, the singer wants to be more than just a one-hit wonder. She has been working on new songs and performed two of her newest tunes, Before I Leave and Midsummer Mansion, live on the podcast.

In the interview, Song talks about her relationship with social media and how it plays a huge role in how she operates as an artiste.

She also discusses the challenges of being a full-time music musician in Singapore, including the lack of a structured system for rising artistes.

This episode was recorded and filmed in front of a live audience of some 90 ST readers on October 7 at Esplanade Annexe Studio, as part of the ST Podcast Live! Sessions celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025.

Highlights (click/tap above):

10:23 How an old laptop and piano lessons set her on the path to music

17:30 On how The Cutest Pair made her one of the most streamed Singaporean artistes

23:13 The pros and cons of social media for a singer

28:46 Revealing personal details in confessional lyrics

33:03 The lack of a structured system for rising artistes in Singapore

38:04 A desire to headline bigger festivals and help other musicians pursue their dreams

Watch the full performance and podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/JdzuV

Listen to Regina Song’s live performance of Before I Leave & Midsummer Mansion here: https://str.sg/MbDc

Discover home-grown artiste Regina Song at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/ieaZ

Spotify: https://str.sg/o2WPs

Instagram: https://str.sg/9PLo

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/7m92

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

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S1E18: Regina Song - Before i leave & Midsummer mansion (Live)

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Hear from home-grown singer Regina Song, one of the most streamed Singapore artistes in the past year.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Listen to Regina Song talk about her musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/fsHh

Discover home-grown artiste Regina Song at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/ieaZ

Spotify: https://str.sg/o2WPs

Instagram: https://str.sg/htdW

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/7m92

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

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S2E47: Trump meets Xi: Who'll win the China-US tussle; impact on Asia

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A grand bargain will be hard to strike at the upcoming US-China presidential summit, says a top trade expert.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US Bureau Chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

In this episode, former US trade negotiator Wendy Cutler - who was recently a panellist at SPH Media’s Oct 9 Asia Future Summit - speaks with US Bureau Chief Bhagyashree Garekar to unpack what can be expected from President Donald Trump’s Asia trip.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:09 On the expected Trump-Xi meeting

6:11 What China wants out of the meeting

7:39 Wendy Cutler’s gut feel on the summit outcome

12:00 Did Singapore get the ‘best deal’ out of Trump?

14:10 Seoul may get a deal, not New Delhi

17:19 ‘We're gonna be living in a tariff world for the next 3.5 years’

23:34 Is the sun setting on Apec?

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Bhagyashree Garekar’s LinkedIn: https://str.sg/gD6E

Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Lynda Hong

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E68: The ex-vaper who had to ‘wash’ his lungs multiple times: Here's his story

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:13:31 +0000

Many people switch from smoking to vaping for different reasons.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

For Mr Muhammad Dandiar Rosli, he saw vaping as a cheaper alternative to smoking, so he decided to give it a try.

But it nearly cost him his life. Just a month after he started vaping in 2020, he ended up in hospital after feeling breathless and coughing up thick, yellow phlegm.

He thought he had contracted Covid-19, but a bronchoscopy revealed that he had pulmonary alveolar proteinosis – a rare lung disease where the air sacs are clogged with protein and fatty material, making breathing difficult.

That marked the start of a long recovery that included two hospital stays and four procedures to “wash out” his lungs. What he underwent is called a lung lavage, where sterile saline is used to wash away the abnormal build-up of protein from the lungs.

Five years on, the memory of the treatment – and the hefty medical bill – still affects him today. Mr Dandiar, a private-hire driver, drops by The Usual Place podcast to talk about undergoing the lung lavage procedures and the difficulty of quitting vaping.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:08 The failed attempt to save money by vaping

9:08 “It was too painful, I had to shutdown,” Dandiar on being hospitalised with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis.

10:29 The process of lung washing

16:07 Restarting to vape after his first hospitalisation

25:54 Why quitting is so difficult

Read Natasha Ann Zachariah’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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#tup #tuptr

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S2E46: Anwar’s Asean chair year: From geopolitics to fiscal finance, how did he fare?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Fresh off tabling Budget 2026, Malaysia is set to host world’s superpowers during the Asean Summit in KL starting Oct 26.

For our October episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Zurairi A.R. are joined by Tony Pua, an ex-member of Parliament from DAP, and previously a political secretary for former finance minister Lim Guan Eng.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim just tabled his latest budget for 2026, and will now have to juggle domestic and international impressions over the visit of US President Donald Trump during the Asean Summit starting Oct 26.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:57 Was the RM470b allocation in Budget 2026 a creative fiscal feat?

5:09 How successful has Anwar been in pushing for financial reforms?

8:39 Is the allocation for Sabah and Sarawak a political move ahead of the state election?

11:18 Can Malaysia afford to have Trump miss the Asean Summit?

13:31 Will Malaysia have to one day choose between the US and China?

15:37 Why Malaysians’ anger on the Palestinian cause is real

19:38 How to celebrate an F1 win without alcoholic champagne

Demystifying Budget 2026 tabled by PM Anwar https://str.sg/mpP6

Is Budget 2026 a political strategy for Sabah state polls? https://str.sg/wJ76g

Malaysians are unhappy with Trump’s visit to KL https://str.sg/DBc3

Petronas CEO under fire for champagne celebration at Singapore GP https://str.sg/7HoB

Read Zurairi A.R.’s articles: https://str.sg/DCfr

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Hosts: Zurairi A.R. (zurairi@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E17: How rapper Abangsapau’s difficult childhood shaped the songs on debut album

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Hear from home-grown rapper Abangsapau, one of the Singapore hip-hop scene’s most promising young rappers.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In this special episode of Music Lab, ST’s music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts one of the Singapore hip-hop scene’s most promising young rappers, Abangsapau.

Known for his trademark sarong, he made his debut in 2019, and in the following year, performed at the 2020 National Day Parade (NDP). He is currently signed to Def Jam Recordings South East Asia, the regional wing of the iconic American hip-hop music label.

The 26-year-old has just put out his self-titled debut album, a 14-track release filled with brutally honest recollections of the experiences that shaped him into the person that he is today.

The rapper, who also performed at the 2025 NDP, did not have an easy childhood and had to deal with issues such as a broken family, substance abuse and bullying.

But as he discusses in the podcast, it is important for him to be as authentic as he can with his music, as it helps him connect with, and empower his audience.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:46 How he got the name Abangsapau, and what it means

5:36 How talking back to his teachers led to him winning public speaking competitions

7:33 On his difficult childhood, experiences with substance abuse, family issues and witnessing his mother's struggle with depression

15:53 Sharing his experiences through his music led to a fan overcoming suicidal ideations

18:26 He wrote over 300 love songs when he was still juggling his former day job at a hospital

24:00 Performing with his mother at the 2020 NDP

27:18 His hope for a future where Singaporeans are proud of their local artists and support the local music scene

Watch the full performance and podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/uiSd

Listen to Abangsapau’s live performance of wow. and selamat, sayang here: https://str.sg/fwvW

Discover home-grown artiste Abangsapau at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/oGhpp

Spotify: https://str.sg/KwtC

Instagram: https://str.sg/DSEN

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/7m92

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

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S1E17: Abangsapau - wow. & selamat, sayang (Live)

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Hear home-grown rapper Abangsapau's intimate live take of wow. and selamat, sayang, two songs from his latest debut album, Abangsapau.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Watch the full performance and podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/uiSd

Listen to Abangsapau talk about his musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/sNxa

Discover home-grown artiste Abangsapau at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/oGhpp

Spotify: https://str.sg/KwtC

Instagram: https://str.sg/DSEN

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/7m92

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

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S2E26: Ahead of COP30, Temasek’s sustainability chief on scaling climate finance for Asia

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A greener, climate-friendly future is an opportunity to do well financially and not just to do good.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

What is it like to be on the frontline of climate finance and investing? To many, it might seem a pretty challenging time, with some nations and big oil and gas firms doubling down on fossil fuels. And the world is distracted with wars and upended trade flows.

But to Ms Kyung-Ah Park, Chief Sustainability Officer for Singapore investment firm Temasek, there’s plenty to be hopeful about. Investors are increasingly looking at the opportunities in South-east Asia, a huge market of 700 million people with growing energy needs.

Sure, there are headwinds, she tells Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty, with AI soaking up a lot of investment cash, plus geopolitics and policy uncertainty buffeting investors. But the direction is clear. As a long-term investor, the clean energy and transition agendas are a “must do”, she says. It’s just good business and a lot of investors are staying the course.

And the trick is to make green investments appealing, with different layers of risk and reward that attract investors with differing appetites, a bit like a sandwich.

Have a listen to our latest episode and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:11 You were just at New York Climate Week and the UN General Assembly. Are you feeling more hopeful about global climate investment?

7:20 What is the appetite for climate investments in SE Asia?

10:35 And what are some of the investment risks? What are some of the key obstacles for the region?

19:25 How do you de-risk some of these investments to make them more appealing, more appetising?

28:45 There’s been a heavy reliance on Western capital – but are things changing? Is this Asia’s time to rise?

31:19 What would success look like at the COP30 UN climate talks? Is the US$1.3 trillion finance goal achievable?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E28: How platform work can support young talent

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Platform work can expand employment options and opportunities, but only with careful regulation.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Digital platform work has become a fixture of Singapore society, with a contingent of almost 70,000 plying their trade, mostly in ride-hailing or food delivery.

In a special episode of Headstart On Record, co-host Tay Hong Yi moderates a fireside chat with four panellists across the platform work ecosystem at the Global Dialogue on Digital Platform Work on Sept 29.

Hear their views on the challenges that come with this new format of work, the prospects that come with expanding it to a wider range of jobs, and what needs to be done to make it meaningful for young talent.

The panellists were:

Ms Yeo Wan Ling, assistant secretary-general at the National Trades Union Congress

Mr Hao Shuo, chief executive officer, Singapore National Employers Federation

Mr Lim Yew Heng, group managing director for public affairs, transformation and post-merger integration at Grab

Mr Elvin Tan, Asia-Pacific head of operations at human resources services firm Persol

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:01 How NTUC develops support for platform workers despite limited data

8:38 Is it a good idea to expand platform work to other jobs?

9:56 Should we be worried about platform work eroding Singapore’s skill base?

12:04 Are employers ready to recognise platform work as work experience?

18:26 The toughest balancing acts Grab makes

Read what went down during the dialogue: https://str.sg/gTPf

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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S1E67: What's PSP chief Leong Mun Wai up to now that he’s no longer in Parliament

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:58:09 +0000

Parliament convened in September, but a familiar face from the previous term wasn’t there.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Progress Singapore Party’s secretary-general Leong Mun Wai was a notable presence as a Non-Constituency MP during the 14th term of Parliament, sometimes having heated exchanges with ministers and PAP MPs.

But he and fellow party member Hazel Poa did not retain their NCMP spots following the General Election in May.

Their PSP team for West Coast-Jurong West GRC lost to the PAP slate, which won the five-man GRC with 59.99 per cent of the vote to PSP’s 40.01 per cent.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I speak with Mr Leong about steering the party in its next phase post-GE2025 and the challenges of not being in Parliament.

How will PSP evolve its practices and policy communications without a Parliamentary presence, and remain relevant?

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:06 Increasing online presence to explain party positions

6:05 Mr Leong on heated exchanges as NCMP

10:45 How PSP will explain its policy ideas to the public post-GE2025

19:19 What will PSP really stand for "after Dr Tan Cheng Bock"?

20:20 Wanting to lead national conversation on economy

22:55 How does PSP stand out differently from other parties?

25:00 Will PSP move beyond the electro west?

28:00 "I learnt a very hard lesson about the powerful PAP machinery": Mr Leong

Read Natasha Ann Zachariah’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

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S2E9: A restaurant that also serves BYD EVs

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:18:55 +0000

Three finance graduates had used data to create a business that completes the BYD experience in a restaurant

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

While other car dealerships put a cafe in their showrooms, 1826’s car selling business is built into its restaurants. In this episode, two of 1826’s three founders, Davin Ongsono and Sean Tan, reveal some of the secret ingredients to the company’s ability to sell cars in Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:00 The food and beverage part of the business gets the priority

12:00 Background of 1826’s co-founders

19:00 Disruptor to the conventional way of the food and beverage business

30:00 Playing on the unique features of the electric vehicles to spark buying interest

38:00 How BYD bids for certificates of entitlement (COEs)

47:00 Spreading the message on green mobility

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E45: Behind that 100-part bicycle: Asia’s shifting supply chains

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 03:30:00 +0000

How geopolitics is pushing manufacturers from China to South-east Asia and India.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode, Ravi hosts Mridula Iyer, Asia South Head of Services at Citi, the global financial services firm, on shifts in Asia’s supply chain and how it matters for ordinary people.

They discuss how manufacturing is moving toward South-East Asia, which countries are gaining, and the US dollar’s continued dominance in trade settlement.

They also discuss prospects for South Asia, where countries such as India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are seeing an increase in manufacturing activity.

This episode is brought to you by Citi.

Highlights: (click/tap above)

1:45 Demystifying the supply chain; smartphones as examples

7:30 The shift to South-east Asia

9:12 How a financial institution such as Citi figures in supply chain, trade

11:07 "We have the globality of a global bank, but we're embedded like a local bank"

12:45 China’s export thrust to South-east Asia

14:10 Why Vietnam is booming

17:00 The tariff situation: India and South Asia

19:30 Dollar dominance even as supply chains shift

Citigroup - Singapore: https://www.citigroup.com/global/about-us/global-presence/singapore

Citigroup - Services: https://www.citigroup.com/global/businesses/services

Citibank.com.sg: https://www.citibank.com.sg/

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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S1E66: WFH vs WFO: Why are more companies making employees return to office?

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:38:43 +0000

Hybrid work arrangements were once widely seen as the future of work, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic upended the daily grind we were used to.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Now, some businesses and employers appear to be changing course.

Last week, the National University of Singapore raised eyebrows when it was reported that all full-time staff were required to work from the office five days a week, starting Oct 1.

The move follows similar return-to-office mandates by big companies, both in Singapore and abroad, including Grab and Amazon.

The discussion over where work should happen has been going on since the pandemic.

However, if staff are pushing back on a full return, why do some employers still insist on moving ahead with these mandates? If returning to the office becomes a requirement, how should the workplace accommodate different work styles?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with:

Ives Tay, a learning and development consultant who has experience with adult education, training quality assurance and workforce development, and
Nicole Chua, director in workplace consulting and People Strategy Lead in Asia-Pacific for global real estate services company JLL

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:57 We can be productive in the office - and at home

9:12 WFH allows workers to break their day into focused blocks

13:52 Have the courage to speak with managers about policies

18:07 Are some ruining WFH for the rest?

19:45 Employees should be transparent about their movements

22:57 Government should address tensions over flexible work arrangements

29:31 Ensuring the WFH benefits remain

31:53 Is WFH short-changing fresh graduates?

35:27 Consequences for employers enforcing RTO measures

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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S1E59: How iPhones, fast fashion spur the throwaway culture

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Buying new iPhones, wardrobe makeovers and single-use products have become social norms. But what happens to the old, replaced items?

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Annual launches like Apple’s iPhone have spurred the desire to own the latest piece of technology, as consumers face up to marketing tactics from smartphones to fast fashion.

Usually, older items that are replaced are being tossed away to make way for the new.

What else can be done to the replaced items apart from sending them to the landfill?

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong examines whether we have a throwaway culture that’s grown despite years of public education and outreach and whether we are too quick to chuck stuff to make way for new ones. She also explores if the iPhone 17 is worth the upgrade from the iPhone 16.

Her guests are Mr Tan Ching Hwee, founder of myhalo, a platform allowing users to trade-in, repair, sell, and buy used digital devices; and Mr Lionel Dorai, executive director of Zerowaste SG, an NGO that advocates for Singapore to go zero waste through public education.

Highlights (click/tap above):

9:03 Upgrading from iPhone 16 to 17

12:53 Batteries in phones can be replaced

17:03 Pairing earbuds from different sets - does it work?

23:44 The repairing culture in curbing throwaways in fast fashion

31:46 How to decipher green washing tactics

35:34 Would CDC vouchers to subsidise repair costs encourage more to repair?

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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S2E25: Seaweed rising: Can it fuel Asia’s blue economy?

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Tune in for a discussion on whether there is an environmental and business case for Asia’s ocean crop.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

As discussions on the blue economy pick up, one particular area has garnered plenty of attention: Seaweed.

Environmental groups have pointed to the environmental benefits of restorative seaweed aquaculture, while investor interest in the crop has also grown. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN has also noted that seaweed production can generate socio-economic benefits to coastal communities.

But given the world’s long history of seaweed aquaculture, why has this crop suddenly gained so much attention? And what promise does this emerging area have for South-east Asia and its coastal communities? Host Audrey Tan chats with Mr Simon Davis, founder of seaweed biotechnology company Seadling, on this issue.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:52 What accounts for the resurgence of interest in seaweed?

3:50 What are the environmental benefits of farming seaweed?

16:00 What are the challenges to scaling up seaweed farming?

19:48 How is Seadling working with farming communities to upskill them?

23:38 Are there negative environmental impacts of seaweed farms?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

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S2E27: Should you invest your CPF?

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Investing your CPF might be exciting, but ensure you have enough too for housing and retirement.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Retirement seems like ages away for a young person, and the CPF that accumulates can feel like money just sitting in a fund.

But what can we use CPF for? And should we all invest our CPF?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to use your CPF, whether for investment or housing needs.

Her guests are Angeline Teo from CPF Board and Gen Z undergrad Quang Long.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:58 What are the different CPF accounts?

9:54 How do CPF savings grow?

11:50 Using CPF for housing

14:55 What CPF cannot be used for

16:28 How to invest your CPF

20:05 Other considerations when investing your CPF

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E44: Church and fortune-tellers: Why Filipinos find solace in both

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Asia’s only Christian nation, the Philippines, is devoutly Catholic. Yet, why do so many turn to peddlers of potions and talismans as well?

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

One afternoon, Philippines correspondent Mara Cepeda popped into church to whisper a prayer, and then sought her fortunes from a tarot card reader just outside its premises.

She did it in the name of research, but for many Filipinos, this is how they seek divine guidance through life.

In this episode, host and ST's foreign editor Li Xueying speaks with Mara about the balance between the two contradictory belief systems in the Philippines.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:31 Quiapo’s unique blend of religious and mystical practices

6:55 Socio-economic realities in the Philippines and their influence on religious practices

9:15 The Catholic church's role in social welfare

13:20 Navigating modern challenges in religion

17:08 Intersection of political power and religious institutions

Read Mara Cepeda’s article here: https://str.sg/wN4UL

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E65: WP offers S’poreans distinct alternatives to the PAP, say the party’s new MPs

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 08:59:25 +0000

A marathon Parliament session unfolded last week, as MPs debated the President’s Address over five days.

A total of 81 MPs spoke in support of the motion, including the 32 newly elected members who delivered their maiden speeches. They raised issues ranging from job and wage anxieties to bridging the wealth inequality gap and the disruption caused by artificial intelligence (AI).

In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with Workers’ Party MPs Fadli Fawzi and Kenneth Tiong about their Parliament debut.

I chatted with both Aljunied GRC MPs about their speeches, and what life has been like after the 2025 General Election.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:25 Prepping for their Parliament debut

4:01 “It’s like the teacher calling your name.”

6:45 Social mobility is the true test of meritocracy: Fadli

9:24 Pitfalls of idealising meritocracy

12:03 An elderly woman and her pigeons

14:13 Leading the Meet-the-People sessions

16:11 Speaking in Parliament versus at GE2025

20:46 The supportive wives behind these MPs

22:46 Challenging the PAP-lite claims

27:20 A need for direct answers from the Government

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E141: Grieving matters: How to cope with the loss of a loved one

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Grief is a painful, individual emotional and physical response to a significant loss. But it can be managed.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Grief is a painful, individual emotional and physical response to a significant loss.

Death, divorce, the loss of a home or a job, fast declining health are among the major events that people grieve.

To learn more about coping with grief, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Lin Jing, a counsellor from the Singapore Association for Mental Health.

SAMH is one of the few social service agencies focusing on mental health here that operates a general helpline for the public at 1800-283-7019

They also discuss what is grief counselling about.

If your grief feels like it's too much to bear, please reach out for help. We have included more helplines below.

Highlights (click/tap above):

9:00 When should you consider grief counselling?

12:45 When guilt is thrown into the picture

23:00 Understanding cognitive behaviourial therapy, grief counselling and grief therapy

29:10 Building a life around the loss of a child…

32:00 Appearing strong and unaffected by grief, when you are crumbling inside

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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Helplines

Mental well-being

National helpline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)
Tinkle Friend (for primary school-age children): 1800-2744-788

Counselling

Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366
We Care Community Services: 3165-8017
Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293
Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990

Online resources

mindline.sg/fsmh
eC2.sg
chat.mentalhealth.sg
carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

---

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S1E8: Competing for the Porsche Carrera Cup during F1 Grand Prix weekend in SG

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

How a 36-year-old will be racing on the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Oct 2025

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

Host and senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe chats with Mr Roy Tang, who puts in his best effort as a financial adviser to fund his racing.

Instead of stepping on the brakes after a high-speed accident on track, he goes full throttle and will be competing in the Porsche Carrera Cup during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend.

Follow Roy’s racing exploits on his Instagram account: @onemantank

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:36 Competing in Europe’s Formula 4, a category for karters to transition to professional racing

9:15 Racing in the dangerous Macau Grand Prix circuit

13:00 Surviving a 229kmh traffic accident

17:10 Committing to the Porsche Carrera Cup

19:37 Driving 1,000km on the simulator to prepare for the big race

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E43: Tanks and missiles: The implications of China's grand military parade

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Beijing’s message was clear: We are a great power and a force for good.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For September, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects again with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian.

They revisit the 2025 China Victory Day Parade, focusing on Beijing’s message to the world and what it reveals in terms of foreign policy preoccupations.

China’s WWII narrative was loud and clear: We have come a long way from being a victim to a great power. Additionally, the communist party is now strong enough to protect the nation.

For the domestic audience, the event was a great source of pride and served to galvanise the people during a time of great power rivalry with Washington.

Taken together with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Forum and the Xiangshan Forum on defence matters, September was a high-key month for China’s narrative building efforts as a responsible global player.

It sought to portray itself as a great power with friends, while leading the call for a new security order.

Looking ahead, it remains to be seen if China’s narrative shaping efforts would strengthen its hand when dealing with the United States.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:14 What is the big deal about the parade?

2:34 Futuristic weapons under the spotlight

5:21 Indonesian President Prabowo gets prime seat

6:57 Why WWII history matters to the Chinese government

8:49 Massive logistical preparations before the event

11:03 Do Chinese people still feel anger or resentment towards the war?

16:10 The West didn’t want to endorse China’s WWII narrative

17:30 China’s vision for a new security order

20:32 Looking ahead: APEC in South Korea and a Trump-Xi meeting

Read more: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/china-showcases-military-diplomatic-prowess-at-parade-attended-by-putin-kim

Host: Albert Wai (albertw@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani & Natasha Liew

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E64: 15 disruptions in 3 months: Can a task force fix our MRT woes?

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 09:46:36 +0000

Public transport operators SMRT and SBS Transit have been catching some heat lately, following a spate of at least 15 instances of rail delays and interruptions since July.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

In the first three weeks of September, there were six incidents occurring due to train faults or signalling issues.

Meanwhile, the Land Transport Authority figures show the MRT network’s reliability over 12 months ending June 2025 fell to its lowest level since 2020.

It’s understandable why commuters are frustrated.

Upgrades have been made to refresh ageing MRT lines, and new lines have been added. Plus, MRT and bus fares for adults went up by 10 cents in December 2024.

Yet, troubles persist.

Earlier this week in Parliament, Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow answered a range of questions from MPs about the matter, and spoke about follow-ups that the operators and LTA were working on together.

Was it an adequate response to the spate of disruptions, which have included hours-long disruptions on the East-West Line and Sengkang-Punggol LRT system in August? What else can be done to restore commuters’ confidence in our public transport systems?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I chatted with:

Former ST senior transport correspondent Christopher Tan, who has covered Singapore’s transport scene since 1989, and
Dr Samuel Chng, a research assistant professor who heads the Urban Psychology Lab in the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities at the Singapore University of Technology and Design.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:16 A review of Mr Siow’s parliament debut

5:36 New trains, refreshed lines, so why the disruptions?

11:16 Is it fair to say the incidents are unrelated?

17:56 Plan Bs and Cs when trains go down

20:19 Not an apple-to-apple comparison with other cities’

25:13 What does MKBF mean for a commuter?

30:22 Expectations of the new rail reliability task force

35:28 With most trips running smoothly, is our frustration justified?

38:36 Mr Siow’s report card so far

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai, Natasha Liew and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E63: The pickleball pickle: Loud nuisance or fun pastime?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 10:35:00 +0000

Pickleball has been a smash hit in Singapore over the past couple of years, but not everyone’s a fan.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

The game has attracted players of all ages looking to learn a new skill, keep active or meet fellow ‘picklers’.

On the flip side, pickleball has sparked complaints from residents living near Housing Board courts, who say the games are too noisy and disrupt the peace.

Last week, a Straits Times report looked into the tensions that have arisen amid pickleball’s growing popularity.

Complaints have surfaced on online forums, while angry residents have aired their grievances on social media and written in to ST’s Forum page.

MPs and town councils have stepped in with measures, though these vary across neighbourhoods.

They include restricting playing times for games, switching off the lights at courts after a particular time, and even banning pickleball from badminton courts, thus reducing the opportunities for play. (Pickleball courts are nearly identical in size to badminton courts, but smaller than tennis courts.)

The backlash against the game has been frustrating for players, who are competing to book spaces at ActiveSG facilities, as demand balloons. There are private courts, but they are a more expensive option.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with:

- Jeremy Soh, founder of pickleball club Performance Pickleball who picked up the sport less than two years ago; and

- Assistant Professor Nurul Amillin Hussain, a social scientist from Nanyang Technological University.

What made the game popular, and can pickleball players and residents find common ground? Also, why do tensions keep arising over sports in the heartlands?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Is pickleball a real sport?

7:13 A good sport to repopulate urban spaces

10:03 How much does it cost to get started?

12:43 Facing complaints when playing in public courts

17:40 Are we more intolerant than before?

19:35 Silent balls can help, so why don’t players use them?

27:48 Is noise in the ear of the beholder?

29:41 Is pickleball just a fad?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai, Natasha Liew and Chen Junyi

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Editorial producer: Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E24: Is blended finance the right recipe to speed up climate investments in Asia?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Public, private and philanthropic money is proving to be a successful mix to accelerate climate action.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

When it comes to climate action, financiers are increasingly turning to the Three Ps to find the cash they need: Public, private and philanthropic money.

With trillions of dollars needed annually to shift the world away from polluting fossil fuels, cash-strapped governments don’t have the financial muscle to do this. Much of the money needs to come from the private sector, with philanthropy providing a much needed boost.

This mix of money from all three, called blended finance, is designed to be cheaper concessional capital. It helps de-risk early-stage investments, especially in developing nations, and helps attract more investors. In 2023, climate blended finance totalled US$18.3 billion, up from about US$6 billion in 2015.

But while the amount is growing, it’s still a fraction of what is needed. Are there positive signs blended finance can be significantly scaled up? And is there a risk only certain types of projects will be attractive candidates for blended finance?

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:13 What is blended finance?

5:16 Why is blended finance becoming increasingly talked about?

8:52 What are some of the projects in Asia that could benefit?

10:40 How much money has been flowing into blended finance, especially for climate projects?

13:04 But what are some of the drawbacks – is there a risk that some types of projects will miss out?

18:06 COP30: If a roadmap for US$1.3 trillion in climate finance is sketched out, this could be a big boost.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E26: How to tell if your employer's leave practices are progressive

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Find out how to discern the hallmarks of employers who do well.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Mr Richard Cooper, business leader for benefits for Mercer Marsh Benefits in Singapore. Mr Cooper advises organisations on how to design healthcare benefits, insurance, flexi-benefits and related processes.

The ability to take leave from work for medical and personal reasons is a cornerstone of modern work.

However, it might not always be clear what a good benefits policy looks like, and when an employer is actually stingy or overbearing with what they require staff to do.

Do you have such experiences?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:00 How job requirements shape benefits policies

4:51 What are best practices employers adopt?

9:58 What does overreach look like?

13:42 Are employees obliged to plan their leave periods around work?

16:47 Should we expect enough employers to keep reserve capacity?

23:22 Why can Nordic countries afford extensive leave?

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E42: Xi-Modi sends powerful message to US and the world: Henry Huiyao Wang

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Why it's significant that China and India declare they are not rivals but partners.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Dr Henry Huiyao Wang, co-founder and head of the Centre for China and Globalisation, a non-government think tank in Beijing, about the Chinese view on recent developments in Sino-Indian ties, and the summit in early August between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dr Wang says perceptions that India may be dragged by fellow Quad nations into diluting its non-aligned instincts, and the lack of exchanges during the prolonged Covid-19 shutdowns, contributed to a chill in ties.

The Xi-Modi summit in Tianjin revives hope of vastly improved ties, and China’s close ties with Pakistan, and improving ties with India, could contribute to peace on the sub-continent, he adds.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:05 What went so wrong when things seemed to be going right

4:00 The ‘Quad’ factor in ties

10:05 India is nobody’s quisling

13:15 China’s reasons to mend fences

14:45 The Russia factor

16:30 Belts and Roads

19:30 How China views recent US-India troubles

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E62: No alcohol, just vibes: How are Singapore’s Gen Zs partying differently?

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:04:52 +0000

Gen Zs are out here skipping the alcohol, but not the party.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

In daytime or earlier-evening parties, a growing number of young people in Singapore are heading to raves, cafes and clubs to vibe to sick beats – with matchas and coffees in hand.

I’m not a clubber by any means, but I’m curious why Gen Zs are embracing this sober partying movement wholeheartedly.

Back in my day, pre-gaming with alcohol before the club, checking out different venues, and ending the night at a supper joint at 3am were the highlights of those nights out.

What changed for Gen Zs and what does this mean for the nightlife scene here?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with:

Kavan Spruyt, co-founder of Rasa Space, who has worked with renowned venues like Berghain in Berlin, and Kyo in Singapore; and
Shahan Shah Shawn, one of the Gen Z co-founders of Exposure Therapy, a company that organises events that redefine what a party can look like.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:42 What does partying sober mean?

3:56 How high costs kill the party

12:20 What’s driving the rise of day time parties?

15:50 Is this trend mirrored in the nightlife scene overseas?

19:20 The Gen Z flex: going to the gym at 5am

25:25 Do Gen Zs find alcohol uncool?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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S1E58: What’s love gotta do with waiting for a BTO flat from HDB?

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Could less waiting time reduce stress on a marriage and how can couples strengthen their relationships in the face of life challenges?

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

With HDB planning to introduce more Shorter Waiting Time (SWT) Build-To-Order (BTO) flats, buyers can expect to collect keys in under three years, reducing the amount of stress on the couple relationship, say an economist and a counsellor.

How can young couples decide if they have found the right life partners to take on the wait for a BTO flat?

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong hosts two guests.

Thr first is National University of Singapore's Professor of Real Estate and Economics Sumit Agarwal. He penned a study on the correlation between early marriages, a higher propensity for divorce and waiting times for a BTO, that was featured in the third book in a series - Kiasunomics 3: Economic Insights For Everyday Life. The book overall, analyses the influence and consequences of economic decisions in Singapore.

The second is Mr Neo Eng Chuan, Psychologist and founder of CaperSpring. He has 20 years of experience in helping couples.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:10 Post-Covid: BTO one of the few affordable options for young couples

4:00 The effect of BTO-waiting on marriage

14:11 Is it good to have 'effective fighting' between couples?

18:07 When is it time to cut short your losses?

24:15 Money matters in a marriage

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Natasha Liew and Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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S2E41: Rich men and pretty women: Glimpses at a matchmaking event in China

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Single Chinese want to find love, but remain straitjacketed by expectations of what their partners should look like.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

Inequality is at play in China’s singles market in more ways than one.

In China, the number of men outstrip that of women, and yet, they find it far easier to find marriage partners.

At the same time, both genders are trapped by familial and their own expectations to marry within the same social bracket, in the face of a growing divide between the elites and the broader generation.

China correspondent Michelle Ng unpacks the dynamics with host and ST foreign editor Li Xueying.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:49 Attending a matchmaking event in Beijing

2:55 Screening for income

5:40 A paradox in the marriage market

9:04 Anxiety of the rich

12:29 Lack of social mixing

Read Michelle Ng’s article here: https://str.sg/jMu4

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E61: Is it just a rent issue? What’s really killing Singapore’s F&B businesses?

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:10:25 +0000

As a nation of foodies, we watch the food and beverage (F&B) scene closely to see who comes and goes.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

In recent months, the headlines have been dominated by farewells as home-grown restaurants, bakeries, bars and even dining chains have called it a day.

This week’s casualty: Prive Group, which operated cafes and the Empress restaurant at the Asian Civilisations Museum. Its restaurants closed on Aug 31.

It has been a difficult year for the industry, which has seen other big names such as Eggslut and Burger & Lobster exit, modern European restaurants Imbue and one-Michelin-starred Poise shutter, and popular chains like Haidilao close outlets.

Is it just about rent hikes, and could it be that we, as diners, are part of the problem - always chasing the next hot concept?

In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with two veterans who are in the F&B scene in different ways:

Mr Bjorn Shen, a consultant and chef-owner of Artichoke and Small’s in New Bahru with “22 years of cooking”
STFood Online editor Eunice Quek, who has been reporting on the industry for about 15 years

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:08 Bjorn explains why F&B owners have no choice at times but to pay higher rents

9:10 Are landlords the problem or are manpower costs a bigger issue?

12:53 “It’s always about chasing something new,” says Eunice on food trends; Crazy about Chinese and Korean cuisine now?

17:45 Singaporeans are not as adventurous as we think we are, says Bjorn about our foodie nation status

27:49 Should the Government step in with measures to help F&B business owners?

36:50 Singapore vs other countries: Bjorn breaks down what works and what doesn’t

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Follow STFood Online on IG: https://www.instagram.com/straitstimesfood

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E140: Health risks in young 'healthy-weight' women

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

You can appear lean but have insufficient muscle mass and too much body fat.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

A local paper has found that 1 in 4 young women, despite having a normal weight, had low muscle mass, weak bones and high body fat. This increases their future risks for not only osteoporosis and muscle loss but metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity.

ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to the paper’s authors to find out more.

Lead author Dr Mya Thway Tint is a principal scientist at the A*STAR Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Dean's Office, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.

Professor Johan Eriksson is the Executive Director of A*STAR IHDP and highly knowledgeable about the S-PRESTO study, or the Singapore Preconception Study of Long-Term Maternal and Child Outcomes cohort study, which the paper is part of.

He was previously a professor at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, and the chief physician at Helsinki University Central Hospital in Finland.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:50 Having a normal BMI and low bone density

5:03 You have to exercise to grow bone

10:29 Using bioimpedance or bioelectrical impedance analysis to measure body composition

13:53 What is considered an unhealthy body fat percentage level?

19:56 What can we do to improve our bone health?

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

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S2E23: How do we avoid human-animal clashes in S’pore?

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Starting with Punggol, The Straits Times looks at how a city in nature can co-exist with wildlife.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

In recent months, a globally endangered monkey has unsettled Singapore’s youngest housing estate Punggol, with dozens of reports made against long-tailed macaques for entering human homes.

In turn, the authorities have responded to the wild monkeys, which are not considered threatened in the Republic, with an arsenal of measures that range from sterilisation to pelting them with water gel guns, a move that made headlines in August.

Following ST’s award-winning Green Trails podcast, co-hosts Ang Qing and Shabana Begum return to discuss human-wildlife coexistence in Singapore with Mr Kalaivanan Balakrishnan, chief executive of the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) and Ms Jasvic Lye, campaign manager of Our Wild Neighbours, an outreach initiative.

Find out more about how solutions to manage urban wildlife – and people’s acceptance of the animals – can be improved.

This episode was recorded and filmed last month in front of an intimate live audience of 95 people who packed The Fashion Pulpit in Jalan Besar. The evening was part of the ST Podcast Live! Sessions celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:12 Gaps in Singapore’s approach to human-wildlife conflict

10:16 Biggest challenges when managing conflict

14:25 Common myths about wildlife that Singaporeans buy into

18:10 How wildlife can guide city planning

22:45 What young people can do to better manage human-wildlife encounters

How we can beat the heat in Singapore: https://str.sg/952d

More on Our Wild Neighbours: https://str.sg/K8Jw

More on Animal Concerns Research & Education Society (Acres): https://str.sg/F6c6

Discover ST’s award-winning Green Trails series: https://str.sg/rL6r

Follow Ang Qing on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ichp

Read her articles: https://str.sg/i5gT

Follow Shabana Begum on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/83Ge

Read her articles: https://str.sg/5EGd

Hosts: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg) & Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg )

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

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S2E25: Good investing: Don't time the market, play the long game

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Investing should not be about timing the market, but growing money over the long term.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Day trading is exciting - all the watching of stock movements and trying to buy low, sell high.

But experts often say, hold for the long term, and use the benefit of compounding.

What does that mean? How long exactly is the long haul and what does holding for the long term mean?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at investing for the long-term future, rather than the here and now.

Her guests are Gidon Jerome Kessel, group head for Deposit and Wealth Management at UOB and Leong Ji Keet, a financial blogger at SG Money Guide.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:00: What does investing for the long term mean?

6:23 Which assets should I buy for long-term investing?

8:00 How long is a long-term investment?

14:45 Long-term strategies vs day trading

15:49 Are high-yield bank accounts investments?

19:00 Investing for retirement

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E60: ‘It makes me want to spam-apply’: Fresh grads tell Tan See Leng about tough job market

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:15:14 +0000

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Headlines about the job prospects of fresh graduates haven’t been reassuring lately.

And reports over the last year indicate that more graduates are struggling to land full-time roles, with more taking on freelance, part-time or temporary work.

Some young people document their job hunting processes on social media, lamenting that they send out as many as 100 resumes over a few months and go for multiple interviews, but nothing lands.

On Aug 22, the Government announced a new traineeship scheme to help new graduates gain industry-relevant experience and skills that will help them transition into full-time employment.

Under the Graduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT) and GRIT@Gov programmes, up to 800 positions for a period of three to six months across various private and public sectors will be available.

Graduates from the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), polytechnics and universities can start applying from October. Trainees will receive a monthly allowance ranging from $1,800 to $2,400 for the duration of their stint.

How will this programme make a difference for graduates worried about their career prospects? And what does the current landscape mean for young people trying to get their first full-time job?

In this episode of The Usual Place, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng addressed feedback about Grit and shared his thoughts about how graduates can navigate an uncertain and challenging job market.

Also on the podcast were two university graduates:

Dave Peter Ho, a business administration graduate who turned to selling products by livestreaming on TikTok after a futile nine-month job search. He graduated in Dec 2024.
Muhammad Syakir Moharum, who graduated in 2025 with a degree in public policy and global affairs and is about to start looking for a job

Highlights (click/tap above):

7:38 GRIT scheme is about addressing anxieties ahead of a slowdown: Dr Tan

16:30 Keep open mind, be flexible: Dr Tan’s tips for fresh grads on what an ideal career is

20:35 Getting rejected frequently pushed Dave to apply for random jobs in a rage

27:59 How Syakir feels about putting himself out in a gloomy job market; Dave on becoming a TikTok livestreamer

47:03 Will the lower salary offered in the GRIT programme cause companies to low-ball new staff?

53:23 Advice & tips to peers: Syakir & Dave

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Danson Cheong & Elizabeth Khor

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E40: Malaysia parties gear up for the PAS congress and the Sabah elections

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The coming months will see several changes in the political landscape as parties make moves on various fronts.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

In this episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Tan Tam Mei are joined by Ibrahim Suffian, also known as Ben, the co-founder and programs director of Merdeka Center for Opinion Research.

With Malaysia’s opposition Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) holding its annual conference in September, and the 17th Sabah election that is likely happening by year-end, what is on the horizon for Malaysia’s political scene?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:32 PAS no longer just a supporting actor in Malaysia’s political scene

7:37 PAS as an alternative for Barisan National and Umno and its more moderated image

10:47 Possible leadership change in the coming PAS congress and ambitions of federal power

14:17 What’s next for PAS and its standing in Perikatan Nasional (PN)?

18:55 The coming Sabah elections and the state of play

27:16 Why the death of 13-year-old Sabah student Zara Qairina has become part of the political discussion

29:39 The rise of state nationalism in Sabah

35:52 News nugget: Malaysians generally feel optimistic about ageing

The state of play in Sabah as elections loom - https://str.sg/oKkNK

6 in 10 Malaysians upbeat about ageing - https://str.sg/DhRU

Read Tan Tam Mei’s articles: https://str.sg/iJxJ

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Hosts: Tan Tam Mei (tammei@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E59: PM Wong’s NDR speech lacks ‘bitter medicine’: Jeremy Tan

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:38:10 +0000

How Singapore can truly be a ‘we first’ society.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

“It’s not ‘I’ or ‘me’. It’s ‘we’. To keep Singapore going, we must be a ‘we first’ society.”

This was Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s rallying call to strengthen the Singaporean Spirit – to put the welfare of the community ahead of individual interest.

It came towards the end of his National Day Rally address on Aug 17, perhaps as a reminder that the way forward is not only paved by policies meant to fix problems.

PM Wong’s first NDR speech after the 2025 General Election emphasised that “when the whole is strong, each of us becomes stronger too”. This message built on what was put forth during the Forward Singapore exercise – launched by the country’s fourth-generation team of political leaders – to refresh Singapore’s social compact and build a shared future.

But how does this rallying call resonate with Singaporeans?

In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha hosts Dr Rebecca Grace Tan, a political science lecturer at the National University of Singapore, and Mr Jeremy Tan, who ran as an independent candidate for Mountbatten SMC at GE2025.

They chat about PM Wong’s style of governance, and why he emphasised that Singapore needs to be a “we first” society to keep going.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:34 Why Jeremy wanted PM Wong to give Singaporeans the “bitter medicine”

7:45 Were the expectations of big announcements warranted?

9:18 “The disconnect is something that needs to be addressed”: Jeremy

16:15 Does PM Wong’s style of delegating announcements to his colleagues work?

21:00 PM Wong’s rally call dichotomy: Empowering Singaporeans, yet slightly paternalistic?

28:06 The big question about PM Wong’s We First message: What can be the new approach?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Danson Cheong & Elizabeth Khor

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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S2E22: How we can beat the heat in Singapore

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

As the mercury rises, so does the need for awareness about the growing risks from Singapore’s steamy temperatures.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Even if you’re not aware, we’re all affected by rising temperatures, especially when combined with Singapore’s high humidity.

Heat is changing our behaviour and many of us actively avoid being exposed to it by limiting our time outdoors. But that can reduce our true potential by curbing exercise and access to fresh air and by spending more time in front phones and televisions, harming our vision – and even reducing vitamin D intake.

But for those who work outside, they have fewer choices. And those without regular access to air-conditioning are also at increasing risk.

Fortunately, much is being done to help people and educate them on the growing threat from rising temperatures caused by climate change and hotter urban environments.

And for this special episode of the Green Pulse podcast, co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with a dynamic duo who have helped shape Singapore’s response to heat.

They are Associate Professor Jason Lee, director of the Heat Resilience and Performance Centre at National University of Singapore and Ms Jaime Lim, a director at the Occupational Safety and Health Division at the Ministry of Manpower.

This episode was recorded and filmed on Aug 12 at The Fashion Pulpit in Jalan Besar, in front of an intimate live audience of about 95 people.

It was the fourth ST Podcast Live! session celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025, with two more events planned for the rest of the year.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:30 Despite the sharp spike in temperatures, do people think high heat is still not a concern?

8:35 The Ministry of Manpower has an acclimatisation programme for newly arrived outdoor workers. How does this programme work?

12:05 How the government and scientists work together to create heat policies.

17:50 What have been the reactions from businesses to MOM’s heat protection advisories and policies?

25:25 Much has been done but what other aspects of heat risk need more attention?

More on NUS' Heat Resilience & Performance Centre (HRPC): https://str.sg/Byiw

MOM's heat stress measures for outdoor work: https://str.sg/5j9K

Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2

Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

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S2E24: Hospitality jobs: A place for ex-kindergarten teachers or illustrators?

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Why this sector also has back-of-house roles that call for talents from all walks of life.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Find out why job seekers should not just think of front-facing guest roles in this sector, as host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Ms Adeline Phua, managing lyf partner and vice-president for business development at Ascott, the lodging business of CapitaLand Investment.

You may have come across lyf (pronounced life) properties, that are creatively designed. It is known for its appeal to young travellers and inventive activities for guests.

Ms Phua argues why hospitality is something Singaporeans should look deeper into, beyond just traditional or stereotypical job roles associated with the sector.

Do you have to be an extrovert to work in hospitality? No.

Not everyone has to be interacting with guests on the frontline, with a surfeit of meaningful roles behind the scenes in areas including facilities management, designing and sustainability.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:23 Kombucha-brewing classes, world record attempts and other memorable guest activities

6:10 Hospitality roles in SG: Is there room to improvise?

13:23 The range of roles and skills needed at a company like lyf

16:54 Wanted: Ex-kindergarten teachers, ex-zoo professionals, illustrators, content creators?

20:49 How’s the sector holding up in this current economy?

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E39: Donald Trump: Nobel Prize laureate?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Why does President Donald Trump seem so intent on winning the Nobel Peace Prize?

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

In this episode, President Donald Trump’s ambition to win the Nobel Peace Prize is the topic of discussion for ST's assistant foreign editor Clement Tan who hosts colleague and US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar.

They discuss the motivations behind his desire for the award and the international political implications of his nomination at a time when a number of wars are raging and the ensuing loss of innumerable lives frame his presidency.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:23 Trump's obsession with the Nobel Peace Prize

3:07 Trump vs. Obama: A rivalry

4:07 Global reactions and nominations

7:05 Trump's diplomatic efforts

9:59 Current major conflicts and Trump's role

13:43 Nobel Peace Prize nomination process

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62

Follow Clement Tan on X: https://str.sg/uErS

Host: Clement Tan (clemtan@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E58: To Vers or not to Vers: How will this scheme affect HDB prices?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:29:52 +0000

The clock is ticking on the leases for older Housing Board flats, and an answer on what the Government plans to do about lease decay dropped earlier this week.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat updated on the Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme (Vers) in an interview that was published on Aug 10, outlining in broad strokes the plans for flats nearing the end of their 99-year leases.

The gist: Vers will let home owners of selected precincts that are aged about 70 and up choose if they want their homes to be acquired by the Government for redevelopment before their leases run out.

The scheme will start in the 2030s, and will likely begin “with a few selected sites”, said Mr Chee.

For many homeowners living in old flats, this announcement provides them with some direction on what happens should they choose Vers – or not.

In this episode of The Usual Place, ST land use reporter Ng Keng Gene and Ms Christine Sun, chief researcher and strategist at Realion Group, join me to discuss how this announcement will affect housing prices and considerations for buying an old flat.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:12 How Vers differs from Sers, and why isn’t Vers compulsory

16:02 The update on Vers might spur more transactions of older flats based on previous trends, said Christine

18:10 How will the prices of resale flats be affected, and will newer flats be more attractive?

24:51 Location and amenities might be a key factor that affects votes

33:27 Should home owners worry about not being able to pay for a new Vers flat replacement?

Read ST’s article on courses in yapping: https://str.sg/d82q

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Danson Cheong & Elizabeth Khor

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

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S1E57: How Gen AI like ChatGPT enhances critical thinking, instead of making us lazy

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

We even invite ChatGPT to be a 'guest' in this episode with our host and two human guests.

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Preliminary findings from a recent MIT study in June in the US, concluded that people using just generative AI (Gen AI) tools such as ChatGPT, became lazier with each subsequent essay they wrote.

The study, conducted in Boston, categorised three groups of test subjects aged 18 to 39 according to the tools that they used: ChatGPT, Google or no tools.

The brain activity of these writers were scanned across 32 regions of their brain. The result found that ChatGPT users had the lowest brain activity, and “consistently underperformed at neural, linguistic, and behavioural levels,” according to the study.

But the way ChatGPT is used was critical, as the study found that test subjects who used ChatGPT only after writing the essays on their own, had significant increases in brain connectivity.

Just how can ChatGPT be used to enhance productivity without making us lazy? In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong unpacks the issues and looks at how her human guests maintain the balance between optimising the use of ChatGPT and becoming over-reliant on it.

Her guests are Shahrman Nayan, creative director of OneDash22, a local video production company and an avid user of Gen AI for his work; and Cheryl Chia, founder of BrainFit, an education centre for children and young adults, building their cognitive, thinking, and study skills through programmes grounded in scientific approaches.

We also invite ChatGPT to be a 'guest' in this podcast discussion.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:00 How can youths use ChatGPT without becoming lazy

13:14 "I can make people lazier if they use me to avoid thinking critically": ChatGPT

15:21 Cognitive functions like memory and concentration have been going down: Cheryl

29:04 How young people can use Gen AI to improve critical thinking

37:03 How Shahrman uses Gen AI like ChatGPT to get his colleagues to produce creative work

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim, Rebekah Chia and Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

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S2E38: Asia and the world think Trump’s US "has lost its mind": John Bolton

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Declaring war “against everybody” including China and hoping for the right result is very worrying.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Ambassador John Bolton, the American foreign policy hawk and former National Security Adviser to President Donald Trump, on US policy toward Asia.

Mr Bolton speaks on the chaos and confusion in the Trump White House, the lack of a coherent policy toward Asia including senseless tariffs slapped on key security partners, and Mr Trump’s proclivity to personalise foreign policy.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:00 A tone-deaf presidency

4:45 Asia in Trump 2.0

6:30 Singapore’s shock over tariffs

10:20 Is Trump more than an aberration?

11:30 Trump’s China fascination

13:40 Desperation for a Nobel; Trump in Asian conflicts

16:40 Are Quad and Aukus dead in the water?

19:00 Taiwan has reason to be worried

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani & Natasha Liew

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E57: From texting to talking: Why Gen Zs are taking classes on yapping

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:47:03 +0000

Find out why some young people are taking social skills classes.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Some young adults are struggling with everyday conversations and other basic forms of social interaction.Whether it’s making small talk with strangers, holding eye contact, or just answering a phone call (just text me please!), Gen Zs and millennials are declaring that dealing with other people isn’t always their vibe.

They need help to fix their awkwardness.

That’s where the School of Yapping by social impact organisation Friendzone comes in, reported The Straits Times in July. Over four workshops, participants aged 20 to 35 practise how to be “confident, connected, and comfortable” talking to others.

In this episode of The Usual Place, I will chat with Tham Jun Han, the 32-year-old co-founder of Friendzone; Nur Haziqah Mohd Yazib, a 25-year-old case worker who took part in the workshop recently; and Savanna Tai, a 22-year-old university student who has had to change the way she communicates as she wants to become a journalist.

We discuss why social interactions are harder now for young adults than ever before, whether the Covid-19 pandemic made things worse, and what we stand to lose if we don’t find a way to connect again.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:46 Understanding group dynamics and how to start conversations

15:02 Haziqah and Savanna on their experiences in changing their skill sets and approaches so far

19:41 On personality tests

24:10 Could the Covid-19 pandemic have affected the way a generation communicates?

27:09 What will young people lose if they don’t know how to communicate well or are not socially confident?

Read ST’s article on courses in yapping: https://str.sg/d82q

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E139: How to cope with perimenopause and menopause

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Learn how to manage bothersome symptoms that typically emerge in the four to five years before a woman's final menstruation.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Perimenopause is the stage before menopause that many women here do not talk about, largely due to stigma or a lack of awareness.

The transition phase in perimenopause ends in menopause, which marks the end of a woman's natural fertility. This affects not just her reproductive organs but her entire body, adding to the confusion in distinguishing between ageing or illness.

In this episode, senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Associate Professor Rukshini Puvanendran, the co-director of the KK Menopause Centre, to counter the misinformation out there.

Prof Ruskhini is also the head and a senior consultant at the Family Medicine Service at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH).

Highlights (click/tap above):

2.28 Symptoms of perimenopause

7.23 Older women can still have hot flushes

11.03 Some women develop an awareness of their heartbeat

18:39 What can women do about their symptoms?

30:08 The four symptoms of menopause that doctors won't argue about

31:59 Oestrogen cream to treat vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S2E21: How to talk to a climate denialist

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

When discussing climate change, mother doesn’t always know best.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

For many people, climate change is scary and the science behind its causes and impacts is bewildering. And with all the other bad news these days, sometimes the easiest thing is just to hope climate change will fade away.

Add in a noisy minority who vehemently deny climate change is real, or even believe it’s all a conspiracy, and it can be hard for people to know how best to respond or what’s even real.

In our latest Green Pulse episode, co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with Adam Switzer, a Professor of Coastal Science at the Asian School of the Environment at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

He gives us some tips and tricks on how to speak to people about climate change, including amplifying the stories of hope, a focus on solutions as well as educating people about the clear trends that show climate change is real, such as data showing rising temperatures, sea levels and carbon emissions.

But what happens when your own mother is a hardened denialist?

Have a listen, and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:45 What does climate denialism mean to you?

5:55 How to help people who don’t understand climate science and feel unable to respond?

10: 44 ‘We need to focus on solutions’.

12:10 What are top tips to help people sort out real science from cherry-picked, greenwashed science?

16:44 How to balance the bad news of climate change with the need for urgency?

23:17 Talk to people. It’s not hard to find common ground on climate change, such as health and money.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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S2E23: Side hustles: How to get into it now and responsibly

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Working a full-time job but having a side-hustle is gaining traction among young people or students.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Side hustles are becoming more common, with people opening weekend cafes, selling coffee or doing other jobs besides their full-time work.

But are side hustles for everyone? Will it become necessary as people try to get extra income and find fulfilment outside their day jobs?

And what do you need to look out for before starting a side hustle?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the art of the side hustle and how to start one.

Her guests are Tris Su, owner of weekend matcha business Tofu Tofu, and Juliet Tan, founder of human resources consultancy firm Emplifi.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:14: How does a home-based matcha maker run her side hustle?

4:17 What counts as a side hustle?

5:55 Juggling the side hustle with her full-time job

7:53 What to do before starting a side hustle

14:15 The trend of side hustling and why start one?

24:00 Can I start a side hustle now?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

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S2E37: Are South Koreans lonely?

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Social isolation is especially acute in the capital city of Seoul—and it’s not just among the elderly.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

In this episode, host and foreign editor Li Xueying speaks to South Korea correspondent Wendy Teo, who has lived in South Korea for six years, as she describes what life in Seoul can be like, and explains why loneliness is a looming epidemic not just for the aged but for young people there as well.

Steps are being taken to address the challenge, with local authorities rolling out measures ranging from cafes where anyone can drop by for a steaming hot bowl of ramyeon to 24-hour call centres.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:12 All alone in Seoul

4:59 Intense competition in exams and for jobs

6:41 A district in southern Seoul City

11:47 Tackling the problem before depression sets in

15:04 Are mindsets shifting?

Read Wendy Teo’s article here: https://str.sg/f4bN

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

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S2E36: China's leverage on the trade war with US

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Ultimately, the outcome might depend on both sides’ threshold for pain.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For July, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian.

They take stock of the twists and turns in the tariff negotiations between Washington and Beijing.

Both sides have weaponised access to rare earths and advanced chips as well as the potential sale of short video app TikTok, among other issues, in a bid to gain leverage.

Ultimately, how the negotiations pan out may depend on how much pain both sides are prepared to endure.

On the horizon is talk about a possible visit by President Donald Trump to China and how this might play a decisive role for some sort of deal.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:28 The twists and turns of US-China tariff negotiations

3:24 How Beijing has weaponised the access to rare earths

5:40 China can now buy Nvidia H20 AI chips again. What are the implications?

7:49 Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang makes waves in China

9:54 Can Americans be happy without Chinese goods?

12:41 How the sale of TikTok might be a bargaining chip

13:56 Transhipment taxes add a layer of uncertainty

17:59 What a grand bargain might look like

19:37 Who will win the trade war?

S1E55: Astronomer executives’ Coldplay scandal: Why it went viral and the obsession with public shaming

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:38:22 +0000

If combining the words “kiss cam”, “Coldplay”, “Astronomer” and “affair” means nothing to you, you have managed to be blissfully unaware of the internet’s weekend meltdown over a very public spectacle.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Here’s the TL;DR recap: A couple, who were in a tight embrace, created a buzz among concertgoers – and later, the world – when they pulled a duck/hide move after they were featured on the kiss cam at a Coldplay concert in Boston.

Their reaction was so suspicious that the band’s frontman Chris Martin quipped: “Either they are having an affair or they’re just very shy.”

It turned out that Martin was right, and the cheating pair were colleagues at US tech firm Astronomer.

Internet sleuths uncovered their names and job titles – he’s Andy Byron the now-former chief executive at the company; she’s Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s chief people officer – as well as information about their other relationships.

People also found out who Mr Byron’s wife was, with some even sending her messages about what they thought of her husband.

Beyond the illicit affair being publicly exposed, the incident led to much introspection about what happens when private moments become public, and leadership credibility.

Also, what is our obsession with public shaming?

To answer those questions on this episode of The Usual Place podcast, I spoke with:

Stephanie Phua, founder of marketing and branding collective Duo Studio and co-founder of The Trampoline Club, a platform which pushes for compassion, understanding and mutual respect in conversations;
Pan Huiyan, a millennial leadership coach; and
Dr Sunny Johar, managing director for South-east Asia at digital experience agency KRDS.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:48 Initial thoughts about Coldplay-gate - would the moment have gone viral if the couple did not overreact?

13:07 What this incident tells us about filming and sharing content about strangers

19:41 Would anyone have cared if it weren’t the CEO and the head of HR?

22:46 Will a private mistake affect a person’s work ethics?

33:14 Post-viral moment, can the couple recover professionally?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E22: Fending off procrastination: How to get started

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

We put off work because work, for some reason, puts us off.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Procrastination: The frustratingly human tendency to postpone work we can and should get started on earlier.

It may seem tempting to berate ourselves for being lazy, unmotivated or disorganised. Instead, procrastination is actually our brains trying to shield us from uncomfortable feelings, putting a hidden toll on ourselves.

In this episode, host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts an expert on the psychology of people who work together in groups.

She shares with us what research tells us about procrastination and other quirks of our mind that permeate our work and daily life.

She also goes into the “dark things” she relishes researching, such as why people are cynical at work, and the fallout from narcissist leaders.

The guest is:

Dr Ruchi Sinha, organisational psychologist and associate professor (practice) at Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 What is procrastination and what type of procrastinator are you?

11:06 What are some strategies to help you manage procrastination?

14:07 Procrastination is about misplaced priorities too

16:22 Is it any easier for Dr Sinha to beat procrastination, as an expert?

17:05 The “pretty dark stuff” Dr Sinha studies, such as narcissism at workplaces

23:04 How does Dr Sinha translate research in her field to real life?

Read more about procrastination here: https://str.sg/C9QS

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S1E54: Kpod vapes, zombie kids: Why it’s time to raise the alarm

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:12:12 +0000

Kpods, a street term for drug-laced e-vaporisers, has been much-talked about this week.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Videos of vape users taken by the public have been surfacing online – in particular, of younger people – turning into “zombies” and behaving erratically after using etomidate-laced vapes.

An anaesthetic used in hospitals during medical procedures, etomidate is classified as a poison, which can only be used by licensed medical professionals.

In this episode of The Usual Place podcast, I spoke with my colleague and crime reporter Nadine Chua; Yio Chu Kang SMC MP Yip Hon Weng, who has raised multiple questions in Parliament on vaping over the past few years; and executive director of youth mental health charity Impart, Narasimman Tivasiha Mani, who has encountered teens using Kpods.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:37 You don’t need to tell sellers your age, you just need money, notes Mr Narasimman

6:37 Vape sellers market the devices to look trendy or innocuous

14:01 “If he continues down this path, it’s like he’s gone anyway.”: Ms Chua on how a mother shared about her struggle with her son who is hooked on Kpods

14:54 The roles – and limitations – of different government agencies such as the Central Narcotics Bureau and Health Sciences Authority

27:36 What could happen in the long run if we fail to act on Kpods today?

Read ST's coverage on the invisible vaping crisis: https://str.sg/JpFev

Read Nadine Chua's articles: https://str.sg/3z8M3

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Helplines: Mental well-being

National helpline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)

Counselling

Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366
We Care Community Services: 3165-8017
Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293
Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990

Online resources

mindline.sg/fsmh
eC2.sg
tinklefriend.sg
chat.mentalhealth.sg
carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)
shanyou.org.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E7: Taxi driver “adding shift” to be a YouTuber

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

“LazyCabbie” drives for 10 hours daily, besides making insightful videos on his working life.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

Contrary to the name of his YouTube channel, Mr Eddie Jui is anything but lazy. The 48-year-old drives 10 hours daily and spends nearly as much time making videos. Like the friendly cabbie making conversation with his passenger, Mr Jui’s videos are candid and honest. And based on how fast the LazyCabbie YouTube channel is growing, it is resonating with people.

More on the conversations between Mr Eddie Jui and senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe below.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Spending at least two to three hours just to get the right angles for the videos.

14:20 Trying to create an online community that is more forward-looking and positive.

18:00 Taxi driving as a sunset industry but one that pays the bills, if you need money urgently.

20:10 Reacting to the rise of autonomous driving potentially taking away taxi driving as a vocation.

23:00 Do not treat driving as a career because there is no progression. Zero progression.

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

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SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E20: Can philanthropy revive a stalling environmental agenda in Asia?

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The power of philanthropic capital lies in its catalytic nature, says CEO of Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) Shaun Seow.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The world is becoming an increasingly risky place as the impacts of climate change and nature loss worsen. And there’s a growing need for more funding to limit the damage and improve the livelihoods of communities.

But the problem is, funding from governments, especially aid money, is drying up in some places. The funding gap is huge but philanthropy is helping fill some of the void. Family offices, international foundations, wealthy individuals and more are stepping in and their money is vital in helping de-risk climate and nature investments to make them more palatable for private and government funders.

Every dollar of philanthropic capital can mobilise $9 of additional funding. Together, the money can be directed towards vital areas, such as ocean health and coastal protection, sustainable land use, nature restoration and climate adaptation and much more.

The end game is not band aid solutions, Shaun Seow, CEO of Philanthropy Asia Alliance, tells Audrey Tan and David Fogarty in this latest episode of Green Pulse. The end game is to de-risk and allow private capital to “work its magic”.

Have a listen, and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:20 How are philanthropies responding to the different environmental agendas, and funding gaps, of governments?

6:14 To what extent are philanthropies in Asia focusing on climate and catalytic funding?

12:42 How is PAA bringing together different funders?

18:54 What other areas can be a focus for philanthropies interested in Asia?

21:20 For catalytic capital, what are the key concerns for philanthropists in Asia?

25:15 As climate risks grow, are more foundations and wealthy individuals knocking on PAA’s door?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

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S2E35: Dalai Lama at 90: A life of compassion and conflict

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with Chicago-based Mayank Chhaya, the Dalai Lama’s biographer, on the highs and lows of His Holiness’ remarkable journey through life.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Mayank Chhaya, writer, broadcaster and the Dalai Lama’s biographer.

Mr Chhaya, a writer and broadcaster, says that at 90, the Dalai Lama has become larger than the Tibetan cause he espouses and represents. He describes some remarkable moments in the Dalai Lama’s life, discusses his politics and geopolitics, and what lies ahead with China standing firm that it will choose the next Dalai Lama.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:00 The flight to safety

6:10 Prayers, pigeons and lightning strikes

9:20 Dalai Lama has grown beyond Tibetan cause

12:00 The geopolitical Dalai Lama

16:50 China has lifted Tibetan living standards

19:50 At some point, there could be two Dalai Lamas

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S1E53: What’s next for PSP following its post-GE2025 leadership shake-up?

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 09:36:48 +0000

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

Two months after its dismal showing at the 2025 General Election, Progress Singapore Party (PSP) has shaken up its leadership team.

On July 5, it announced that its founder and chairman Tan Cheng Bock, and vice-chair Hazel Poa had stepped down from their roles in the central executive committee (CEC), the party’s highest decision-making body. Party treasurer S. Nallakaruppan also relinquished his position.

All three will remain members of the party. Dr Tan has been designated party adviser. Ms Poa was a Non-Constituency MP (NCMP) in the last term of Parliament, along with party chief Leong Mun Wai.

At a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Bukit Timah Shopping Centre on July 5, Mr Leong announced a renewal plan, and introduced three new members who were co-opted into the CEC.

The first is Ms Stephanie Tan, a full-time homemaker and former lawyer, who was the PSP candidate for Pioneer SMC.

The other two are Mr Sani Ismail, an in-house legal counsel who contested West Coast-Jurong West GRC, and Mr Lawrence Pek, a former secretary-general of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, who contested Chua Chu Kang GRC.

Ms Tan joins me in this podcast to talk about being part of PSP’s refreshed leadership team, the insights she gleaned from walking the ground as a first-time candidate, and the challenges of a political party without a presence in Parliament.

The Usual Place podcast is livestreamed at noon on YouTube on Thursdays. Subscribe to the YouTube channel to catch the podcast when it airs on July 10.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:54 Taking feedback from voters during the election

6:08 How PSP will aim to change public perception going forward

13:08 With no presence in Parliament, how will PSP stand out online?

17:10 Rejigging the game plan after being hit hard from the GE2025 results

24:16 “It’s about your heart to serve.” - Lessons Ms Tan learnt from Dr Tan Cheng Bock about longevity in politics

29:37 What is one thing Ms Tan would change if she were to become an MP?

34:15 Her take on young, middle-income couples who face financial barriers when having children

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E56: Body image issues, mental health problems: Why are men afraid to seek help?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Gender stereotypes and toxic masculinity may point to body image issues in men.

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Outdated stereotypes of what a man should be like continue to exist today, with a new generation of social media influencers like Andrew Tate and Adin Ross producing content that posits to teach men how to be men.

But does it make someone any less of a man if they decide to speak up about the issues they face?

For years, ST journalist Aqil Hamzah, 28, has grappled with body image issues, but was too afraid to seek help, thinking it wouldn’t be the manly thing to do.

Years of skipping meals took a toll on his health, and it was only after losing clumps of hair that he decided to seek help for it.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong unpacks the issues that have plagued her co-host Aqil alongside psychiatrist Adrian Loh, who specialises in child and adolescent psychiatry.

The trio then discuss if toxic masculinity has a role to play in men’s unwillingness to speak up about their issues.

Highlights (click/tap above):

00:56 Why Aqil chose to open up about his issues

03:27 Is BMI an accurate indication for weight management?

08:50 Obsessing over the scales

21:21 What is toxic masculinity and how should people deal with it?

24:51 How role models repeat a vicious cycle & the different reactions to therapy

33:35 The importance of feeling things

Read Aqil’s article on body image here: https://str.sg/kuf8

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Follow Aqil Hamzah on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ttUo

Read his articles: https://str.sg/i5gS

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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S2E21: What kind of insurance should young adults buy?

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Hospitalisation and critical illness insurance are vital, but beware of being upsold or paying too much for premiums.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

What do young people need to know when buying their first insurance package?

Insurance is an essential part of “adulting”, but it can be daunting when choosing from a wide range of products on a tight budget.

Some can also find that insurance agents pressure them into buying products that they are not certain they need.

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what you need to know before buying insurance.

Her guests are NTU undergraduate Megan Wee and DBS bank Singapore head of bancassurance Loh Wanyun.

1:40: What are the different types of insurance?

9:00 Corporate vs personal insurance

11:00 How much should I spend on insurance?

13:25 How to deal with pushy agents

15:50 How much insurance is enough to cover me?

18:05 What are investment-linked policies?

21:00 Where should I buy insurance from?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E34: Hong Kong’s wistful longing for its cityscape to remain unchanged

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

From the use of bamboo scaffolding for construction projects to a six-decade-old public housing estate, changes are afoot.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

Hong Kong’s bamboo scaffolding is immortalised in many a Jackie Chan flick, with heroes and baddies fighting it out while teetering on poles. But the city has been gripped in what Hong Kong correspondent Magdalene Fung says is an almost “visceral fear” over a recent government edict to reduce the use of bamboo in construction projects due to safety concerns.

ST foreign editor Li Xueying catches up with her over a similar debate arising over the would-be demolition of Choi Hung, Hong Kong’s first large-scale public housing project completed in the 1960s.

Having undergone the social turmoil and political changes of recent years since the 2019 protests, Hong Kongers are seeking comfort in the things that can remain the same - and quietly protesting the changes coming their way.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:53 Changes in government regulations over bamboo scaffolding

2:25 Safety concerns

9:24 A fear of change

11:42 Why Hong Kong’s oldest public housing estate has to go

17:02 Has cultural nostalgia been weaponised?

Read Magdalene Fung’s article here: https://str.sg/dbo9

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S1E52: Is using Gen AI for schoolwork and tests cheating?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:28:59 +0000

How should schools, educators and students adapt accordingly?

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah every Thursday, as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.

In June, three students at the Nanyang Technological University received zero marks for an assignment after they were found to have used generative artificial intelligence tools, or Gen AI, in their work.

They were penalised for academic misconduct as the assignments contained non-existent academic references and statistics or broken web links, the university said.

The case drew wider attention after one of the students posted about it on online forum Reddit, sparking debate about the impact of AI on academic integrity.

All six universities here generally allow students to use Gen AI to varying degrees, depending on the module or coursework. Students are required to declare when and how they use such tools to maintain academic integrity.

With Gen AI creeping into everyday life and gaining popularity among students, when is it wrong or right to turn to AI for help with your studies?

Given its likely prevalence in schoolwork, how should schools, educators and students adapt for the future?

In this episode of The Usual Place Podcast, my three guests - Singapore Management University’s Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education Michelle Lee, final-year university student Zildjian Garcia and The Straits Times education correspondent Elisha Tushara, who is a former teacher - weighed in on the debate around AI tools for schoolwork and the future of learning.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:37 Was the initial punishment the three students received warranted?

5:36 How rampant is the use of Gen AI tools among faculty members and students?

7:54 Do educators have a love-hate relationship with Gen AI tools?

17:05 Why Elisha and Michelle are worried about their children losing resilience in learning

19:55 Zildjian points out that AI tool users “always forget” that they might not be accurate

22:13 Are Gen AI tools just a new way students are gaming the system to get their certificates?

27:02 Should AI literacy be made a compulsory module for Institutes of Higher Learning?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S1E138: How caregivers of mental health patients can destress

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Caregiving for persons with mental health conditions is for the long-haul.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Caregivers Alliance Limited is an organisation that focuses on supporting caregivers of persons with mental health conditions as well as those who have developed mental health challenges due to caregiving.

It has a small outpost at the Institute of Mental Health, where families can seek caregiver support.

In this episode, senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Ms Evelyn Chng, who is based at the outpost, about the cases that she has seen there, the mental health burden of caregiving, and what caregivers can do about it.

She heads CAL’s Community Outreach Team or Crest programme. Crest, which acts as a mental health first-stop touchpoint, was developed by the Agency for Integrated Care and the Ministry of Health.

Ms Chng also talks about the challenges of caring for her adult son, who is living with obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:15 Who are these caregivers who stop by the CAL counter at IMH?

10:15 Recent twists in Evelyn’s caregiving journey

14:40 How Evelyn takes care of herself

17:36 A strict father rebuilds his bond with son who was being treated for depression

24:40 A piece of advice for caregivers of persons with mental health conditions

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E19: Can transition credits help SE Asia kick the coal habit?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

From black to green: A new type of carbon credit could speed up the region’s shift to renewable energy and cut air pollution

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Carbon credits are increasingly regarded as a key way to accelerate investment in renewable energy in Asia while also shutting down polluting coal plants early. Burning coal is a top source of planet-warming CO2 and air pollution.

Asia faces a major challenge of meeting its growing appetite for electricity while also curbing emissions growth. A further challenge: The average age of coal power plants in the region is about 15 years – when the plants have a life of up to 50 years.

To compensate plant owners, a coalition of power companies, banks, governments and philanthropy have come together to embrace transition credits, which monetise each tonne of CO2 saved from shutting down a coal plant early. The money from credit sales helps pay for the renewable energy power generation that replaces the coal power plant.

But how far are we from viable transition credit projects and the sale of these credits? And who will buy them?

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:42 What are transition credits?

3:53 Are there any projects in the pipeline that could yield transition credits?

5:53 Any idea how much transition credits might be?

9:08 Who will be the main buyers?

11:46 What are the criticisms of transition credits?

16:19 The chicken-and-egg problem. Build the green power project first, credit money comes later.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E33: Plain sailing for PM Anwar on a global stage, but rough ride at home

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

On international platforms, he earns praise but faces rising scepticism domestically.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For our June episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Tan Tam Mei return to be joined by Ariel Tan, a senior fellow at RSIS, as they unpack Malaysia’s showing at global forums.

From hosting a landmark Asean Summit and joining BRICS, his diplomatic engagements with leaders from China, Russia, and the Middle East, PM Anwar has advanced Malaysia on the world stage.

But domestically, challenges are mounting. With talk of nepotism and several movements within the unity government, what could come next?

How will this reshape the political field as the country inches closer to its 16th General Election that must be held by early 2028?

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:58 Malaysia as Asean chair and PM Anwar’s showing

9:44 How can PM Anwar and Asean effect change, especially in Myanmar?

14:20 Translating Malaysia’s international appearance for the domestic audience

18:20 Malaysia’s diplomatic balancing act between the US and China

23:09 Nurul Izzah’s rise to PKR No.2 post, Rafizi Ramli’s exit from Cabinet

31:08 Timing, motivations and implications: Why Tengku Zafrul Aziz is joining the PKR

41:50 Quelling Umno’s upset; what to expect at the next Cabinet reshuffle, moves ahead of next general election

47:08 News nugget from Malaysia: Penang’s new char kway teow champion

Malaysia’s showing at Asean - https://str.sg/Gp5Q

Fallout from Malaysia’s PKR election - https://str.sg/mbjY

Zafrul’s jump to the PKR - https://str.sg/kbSe

Read Tan Tam Mei’s articles: https://str.sg/iJxJ

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Hosts: Tan Tam Mei (tammei@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

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S1E16: Musician Evan Low talks NDP songs, touring with Mandopop star A-mei

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Hear from the home-grown composer and producer behind recent National Day Parade songs.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In this special episode of Music Lab, ST’s music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts award-winning Singaporean composer, producer, and music director Evan Low.

A recipient of the National Arts Council’s Young Artist Award in 2024, Low has worked on over 200 songs.

He is best known for being a co-composer and musician on recent National Day Parade songs The Road Ahead (2021) sung by artistes such as Linying, Not Alone (2024) by Benjamin Kheng and the 2018 remake of We Are Singapore.

The artiste also known as Evanturetime has also toured with international pop star and Taiwanese singer A-mei and has performed to massive crowds in venues such as the Beijing National Stadium in China.

Low, who first took piano lessons at the age of five, graduated from Singapore Polytechnic with a Diploma in Music and Audio Technology. He then honed his skills at famed American music school Berklee College of Music, thanks to scholarships from the school as well as the Media Development Authority.

This episode was recorded and filmed in front of a live audience of nearly 80 attendees on June 3 - at swish nightspot Rasa at Republic Plaza, as part of the ST Podcast Live! Sessions celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:43 Realising the impact of music: How Evan cried during piano practice when he was a kid

3:54 How he ended up choosing to further his studies in music instead of science

6:36 On developing his own set of ‘special skills’ while studying music in the US

10:56 The pressure of coming up with NDP songs

18:20 How he got singer Benjamin Kheng to venture outside his comfort zone on NDP song Not Alone

26:46 How he balances his finances as a full-time musician

29:25 On helping others achieve their dreams of pursuing music as a career

Watch the full podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/b3tL

Discover Evan Low’s music at:

Spotify: https://str.sg/9ALG

Instagram: https://str.sg/oKkAJ

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel:

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

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S1E1: Explore The Straits Times’ podcasts

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Listen to our news commentary podcasts on the go every week.

Podcasts have become part of the global media landscape these days. The audio-on-demand format allows many listeners to often do other chores or hobbies, while hearing the shows in the background over headphones or bluetooth speakers

Almost every weekday, check out our discussions on Singapore current affairs and social issues, geopolitics through an Asian lens, health, climate change, personal finance and career.

Follow our shows on your favourite audio apps Apple Podcasts, Spotify or even ST’s app, which has a dedicated podcast player section.

Trailer narrated by: Podcast editor Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg); edited by: Elsa Goh

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Discover more ST podcast channels:

'All-in-one' ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Headstart On Record: https://str.sg/wB2m

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Wheel Insights: https://str.sg/iTtE

ST Podcasts website: https://www.straitstimes.com/st-podcasts

(*New) The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

---

Special edition series:

Green Trails (4 eps): https://str.sg/bMyx

This series clinched the gold award for Best Podcast at the Digital Media Awards Asia 2025 on April 23, organised by the World Association of News Publishers (Wan-Ifra).

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

This series clinched the gold award for Best Podcast at the Digital Media Awards Asia 2024 in April, and third place for Best Podcast at the Digital Media Awards Worldwide 2024, both organised by Wan-Ifra.

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

This series also won The Best Podcast/Digital Audio Project category at the 2022 Digital Media Awards Asia, organised by Wan-Ifra.

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#stpodcasttr

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S2E18: “Things are bad. But don’t lose hope” - A Singapore climate scientist’s view of the world

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

As climate impacts worsen and costs increase, can humanity unite to scale up climate action before it’s too late?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The world is in a very dangerous place, says Singapore climate scientist Professor Winston Chow. Right when nations need to be united in fighting climate change, we seem more divided than ever, more focused on what are perceived to be more pressing issues, from cost of living to hot wars and trade wars.

But climate change is exacting an ever greater toll and is a today problem, not the “tomorrow problem” that many policymakers believe, Prof Chow tells Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty.

Scorching heat, increasingly costly climate-linked disasters, melting ice caps and rising sea levels – these are threats that need much greater attention from policymakers, including in SE Asia.

The good news is that many nations and businesses remain committed to investing in climate adaptation and cutting emissions, such as green energy investments. And sustainability isn’t dead – it’s just good economics to factor in the cost-benefits of greener investing, he says.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:27 What is your feeling right now given the dark clouds on the climate and policy fronts?

8:41 What is the one thing that has alarmed you?

13:37 Does the average person really understand how serious things are?

18:24 How worried should we be in SE Asia?

20:55 But there is reason for optimism, too, isn’t there?

25:59 What’s your message for those in the climate space? “Don’t lose hope.”

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E20: Forging careers at all ages, for all seasons

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Find out how developing crucial career skills can help you triumph over times of turmoil.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Developing a vibrant, resilient career in this age will require consistent effort to make deeper and more frequent changes.

Mastering what we do in the here and now, does not suffice. Instead, we need to cast an eye towards what our jobs may become and even consider entirely new ones.

In the third ST Podcast Live session recorded on June 3 at swish nightspot Rasa at Republic Plaza, we touch on what it takes to thrive at each stage of our careers, against a backdrop of economic upheaval.

This special episode of Headstart On Record is in partnership with Workforce Singapore, in support of Career Health, a SkillsFuture initiative.

We speak to a young engineer - Mr Noel Png - who did not let poor school grades deter him from an engineering career that took him to Britain and back home, where he also contributed to putting a satellite in space.

He is now a telecommunications system engineer at ST Engineering. Oh, he's also met Elon Musk.

He shares about his unorthodox approach to networking, how he found mentors who helped him find his direction in life and his thought process to take uncertainty in his stride.

Joining him with host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi is veteran senior career coach Parameswari Seenivasan.

A trained counsellor with over 15 years’ of experience from Workforce Singapore, she has helped over 2,000 clients in her work. She helps us draw principles and good practices from Mr Png's career experiences.

The ongoing series of ST Podcast Live sessions are being held to celebrate 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025, with three more events planned for the rest of the year.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:13 How a chance encounter led Noel to work in the space industry

5:41 Taking stock of your strengths and values

10:37 How career coaching can help you gain clarity on next moves

16:43 The broader range of options you can explore

18:58 Making sure each transition builds on the next

24:38 Parames’ and Noel’s proudest moments in their careers

Find out more from WSG about Career Health SG: https://str.sg/H8Ko

More about WSG: https://www.wsg.gov.sg/

Read how the live podcast went down: https://str.sg/uJ4C

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S2E32: 'Second China shock? You ain’t seen nothing yet' says top economist

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with the eminent private sector economist and strategic affairs expert Manu Bhaskaran.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

South-east Asia is reeling from a flood of Chinese-manufactured goods that threaten the region’s industry, from cars to even batik shirts. Some call this phenomenon the ‘Second China Shock.’

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Manu Bhaskaran, the eminent Singapore economist and expert on regional politics and geopolitics. Mr Bhaskaran is a partner and board member of Centennial Group, a Washington DC-based policy advisory, and Adjunct Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:00 What the 'Second China Shock' is about

5:30 ‘Fitness centre’ of global manufacturing

7:05 Countries, industries most affected

10:00 How can Asean respond?

12:30 A protectionist wave ahead

15:00 Why Asean has a lot going for it

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E51: Running clubs: Should you join one to improve your mindset and lifestyle?

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Some see them as dating opportunities, while for others, it's a chance to learn more about themselves.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Becoming a runner has always lingered in Natasha's mind, especially now that it’s a 'thing' with young people. She sees others joining run clubs and signing up for marathons and triathlons, and even flying overseas to run in events or various locations.

In this episode, she invites two runners to help her understand why they do it, and what keeps them coming back for more.

Meliani Lee is a budding enthusiast who just decided one day to buy a nice pair of running shoes, while being deskbound in her job as a client lifecycle management specialist. She started long-distance running in 2023, and last year, completed one full marathon and three half-marathons.

Arthur Tong is the founder and head coach of Elevate Performance Coaching. As an Ironman-certified coach, his philosophy isn’t just about crossing finish lines, but about creating meaningful, lasting transformation.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:22 Advantages of running: Can you start at any age?

9:26 Is running the new 'dating trend'? Importance of community too, to support running newbies

14:19 How do you get better or faster at running in marathons?

16:08 When do you know you are ready?

18:00 What they learn about themselves when it comes to running

23:07 Helping people discover their own 'whys' in discovering running

27:47 Calling couch potatoes: How to get out of the door and show up?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by ST Video: Joel Chng and T Kumar

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, Natasha Liew & Rebekah Chia

ST Podcasts’ executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

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S1E55: Inside an animal abuser’s mind: What drives such cruelty & why some say the penalties aren’t enough

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Four cat deaths recently have re-ignited calls for tougher enforcement against animal abusers.

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Just before the crack of dawn in early May, the mutilated carcass of a community cat was discovered on a road in Yishun.

In the days that followed, three more cats were reported to have been seriously injured or found dead in housing estates around Singapore, stoking fears of animal abusers at large.

While three of the cases have since been attributed to road traffic accidents rather than deliberate acts of cruelty, they have re-ignited calls for tougher enforcement against animal abusers.

In this episode, correspondent Ang Qing unpacks the psyche of an animal abuser in Singapore with psychiatrist Lim Boon Leng and criminal lawyer Josephus Tan.

They discuss the gaps in Singapore’s animal protection system, how to fix them, as well as why society’s failure to protect vulnerable creatures can have worrying consequences for the nation as a whole.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:45 Inside an animal abuser’s mind

5:29 Understanding psychopathy and spotting red flags

10:19 Gaps in enforcement and how criminals exploit them

15:30 Do some abusers have a sadistic desire to get caught?

18:58 What animal abuse says about Singapore and its people

24:06 Can tougher laws and caning make a difference

32:59 What the ordinary citizen should or shouldn’t do

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

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S2E31: This Shandong city produces 80 per cent of China’s peony paintings

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

China’s unofficial national flower is getting Heze noticed, as its cities strive to develop unique calling cards

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

The Straits Times’ foreign editor Li Xueying and China correspondent Joyce Lim take us to Heze, a city in Shandong province, where peonies aren't just admired by tourists - they drive a multi-billion yuan industry.

Long revered for their cultural significance, peonies now powers a thriving local economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and carrying unexpected political symbolism, including ties to First Lady Peng Liyuan.

What can a single city alone reveal about the China’s deeper economic challenges - from changing consumer behaviour to rising youth unemployment and growing regional divides?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:28 The cultural significance of peonies in China

4:04 Peonies in modern Chinese culture

5:42 Toothpaste, cooking oil and TCM - how peony is made into 260 products

13:33 Challenges and strategies for cities in China

17:43 Conclusion and broader economic insights

Read Joyce Lim’s article here: https://str.sg/LcLs

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E50: Chasing clout on LinkedIn: the fine line between being real and self-serving

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 10:45:00 +0000

Can we be real when it comes to celebrating professional milestones and branding ourselves?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

A recent viral post on LinkedIn has cast the spotlight on how some users have pushed content about their jobs and professional endeavours into something more self-serving and performative.

Just a couple of weeks ago, Ms Janney Hujic shared about what she claimed was a “chance encounter” with former DBS CEO Piyush Gupta in a cafe in Bali, where she praised his “quiet conviction” and how he had shared wise words for her upcoming all-women’s expedition in Mongolia.

The whole thing turned out to be a fake interaction. But it sparked a conversation about humble bragging, toxic positivity or exaggerating professional interactions in the quest to stand out on LinkedIn.

In this episode of The Usual Place, Ms Crystal Lim-Lange - co-founder of Forest Wolf, a leadership consultancy that specialises in leadership transformation and personal growth - dropped by to talk about how we can be real when it comes to celebrating professional milestones and branding ourselves.

Our conversation also turned to the importance of career visibility, how this incident highlights about the temptation to appear connected or successful, and how to avoid being performative.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:12 Many reasons why people show up differently on social media

4:05 The casual racism behind the viral LinkedIn post, and why we need to be conscious of what we say

8:16 Career visibility is important, but when does it become self-serving or a humblebrag?

13:59 Crystal’s checklist for her LinkedIn posts: Is it educational, entertaining or inspirational?

20:20 What does building career visibility entail?

30:39 Record and share insights from your work, avoid being performative to sell yourself

36:07 How do we recover from a professional gaffe?

Ms Lim-Lange’s Comfort and Growth podcast is available on:

Spotify: https://str.sg/bTzR

YouTube: https://str.sg/9Bhh

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by ST Video: Joel Chng and T Kumar

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Natasha Liew

ST Podcasts’ executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E137: Talk to someone: Mental health help in your community

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Community care for your mental health needs.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Seeking mental health help at a centre near you is gradually becoming easier in Singapore as the country focuses its efforts on making this happen. But, it will take time for things to improve.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Dr Timothy Singham to find out more about what one can do to navigate the system. He is a senior Clinical Psychologist and Manager at Viriya Psychological Services at Viriya Community Services

Dr Singham also talked about a client who managed his agoraphobia with therapy given in a community setting instead of in the hospital. Agoraphobia is a disorder characterized by symptoms of anxiety in situations where the person perceives their environment to be unsafe with no easy way to escape.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:07 He sought help for his agoraphobia at a community care agency

4:16 What is a clinical psychologist?

12:35 Can therapy harm us?

19:38 Where to go for help in the community care sector?

31:49 An anxiety tip we can all use

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E17: Why is everyone talking about an Asean power grid?

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A regional power grid could help bring clean power to people. But huge challenges remain.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Rapidly growing Asean is hungry for power to keep its economies humming. With electricity demand growth of 3 to 4 per cent a year, meeting that demand is a costly challenge for governments in the region.

A regional grid, long-talked about, could help the region meet its energy needs while also putting a lid on growing carbon emissions that are heating up the planet. The regional grid could shift power around the region, helping move green electricity to countries less able to produce it.

And the grid is becoming a reality, with Singapore’s demand for low-carbon electricity imports helping drive investment. But wiring up the whole region will be expensive and large hurdles remain, including stronger policy support from regional governments, guaranteed power purchase agreements and lack of regional power trading networks.

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:52 The ASEAN power grid was first floated as an idea in 1997 but languished for years.

3:16 What are the key turning points that are helping make the grid a reality?

6:26 Lower air pollution, cheaper power are just some of the potential benefits

9:54 But high upfront costs of wiring up the region is a key challenge

14:48 What are some of the other challenges?

21:41 Blended finance and other funding sources are needed to come together to lure investors

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E19: How to prepare to inherit a family business

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Gaining exposure, cultural conflictions and intergenerational discussions are all part of the road to inheriting a family business.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Family businesses have been in the spotlight, after the CDL saga that saw father and son in a tussle for control over one of Singapore’s largest companies.

But whether it is about inheriting family businesses or family wealth, the process is not a straightforward one.

Banks and financial organisations prepare young people to take over family wealth, through programmes and even boot camps.

So how does wealth planning work, and how do youths take over their family businesses?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what wealthy kids do to prepare to inherit wealth and companies.

Her guests are Darren Hui, who will one day lead his family’s property management business, and former national athlete Kendrick Lee who co-founded Raffles Family Office.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:35 What is family legacy planning and governance?

7:30 The challenges the next generation faces

9:00 Generational differences between father and son

10:49 What difficulties has the family office seen in dealing with multiple generations?

18:02 When did you first realise you were going to inherit the business?

21:00 Will Kendrick let his children take over the business?

22:36 Going from national athlete to family office

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S1E49: All in the family: What keeps these next-gen F&B owners cooking

Thu, 29 May 2025 07:30:00 +0000

For those running businesses in the food and beverage (F&B) scene, 2024 hit a record that wasn’t quite comforting.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

The F&B industry saw 3,047 closures – an almost-20-year record high.

In spite of rising rental rates and food costs, many still want to give the F&B business a shot, as demonstrated by over 3,790 new eateries being opened in the same period last year.

In an industry that is increasingly tougher to run, young business owners taking over their family business also have a challenge of future-proofing their business.

To find out more about what’s it like to take over their family businesses, I speak with Mr Ernest Ting, 34, director at Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, and Ms Maria Didih, 37, head of operations at Hjh Maimunah.

For Ernest, a third-generation owner of a handmade dim sum business that was opened by his grandparents in 1962, that means taking a fresh approach to menu offerings and expanding the business.

Maria, a second-generation owner who runs the restaurant that makes kampung-style Malay dishes, sauces, and pastes business with her sisters, said that it’s about “being creative and keeping up with the times”, instead of solely banking on an established name.

As Ernest puts it: “It’s not the easiest to do. I think it’s getting even harder. I always tell new people who want to start F&B to ‘think twice’.”

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:34 What these next-generation of F&B owners think about the high number of business closures

4:36 “Singaporeans really know how to eat, so our food better be of decent quality,” says Ernest

5:21 Social media may misrepresent the life – and stresses – of an F&B owner

8:22 Why did Maria and Ernest agree to join the family business?

11:27 Reservations about joining a business with strong legacy and reputation

16:03 How to get the older generation of owners and staff excited about their creative ideas

21:10 “We’re all custodians of Singapore’s food heritage,” says Ernest

34:30 A “compulsory thing”: Maria on how social media changed the way they do business

36:00 What if the next generation doesn’t want to take over the business?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E30: Chongqing's car market boom amid trade war challenges

Thu, 22 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Industry players say they will hunker down and focus on Central Asia and Southeast Asia.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For May, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai and assistant foreign editor Sarah Ng connect with Aw Cheng Wei who is based in Chongqing.

They discuss Chongqing’s evolution as an automotive hub and its aspirations to beef up the tech sector to better support the manufacturing of vehicles going forward.

Given its geographical location and logistical prowess, Chongqing has thus far focused on Central Asia and other parts of the developing world as key export markets for its vehicles.

Even as the US-China trade war rages, Chongqing’s prospects remain upbeat as those in the industry say they will hunker down and continue to focus on markets that are plugged into the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The BRI is a central pillar to President Xi Jinping’s bid to expand China’s political and economic influence worldwide.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:12 Past history: How Chongqing became an automotive hub

3:45 Chongqing’s automotive sector makes up half of its industry value-added services

5:20 Dummy question: What is the difference between smart cars and EVs?

10:04 Temporary truce in trade war could affect Chongqing? Is China dumping EVs into emerging markets?

13:20 Rail connection critical to Chongqing-Central Asia trade

14:50 Mala food scene in Chongqing: What you need to know

S1E48: What PM Wong’s new Cabinet line-up signals for succession

Thu, 22 May 2025 11:06:19 +0000

The votes are in, the general election is over, and a new Parliament is taking shape.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

The last piece of the GE2025 chapter was unveiled on May 21: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s Cabinet line-up, which had a few surprises including just one deputy prime minister (DPM) position and a bumper crop of seven newly-elected MPs taking on political office.

In this episode of The Usual Place Podcast, I unpack the post-GE2025 Cabinet line-up with Singapore Management University law don Eugene Tan and Ms Nydia Ngiow, the managing director of strategic advisory firm BowerGroupAsia.

For Prof Tan, not having a second DPM was a surprise move, and he noted that PM Wong is “breaking that particular trend”.

Going into the next term of government, Ms Ngiow said the much-talked about 4G leadership renewal is in place.

Given the publicity and talk around the new faces during the general election, she added: “We can expect that the public will definitely scrutinise this Parliament and Cabinet a bit more closely. All eyes will be on how the 4G leaders will then be helping to lead and guide the younger generations moving forward.”

Highlights (click/tap above):

7:51 Are Ministers Ong Ye Kung and Chan Chun Sing the front runners for the other DPM spot?

10:16 On moving National Development Minister Desmond Lee to the Ministry of Education

11:25 A “bigger canvas” at the Ministry of National Development: Prof Tan on Mr Chee Hong Tat’s move

17:56 What does the post of Acting Minister mean?

22:53 A bumper crop of people with “political office holder potential” sets the scene for leadership renewal: Prof Tan

29:01 On Dr Faishal Ibrahim’s appointment as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs

31:27 Will we see labour chief Ng Chee Meng back in government at a later time?

40:55 Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s role in this Government

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by ST Video: Joel Chng, Marc Justin De Souza and Rubeen Raj

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E16: The emerging ocean economy in South-east Asia

Mon, 19 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Businesses are starting to recognise the potential of the emerging blue economy.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

A healthy ocean is one of humanity’s greatest defences against climate change, and businesses are now starting to recognise the importance – and potential – of the emerging blue economy.

From sustainable aquaculture and farming practices, to offshore renewables and sustainable shipping, the ocean is becoming a frontier for innovation and investment.

The involvement of the private sector can bring in much-needed funding to ensure that the oceans are managed sustainably.

But what are the opportunities in this emerging sector, and is there a tension between profit-making and conservation? Tune in to this episode to hear more from Dr Alfredo Giron, head of ocean at the World Economic Forum.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:06 What is the blue economy?

6:35 What are the traditional and emerging sectors in the ocean economy?

10:22 How can opportunities in the ocean economy be made available to developing countries?

14:59 What are some examples of bankable ocean projects?

17:45 What do countries think of the potential of the ocean economy?

22:55 What is the appetite like among businesses?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim & Natasha Liew

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E18: Can you earn a living on a skilled trade?

Sun, 18 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

An entrepreneur shares his hard-earned lessons on working with one’s hands.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

For much of human history, manual work and the skilled trades have been the default way to earn your keep.

Even in a small, advanced economy such as Singapore, there remains a need for this work to be done, that requires a mix of hard graft and mindfulness.

To piece together how to be successful in the trades, ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, an entrepreneur who slogged to build businesses across landscaping, hospitality and outdoor education.

His guest is:

Mr Clarence Chua, co-founder of The Sundowner Nature Experience Centre

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:53 Did Clarence always know he would be working a skilled trade?

10:07 What is the most satisfying part of Clarence’s job?

11:18 Tips for those hoping to pursue a skilled trade

21:06 Dealing with parental disapproval

Read about Mr Chua’s work here: https://str.sg/iiCi

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S1E47: Online shaming, public blow-ups: Can we talk civilly without labels or rage?

Thu, 15 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When it comes to hard conversations, are we quick to shame, label others or lash out?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In this episode, we explore why it’s so hard to unpack difficult topics without getting angry, rude, or shutting down.

Whether it’s inconsiderate commuters, vaccine debates, or matters about race, we now have to navigate more difficult conversations. And more people seem on edge – both online and offline.

So how can we have a discussion about issues that matter without blowing up or checking out?

Natasha sits down with Ms Audrey Low, founder of leadership consultancy Designing Trust, and Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin, cultural change strategist and founder of Common Ground Civic Centre and Consultancy, to unpack Singaporeans’ seemingly short fuses, public shaming and mob justice, and explore how we can respond more constructively.

They also talk about why labelling people as “woke” or “social justice warriors” can shut down discussions even before they start.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:14 Are Singaporeans an angry bunch?

6:50 The psyche of trolls and why people drop rude comments

10:09 What do cavalier, unkind comments say those who post them?

18:33 Why discussions about racial issues get heated?

24:50 Using labels like “woke” and “social justice warrior” can shut down conversations

37:38 How to be open to perspectives that they don’t agree with

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E54: Do Gen Zs really tackle life, work differently compared with their parents?

Tue, 13 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A recent ST-Milieu survey has found some striking similarities Gen Zs and their parents have, in the way they view their life priorities and challenges.

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

In this episode, we’ll revisit the old stereotype that the younger generation has it all too good, that they’ve gone soft and are not resilient enough to withstand hardships or even hard work.

Young adults on the other hand, often lament that their parents don’t understand them enough. But how true are any of these often-held views?

A recent survey commissioned by The Straits Times found that Gen Zs, like their parents before them, feel disheartened and frustrated when they cannot find work.

This generational gap is also reflected in the findings of an online survey, conducted by Milieu Insight for ST.

In October and November 2024, the poll of 800 Gen Zs between ages 16 and 27, and 600 parents of Gen Zs explored the two generations’ views on goals, stress, money, self-esteem and joblessness. The parents were asked to answer based on recollections of their views when they were in their 20s.

But there are slight differences between how they approach work and gain wealth, and we discuss this with a father-son pair in this episode.

Lawyer Michael Han, 55, is an occasional columnist. He is joined by his son Jazer Han, 22, now an economics undergraduate at the Singapore Management University (SMU).

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:22 Mr Han on sacrificing work-life balance for career growth?

10:35 Mr Han: Not about generational gaps; more like different seasons in life

14:05 Jazer on time outside of 'school and work', extra commitments, fulfilment

16:15 Jazer's view on urgency to complete tasks

26:20 How Jezer got scammed $15,000 from his savings?

38:29 Is the younger generation really 'strawberry' or 'snowflake'?

Read ST’s article on how Gen Zs and their parents approach work and life differently: https://str.sg/FCkq

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E136: Building up your adulting skill for mental health

Wed, 07 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

How can young people build up their mental health and cope with societal pressures while adulting?

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

We all know that adulting is not easy, but why is adulting hitting the mental health of young people so much these days? ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo explores this with two guests in this episode.

They are:

Ms Lee Yi Ping, the programme lead and principal Case Manager at Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health in Singapore. This service by the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) serves as a first-stop touchpoint for young people seeking mental health support.

Mr Delane Lim, the founder and executive director of the charity Character & Leadership Academy, which runs youth development, mental wellness, and suicide prevention programmes for young people. Mr Lim himself contemplated suicide at 25 and he knows just how tough adulting can be.

They discuss what one can do to manage the challenges that adulting brings, whether it is related to identity, work or relationships.

Ms Lee and Mr Lim also share their own experiences.

This episode was recorded live - and filmed in front of a live audience - at The Projector at Golden Mile Tower, as part of the ST Podcast Live! Sessions celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:35 Is adulting harder today than it was in the past?

5:45 Managing the pressure of "having it all" by a certain age

10:55 Delane’s brush with suicide at 25

16:28 Yi Ping on feeling burnout

19:13 Navigating social media safely

22:20 Advice to their younger selves

Check out ST's new series No Health Without Mental Health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E17: In your 20s? Why it’s never too early to prepare for retirement

Sun, 04 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Three students in their early 20s tell us how they're approaching this.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Retirement used to be a word for middle-aged workers, perhaps as they started to think of how to lay up enough savings to enjoy their twilight years.

But with movements like Fire - also known as financial independence, retire early - younger workers are starting to talk about retirement and prepare for the time they can kick their feet back and stop working.

And for university students in their early 20s, preparing for retirement is already underway, to hit their goals of retiring early and to fund their ideal retirement lifestyles.

So how early should you think of retirement and how can you plan for it?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at retirement planning even when you're in your 20s and if Fire can really work.

Her guests are three NTU students in their early 20s - Tina Aw, Charmaine Chia and Aurene Graciella.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:51 How old were you when you first thought about retirement?

5:33 Hustling from the age of 12 to achieve Fire

8:20 The mental and social costs of Fire

9:15 What is your ideal retirement age?

11:58 How are you preparing for retirement?

24:56 How much will you need per month in retirement?

27:44 Will you consider micro-retirement?

Listen to "Should we play with FIRE?": https://str.sg/5mHc

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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S1E1: Landslide win: PAP gets 65.57% of votes in Singapore general election

Sat, 03 May 2025 19:15:52 +0000

Singapore's 2025 general election was held on May 3, and the ruling People's Action Party won 65.57 per cent of the national vote, a commanding swing up from its 61.24 per cent share in 2020.

The ruling party won 87 seats out of the contested 97, securing a majority in Parliament.

The opposition Workers' Party retained two GRCs in Aljunied and Sengkang, and one SMC in Hougang.

This election gave Prime Minister Lawrence Wong the clear mandate that he had sought, in his first electoral contest as head of government and leader of the PAP.

Narrated by: Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Hadyu Rahim, Teo Tong Kai & Amirul Karim

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E29: A view of the cemetery: Why house-hunting in Jakarta is a challenge

Thu, 01 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Indonesia’s capital, one of South-east Asia’s most crowded cities, contains 12 million people in a land area of 660 sq km.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

Host and foreign editor Li Xueying speaks to The Straits Times’ Indonesia bureau chief Arlina Arshad, who has lived in Jakarta for 16 years - and moved five times. What are the lessons that she’s picked up in searching for the right apartment in Indonesia’s capital city?

In this city of contrasts, private-sector developers are on a tearing streak to build high-end condominiums for an expanding middle class. At the same time, graveyards and slums are just round the block from these homes.

And for decades now, the government has strove to resolve the housing and urban development challenge in Jakarta. What plans does the Prabowo administration now have?

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:58 Every move an exciting and chaotic journey

4:03 Drawing the curtains on a graveyard

5:57 Indonesians’ attitudes towards the dead

8:31 Why Jakarta is so crowded

10:48 Fixing the housing challenge

Read Arlina Arshad’s article here: https://str.sg/b9qb

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E46: GE2025: Trailing candidates, squeezing into rallies - covering the campaign as young journalists

Thu, 01 May 2025 06:02:35 +0000

Christie Chiu, Wong Yang and Isabelle Kumar - young journalists with The Straits Times - reflect on their experiences and insights.

Synopsis: Every noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - The Usual Place moves to a half-hour daily livestream - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter.

Joining her on the couch are young reporters Wong Yang and Christie Chiu, along with their video colleague Isabelle Kumar.

Beyond witnessing the election unfold up close through their work, Wong Yang and Christie Chiu, along with their video colleague Isabelle Kumar, are also experiencing it from a personal angle – as first-time voters.

What have their own Gen Z friends been saying to them about similar experiences that helped shape their approach to content ideas?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:26 Christie and Yang’s response to being labelled the ‘Gen Z version’ of TV presenters Glenda Chong and Steven Chia

7:53 Did being reporters help them learn anything for themselves as young first-time voters?

8:54 Their rally experiences

13:50 “They are also human” - Isabelle on her observations while filming candidates like PAP’s Foo Cexiang and WP’s Alexis Dang

19:14 “Be kind” to one another - the trio’s key personal takeaways from GE2025

Today’s shirt worn by Natasha was sponsored by Good Addition.

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S1E45: GE2025: WP’s Sengkang team on going from new faces to first-term MPs

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Newcomer Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik joins his experienced teammates on the couch.

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Joining her on the couch are Ms He Ting Ru, 41; Associate Professor Jamus Lim, 49; and Mr Louis Chua, 37, who are contesting Sengkang GRC again – this time with newcomer Abdul Muhaimin, 36.

As first-term MPs, they had to navigate both constituency work and team dynamics after winning Sengkang GRC in GE2020 with 52.13 per cent of the vote – the biggest upset of the election then. The WP took 60,136 votes, while the PAP got 55,214 votes.

Since then, have there been any growing pains, and how has their working relationship evolved? How do they split roles in the team?

Natasha asks them how they feel about winning Sengkang in the last election, and what they’re learning so far during campaigning for GE2025.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:59 One theme from the ground that needs to be examined beyond GE2025

6:33 Being yourself - new candidate Mr Muhaimin on advice he gets from his teammates during campaigning

12:20 How they react to party leaders’ statements on WP fielding its strongest slate in many years

13:40 Ms He on women in politics

19:20 The quartet on valuable advice coming from senior WP leaders that they still hold dear today

24:15 Prof Lim on advice given to new candidate Michael Thng for the recent national TV roundtable discussion?

33:34 “Such language was not used in volunteer chat groups or with residents”: Mr Chua on Mr Andre Low’s leaked Telegram messages from a private chat among his business school classmates

41:01 Game Time! What are some apps they wish they would use less on the phone

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E44: GE2025: How did RDU go from contesting 1 constituency in 2020 to 4 this year?

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 06:03:58 +0000

RDU has the second-highest number of opposition candidates.

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Red Dot United (RDU) is a very young political party, formed only in 2020 when it contested just one constituency – Jurong GRC – with a team of five candidates.

Fast forward five years, and RDU is now fielding the second-highest number of opposition candidates in this election, behind the WP’s 26 candidates. RDU’s 15 candidates are contesting four constituencies, going head-to-head with the PAP.

How did the party scale up from a one-GRC showing in 2020 to four constituencies today?

Joining Natasha in this episode are Ms Liyana Dhamirah, 38, and her teammate Marcus Neo, 33 - part of the party’s team contesting Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC - and Ms Kala Manickam, 57, candidate for Jurong Central SMC.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:35 How a relatively new party like RDU managed to field the second largest number of opposition candidates

10:33 How Ms Liyana is able to dismiss a lot of insults; why file a police report over online harassment recently?

23:27 Ms Kala on switching from Jalan Kayu SMC to Jurong Central SMC

28:17 Mr Neo on housing and job insecurity as top concerns for millennial voters his age

36:23 Game time! Kopi-O kosong, bubble tea, teh tarik - what’s your favourite drink?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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S1E43: GE2025: GST, tight contests - Analysts react to PAP’s Fullerton rally

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 08:15:44 +0000

Three seasoned political observers analyse and offer talking points.

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

The People’s Action Party held the first lunchtime election rally of GE2025 at noon on April 28 at the promenade area beside UOB Plaza. The PAP’s secretary-general and Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, along with other party members, addressed Singaporeans.

The Fullerton rally, named for its venue being close to Fullerton Square, has in the past attracted thousands of office workers. The area has been a venue for political rallies since 1959, when the earliest Singapore political parties took to the podium there.

Chatting with Natasha at The Usual Place are Dr Gillian Koh, senior research fellow from the Institute of Policy Studies, Dr Rebecca Grace Tan, a political science lecturer from the National University of Singapore, and Dr Felix Tan, an independent political observer.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:35 How the new PAP candidates fared in their speeches at the Fullerton rally

6:17 Was there a lack of specifics from new PAP candidates on their motivation to join politics?

15:57 Thoughts on PAP’s opposition to the opposition parties

22:50 Is DPM Gan Kim Yong in danger of losing Punggol GRC?

25:47 Did GST turbocharge inflation in Singapore?

40:35 Will the PAP get a clear mandate from the ballot box on Polling Day?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E42: GE2025: 3 PAP new faces on kinder politics and being their true selves

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

PAP’s new candidates on cost of living and groupthink

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

On the couch today are: Mr Shawn Loh, 38, part of the party’s Jalan Besar GRC team; Mr Foo Cexiang, 40, from the Tanjong Pagar GRC slate; and Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim, 40, part of the team contesting East Coast GRC.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:08 What does being a ‘millennial politician’ mean in this day and age?

11:19 As a former Budget director, Mr Loh responds on the feasibility of reducing GST

19:15 Diversity that helps in robust discussions when formulating policies

35:03 How to help children cope with stress from social media and exams

38:41 Rojak, economy rice and nasi lemak - how these dishes represent their leadership style

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

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S1E41: GE2025: Is ‘abandonment’ the word of the campaign so far?

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 06:20:21 +0000

As the election campaign heats up with a week left to Polling Day on May 3, how is this General Election shaping up?

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Host of the Political Prude podcast Joel Lim and Assistant Professor Elvin Ong from the NUS Department of Political Science join Natasha in this live episode.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:25 Abandonment: Buzzword of the GE2025 campaign so far?

9:15 Rallies and democratic conversations in Singapore; how younger voters are also keen on studying political issues

11:10 Gloves truly off yet? What kind of punches have been thrown so far?

22:58 Which candidates have come across to Prof Ong and Mr Lim as most authentic so far, online?

25:43 Being a ‘Conviction politician’: What does it mean?

26:58 Why they both feel GE2025 is truly a “podcast election”, following on some trends from the recent US presidential election

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E40: GE2025: Talking Tampines with Workers’ Party

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 06:04:03 +0000

Three WP candidates, including party vice-chairman Faisal Manap, drop by The Usual Place.

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Apart from Mr Faisal Manap, 50, also joining Natasha Ann Zachariah for the second live episode of The Usual Place are: Dr Ong Lue Ping, 48 and Mr Jimmy Tan, 53.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:13 Response towards The People’s Power Party candidate Goh Meng Seng’s comment on the four-way fight in Tampines GRC

6:20 A feast of political buffet vs dilution of opposition votes?

19:50 The impact of groupthink within Singapore's highest decision-making bodies

23:06 WP’s sense of the response for them on the ground at Tampines GRC

28:32 Professional football player, police officer, and doctor - childhood ambitions of the three WP candidates

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E39: GE2025: PAP's new candidates on Nomination Day whirlwind, handling online negativity

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:13:34 +0000

These new faces are from three GRC teams.

Synopsis: The Usual Place now moves to a half-hour daily livestream at noon from April 24 till May 1 - a day before Cooling-off Day - with Singapore's general election on May 3.

Host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah invites candidates, analysts and hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

But first up, on the living room couch with her in today’s (April 24) livestream are three candidates from PAP: Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, 50, part of the party’s East Coast GRC team, Mr Daniel Liu, 40, part of its Aljunied GRC team, and Ms Valerie Lee, 39, part of its team contesting the newly created Pasir Ris-Changi GRC.

On April 25 next - at noon - find out in our second livestream, which candidates from another party will appear on the couch with Natasha.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:37 Most unexpected experiences about Nomination Day for the trio

8:47 Is there a new vision for the ‘East Coast plan’, for the new team to potentially build on DPM Heng Swee Keat’s legacy?

11:43 Mr Liu on the PAP’s Aljunied GRC team having the 3Es - expertise, experience and energy - to lead the constituency, if elected

17:45 Ms Lee on how she plans to stand out in the newly-created Pasir Ris-Changi GRC, on negative comments about party new faces

21:00 How they are handling their initiation to negative online comments after being thrust into the spotlight suddenly

26:07 Ms Lee on her journey to motherhood and why she opened up on her two previous miscarriages

32:31 Get-to-know-you game time! If you could implement one fun law in SG for one day, what would it be?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by: ST Video

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E53: Game of life: Must success always be about good grades and jobs?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Success used to mean good grades, and then landing a good job. But is this changing?

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

In this special edition of In Your Opinion - filmed in front of a live audience - two youths share their experiences in starting up a business, and whether school grades would determine success at the workplace.

About 100 people attended two recordings at indie cinema The Projector at Golden Mile Tower on the evening of April 15.

The special live recording was organised in partnership with the National Youth Council (NYC), in support of the SG Youth Plan – an action blueprint created by youths, for youths and the world that they will lead.

Hosted by ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong, this episode features two young entrepreneurs - Ms Adella Yeo and Mr Nabill Shukry.

Currently an account manager at a software company, Ms Adella Yeo Rae-Nyse had co-founded MatcHub, a startup that matched fellow NUS students to find suitable job roles based on their personality.

A part-time student with SUSS studying marketing, Nabill Shukry Johary juggles school with a business he started up in 2021 with his father - Cheekies, a home-based delivery service of healthy meals for the Muslim market - in a bid to help his family move out of their one-room rental apartment in Tampines.

Is Singapore ready for diverse pathways to success so that young people can feel accomplished in their own ways?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Journey to entrepreneurship

7:39 The point of going to university is not just for the paper qualifications

10:32 How academic grades play a part post-school

16:19 Challenge the conventions of success

27:14 Advice for youths to forge their own success

Every voice matters, and if you want to share ideas and have your voice heard, you can do your bit in the SG Youth Plan Quest at: https://go.gov.sg/sgyp-mc

Find out more about NYC’s upcoming engagement sessions: https://www.YouthPlan.gov.sg

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

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S1E38: Partners in life and politics: PSP’s Hazel Poa and Tony Tan on GE2025

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:53:19 +0000

They touch on why young voters should speak up now at this stage in their lives.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host and ST correspondent Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to Singapore's next general election that will be held on May 3, 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

Progress Singapore Party’s Hazel Poa and Tony Tan have quite a bit in common.

They were both government scholarship holders who graduated from the University of Cambridge. They were both public servants, and both got their starts in politics with opposition parties.

They also happen to be married to each other. The other similarity between them is that they are both standing in the upcoming general election.

Ms Poa, 54, is part of the opposition PSP team that will be fielded in the newly formed West Coast-Jurong West GRC, together with PSP chairman Tan Cheng Bock, 84, and party chief Leong Mun Wai, 65.

Former National Solidarity Party (NSP) member Tony Tan, 55, will be standing in Kebun Baru SMC under the PSP banner.

Ms Poa and Mr Tan drop by The Usual Place Podcast to chat with Natasha a day before Nomination Day (April 23).

They discuss their political motivations and PSP’s thinking behind a change in plans on where to be fielded for GE2025.

They also share how they are trying to attract younger candidates to join the party, and why the couple are choosing to be foster parents now.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Ms Poa on the party strategy to be fielded in a GRC instead of being in an SMC

5:00 Mr Tan on previously contesting under the National Solidarity Party banner in GE2011 and now representing PSP for GE2025

8:40 Why education is close to both their hearts

13:50 Being a former Singapore Armed Forces scholar could have led him down a different political path, so why did Mr Tan join an opposition party?

17:10 Ms Poa on leadership experience and roles in an opposition party

18:10 On becoming foster parents during this busy period besides having adopted sons

25:00 On the challenge of drawing younger candidates to PSP, what could be a gamechanger? On younger voters

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: ST Video (Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza)

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Shorts edited by ST Video: Johnboy Iype John & Philip Cheong

ST Podcasts executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E16: Will working in the office 5 days a week return?

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Recent high-profile office return mandates belie a broader availability of flexi-work options from more firms.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Those of us who are humming along at a comfortable rhythm with hybrid work might have watched with worry recent developments of major firms insisting on five days in office a week by default.

After all, it seemed like an equilibrium was reached in the years following the Covid-19 pandemic of working remotely for at least part of the week.

Moreover, this comes after Singapore has issued landmark guidelines that make putting in place a process to fairly evaluate flexi-work arrangement requests compulsory.

To piece together what to make of this mixed outlook, ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, a two-decade corporate veteran who now works with industry players to put in place progressive workplace practices.

His guest is:

Mr Aslam Sardar, chief executive of the Institute for Human Resource Professionals

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:20 What is driving some employers to get workers back in the office so often?

5:11 Flexi-work arrangements are still more prevalent than before

7:57 Is there a chance of a “domino effect” of firms issuing office return mandates, one after the other?

15:31 How are employers here weighing up their options for office returns?

21:07 What to do if your employer asks you to return to the office more often

Read about recent moves to make flexi-work more pervasive here: https://str.sg/tgoM

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S1E37: On to his 9th GE: Shanmugam on his 37 years in politics

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

He says a serious-minded person can come into the Singapore political system and make a difference.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to Singapore's next general election that will be held on May 3, 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

Minister for Law and Home Affairs K Shanmugam is a seasoned politician about to head into his ninth election at the upcoming General Election.

The minister, who will be leading the Nee Soon GRC team at GE 2025, first became an MP in 1988 and later a Cabinet Minister in 2008.

In this episode, he speaks with Natasha and her co-host and editor of The Straits Times - Jaime Ho - about how he has seen Singapore and the PAP change in the almost four decades he has been in politics.

Also, what does he make of the public’s perception of him as a "hard politician"?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:18 Changes in Singapore society in that time

7:25 “My focus is on governance.”

17:53 Mr Shanmugam on having more opposition politicians

40:35 On going into his ninth election: “I won’t be here if I didn’t think I could do it.”

50:42 His take on perceptions of him as a “hard politician”

Follow ST’s GE2025 coverage here:

Unpacked newsletter: https://str.sg/JGMTq

S1E36: GE2025: Dissecting political parties' game plan up till Nomination Day

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:49:17 +0000

It has been a week filled with days and dates to remember.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to Singapore's next general election that will be held on May 3, 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

Parliament was dissolved on April 15. Nomination day is on April 23 and Singaporeans will head to the polls on May 3 to elect 97 MPs across 33 constituencies.

This episode is a download on how political parties have been introducing their slate of candidates in the lead-up to Nomination Day.

Natasha hosts news editor Royston Sim and reporter Ng Wei Kai to get their take on what voters can expect in the coming days.

They also talk about how The Straits Times will cover the election such as across multiple social media platforms, a live blog, interactive graphics and a daily show of this podcast.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:33 What should voters look out for in the lead up to Nomination Day

4:12 Why are some parties more cautious than others about revealing candidates?

5:27 Will we see surprises on Nomination Day?

7:05 Speculation on whether WP chief Pritam Singh will move out of Aljunied GRC

9:30 Political parties showing their cards

11:07 How will geopolitical concerns factor at the ballot box

13:21 Royston shares ST’s GE2025 coverage plans (links below)

18:54 The Usual Place podcast goes daily during the hustings

Follow ST’s GE2025 coverage here:

Live Blog: https://str.sg/ge2025-live

S1E35: Fadli Fawzi on joining the Workers’ Party, poems and his meet-cute story

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

He first stood for election with WP's contesting Marine Parade GRC team in 2020.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to Singapore's next general election that will be held on May 3, 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

Lawyer Fadli Fawzi, 44, first stood for election in 2020 under the Workers’ Party banner in Marine Parade GRC. However, his team did not win that year.

While the party has not confirmed where their deputy organising secretary will be standing in the upcoming election, he has been spotted walking the ground in the same area.

He dropped by The Usual Place to share with Natasha what drives someone to stay the course in politics, even though the results haven’t always been in their favour.

Also, he dishes on how the 2020 election led him to connect with his wife, and which Workers’ Party member is Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan’s lookalike.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:45 What were some of the lessons he learnt from his first GE?

6:15 How Mr Fadli met his wife because of the election

9:24 A soft spot for the underdog.: Mr Fadli on why he joined WP

21:00 Will he recite another pantun (poem) during Nomination Day?

26:48 Who does Mr Fadli think is the “Shah Rukh Khan” of the WP?

Filmed by: ST Video (Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza)

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Edited by ST Video: Jacen Tan, Samuel Ruby

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E6: 65 going 85, how old is too old to drive a car?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Eyesight and vehicle costs are major concerns for seniors who drive.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

Mr Danny Yeo has been driving since 1974. The 75-year-old has no issues passing the medical check-up required to maintain his licence. Still, the freelance actor thinks that he would probably hang up his car keys when he turns 85 as he expects his reflexes to decline. He said among his peers, failing eyesight is the most common reason for them to stop driving, as is the cost of keeping a car, which has been rising together with the high certificate of entitlement (COE) premiums.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:38 He paid $5,000 for used Fiat in 1974

5:42 The medical check-up needed every three years to revalidate the licence for drivers aged 65 and above

8:03 Listen to your body - don't just depend on medical checkups

10:50 A driving test for seniors above 70 to ensure that they are fit to drive?

19:00 If you have issues that make driving dangerous, stop for the sake of other drivers and pedestrians.

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

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S2E28: “I called Sri Lanka’s Tamil Tiger supremo Prabhakaran a megalomaniac": Author

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with M R Narayan Swamy, veteran South Asian journalist and biographer of slain Tamil Tiger supremo Velupillai Prabhakaran.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

As Sri Lanka approaches the 16th anniversary of the end of its civil war, Ravi speaks with M R Narayan Swamy in this episode.

Swamy is the author of several books on Sri Lanka’s now-vanquished militant group, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, and he talks about his most recent book – The Rout of Prabhakaran.

Swamy’s book details the last days of Tamil Tigers supremo Velupillai Prabhakaran who was killed, along with hundreds of fighters and Tamil civilians, by the Sri Lankan army in May, 2009.

In this podcast, he discusses why Prabhakaran, who once controlled a third of Sri Lanka’s landmass, and two-thirds of its coastline, met his bloody end; the mistakes he made along the way, and the magical hold he seemed to hold on his cadres.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:30 A post-mortem on Prabhakaran, and Tigers

5:40 ‘Political harakiri’ – the big lessons from the defeat

13:10 Tigers compared with Hamas

16:25 “Unforgivable Western complicity”

19:35 Tamil insurgency effectively ending

23:10 Can Sri Lanka now be another Singapore

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E34: How MP Tin Pei Ling continues to serve residents amid public scrutiny

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:30:00 +0000

She cherishes her MacPherson memories and reflects on her rough start to politics.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to the expected general election that must be held by November 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

MacPherson MP Tin Pei Ling was PAP’s youngest candidate at 27 years old during the 2011 General Election when she was put in the spotlight – remember the Kate Spade bag episode? – it’s never quite left her.

Since then, she has had, arguably, one of the most closely watched political journeys among MPs. From her pregnancies to career moves, she has drawn much public and media attention.

In this episode, Ms Tin, 41, tells Natasha about how she deals with hate comments, her perceived job-hopping in the past few years, and why she hopes to be the MP for her current ward for a long time to come.

And given the current geopolitical climate, she makes a case to young voters why her party would be the best choice now.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:09 Is Ms Tin sick of people talking about her Kate Spade bag?

9:41 Putting aside her feelings to deal with her residents’ issues

19:38 Ms Tin’s advice for new candidates

38:28 Does she think the spotlight on her career was unwarranted?

51:29 Her pitch to young voters to support PAP

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: ST Video

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Edited by ST Video: Azim Azman, Samuel Ruby Rianto

Executive producers: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E15: Is it time to focus more on climate adaptation?

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

With countries scaling back on climate action, should the world start preparing for harsher climate impact?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Given the geopolitical headwinds on climate action, should countries start focusing on climate adaptation? There are two key prongs of climate action – mitigation are efforts to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, while adaptation involves preparation for climate impacts.

Mitigation has long been a key focus of climate action globally. But with the United States, one of the world’s largest emitters, backing out of the Paris Agreement, and many other countries and companies scaling back on climate action, should the world start to prioritise climate adaptation?

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss this question in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:39 What is climate adaptation?

4:03 What climate impacts does Asia have to prepare for?

7:40 What are some examples of climate adaptation?

11:03 What is hindering progress on adaptation?

14:03 What are the challenges to scaling adaptation finance?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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S2E15: Should I do a master’s?

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A master's can help you get ahead in your career, but consider the expenses involved carefully too.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

It’s a question that comes up in our 20s and 30s - if we need additional educational qualifications to give us a leg up in our careers.

But how do you decide whether to pursue a master’s degree? How do you go about choosing courses, and most crucially, how do you finance such an endeavour?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at whether you should do a master’s and what to consider before plunging into it.

Her guests are Charmaine Yee who studied an MSc in wealth management and now works in private equity, and expert Kenneth Tan from OCBC who is Managing Director of consumer unsecured lending.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:46 How her master’s got her into private equity

5:06 Do you need an MBA to work in finance?

10:11 How much does a master’s cost?

13:54 How do I fund a master’s?

18:36 Planning now to do a master’s five years later

20:54 Transitioning from work to school again

25:22 How about working and studying part time?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E27: Xi'an: China's city known for its terracotta warriors and pollution

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:30:00 +0000

Xi’an is famous for its terracotta warriors but still faces significant challenges in air pollution.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

In six of the 10 years between 2014 and 2023, Xi’an had the poorest air quality among China’s new top-tier cities, which are the most commercially attractive cities after Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

In 2023, the city ranked fifth from the bottom out of 168 key cities in China, having recorded harmful PM2.5 levels of 48 ug/m3 on average that year, much higher than the healthy limit of 5 ug/m3 recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

While there are improvements in air quality over the years - thanks to measures taken by the government, there is still a long way to go. The local residents, while they do not disregard the pollution, are more concerned with their financial situation.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks with ST correspondent Ang Qing - who shares her experiences being in Xi'an for three months, a city known for its terracotta warriors and its air pollution challenges.

They also talk about the role of civic engagement and environmental activism in China, highlighting the efforts of young activists and their challenges advocating for change.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:03 Qing’s personal journey in Xi’an

5:54 The state of air quality in Xi’an

8:42 Government measures and community responses

11:34 Public perception and future challenges?

14:22 Qing's takeaways: Civic engagement and environmental activism in China

Read Ang Qing’s article here: https://str.sg/JUC7c

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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S1E33: Sembawang MP Mariam Jaafar on being a first-term MP

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

She was elected during the 2020 general election.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to the expected general election that must be held by November 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

In this episode, Ms Mariam Jaafar, who is a managing director and senior partner at Boston Consulting Group, shares about her time in politics and what success can look like for young women.

She tells Natasha about why she still recalls the nuggets of wisdom her late father shared with her, why she is a diehard Liverpool FC fan and her recommendations for the best chocolate croissant in Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:49 How young women can define success for themselves

13:35: Why she still hears her late dad’s voice through his "Jaafarisms"

19:43 Why “intent” should matter for those who go to her Meet-The-People sessions

29:22 Being caught in the spotlight, and why her husband made her read the comments

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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S1E135: HPV self-sampling to screen for cervical cancer

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A safe alternative to clinician-administered tests, the self-test for HPV can help prevent cervical cancer.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

HPV or the human papillomavirus is a common virus that is sexually transmitted, and while most HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infections with high-risk types can lead to cervical cancer.

In March 2025, the Society for Colposcopy & Cervical Pathology of Singapore (SCCPS) published an updated set of cervical cancer screening guidelines. The guidelines now recommend HPV self-sampling as an option to traditional cervical cancer screening methods.

In Singapore, cervical cancer is currently the 11th most common cancer in women, with 309 new cases and 172 deaths in 2023, according to data from the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Information Centre on HPV and Cancer.

However, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, as long as it is detected early and managed effectively, said the World Health Organisation (WHO).

It aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2030, with the following strategy:

Vaccinate 90 per cent of girls with preventive HPV vaccines by age 15;
Screen 70 per cent of women with a high-performance test like HPV DNA screening by age 35, and again by age 45;
Treat 90 per cent of women who have precancerous cells in the cervix or cervical cancer.

In this episode, senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Dr Felicia Chin, an obstetrician and gynaecological oncologist at Gynae Onco Partners about HPV DNA self-testing, what it entails, and who should screen for cervical cancer. Until late last year, Dr Chin was a senior consultant at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. She sits on the SCCPS committee.

Highlights (click/tap above)

1:54 Explaining the various tests for cervical cancers

3:14 Guidelines for cervical cancer screening in Singapore

4:32 How does HPV self-sampling work?

5:23 Difference between a self-test and a pap smear

13:42 Cervical cancer symptoms

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

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S1E32: Ong Ye Kung's health tips, his love for Sembawang GRC and being lit on social media

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to the expected general election that must be held by November 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung talks to Natasha about resetting the rules during the pandemic, his biggest challenge at the ministry now, and why he would love to be a Sembawang GRC MP till he retires.

Natasha also looks back at his political career - he got his feet wet in the 2011 general elections running in Aljunied GRC, though he lost there - and what convinced him to join politics. He also takes on questions about politicians campaigning on anti-vaccine sentiments and Singaporeans’ desire for more opposition representation in Parliament.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:29 Did he feel the pressure to “walk the talk” as Health Minister?

16:25 Mr Ong on anti-vaccine sentiments seeping into society

22:34 His view on the PAP’s outlook for Aljunied GRC

35:44 Learning from his parents’ involvement in politics

41:50 He talks about why he struggles with social media

50:28 “Just remember, whatever it is, we have to be in it together.” Mr Ong reflects on the changing times

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Co-edited by: ST Video (Aileen Teo and Jamie Koh)

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E31: Grace Fu on S’pore’s climate change fight, changes to Yuhua SMC

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Following Budget 2025 and the Committee of Supply Debate on government spending for different ministries, Natasha and her co-host Audrey Tan, ST assistant news editor for environment coverage, discuss how Singapore is pushing ahead with climate action. She’s also the host of Green Pulse on ST Podcasts.

Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu joins them in this episode.

They talk about mitigation efforts versus adapting to climate change, Ms Fu’s thoughts on her long-time SMC being absorbed into the new Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC, and being a woman in politics for almost two decades.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:46 Why is S’pore persevering on climate action

13:17 With the US scaling back on its climate efforts, what can S’pore do?

22:05 MSE’s plans for the longevity of S’pore’s hawker culture

30:57 Will climate change and environmental issues be one of the GE2025 issues?

36:17 Being a woman in politics for almost two decades

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Co-Host: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Read Audrey Tan's articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/MZne

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: ST Video (Azim Azman, Philip Cheong and Jacen Tan)

ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E25: Dr Anji Sinha: Trump's mystery pick for ambassador to Singapore

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:15:00 +0000

Who is Dr Anji Sinha? Our US bureau chief finds that the key to this story lies in relationships.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US Bureau Chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

As of the publication of this episode on March 21, nothing much is known about the person recently nominated by US President Donald Trump to become the top American diplomat in Singapore beyond his or her name.

The Straits Times’ senior columnist Lin Suling and US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar reveal the detective work involved in trying to uncover who US President Donald Trump’s nominee for US Ambassador to Singapore is - from following the breadcrumbs laid out by contacts to dealing with dead ends and working the phones to reveal the Florida connection.

Highlights (click/tap above):

03:00 The significance of the US Ambassador to Singapore

04:55 Uncovering who Dr Anji Sinha is

07:34 A tip-off and a subtle hint

09:53 Dealing with hesitant sources, sensitive diplomatic matters

14:17 Broadening contacts

17:28 The Trump administration’s cautious approach

19:46 The Florida Connection

25:02 Looking ahead: The confirmation process

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Read Lin Suling’s articles: https://str.sg/nnEQ

Follow Lin Suling on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/t2RX

Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62

Follow Clement Tan on X: https://str.sg/uErS

Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E26: Why are so many mainland Chinese making Malaysia their second home?

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Thousands of mainland Chinese are choosing Malaysia’s laid-back vibes over their stressful lives back home.

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For March, hosts Lim Ai Leen and Tan Tam Mei kick off with ST's Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh, and special guest Dr Ong Kian Ming, both based in Kuala Lumpur.

It’s easy to settle down in multicultural Malaysia, as thousands of mainland Chinese on the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa scheme have discovered. Affordable property, international schools, local food and a relaxed lifestyle are all draws, but are there drawbacks? As it is, signage in the Chinese language has already sparked off a war of words between politicians.

Speaking of politics, the recent Democratic Action Party (DAP) election saw the Lim family influence diminished. Former deputy minister and party insider Dr Ong gives us the lowdown on what happened on March 16, and his predictions for the DAP’s future.

Highlights (click/tap above):

01:21 MM2H: Why is it so popular with mainland Chinese?

06:43 Cultural shift, retail landscape change from influx of Chinese

11:19 How Chinese brands are adapting to local market

14:57 Furore over Chinese signage

19:43 DAP election: How the party’s evolved in Malaysian politics

26:56 Will DAP turn into MCA 2.0

30:49 Mood at party polls

38:02 Lim Guan Eng's future role and influence

42:38 News nugget: What’s your desert island Malaysian snack?

MM2H scheme - https://str.sg/bsDx

Malaysia’s DAP election - https://str.sg/Kiqx

Heated exchange Malaysia’s MCA and DAP - https://str.sg/FS6T

Dr Ong Kian Ming’s Are We OK? podcast - https://str.sg/63jG

Read Lim Ai Leen’s articles: https://str.sg/MKsE

Read Tan Tam Mei’s articles: https://str.sg/iJxJ

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Hosts: Lim Ai Leen (limal@sph.com.sg) & Tan Tam Mei (tammei@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E30: Desmond Lee on housing, GE2025 and lessons learnt as a politician

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Following Budget 2025 and the Committee of Supply Debate on government spending, Natasha invites as her co-host Isabelle Liew, a ST journalist who covers the housing beat.

They welcome Minister for National Development Desmond Lee on their living room couch as he says housing affordability will always be a “top-of-mind” issue for Singaporeans, as the nation gears up for the upcoming general election.

He explains how the Government’s measures, including the increase in supply of Build-To-Order (BTO) flats and the injection of executive condominium (EC) units, will start to address this issue.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:50 What are 'brownfield' sites? Minister explains; on seeming ground sentiment that homeownership is slipping out of reach for younger Singaporeans

5:29 Differences between "willing buyer, willing seller" resale open market and new BTO flats; on supply projection

9:25 On property sales flyers hyping up million-dollar HDB resale flats; the FOMO (fear of missing out) effect, information and prudence

11:42 On possible government levers and measures on demand, how market can find stable baseline over the long term; advice to younger home-buying couples

18:20 On how his own West Coast GRC team fared since the last general election, and following the departure of Mr S Iswaran after corruption charges

24:00 On voter sentiments and housing affordability as an issue for the GE

34:00 What Minister Desmond Lee has learnt about himself as a politician so far, juggling portfolios? On what happens at his Meet-the-People Sessions

39:28 The deeper nuances behind converting the brownfield site for the upcoming new Mount Pleasant BTO housing estate

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Isabelle Liew on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/Lu6q

Read Isabelle Liew's articles: https://str.sg/iqDq

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: ST Video (Jacen Tan)

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E5: Who needs a car when there is a driverless bus at 2am?

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Forget “car-lite”, go for “car-free”, an SUTD prof makes the case for drivers to hang up their keys.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

It turned out that capping fares for seniors can be a way to urge older Singaporeans to not only stay mobile, but also ditch their cars for public transport. Dr Samuel Chng, research assistant professor at the Singapore University of Technology and Design, believes that Singapore has the potential to be “car-free”.

Also head of SUTD's Urban Psychology Lab in the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, Dr Chng sees a future where autonomous vehicles can fill in the gaps left by existing public transport modes.

Highlights (click/tap above):

7:42 Journey from fewer cars towards car-free

12:50 The shock of not being on public transport in decades

20:33 The opportune time to intervene and form new transport habits

24:34 The role of walk, cycle and ride in the overall transport system

28:59 Driverless technology as a solution for late-night hunger pangs

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

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S2E14: Can Asean step up on climate action?

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Asean’s latest climate plans will face intense scrutiny as climate impacts worsen.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Fast-growing South-east Asia is highly vulnerable to climate change.

As the climate risks grow, the region needs to lift its game to ramp up green energy investment and adopt stronger climate targets.

This year is a key test of the region’s climate resolve. All 10 Asean members are obliged to submit updated and more ambitious 2035 climate plans to the UN this year. Only Singapore has done so to date.

The question is, though, with the United States and Europe rolling back on climate finance and targets, does South-East Asia have the will to boost green investment? And where will the money come from?

Green Pulse podcast hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss SE Asia’s climate plans with Ms Sharon Seah, Senior Fellow and Coordinator, Asean Studies Centre, at the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:20 With the US and EU backsliding on climate commitments, are you seeing this in Asean, too?

4:21 Importance of Asean on global climate and energy policies

10:53 Efforts in in funding Asean net zero targets

17:10 Asean ambitions in new climate plans this year

21:54 Could China step in as a major source of climate finance for South-East Asia?

30:09 Why Asean should start showcasing climate investment opportunities with a pavilion at the annual UN climate conference

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E14: To enter the workforce with a diploma or not?

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Major shifts in the job market and employer practices make for more options but tougher decisions too.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Singapore’s tertiary education system has been shaken up in recent years, with polytechnics and universities among those seeing major changes.

These include apprenticeships, structured talent programmes, industry attachments, longer-duration internships and even global exposure opportunities that raise the skills bar and prepare students for skilled roles from the outset.

On one hand, some employers, especially in technical fields, seek for diploma graduates who enter the workforce earlier than others in their cohort and gain skills on the job.

On the other, there is a push to grow the proportion of the cohort enrolled in university for further studies.

ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, a seasoned education expert on how to make sense of these different forces in charting out your own education and career path.

His guest is:

Associate Professor Jason Tan, who studies education policy, curriculum and leadership at the National Institute of Education

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:10 Where are these shifts in the tertiary education system stemming from?

5:49 Does this mean there are more pathways to meet industry needs from an earlier age?

10:35 What are the challenges that come with these changes?

16:34 Pay structures that look strictly at paper qualifications may not reflect differences in skills

18:08 Keeping an open mind on the best choice

Read about one such recent change: https://str.sg/ioJA

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S1E29: EBRC report: What the new electoral boundaries mean for GE2025

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

The Electoral Boundaries Review Committee (EBRC) dropped its report on March 11 and here’s the gist: Boundaries for GRCs have been rejigged, new SMCs have been carved out, and there are now more constituencies with double-barrelled names.

Now that we have a clear picture of how the electoral map has changed, what do these changes mean as we head into a general election?

To answer that question, Natasha speaks with former nominated Member of Parliament Eugene Tan, an associate professor of law at the Singapore Management University, and Straits Times senior political correspondent Tham Yuen-C.

The conversation also dives into the talk of gerrymandering, why the EBRC gave a more detailed explanation of the changes than in past reports, and what political parties have to do now.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:23 Dissecting the talk of gerrymandering

13:23 Voters are more concerned with everyday issues

17:43 What's with the double-barrelled GRC names?

23:42 The Jurong GRC split: what does it mean for parties with a presence there?

28:34 Will the electoral map changes affect "horse trading"?

32:19 Prof Tan and Yuen-C pick the 'hottest' GRCs or SMCs to watch

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E24: From pineapple farms to data centres: Johor’s changing landscape

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

But Malaysians’ love affair with the fruit persists.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

Talk about what’s new with Johor nowadays and one usually ends up with a five-letter acronym - JSSEZ, or the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.

But all the excitement about rising opportunities has also hastened the demise of what traditionally has juiced up Johor’s economy - pineapple farms. Land packed with the hardy, spiky fruits is making way for more profitable oil palm plantations, data centres as well as other commercial and industrial activities.

Malaysia is not giving up on pineapples though, as it's the No 2 export fruit after the mighty durian. Sarawak has earmarked 20,000 hectares just for growing the fruit.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks with Malaysia correspondent Lu Wei Hoong about his love affair with pineapples and why it means so much to Malaysians.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:56 A special fruit to Malaysians

5:00 The closure of Lee’s Pineapple Juice

7:03 The rise of data centres

12:42 From Johor to Singapore: The pineapple connection

Read Lu Wei Hoong’s article here: https://str.sg/zby2

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E52: Using music to better reach out to seniors

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

How younger social workers and social service entrepreneurs are exploring the use of music in the eldercare space.

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at social issues of the day with guests.

In this special edition of In Your Opinion - filmed in front of a live audience at The Foundry - a social service entrepreneur and social worker share how music can transform the eldercare space.

Be it for their loved ones or as part of their advocacy, youths can now find more avenues to reach out to seniors, using the powerful tool in music.

When it comes to engaging the elderly, music can reinvigorate and empower them - all while closing the gap between different generations.

Studies have shown that music can amplify connections between the brain’s auditory and emotional regions, encouraging memory encoding and recall.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and her co-host - STNow reporter Christie Chiu - speak with two guests who are harnessing the power of music to transform eldercare in Singapore.

The two guests are: SanCare Asia founder Johnson Soh, who uses music-based technologies and services to help dementia patients; and Fei Yue Community Services programme executive Amanda Soon, who taps on music to get seniors more involved in their communities.

Having studied in the UK and worked in the film industry there before returning to Singapore, Amanda now uses her creative skills to empower seniors and youths. At Fei Yue, she uses music to pilot various programmes and workshops with youth volunteers, youths and seniors.

After working in the music industry for almost 30 years, Johnson founded SanCare Asia in 2016. The first elder-care service in Asia to offer person-centered reminiscence music programmes came about when Johnson's father developed dementia.

"I actually used my dad as a guinea pig," he said, adding that he put together a playlist of songs which would resonate with him, songs which he grew up with during his formative years.

"And yeah, it worked wonders, you know, to see him light up, to see him in a different mood just gave me the impetus to start the company."

Over the years, Johnson has used reminiscence music to develop various programs as well. With his extensive research and deep music expertise, Johnson developed many programmes including Strike A Note©, a proprietary personalised music playlist programme for seniors. He also launched Return To The Tea Dance©, a silent disco-inspired music and movement programme, which became a finalist at the 2020 Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:41 How Fei Yue creates community for seniors by reviving lost dreams

7:20 How Fei Yue youth volunteers bring energy and ideas to do community work with seniors

9:03 Bridging inter-generational gaps through SanCare Asia’s person-centred care, creating a personalised music playlist for each senior

12:06 When music can also elicit adverse reactions; a delicate task for youth volunteers with seniors

15:50 Return to the Tea Dance, a silent disco programme for dementia seniors

22:41 Youth volunteers, social services and social enterprises empowering each other

25:20 How the Crdl can help the less-functioning dementia seniors

Find out more about:

SanCare Asia: https://str.sg/kEvE

Fei Yue Community Services: https://str.sg/sAxH

Listen to the other filmed live podcast at The Foundry:

Saving our old buildings from obscurity: What can young people do? - https://str.sg/FKRb

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Christie Chiu’s articles: https://str.sg/3ESxU

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Christie Chiu (christiec@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team & ST Outreach & Engagement Team

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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S2E23: Trump is ‘doing a Mao Zedong’ on the US

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Why our expert guest speaker draws parallels with the chaotic Cultural Revolution in China in 1966.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode - recorded on March 4 - Ravi speaks with Wang Xiangwei, the eminent Hongkong-based China scholar and former editor-in-chief of South China Morning Post. Mr Wang, who currently teaches at Hongkong Baptist University, offers a Chinese perspective on the vast changes being brought to the United States by President Donald Trump.

He draws parallels with the chaotic Cultural Revolution ordered by foundational Chinese leader Mao Zedong in 1966, and discusses what strategic openings this could present China.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 Comparisons with Mao’s chaotic Cultural Revolution

5:30 ‘The enemies are within’

9:00 Trump popular despite chaos unleashed

14:40 China too needs to drain the bureaucratic swamp

17:50 China gains as Trump undoes Biden policies

20:30 Putin won’t burn China bridges to please Trump

22:40 US-China confrontation will continue until there’s a winner

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S1E28: Fighting cancer in their 30s: These are Hannah's and Samuel's stories

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Are we talking enough about health checks and the possibility of cancer for young adults?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

When she was about 35 years old, stay-at-home mother Hannah Seow discovered she had breast cancer after a self-examination. Her diagnosis came about two years after her youngest child, Caleb, died.

For Samuel Ng, a month-long on-and-off fever was a sign that there was a deeper issue. In January 2024, after a blood test, he got the dreaded call. His report was “unfavourable”.

Soon after, he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. While dealing with cancer, he was laid off from his job.

In this episode, Natasha chats with Hannah, now 37, and Samuel, 35, about how it feels to get cancer as young adults, their mindsets through their journeys, and if they want to be known as cancer survivors.

According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2022, while cancer remains largely a disease of older age, more young people are being diagnosed with cancer.

Between 2008 and 2012, the age groups with the most rapid increases in the age-specific incidence of cancer were all under 50 years old - with those aged between 30 and 39 registering the largest differences.

This trend is also reflected globally, with Global Burden of Diseases data showing an increasing trend of cancer among younger age groups, with a 79 per cent increase in “early onset” – under 50 years old – cancer globally between 1990 and 2019.

To celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer and those still fighting against the disease, the Singapore Cancer Society has organised Relay For Life (RFL) once again. The annual overnight event from March 8-9 comprises a 100km physical relay event at the National Stadium, as well as a virtual challenge component.

While registration for the physical relay has closed, donations to RFL remain open until March 23, 2025. Donate at www.scsrelayforlife.sg.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:32 How did Hannah and Samuel find out they had cancer?

10:39 What was it like telling people about their diagnoses?

15:35 How both of them stayed positive throughout

27:46 Should Samuel disclose his cancer diagnosis to a potential employer?

33:57 Do Hannah and Samuel want to leave their cancer story out of their identities?

Follow Singapore Cancer Society: https://www.instagram.com/sgcancersociety/?hl=en

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E134: How loneliness affects mental health

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Combating loneliness with a mindfulness trainer.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Loneliness – that social pain of not feeling connected, is widespread. Inadequate social connections or social isolation is also a growing problem today.

Social isolation and loneliness have significant, yet often overlooked, consequences for our health and longevity. The health risks are comparable to smoking daily, excessive drinking and obesity, said the World Health Organisation.

Social isolation and loneliness are also associated with anxiety, depression, suicide, dementia, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, said WHO.

Why do we feel lonely? Can we stop feeling lonely? What can we do about it? In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo finds out why we feel lonely and gets tips on how the young and old can combat loneliness from a mindfulness trainer.

She is Adjunct Associate Professor Angie Chew, the founder and chief executive of the Brahm Centre, a mental health charity dedicated to promoting happier and healthier living.

Highlights (click/tap above)

1:18 Why do we feel lonely?

3:45 Letting go of judgement to free our minds

5:55 Feeling lonely in the corporate world?

7:10 Combating loneliness in old age

8:39 What can parents do to help their children cope with loneliness?

12:00 Loneliness in young adults

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S2E13: Can international agreements still help environmental goals?

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

In a divided world, environmental treaties are still worth fighting for.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

President Donald Trump has pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement for the second time, prompting other countries to ponder about their involvement in the multilateral climate treaty. At the same time, other environmental agreements are running into speed bumps. Talks at the UN plastics treaty in December 2024 fell through; while the COP16 biodiversity conference, postponed in November 2024, reached a deal when talks resumed in February 2025.

In such an increasingly polarised world, are global environment treaties under threat? Do they still matter and how can they be strengthened as the impacts of climate change, nature loss and pollution worsen?

Green Pulse podcast hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss why treaties still matter, some of the key problems they face and offer some solutions.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:54 Significance of environmental treaties in effecting change

5:52 Using climate data to measure success of international meets

9:23 The need for consensus to strengthen international environment treaties

18:06 Multilateral treaties can't be abandoned, but forming small groups with like-minded nations could alleviate climate problem

22:46 Bright spots amid the gloom - regulations for business driving positive change.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E13: What’s in the budget for me?

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

CDC vouchers are welcome, but young people also want more housing, jobs and childcare help.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Budget 2025 has come and gone - the time we Singaporeans look for some free money and vouchers.

This year, a big theme was around helping to alleviate the cost of living especially with inflation in the last few years.

But exactly how much did the Budget have for us young people in our 20s and 30s, and what are the remaining problems that are untackled?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what the Budget gave and what young people might want from it in the future.

Her guests are young financial literacy expert from DBS Shawn Lee, and investment strategy managing director Vasu Menon from OCBC.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:39 What were the top three Budget goodies for us?

6:15 Help for young parents and families

8:58 Feeling the cost of living pinch

12:21 No housing measures this Budget?

18:31 Help for young people looking for jobs?

25:10 What would you tell PM Wong given the chance?

27:44 Giving your Budget 2026 wishlist

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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S2E22: Why Shenzhen still needs 'big brother' Hong Kong in its quest for growth

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The relationship may not necessarily be purely competitive only.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For February, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai and assistant foreign editor Chang May Choon connect with colleagues - Magdalene Fung based in Hong Kong, and Joyce Lim in Shenzhen.

They wonder if Shenzhen has indeed eclipsed Hong Kong today, and look at how the two cities’ roles have evolved in recent years.

Once a rural backwater that looked up to its richer, savvier neighbour across the border, Shenzhen underwent rapid development in the past four decades and flipped the power dynamics.

But within the Greater Bay Area (GBA), the reality is that both cities will need each other in order to have sustainable growth going forward.

The GBA refers to the region comprising the semi-autonomous cities of Hong Kong and Macau, and nine cities in Guangdong, including Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:50 Past history: When Hong Kong was less developed and Shenzhen was just a village

3:40 Light show comparisons: The Shenzhen light show, launched in 2018, and Hong Kong’s Symphony of Lights - a tourist staple since 2004

5:35 Does Shenzhen represent the future, in terms of the tech edge?

8:35 Hong Kong is still the big brother that is the largest source of investment for Shenzhen

11:35 Why would one cross the border, to visit either city?

13:42 Understanding the Greater Bay Area concept

S1E27: Workers' Party's Gerald Giam on how he sees politics

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:15:00 +0000

The Aljunied GRC MP chats about his first term as an elected MP and being from an opposition party.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Also, in the lead-up to the expected general election that must be held by November 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

In this episode, Mr Giam, who is an Aljunied GRC MP looking after the Bedok Reservoir-Punggol division, chats with Natasha about his journey to becoming a WP member, the challenges of being in an opposition party, and how his first term as an elected MP has been.

The episode was filmed on Feb 14.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:10 “Sports is very much like politics in many ways.”

7:50 The most difficult speech Mr Giam made in Parliament

14:57 Is there a myth of opposition parties that he would like to debunk?

22:00 Will screening candidates deter people from stepping forward

29:43 What Mr Giam thinks will be different in the upcoming GE

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S1E26: How did Budget 2025 stack up? The Usual Place Podcast breaks it down

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

On Feb 18, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong delivered the Budget 2025 that has been called a “Budget for all Singaporeans”.

Among the goodies were SG60 vouchers, CDC vouchers, and grants for parents who choose to grow their family beyond two children. Businesses and workers also received support in the form of credits, allowances and tax rebates, among other things.

In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha sits down with three guests to dissect Budget 2025 - what it delivered on, what it means for Singaporeans, and what comes next.

Her guests are:

1. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, and Second Minister for Finance and National Development Indranee Rajah

2. Singapore University of Social Science Associate Professor and labour economist Walter Theseira

3. Singapore Business Federation (SBF) chief policy officer Musa Fazal

Joining Natasha as a co-host is Claire Huang, senior business correspondent at The Straits Times.

Were you expecting something for everyone, or did you feel more could be done? Listen to this episode and connect with Natasha after.

Highlights (click/tap above):

9:20 We should see the Budget in a larger context, says Ms Indranee

18:34 Why give out CDC vouchers instead of tackling food prices?

43:30 “This Budget has something for everyone. You just need to know where to find it.”: Ms Indranee

50:41 The matter of becoming parents - or not - is a complex one, says Ms Indranee

56:31 With spending expected to rise, what’s the plan for Singapore going forward?

1:05:46 Is this an Election Budget?

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Filmed by: Studio+65

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S2E21: America’s new enemies under Donald Trump: Allies, the deep state and the media

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Making sense of the domestic and foreign policy agenda of Trump 2.0 – and the implications of a new world order for Asia.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

In this episode, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Lin Suling, US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar and assistant foreign editor Clement Tan discuss the first month of Donald Trump's second term, focusing on his foreign policy in Europe, in the aftermath of the Munich Security Conference and the implications of the muscular reshaping of the US federal government, led by Elon Musk.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:36 Trump's foreign policy and European relations

6:37 Domestic policy and government efficiency

16:23 Media relations and the Trump administration

28:50 Looking ahead: coverage and insights from Texas

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Read Lin Suling’s articles: https://str.sg/nnEQ

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Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62

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Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S1E25: Saving our old buildings from obscurity: What can young people do?

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Can young people revive Singapore’s old buildings?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

That was the question Natasha teased the audience with during the video podcast’s first live event. Held on Feb 12, the show was a part of ST Podcasts’ Live!, a series of six events this year to celebrate ST’s 180th-year anniversary.

Organised by The Straits Times in partnership with the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), the event drew more than 80 people in an intimate setting at The Foundry in Prinsep Link, which was the former Elections Department building.

The two guests on the show were SLA’s chief executive Colin Low and Mr Ng Wee Liang, a real estate university student, who creates social media content on Singapore heritage, arts and culture.

As Mr Low sees it, buildings are not just physical structures. Instead, they are opportunities waiting to be unlocked, reflecting our past, present, and future, he says.

But how do we get young people to care about old buildings they may not even know?

Mr Ng, 25, says that unfamiliar buildings can become meaningful once young people form new memories in them.

But he argued they should have accessible programming and business rather than catering only to a more affluent crowd, which might limit their appeal to younger Singaporeans.

For SLA, the challenge is to find the “right formula” for each space, rather than going with the bidder offering the highest rent.

Citing spots like The Foundry, Kada in Kadayanallur Street and Dempsey Hill, Mr Low says: “There's no one cookie-cutter (spot). The way we look at things…it's about multiple offerings, different locations (and) different experiences.”

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:27 How do we get younger people to care about heritage spaces?

8:38 How would Wee Liang encourage his peers to look beyond the facade

14:38 Remembering the history of these old spaces

18:57 How does SLA find the “right formula” for the spaces it manages?

25:09 No cookie cutter experiences

S2E4: BYD eyes a quarter of SG car market in 2025

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

From keen pricing to guaranteeing the resale value of its electric vehicle, BYD is bent on staying on top.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

BYD has been in Singapore for more than a decade before it became the country’s biggest selling car brand among authorised distributors. Mr James Ng, the managing director for Singapore and the Philippines, is doubling down on efforts to ensure that BYD extends its lead, not just for passenger cars, but also for public buses and commercial vehicles.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:44 BYD, the same company that made surgical masks during the Covid-19 pandemic

8:44 Eyes a fourth dealer to grow its retail network

14:00 Dealers are free to be creative with their services, but BYD prices are fixed

32:44 We will definitely not be starting a taxi company

34:41 Unsurprising if EV adoption comes up to 50 per cent in 2025

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

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Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

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S2E12: UN fund hopes to cash in on nature's bounty. Is it a game-changer?

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

UN Cali Fund aims to collect millions, and possibly billions, of dollars for the conservation of nature and to benefit indigenous people.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Nature’s bounty is vast and we all benefit from it. Think of the huge variety of plants and their timber, seeds and fruits – even the materials from them to make cosmetics.

The immense variety, the huge number of different species and traits in nature, comes from genetics. And this has long been an intangible part of biodiversity, one that is hard to put a price on.

But a new fund agreed at UN biodiversity talks at the end of 2024 is set to change this. Called the Cali Fund, the industry is expected to contribute money for making use of nature.

Companies, such as pharmaceutical and cosmetics firms, will pay for their use of the genetic resources from nature. Money will flow based on either a share of profits or turnover.

But how exactly will this voluntary fund work? And how are these genetic resources defined and tracked?

Green Pulse speaks with Dr Siva Thambisetty, an expert in Intellectual Property Law at the London School of Economics and Political Science. She was closely involved in the negotiations for the fund.

A special thanks to Aruna Chandrasekhar, who helped with research for this episode. She covers land, food and nature for the Carbon Brief news site.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:53 What is the Cali Fund?

4:16 What is genetic material and digital sequence information (DSI)?

8:15 “DSI can also accelerate our research for new drugs.”

19:52 What about the risks of rising inequality? For example, rich companies using free genetic data to create profitable products?

23:32 How will the fund flow into conservation and to indigenous groups?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

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Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S2E12: Hitting the ground running for the first job

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

An expert shows how fresh entrants to the workforce can gain the prior experience employers increasingly seek.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

It seems paradoxical for prospective employers to seek prior experience even for entry-level roles.

This reflects the rising bar expected of fresh entrants to the job market.

However, employers are becoming more open-minded towards what constitutes relevant prior experience.

ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, a seasoned career expert who has worked with tertiary students from different backgrounds, on the help at hand.

His guest is:

Ms Sarah Neo, head of the career development office at the Singapore University of Social Sciences.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:55 Why are employers increasingly seeking prior experience even for entry-level roles?

4:13 The forms such experience can take, from internships to hackathons

9:05 Is it realistic to expect ever more prior experience from students before graduation?

11:58 How can students who lack experience still land that first job?

14:15 What does Sarah recommend those who remain undecided about their future careers do?

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

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S2E20: Does Philippines need a China rethink in Trump era?

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Find out too, why the Rodrigo Duterte outreach to China failed.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Don McLain Gill, a Manila-based geopolitical analyst, and lecturer at the international studies department at De LaSalle University. Dr McGill presents a primer on Filipino-China ties, the implacable nature of China’s approach to the South China Sea, why the Rodrigo Duterte outreach to China failed, and also responds to the question: Did Manila overplay its hand?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:40 State of play in Filipino-China ties

5:30 Marcos started out wanting to improve relations

11:20 ‘Appeasement emboldened China’

16:00 Did America prod Manila to be tough?

22:00 Trump will not undermine Philippine interests

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S1E51: Pet-care leave - do costs outweigh benefits?

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Why are some Singapore companies willing to bear the expense to implement pet-care leave as a form of benefit?

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

While fewer people are keen on having children, more are becoming pet owners, based on statistics from the Animal and Veterinary Service and an Euromonitor International report.

But what happens if you have a full-time job and your pet is sick?

Instead of requiring their employees to take urgent leave, some firms in Singapore have begun rolling out pet care leave, for "pawrents" who need to take their furkids to the vet.

Only a small number of firms have started implementing it, but the response from employees has so far been overwhelmingly positive.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and her co-host - journalist Aqil Hamzah - ask their two guests whether having a separate leave category the caring of pets is ultimately a good thing, and whether it’d affect the morale of those without pets.

The two guests are: Emilyn Ang, founder of public relations and marketing agency Brave Communications, which provides three days of “pawrental” leave a year; and Diane Lee, a senior HR business partner for South-east Asia at recruitment firm Robert Walters.

Highlights (click/tap above):

01:34 Considerations behind implementing pet care leave

06:45 Advantages of having pet care leave

09:12 Why employees with no pets shouldn’t feel resentment

14:30 Leave days as an expense, and how firms can balance out the cost

17:30 Are more Singapore firms ready to roll out pet care leave

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Aqil Hamzah’s articles: https://str.sg/Cc85

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Aqil Hamzah

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S2E19: In a home in India’s Trichy, a laminated photo of Lee Kuan Yew hangs

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The choice of decor by a Tamil Nadu resident whose father was a bus conductor in Singapore speaks of the ties between both cities.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

Trichy in southern India has no direct flights to the capital city New Delhi, but it has five daily flights to Singapore. The planes are packed, underscoring the rich flows of people both ways.

It is a relationship that stretched back to the early 19th century, when migrants from Tamil Nadu settled down in Singapore. Today, there are some 200,000 Singaporeans of Tamil origins.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks to India Correspondent Debarshi Dasgupta about those from Trichy who continue to make their way to Singapore - and other destinations - in search of opportunities.

Highlights (click/tap above):

00:55 Looking out from India

03:48 Bungalows, cars and lavish weddings

08:56 Reverse migration

13:50 The Singapore Dream

15:25 The global competition for Indian talent

17:00 New frontiers

Read Debarshi’s article here: https://str.sg/eoRm

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

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S1E133: Can a child become constantly distracted after too much screen use?

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Can excessive screen use cause your child to be easily distracted?

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Too much screen use can lead to a child having issues with sustained attention. Tasks like homework may become a challenge to complete.

Indeed, as more evidence emerges on the impact of excessive screen time on a child’s cognitive development and executive functioning, the authorities have updated its screen use guidance. It comes under a new health promotion strategy called Grow Well SG, which is currently aimed at supporting families of children up to the age of 12.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo invites a clinician scientist specialising in developmental and behavioural paediatrics to discuss the impact and the rationale behind the changes.

She is Dr Evelyn Law, an Assistant Professor at the National University of Singapore, who is part of the research team for the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes birth cohort study (Gusto). This Gusto study has been going on for 14 years and had contributed to the evidence behind the various guidance in Grow Well SG.

Dr Law, a senior consultant at the Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Hospital, is also a member of the expert group that led the development of the screen use guidance in children.

Highlights (click/tap above)

2:35 What is executive function, and can frequent use of digital devices cause a child to be easily distracted?

7:46 What’s the difference between having executive function deficits and a condition like ADHD?

11:46 What’s the difference between recreational and educational screen use?

16:01 Is there a gaming addiction problem in Singapore?

21:41 What’s the rationale behind restricting access to social media services for children below 13?

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E11: Taking charge: Can China step up to become a climate leader?

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

From coal power to green power, China’s clean energy vision could put the world on the right climate path

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

As climate change impacts worsen, the world seems more divided than ever in tackling the climate crisis.

US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw, for a second time, from the United Nations’ Paris climate agreement is just the latest setback for global climate diplomacy. Trade disputes and tariffs on China’s green tech goods have also damaged global cooperation and so have bitter arguments over climate finance.

Is there a nation that can fill the climate leadership gap? Can China step up?

It has already been steadily increasing its leadership, says Mr Li Shuo, director of China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute in Washington.

He tells Green Pulse that China’s dominance of the green energy sector, in the manufacture of solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles and battery storage, has made these goods cheaper and helped the adoption of emissions-cutting technologies, including in South-east Asia.

And China has become a leading provider of climate finance and top investor in renewable energy at home and globally. But big questions remain for China, the world’s top CO2 emitter and coal consumer. To be a leader, big political decisions lie ahead of China on how fast it can reduce its dependence on polluting coal, Mr Li Shuo says.

Listen in to our conversation with Mr Li Shuo to learn more about China’s potential as a global climate leader.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:10 With climate change impacts worsening, the world needs stronger leadership. Is China that leader?

5:15 China is a green energy superpower. But it is also the top CO2 emitter and coal consumer. Isn’t that a contradiction?

8:26 We’ve seen bitter trade disputes over China’s green tech goods. But isn’t access to more affordable green energy good for global climate action?

11:50 What about China’s climate investments in SE Asia? What are your views?

14:00 Are we seeing the decline in Western powers in the climate space and the rise of alternative voices?

19:07 Is there a risk of a climate backlash in China as we’ve seen in other countries?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E11: How to pick good stocks in 2025

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Do your homework and hold for the long term - these are among expert tips for stock picking.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

There are so many different methods to invest these days - from buying roboportfolios, to exchange traded funds or index funds benchmarked to certain indices.

But there are also investors who wish to pick their own stocks because they are convinced of their increasing value.

This particularly occurs when it comes to tech stocks that might be rapidly rising, or when certain industries show strong potential for growth.

But how does someone go about stock picking and what are the risks involved?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how people can choose solid stocks in the volatile environment of 2025.

Her guests are young investor Troy Cheng and ex-ST journalist and veteran market watcher Ven Sreenivasan.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:42 What is stock picking and how to go about it?

6:00 How to decide if stocks are overvalued or undervalued?

8:10 Where do you get your stock picking recommendations from?

11:41 Which industries are promising in 2025?

15:47 What to know before jumping into overseas stock markets?

20:14 Looking at the Chinese stock market

25:09 Opportunities in the Singapore market

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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S1E24: At The Usual Place with Sun Xueling

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

The MP for Punggol West SMC first joined the People's Action Party as a member 25 years ago after becoming a volunteer to help with Meet-The-People sessions.

Synopsis: On Thursdays, The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Also, in the lead-up to the expected general election that must be held by November 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

In this episode, Ms Sun Xueling, Minister of State for Home Affairs, and Social and Family Development, chats with Natasha about her experiences from 25 years of Meet-The-People sessions since she first got involved on the ground at the age of 20.

They talk about Ms Sun’s latest efforts to combat family violence and scams and why we should work together as a community to halt any family violence and child abuse in Singapore. She also highlights the challenges of tackling scams, which exploit human emotions like trust and greed, making it harder for authorities to do their jobs.

Besides juggling her roles in two ministries and as the MP for Punggol West SMC, Ms Sun is also an author who has written books for children. The mother of two girls shares her thoughts on balancing work and passion, along with advice for anyone looking to pursue a side hustle.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:41 The need to raise the alarm with the authorities

12:06 Why do Singaporeans keep getting scammed?

22:08 Why Ms Sun started volunteering at Meet-The-People sessions 25 years ago

27:49 “I just feel like I'm just an ordinary person...”

34:15 Her advice for those who want to pursue a passion on the side

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast on Thursdays and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E18: Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone: What will make it a success?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Insights on Asean's beachside pow wow, the Johor-Spore economic zone and ex-PM Najib's house arrest bid.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For January, hosts Lim Ai Leen and Tan Tam Mei kick off with ST's Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh, based in Kuala Lumpur.

There are high expectations for Malaysia as it assumes the Asean chairmanship in 2025. But there are hard questions too. How will it navigate economic turbulence? And tackle Asean’s tricky issues from disputes in the South China Sea to unrest in Myanmar?

Meanwhile, excitement over the freshly-signed agreement on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone continues to buzz among business folk on both sides of the Causeway. But what will make it work?

Teoh also lists the JSSEZ’s ingredients for success, and suggests a snappier acronym for it. He also tells us what’s in store if ex-PM Najib Razak wins his fight to serve the rest of his jail sentence under house arrest.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:21 Takeaways from the Asean foreign minister’s meeting, the first major gathering of 2025

7:00 A possible appearance by China’s Xi Jinping at this year’s Asean summit?

8:42 A catchier name for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone

11:52 Solving the pain points of doing business between Johor and Singapore

22:00 Made in Singapore or made in Johor?

25:08 What happens if former PM Najib gets his request for house arrest?

30:38 Why Najib continues to fight for house arrest

32:45 Fit for duty: Malaysia’s policemen must get in shape to get promoted

https://str.sg/EQBu

https://str.sg/nkbG

https://str.sg/i7Se

Read Lim Ai Leen’s articles: https://str.sg/MKsE

Read Tan Tam Mei’s articles: https://str.sg/iJxJ

Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK

Hosts: Lim Ai Leen (limal@sph.com.sg) & Tan Tam Mei (tammei@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E17: Trump's blistering start - why the rush and its impact on Asia

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Making sense of the blitz of executive orders, announcements and rhetoric from the new US President - and what Asia should take away.

Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief based in the United States to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points.

In this episode, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Lin Suling and US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar discuss the big announcements, power moves and ambiguous comments from the 47th US President - pulling the brake on the TikTok ban, the threat of tariffs and the outlook for trading partners among other pressing issues.

Which will be policy and which are simply rhetorical opening positions? How soon could Asian countries be caught in the cross-hairs?

And what’s behind Donald Trump's pronouncement of wanting to visit China in his first 100 days?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:50 What the moves say about Mr Trump’s communication style and policymaking preferences

5:00 Is there disagreement within the Trump administration?

8:30 What does Trump want from Asia?

11:23 The Marco Rubio factor in US foreign policy

15:20 What’s behind Trump’s desire to visit China in the first 100 days?

16:30 On TikTok: Will Trump make a deal with China?

18:30 What the change in US policy on TikTok says about its view of China

23:28 What’s behind Trump’s blistering start - why the hurry?

Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Read Lin Suling’s articles: https://str.sg/nnEQ

Follow Lin Suling on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/t2RX

Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E23: Bringing home your (fur)baby: Ready to be a first-time pet owner?

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

If you’re toying with the idea of getting a pet, the first question to ask yourself is: Are you ready for the time, financial, and emotional commitment?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

On this episode of The Usual Place, host Natasha Ann Zachariah found out what blindspots first-time pet owners may have and what they should anticipate when getting a pet.

Dibashini and TheAsianPawrent manager Jamie Wong dropped by to share their views about how to assess if you’re ready for a furry companion, the differences between adopting and buying pets, and the financial and emotional commitments of a pet owner.

They also brought their furkids with them – Dibashini with her shiba inu, six-year-old Zuko, and Jamie with Yoko, a Bernedoodle (a mix of Bernese mountain dog and poodle), and Bowie, a kerry blue terrier pomsky.

The starting point of a pawrent’s journey should start with deciding whether an animal’s personality, type and its age, among other factors, would be a good fit for the family, said Dibashini.

Before anyone becomes a pet owner, they should do a lot of research about the breed or type of animal they want to adopt, and what their specific needs are, said Jamie.

His advice: Ask yourself honestly if you’re ready for a long-term commitment with a pet.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:40 How will I know if I’m ready for a pet

14:03 Could you be neglecting your pet unknowingly?

22:22 The protocol for petting other people’s pets

26:20 Would you pay US$45,000 for a flight ticket for your pet?

37:42 What is the first step in your pawrent journey?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: ST Video, Marc de Souza & Joel Chng

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E50: Is Singapore ready for more male pre-school teachers?

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Can stereotypes of male pre-school teachers be reduced to ease more men into the profession that is seeing shortage in Singapore?

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

There is less than one man for every 10 early childhood educators in Singapore - surprising given that the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) estimates the need for another 1,500 more educators to support the sector’s expansion in the coming years.

As male pre-school teachers conventionally face more scrutiny, could MSF’s new set of guidelines spelling out appropriate boundaries help ease tensions?

The new set of guidelines for primary caregivers include expression affection, bathing practices and exposure to nudity.

Amid a spate of abuse cases at various pre-schools in Singapore being reported in 2024, these guidelines could help pre-school teachers and parents set their mind at ease, especially when it comes to male pre-school teachers, said guests in this episode.

The two guests are: Sajit Sesikumar, 30, a senior English pre-school teacher, who shares his six-year experience at MindChamps Preschool; and Yeo Shufang, 42, a mother of four kids, with her youngest attending preschool at age 4.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and her co-host - STNow reporter Christie Chiu - ask their two guests whether setting guidelines can ease the tensions male pre-school teachers have to navigate at work, and encourage more to the early childhood education profession.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:50 How pre-schoolers can learn better from a diversity of teachers

11:24 How MSF’s healthy family guidelines can ease the work of pre-school teachers

13:25 How Sajid deals with physical affection from students

16:37 How Shufang teaches her children about personal boundaries

21:28 Is Singapore ready to normalise male preschool teachers and how can stereotypes be reduced?

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Christie Chiu’s articles: https://str.sg/LfQG

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Christie Chiu

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E10: Red alert! Majority in Asia-Pacific at increasing risk from heatwaves, says Red Cross

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

With global warming increasing heat risks across the world, early warning systems and early action can be a lifesaver, especially in densely populated Asia-Pacific.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

More than six billion people are now exposed to heat waves and this will increase in coming years because of climate change.

And the Asia-Pacific region is at great risk because of its high population densities and exposure to heat, says Dr Luis Rodriguez, lead for climate and environmental crises for the Asia-Pacific at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

He tells The Straits Times’ Green Pulse podcast the Asia-Pacific region has 66 per cent of the global population at risk of the impacts of heat waves. He explains why it is so important to have early warning systems and early action. Doing so can save many lives.

Take a listen to the latest Green Pulse episode to learn more about the risks from extreme heat and efforts to reduce the danger.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:31 Why is the Red Cross sounding the alert on heat in the Asia-Pacific?

6:22 How are the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies raising the alarm?

9:20 What are some of the best solutions for dealing with the growing risks from heat?

15:18 Just like other hazards, reaching everyone at risk is a “monumental challenge”.

24:47 What are the key takeaways? What can individuals do to prepare for extreme heat?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E132: Schizophrenia, the misunderstood condition

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Research on the serious brain disorder paves the way to new treatments.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Schizophrenia is a serious and chronic brain disorder that affects a person’s ability to think clearly, manage emotions, make decisions and relate to others.

Some people may associate the disorder with just hallucinations or delusions, but it is more than that. Those with the illness can experience cognitive and motivational problems that have no pharmaceutical solution, though other strategies, like therapy, may help.

Schizophrenia affects one in 116 people in Singapore, and is the most common disorder seen at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH). With treatment, many people with schizophrenia can go on to lead fulfilling lives.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to psychiatrist Jimmy Lee about the complexity of schizophrenia and the research that is being done to help individuals who have this illness.

Associate Professor Jimmy Lee is a senior consultant at IMH’s Department of Psychosis. He has been conducting research to help advance the understanding of schizophrenia for more than 15 years.

This podcast is part of the No Health Without Mental Health series. It is a special year-long series that The Straits Times started in October 2024 to normalise conversations about mental health so that people can get timely support.

Highlights (click/tap above)

3:18 It’s not a disease of multiple personalities

5:45 So how do people know that they have schizophrenia?

12:56 What’s happening on the research front?

14:43 What are the possible causes of schizophrenia?

19:28 IMH brain stimulation trial aims to improve schizophrenia symptoms

22:53 Will newer drugs for schizophrenia emerge soon?

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E10: Neurodivergence: Not merely a “superpower”

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Conditions such as ADHD, autism and dyslexia, as well as the ways one lives with these conditions, can provide fresh ways of thinking.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Neurodivergence: A big word, but one imbued with the simple promise of progress.

It means to recognise that brains may be wired differently between different people, causing perceptible differences in information processing and social relations, impacting both work and personal life.

ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi, who was himself diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) aged 27, talks about the emerging consciousness of neurodivergence and the importance of supporting the neurodivergent to fulfil their potential with his guests.

His guests are:

Mr Rumi Mohd, associate director for sales and marketing hiring at Randstad Singapore, who was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child

Mr Himanshu Chaudhari, a finance professional diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood and board member of awareness group Unlocking ADHD

Highlights (click/tap above):

02:30 How did the guests find out about their condition?

05:31 How did their conditions affect them at work?

10:34 What can employers do to meaningfully support neurodivergent team members?

14:33 Is it a good idea to disclose one’s neurodivergence to employers?

20:33 Has anyone ever dismissed the guests’ neurodivergence?

25:17 Is neurodivergence a “superpower”?

Read more about neurodivergence in the workplace: https://str.sg/CZz6

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E16: Restoring the Great Wall of China - and keeping it authentic

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The Great Wall of China was built for protection, but now it's in need of guardians to preserve the 2,000-year-old structure.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in.

When a part of the Great Wall section in Liaoning started to crumble in 2016, authorities paved it over with cement to keep it safe, sparking outrage. Other sections had been transformed into tourist attractions complete with cable cars.

But China’s approach towards restoration has since been marked by a saying - “to go along with the layers, the slopes, the curves, the old and the dilapidated” - one tended to carefully by local villagers-turned-craftsmen.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks with China bureau chief Tan Dawn Wei about how China’s attitudes towards historical heritage restoration have shifted, and why.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:45 Three men, one mission

2:58 Thinking about heritage preservation

8:08 What the Great Wall means to younger Chinese

10:16 A China correspondent’s Great Wall climbs

Read Dawn’s article here: https://str.sg/FofV

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E22: Desmond Tan on life - and lessons - as a first-term MP

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Now that we’re in 2025, one thing’s for sure – a General Election is on the horizon.

Synopsis: Out on Thursdays, The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

When exactly? That’s anyone’s guess. But political parties are already up and about, ramping up efforts to touch base with voters.

And, judging by the recent episode between some volunteers of Progress Singapore Party and People’s Action Party in Bukit Gombak in Chua Chu Kang GRC, the political temperature is rising.

In the lead-up to the polls, The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah looks at how MPs, and others involved in the GE, are preparing themselves.

In this week’s episode, Senior Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Desmond Tan stops by to talk about his experience so far as a first-term MP.

Mr Tan, who has been an MP for Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC since 2020, said he “won’t call it a job because... it’s an elected role that has no fixed job description and no fixed terms of reference”.

The 54-year-old, who spent almost three decades in the Singapore Armed Forces before joining the People’s Association, said that he had to “level up very quickly” when he joined politics and took on positions in the government.

When he ran for office in the last GE as a rookie, he lost 3.5kg during the hustings. In anticipation of this year’s campaign, he’s gaining some weight, and is also more emotionally ready for the work.

For one thing, he has built relationships with the residents in his ward, and has put in the work since the last election to serve them.

And how does Mr Tan, NTUC’s deputy secretary-general, deal with criticism over a hot potato issue like, say, the failed Allianz-Income Insurance deal?

“Sometimes there may be disagreement (in) opinions, but we have to continue our path,” he said. “As long as I speak the truth and I’m clear about my conscience, I have nothing to worry about.”

On a lighter note, Natasha asked him what he thinks of the nickname some voters bestowed on him in 2020 – “Down-To-Earth Desmond” – and what nickname he would pick for himself, if he had to.

Watch or tune in to the episode to find out what he said.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:24 Politicians must accept that they won’t always be right

10:18 “I have no strategy for social media.”

14:35 “You can’t just give an order, like in the army.”

21:34 Being labelled “Down-To-Earth Desmond”

29:25 He lost 3.5kg during the 2020 GE

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E3: Tales from a “repo” man on towing back vehicles

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

From parents of newborns to riders who dismantle their motorcycles to evade repossession, this man has seen them all.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

What happens when a hire-purchase car goes missing or when a marriage turns sour and the fighting parties want their assets back? They call on repossessors like Mr Jim Koh, who has been in the repossession-cum-towing trade for nearly 20 years.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:31 The difference between a towing service and repossessing a vehicle

5:10 Repossessing a vehicle can turn nasty

14:41 Job hazards of being run over or pelted with eggs

21:54 When Jim is compassionate when repossessing vehicles

27:39 Advice for those looking to join the trade

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

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S2E15: Why Myanmar’s military will not fall in 2025

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

We look at what is happening on the ground with a Myanmar watcher.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Pichai Chuensuksawadi, former group editor of Bangkok Post and observer of Myanmar affairs.

They discuss the deteriorating situation in Myanmar, the role of outside players in the conflict, prospects of the junta holding elections and the fate of democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:50 Myanmar military won’t fall in 2025

5:00 Chinese pressure on Rakhine

9:00 Elections on the junta’s mind

11:00 Thai diplomacy

15:00 Where’s Aung San Suu Kyi?

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E21: Where are Singaporeans travelling to in 2025?

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Saudi Arabia, China’s Lijiang and Yunnan, and… Central Asia? Could these be the next big holiday destinations for 2025?

This week on The Usual Place, Straits Times Life travel journalist Sarah Stanley and co-founder of The Travel Intern Hendric Tay share why they think these lesser-known spots might see more tourists this year.

Drawing from industry conversations and their own observations, “new adventures in lesser-known spots” seem to be the 2025 motto of Singaporean travellers. Social media, Hendric explains, has nudged people to step out of their comfort zones. But, he cautions, “they also need to make the right preparations for it.”

In this episode, the talk of travel dives into whether sustainable travel is just a gimmick for charging more and why solo travel continues to be a big draw for young adventurers.

The discussion also goes into the complexities of group travel, whether with friends or colleagues. The trio share anecdotes and tips on how to manage different travel styles and priorities. For example, setting ground rules and finding compromises can help keep a trip drama-free.

Sarah reflects on her experience travelling with colleagues as an air stewardess, noting how being accommodating of others has shaped her travel habits (It’s not always a bad thing, she explains.) Hendric recommends activity-based trips for first-time travel companions as a great way to understand each other’s preferences.

With all the talk about exploring new places and making new memories, Natasha wanted to know which country these seasoned travellers would visit over and over again? Watch till the end to find out their picks.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:35 The Outdoorsy Person vs. Outsidey Person: being in the right camp

11:47 Is green, sustainable travel just a buzzword?

19:38 What’s a good country to do solo travel?

22:44 Listen to the locals to avoid being stabbed

34:55 Should you travel with your colleagues?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

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S2E9: What’s hot in 2025: Green Pulse’s top themes to watch

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

We take the pulse of the planet for 2025 with our key themes on climate, nature and nuclear.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

New year, new format, where we spice things up with a deeper look at the challenges and opportunities in the environmental sector, controversies and differing points of view.

In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty dive into three key themes for 2025: Climate, nature and nuclear.

They examine key questions, including: After the hottest years on record in 2023 and 2024, what will 2025 bring? Will the worsening extreme weather jolt governments into action? Or will it be another year of missed opportunities?

Will the resurgent interest in nuclear really take off? Or will the realities of high costs and long construction timelines cool interest?

Is this the year for nature conservation – on land and the oceans – to finally get a big boost in funding? Or are we leaving things too late given the ceaseless destruction of forests, overfishing and the pollution of air, rivers and seas?

Audrey is more hopeful, David is more cautious. But both agree: We really have to talk much more about climate change and nature despite all the other gloomy news out there. It really is a matter of survival.

So take a listen as we tell it like it is – the good, the hopeful and not so good.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

0:05 Should we continue with Green Pulse in 2025. If so, why?

1:52 David's thoughts on nuclear?

7:45 Why will nature protection be a big topic for SE Asia in 2025?

13:19 New wave of hope for the oceans: Rising interest in blue finance plus major UN oceans conference in June.

16:37 The forecast is hot and getting hotter – and yet the world seems unable to really cope with the climate crisis. Is it all doom and gloom?

21:06 Power to the people: More climate finance could finally bring to life the Asean power grid.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

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S2E9: How to start a start-up in your 20s

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

A young start-up founder talks about quitting his job to take the path less trodden, and discuss with DBS the ingredients for success.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Gen Zs are embracing the entrepreneurial life. Instead of working for someone, they want to start their own companies, sometimes fresh out of school.

There are also more entrepreneurial programmes for them even in secondary schools. Online platforms also let them start businesses online and have a wider audience for their products and services.

But what exactly is involved in starting a start-up? Is it something only for the rich kids or is it within reach of everyone?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how people can start their own business even in their 20s, and what’s involved in the process.

Her guests are Accredify founder Quah Zheng Wei, who started his business aged 27, and DBS Head of Corporate and SME Banking Koh Kar Siong.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:52 The steps to starting a start-up

5:33 Quitting his banking job to venture out on his own

8:39 Entrepreneurs as young as 12

14:40 How to get funding

21:16 What defines a successful start-up and what’s the survival rate?

24:28 What are your ingredients for success?

28:05 Will starting my own business make me rich?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E14: Previewing Trump 2.0

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

What are some of President Trump’s likely policy priorities after he takes office for a second time? Will he do exactly as he threatened?

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ assistant foreign editor Clement Tan catches up with US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar to talk about President Donald Trump’s possible policy priorities in his second term.

In this episode, they discuss the cabinet appointees President Trump has already announced, his China policy and the war of words that has already erupted between Trump’s “bro-in-chief” Elon Musk and Trump’s MAGA base supporters.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:38 Trump's inauguration and immediate priorities

6:09 Internal conflicts within the Republican Party

12:32 Trump's approach to China

24:26 The future of TikTok in US and Trump's influence

Follow Clement Tan on X: https://str.sg/uErS

Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62

Host: Clement Tan (clemtan@sph.com.sg) & Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

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S1E131: Using spirituality to improve mental health

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Finding meaning and purpose in life.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

In this New Year’s day episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to Adj Assoc Prof Angie Chew about the importance of spirituality in our lives. They also discuss how to harness this source of strength to improve our mental health and find meaning, purpose, and happiness in life.

Prof Chew is the Founder, CEO and Mindfulness Principal of Brahm Centre, a mental health charity dedicated to promoting happier and healthier living.

Highlights (click/tap above)

2:24 What is spirituality?

6:08 Coping with irrational fears and jealousy

10:23 Creating a distance between you and your thoughts

14:57 Parents predicting that their children won’t do well in school

18:25 What if spirituality becomes a source of stress for you?

22:32 It’s time to forgive someone

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

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S2E13: Thailand’s domestic politics needs revival to spark economy, regional influence

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Political stalemate is diminishing Thailand’s international stature and economy

Synopsis: The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Thailand, once seen as a rising middle power, is now stuck in political and economic stagnation that are affecting its international standing. Its years of political turmoil had caused its economy to underperform, with GDP growing by 1.9 per cent in 2023.

While economists expect around GDP growth at 2.7 per cent in 2024 and 2.9 per cent in 2025 - the growth is inadequate to satisfy demands and expectations.

Thailand is currently under the relatively new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 38-year-old daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra. But its “old guard” institutions have not allowed the country to progress politically, which are controlling political outcomes through agencies like the constitutional court, the election commission, the anti-corruption commission and the Senate, says Professor Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a senior fellow of the Institute of Security and International Studies at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Political Science.

Meanwhile, Thailand's international standing has diminished - though the country’s size and geographic location mean it remains a key player in the region. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) is also divided on contentious issues such as the ongoing civil war in Myanmar.

While former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin has been appointed an informal advisor to next year’s Asean chair, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, expectations are low.

The former premier, as well as Prime Minister Anwar himself, are from an older generation - but Asean needs a younger generation to lead it forward, says Professor Thitinan, who is currently a visiting professor as well at the London School of Economics, in this episode with host Nirmal Ghosh.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:02 How the military coup in May 2014 'sank' Thailand

10:29 Thailand lost out on tech revolutions like AI

15:07 Why Asean is currently at its weakest

19:22 How Thailand can play a regional role in the Myanmar crisis, and curb transnational crimes like scams

21:39 Msia PM Anwar picks Thaksin Shinawatra as informal Asean adviser

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Lynda Hong

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

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S1E20: Abs like Thor, curves like Kim K: are unrealistic expectations holding us back in the gym?

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

As we inch closer to a new year, will you be putting “losing weight” on your list of resolutions - for the nth time?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Dropping the pounds is a classic New Year’s resolution for many people, but sticking to it often proves challenging.

Natasha wanted to find out what trips up our weight loss goals, so she turned to the experts, who have seen success stories and epic fails.

On this episode of The Usual Place, she is joined by Mira Azman (@miraacurl), Senior Exercise Experience Coach at Virgin Active Singapore, and Jerome Simon (@jxmonxstar), Senior Club General Manager at Fitness First Singapore.

The new year usually brings them new clients - it’s a ‘New Year, New Me’ vibe, they both concur - but people have been known to drop out within weeks of signing up.

Mira and Jerome highlight that people often come in with unrealistic expectations.

Like one of Jerome’s clients who wanted the physique that actor Chris Hemsworth had when he was playing Thor within two months. (Spoiler alert: The Thor-wannabe went AWOL after two months). Or Mira’s client who wanted to lose 10kg in a month, despite barely having any exercise experience.

That’s why both trainers say that accountability, whether by working out with a coach or finding a supportive community, can keep one on track.

Watch this week’s episode of The Usual Place to find out what else these trainers had to say about TikTok trends, unsustainable diet fads and how to shift your mindset to get fit in 2025.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:18 “New Year, New Me” vibes

5:48 How a Thor-wannabe went AWOL

11:58 Can you achieve your goals with your TikTok fam?

30:51 Facing social sabotage - “Are you sure you can do it?”

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E12: Mountains of debt deepening human and environmental crises

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Developing countries are in a vicious debt cycle with little relief in sight, undermining social progress.

Synopsis: The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Some 3.3 billion people live in countries that spend more on interest payments in their debt, than on either education or health. In 2023, a record 54 developing countries allocated 10 per cent or more of government revenue just to pay off interest on their debt - reducing funds available to provide basic services from schools to hospitals, for their populations.

Public debt thus becomes a human rights crisis, as well as an environmental crisis as most debt is denominated in foreign currencies. Countries then often have to export their way out of debt - which in many cases, such as in that of Laos, means exploiting their natural resources.

The crisis is worsened by the fact that for many developing countries, it is more costly to borrow than for rich countries - because their credit ratings are worse. For example, the average African country may be paying almost 10 per cent while the United States and Germany may be paying less than 3 per cent, because the latter have higher credit ratings.

In Laos' case, there is a geopolitical dimension as well; about 50 per cent of Laos's external debt is owed to China.

There is wide consensus that this is a full blown crisis, but the solutions to it are hard to implement. Part of the reason is many creditors are private lenders. Yet solutions are critical if developing countries are to be able to dig themselves out from under the mountain of debt they are burdened with.

In this episode of Asian Insider, Olivia De Schutter, professor of law and UN Special Rapporteur on Extreme Poverty and Human Rights, and Keith Barney, Associate Professor at the Australian National University's Crawford School of Public Policy, share with host Nirmal Ghosh insights into the fundamentally unjust situation many developing countries are trapped in.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:52 Global debt: From $51 trillion in 2010 to $97 trillion in 2023

4:01 The Pact for the Future acknowledges the issue, but much public debt is owned by private creditors

5:53 Why Laos debt crisis is also an environmental crisis; China's role in this

10:04 Since the debt is in foreign currencies, countries must export to repay it

13:59 China offers debt deferrals, not relief, just delaying the issue

16:01 Debt burden is driving the international community to consider debt-for-nature or debt-for-climate swaps

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E19: Dating with KPIs? How to rework your dating mindset for 2025

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Is modern dating painful and how can those who want to find love in 2025 find love intentionally?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

On this episode of The Usual Place, host Natasha Ann Zachariah dissected the dating game with Andrea Tan, a certified sex, love and relationship coach and founder of Athena Rising Coaching & Consulting and Chia Wei Goh, founder of CGull, a dating consultancy for men.

According to results from a Bumble survey that was released mid-Nov 2024, people here are still keen to date – four in five Singaporean singles interviewed are looking to find a long-term partner in 2025. (Bumble is a women-first dating and social networking app that was founded in 2014.)

But what are some of the issues that get in the way of finding love?

From treating dates as job interviews to having many deal-breakers, both Andrea and Chia Wei dove into the insights they gleaned from working with their clients.

Natasha wanted to find out if dating stereotypes of ideal partners that surface on social media – “man in finance, trust fund, 6’5”, blue eyes” or “trad wife”, for example – hurt or help one’s chances at making a great impression.

Meanwhile, Chia Wei suggested that both genders take on a niche hobby such as yoga for men or muay thai for women, to open more opportunities to meet a partner of the opposite sex.

Andrea, who is also Bumble’s relationship expert, said that to press ahead in the dating game, one needs a cheerleader support group to provide positive affirmations.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:59 Should you lower your standards in dating?

11:46 Looking for KPIs in dating

15:16 Men are in a more vulnerable position than women

29:42 Is it game over in the dating game for those over 40?

32:51 Where to start if you’re a first-time dater

35:00 Are men bad at conversations?

Connect with these coaches on social media:

Chia Wei: https://www.instagram.com/cgullwing/

Andrea Tan: https://www.instagram.com/theathenarising/

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Read Elizabeth Law’s articles: https://str.sg/wL8c

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Elsa Goh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E2: Raising school bus fares cannot solve woes in industry

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

“Money not enough” - not even raising fares can fix current school bus woes.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

School bus fares are constantly rising, and yet operators are saying that ferrying pupils to schools is a loss-making venture with little way out. Mr Darry Lim, 44, who grew his father’s bus company from eight to 38 buses, says that the troubles facing the industry are only worsening as a sizeable number of local drivers are leaving the trade every year.

Darry is the director of Hui Leong, a private transport company and serves as the transport officer of the Singapore School Transport Association which represents mainly self-employed school bus drivers.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:21 More drivers than buses are needed

4:11 Shrinking local driver population also means a cut in foreign drivers because of the allowable foreign worker quota, worsening the situation

7:05 A driver’s typical working day start at 5.30am to pick up the first pupil

15:40 The international school student chips in

19:15 “I might be dead before I can pay off the bus!”

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more Transport articles: https://str.sg/KHyM

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

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S2E8: Trashed or treasure? Will deep sea mining ruin oceans?

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Rich lodes of valuable metals lie on the seafloor. Will a global rush to mine them be allowed – and will doing so damage the world’s oceans?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Scattered across the sea bed are trillions of potato-sized lumps brimming with lucrative metals vital to making electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines, smartphones and much more. This is sparking a “blue rush”, as some countries and companies are eager to cash-in on them.

Yet the mining of polymetallic nodules remains banned and there are growing concerns that scooping them off the sea floor risks disrupting one of the most important, but still poorly understood, parts of the planet. In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with The Pew Charitable Trusts’ project director of ocean governance Julian Jackson on the risks.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:12 Three different types of deep sea mining

6:42 Environmental impacts of deep sea mining

12:21 Why countries are pushing for deep sea mining

14:58 Implication of Micronesian country Nauru announcing intention to start sea bed mining.

17:02 Is deep sea mining necessary?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S2E8: What is it like being a young boss?

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Good leadership that inspires confidence cuts across age.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

It isn’t possible to draw lines along age, tenure, skill and leadership in the working world as neatly as previously.

The image of top leaders has expanded beyond the notion of someone assuming their position after a long-drawn process.

This is a convention upended, perhaps most prominently, by the heady proliferation of influential start-ups with precociously young leaders at the helm, one of whom journalist Tay Hong Yi spoke to in the latest episode of Headstart On Record

His guest is:

Mr Looi Qin En, partner at venture capital firm Saison Capital, who co-founded careers discovery platform Glints.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 How did Glints’ co-founders start a business that young?

3:20 How did Qin En grow both his technical skills and soft skills so quickly?

6:30 How to convince people to look past your age as a young leader?

14:53 How to inspire confidence among those you lead?

16:59 Has Qin En ever felt he has peaked early in his career?

20:32 Where young leaders have the most room to learn

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

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S2E11: The new AI stands for Asean and India

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Factors to watch are increasing population, workforce and productivity.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the Asian continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with James Cheo, chief investment officer for Asean and India with HSBC Group Private Banking, on the glowing economic prospects for Asean and India amid weakening growth in the ageing countries of North-east Asia.

Mr Cheo is a former macroeconomist with Singapore’s central bank, Monetary Authority of Singapore.

They discuss what’s driving growth in South-east Asia and India, growth being led by productivity and not just investments, and the potential pitfalls investors into these regions need to look out for.

They also discuss the likely impact of Donald Trump returning to the American presidency in January 2025.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:10 The ‘Triple Rs’ powering South-east Asia

6:40 The new AI is all about Asean and India

9:50 The middle class is leading the way for both regions

11:00 India: 8 years of market gains in a row; Rupee stability great for investors

20:10 Asean’s tripwires

23:00 Deglobalisation challenge; Trump's return and South-east Asia

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

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S1E18: Holiday Survival Guide: Tips For The Parties

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

From unwanted Secret Santa gifts to guest etiquette fails, Natasha and her guests dive into the dos and don’ts of navigating holiday gatherings with humour and grace.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the fun - and sometimes the headache - of social gatherings. Whether it’s an office party, a house dinner, or a festive get-together with friends, the rules of holiday etiquette can be blurry.

On this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha is joined by colleagues who are seasoned party hosts themselves - The Straits Times features correspondent Elizabeth Law and ST senior audience growth specialist Friday Farzanah.

With tinsel on their mics and an adorable alt-Christmas tree, the trio dissect different scenarios of holiday etiquette, from navigating cheapo Secret Santas to guests who break your glasses. They debate whether “enforced fun” like icebreaker games should be, well, enforced, and reflect on gracious hosting and thoughtful guest behavior.

What pet peeves do you have about office parties, or being a guest or host during the holiday season? Tell us in the comment section below!

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:56 Secret Santa - yay or nay?

7:06 The rules of regifting

17:50 Is it ok to flake on a house party if you don’t feel up to it?

27:48 The paw-rent dilemma of dealing with excited guests

39:05 Tag-team hosting

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Read Elizabeth Law’s articles: https://str.sg/wL8c

Filmed by: ST Video

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Elsa Goh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S1E49: No deaths from Fukushima, but will SG ever accept nuclear energy?

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

It is safer to live near a nuclear power plant than to ride a plane, says an expert. Do we have a Not In My Backyard (Nimby) syndrome?

Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Nuclear energy: Why not? That is the response from an expert on why Singapore is exploring it.

The radioactive release from the Fukushima meltdown in 2011 did not kill anyone, but thousands of workers at coal mines die every year, says Dr Alvin Chew, a senior fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies in NTU.

Dr Chew’s research focuses on the usage of civilian nuclear energy. He was previously with the civil service, working on energy security and energy transition issues.

“When you compare the (nuclear sector) to airline industries, there are more airline crashes and lives being lost. But yet, people are still flying,” he adds.

Still, the horrors of nuclear disasters such as the meltdowns in Chernobyl and Fukushima appear to have scarred mankind. To go nuclear or not is a highly polarising topic in many countries.

To gain the public’s trust on nuclear energy in Singapore, Dr Chew emphasises the importance for authorities to explain a country’s need for nuclear energy, educate the people about radiation safety, and also ensure the population is prepared for a worst-case scenario.

Most of the time, the best form of protection is to stay at home, shut the windows and wait for the authorities’ instructions, he adds.

Singapore, like several other countries mired by the triple threat of climate change, energy security and rising electricity costs, is taking a hard look at a controversial energy source – nuclear power.

The authorities have been exploring advanced nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), that are promised to be safer.

In this episode, Lynda Hong and co-host Shabana Begum find out what drives the fear of nuclear power. Will Singapore residents allow a nuclear plant to be built in their 'backyard'?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:32 No deaths from Fukushima meltdown itself, but more deaths from coal-mining

7:34 Evacuation is not the best protection from radiation leaks

9:36 Why small modular reactors (SMRs) are suitable for Singapore

17:00 Nuclear and the 'Nimby' syndrome

26:02 How nuclear waste becomes a social issue

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Shabana Begum’s articles:https://str.sg/LfQG

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S2E10: Dreams of Indonesia's informal workers

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Want a dress ironed? A facial? A shirt darned? Or perhaps a coffee freshly brewed, right on your doorstep?

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times chats with ST’s global correspondents about life as it goes on, amid the screaming headlines and bubbling crises.

More services are being offered by Indonesians on motorcycles and bicycles.

Mr Subban has a sewing machine affixed to the table in front of his bicycle. Madam Desri Muliati irons clothes on a motorcycle, using a steam iron heated with a portable gas canister.

They are among Indonesia’s formidable force of informal workers that drive the economy, accounting for nearly 61 per cent of the country’s total labour force.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks with journalist Aqil Hamzah about the services that these workers provide, and why they eschew jobs in the formal sector.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:10 Making ends meet

3:32 Finding them on TikTok, Instagram and on WhatsApp

6:07 Getting started during the pandemic; how much do they roughly earn as part of this 'informal' economy?

8:46 Challenges for the new Prabowo government

15:30 A reporter intern’s observations about Indonesia; his first experience of Jakarta

Read Aqil Hamzah’s article here: https://str.sg/tQXq

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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S1E130: Why a new category for high blood pressure?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hypertension is a silent killer; check it before it’s too late.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Do you know if you have high blood pressure or what's also known as hypertension? According to the National Population Health Survey 2022, about one in three Singaporeans aged 18 to 74 has hypertension. This condition puts them at risk of heart disease and stroke. However, a significant proportion remains unaware because the symptoms become obvious only when the condition is severe.

Hypertension is present when a person’s blood pressure is at 140/90 mmHg or higher. But a slightly lower reading doesn't reduce the risk. In August 2024, the European Society of Cardiology, an influential society among cardiologists, introduced a new high blood pressure or BP category of 120-139. This implies that even readings in this range are not 'normal' as doctors once thought.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to Assoc Prof Chin Chee Tang, a cardiologist from the National Heart Centre Singapore, about the new category and what to make of it. They also discuss renal denervation, a procedure that the same society said may be considered for some patients with uncontrolled, drug-resistant high blood pressure.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:19 Should I be worried about a new category of hypertension?

5:30 How do I manage my blood pressure?

11:39 Monitoring the impact of salt reduction on your blood pressure

13:32 Can high blood pressure be lowered to normal levels?

19:39 Is renal denervation the right procedure for resistant hypertension?

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E7: What the finance-focused COP29 is delivering for South-east Asia

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 03:38:05 +0000

The implementation of developing countries’ climate targets hinges on the availability of finance and technology

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Despite the criticisms surrounding the UN climate conference COP29, which took place over two weeks in November in Baku, Azerbaijan, negotiators managed to reach an agreement on two key finance-related issues.

A new goal for annual climate finance flows was set at US $300 billion by 2035, a three-fold increase from the previous $100 billion target. Developed countries should take the lead in delivering this amount to developing countries to help them take climate action. An agreement on carbon markets was also reached at the summit, allowing countries to cooperate through the international trade in carbon credits to meet their climate goals.

But what do all these mean for Singapore and South-east Asia? In this episode, host Audrey Tan finds out from Ms Grace Fu, Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

3:45 What does the COP29 outcome mean for Singapore and South-east Asia?

9:17 Can the outcome on carbon markets at COP29 help to overcome concerns on environmental integrity?

11:00 What is Singapore’s reputation in the area of carbon markets like?

13:07 How will the outcome on the new climate finance target affect climate action in Asia?

17:46 Will the waning leadership of traditional climate champions such as the US and the EU affect investor confidence in climate initiatives?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S1E7: How do we spend less but still travel well?

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Two avid travellers reveal their top hacks, where to sit on the plane and how to cut the budget while having fun.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Singaporeans love to travel. In a survey, people said one overseas trip a year is essential. But how do we travel well while still maintaining our budgets?

Would you travel to Europe but eat cup noodles to save money?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the top travel hacks from experts, how people achieve “budget comfort” and upgrade the travel experience without splurging thousands of dollars.

Her guests are Youtrip chief operating officer Kelvin Lam, who once left his investment banking job to be a full-time backpacker, and youthful “budget comfort” traveller Prisca Ang.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 How Prisca spent $3,500 for seven cities in 10 days in Japan

8:33 Should I take a direct flight or layover; top travel hacks; benefits of (being near) youth hostels

13:59 Flight hacks: what to pack, where to sit, sales

18:00 How much is too much to spend on travel?

23:45 Prioritising experiences, rather than just seeing famous sights

33:00 Must you take at least one overseas holiday a year?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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S2E9: Brace for turbulence: China, South-east Asia and Trump 2.0

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The US’ President-elect inherits a world different from that in his first term.

Synopsis: The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Tariffs - as a weapon to restore and rejuvenate American jobs and manufacturing - will be back with a vengeance in Donald Trump’s second term. So will competition with China, in the course of which performative support for Taiwan by hawks in Congress and Washington DC security circles may end up provoking Beijing and thus hurting Taiwan.

Yet the US’ 47th President will inherit a world different from that of his first term in 2017 - one with more limits to American power. While some hawks in Washington see China as weak and advocate that the US should do everything it can to push it over the edge, realists understand the US can no longer do everything.

From the perspective of South-east Asia, it is imperative to defuse the zero-sum mentality of US-China competition. Faced with the disruptive effects of tariffs, this region has to also find ways to go back to a kind of globalisation that works for everyone.

These are some of the challenges, and currents, that the next American President and the US' trade partners and allies must navigate and adapt to, as a new era looms in Washington DC.

In this episode of Asian Insider, Nirmal hosts Danny Quah, Professor of Economics and Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, and Robert Manning, Distinguished Fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington, DC, who is working on the think tank’s Strategic Foresight and China programmes.

They share their perspectives from opposite sides of the world, on the foreign policy of the Donald Trump 2.0 Administration.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:51 Defusing the zero-sum game; what is Trump's idea of a bilateral trade deficit?

6:47 Trump inheriting a very different world now in his second term

13:17 Is there a kind of globalisation that can work for everyone?

16:34 Why Donald Trump is not shy to exercise hard power

18:02 China weak? Why the US can't do everything anymore

23:54 What makes Trump so tricky to work with?

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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S1E17: How you doin’ … at making friends?

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Unlike our school days where it was easier to find a buddy, making new friends as an adult isn’t something that we leave to chance.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

When you hit your adulting years, it is inevitable that someone will ask you “Have you found a partner?”. Interestingly enough, you rarely get asked if you have made new friends.

The struggle to make new friends when you are older is real. Many don’t realise - or only learn when they drift apart from their childhood friends - is that friendships, like other relationships, take effort to thrive.

In this episode of The Usual Place, host Natasha Ann Zachariah explores the complexities of forming - and keeping - friendships in adulthood.

Joining her are Grace Ann Chua, 30, CEO and co-founder of Friendzone SG, and Jarel Low, 34, the co-founder of Offline Singapore, two individuals dedicated to creating events for meaningful connections.

From how to step out of your comfort zone to red flags in friendships, the trio discuss the upside - and challenges - to meeting new people.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:15 Why is it difficult to make friends as an adult?

9:20 The 25s vs the 35s: the different friendship outlook

14:03 Are Singaporeans a judgy, guarded bunch?

22:20 Red flags in friendships

34:05 What if you have lost the ability to make friends?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: ST Video

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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S1E48: Mandatory mediation over noise - neighbourly relations are still key

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How Singapore intends to settle noise disputes more effectively.

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Settling noise disputes will be easier with mandatory mediation as the Community Disputes Management Framework (CDMF) is enhanced, under the Community Disputes Resolution (Amendment) Bill.

Involved with how the framework can be enhanced is grassroots leader Raymond Poh.

In this episode, Lynda Hong and co-host Christie Chiu speak with him to hear about his 14 years of experience in dealing with noise disputes, and how mediation has been effective in resolving disputes between neighbours (with an 80 per cent success rate with voluntary mediation cases).

Mr Poh also shares how the Community Advisory Panel’s (CAP) recommendations, along with the proposed CDMF enhancements, may help neighbours better understand one another and find middle ground.

If the dispute remains unresolved after mediation with the Community Mediation Centre (CMC), neighbours may consider approaching the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunals (CDRT) to file a claim as a last resort. This is equivalent to taking legal action against your neighbour, and parties involved are required to attempt mediation before filing a CDRT claim.

The new laws will also mean that officers under the new Community Relations Unit (CRU) have powers to investigate and take action in disputes where a neighbour severely disrupts the peace, such as cases where the neighbour deliberately makes loud noise throughout the day.

Officers can investigate, such as taking statements from neighbours, and with the resident’s consent, install noise sensors in homes to collect evidence.

The authorities also intend to allow the Housing Board to consider compulsory acquisition of flats as a deterrent and “the absolute last resort for severe, recalcitrant nuisance-making”.

This measure will be considered only when all other levers have failed, and acquisition is needed to protect the interests of other residents, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and the Ministry of Law and Ministry of National Development said in a joint statement in August, adding that this will be similar to how HDB can consider compulsory acquisition of flats for those convicted of throwing killer litter under the Penal Code.

This podcast is brought to you by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY): https://www.mccy.gov.sg

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:25 CCTVs, house visits and detective work - a memorable dispute that Mr Poh had mediated

7:38 Different forms of mediation

8:17 The difference between the Community Mediation Centre (CMC) and the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunals (CDRT)

11:37 Why settling neighbour disputes amicably is still a priority over mandatory mediation

12:40 How simple 'give and take' neighbourly acts can help avoid mediation as much as possible

More on the Community Disputes Management Framework: https://go.gov.sg/cdmf-enhancements

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Christie Chiu’s articles: https://str.sg/3ESxU

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Christie Chiu (christiec@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

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S2E8: How Asean is bracing for Donald Trump’s tariff tactics

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

While there is concern over trade policy, US investors remain bullish on business with Asean.

Synopsis: The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

With President-elect Donald Trump intent on using tariffs as a weapon - with the larger strategy of rejuvenating American manufacturing - there is concern that the US could retaliate against countries that have a big trade surplus with the United States.

Within the 10-nation Asean bloc, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand could become targets.

But Asean's growth and competitiveness remains attractive regardless. From 2022 to 2023, for example, foreign direct investment (FDI) declined in all regions of Asia except Asean. More broadly, intra-regional trade in Asia is expected to rise by 65% to US$400 billion (S$535 billion) a year by 2030, which is a good sign for US and Asean investors.

Growth opportunities include artificial intelligence, semiconductor production, digital commerce, medical devices, and mineral supply chains - and Asean countries are competing for investment.

In this episode, Ted Osius, a former US Ambassador to Vietnam and currently President and CEO of the US-Asean Business Council in Washington DC, shares with host Nirmal Ghosh, the business council’s concerns and wish list, and also why he thinks that, regardless of US government policy, investors are bullish on South-east Asia.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:10 The wish for a forward-looking US trade agenda remains as this region moves forward

7:23 From 2022 to 2023, FDI declined in all regions of Asia, except Asean

10:05 Which Asean countries are making real efforts to attract FDI?

12:48 Growth opportunities for US and Asean investors

13:30 Singapore a leading force in Asean, driving the digital economy framework

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E16: With all the talk about mental health, should we be in therapy?

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

With more people conscious about mental health issues, is going to therapy the solution to deal with inner mind and emotional struggles?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

These days, conversations about mental health - and content about it - are everywhere.

Within that space, therapy often comes up as a way to deal with mental health issues. People write about it in personal essays, it’s bandied around in memes, and on TikTok, there are therapists who create short-form videos about boundaries, trauma and coping mechanisms.

But should everyone be in therapy?

To answer that question, The Usual Place’s host Natasha Ann Zachariah speaks with Raquel Ang, 35, co-founder of telewellness platform IHearU App, and singer-songwriter Layyi, 28, who was featured on a song called Lovin’ Me.

(The track, led by local singer-songwriter Haneri (Daphne Khoo) and also features Whylucas, is part of a youth mental wellness initiative by McDonald’s Singapore.)

Raquel, who has a Master’s in Counselling, has been in therapy for about two years, while Layyi started in September 2023. Both of them experienced a “breaking point” in their lives which pushed them to explore therapy.

Natasha discusses with them about whether therapy should be a universal experience or a deeply personal choice. Together, they unpack how therapy has changed them, their initial concerns about going for it and why it’s one of many tools for mental health.

The Usual Place Podcast will give away 10 sets of exclusive McDonald’s merchandise to be given away. Each set consists of a tote bag, a sticker sheet, four postcards and a pack of F&B vouchers (expiring on Dec 31, 2024).

Here’s how you can win them: Subscribe to The Straits Times Podcasts’ YouTube channel and leave a comment there under this video - Is therapy only for those with mental health issues? - about what’s the best way you’re taking care of your mental health. The team will select 10 winners and get in touch with them. Good luck!

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:57 Openness and eagerness for change - considerations for therapy

6:47 When is the right time to go to therapy?

11:01 The stigma of therapy

14:38 “Only the problem kid goes for therapy.”

25:03 Picking a counsellor or therapist

30:54 “Therapy speak” being a part of daily conversation

38:52 Going to therapy is like going on a date with yourself

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E1: Why taxi drivers are “changing shift” when you need them most

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Improve your chances of getting a ride on a wet Friday evening with some hacks from this experienced cabbie.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

Mr James Quak is among the 89,000 qualified taxi drivers in Singapore. In this episode of Wheel Insights, the 49-year-old sheds light on how taxi drivers work out their share of the vehicle rental and how they decide which ride booking to take.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:35 The difference between being a taxi hirer and a “relief driver”

5:41 How much driving time makes up for daily taxi rental

13:59 Why taxi drivers don't look out for street-hailers

17:46 How much taxi drivers benefited during the East-West Line MRT disruption in September 2024

23:01 The reason why taxi drivers always seems to be changing shift during peak travel hours

25:39 Advice for those considering joining the trade

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more Transport articles: https://str.sg/KHyM

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

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S1E4: Visit to Punggol: How human-wildlife conflict can be mitigated

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

While Singapore is transforming into a City in Nature, natural habitats have been lost to development, leading to more human and animal clashes. How can wildlife and humans live in harmony?

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Green Trails is a four-part environment podcast special for 2024 where The Straits Times hits the ground with experts.

In this fourth episode, our trails won’t be entirely green. Instead of a nature park or a green space, we head over to an urban place surrounded by buildings and construction noise.

The new neighbourhood of Punggol Northshore recently saw some monkey business, with troops of long-tailed macaques spotted at construction sites and even eating at a void deck of an HDB block.

To find out how residents can responsibly live in a macaque hotspot, ST journalist Shabana Begum speaks with co-chief executive of Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) Anbarasi Boopal, and president of the Jane Goodall Institute (Singapore) Andie Ang.

Strolling along Punggol Settlement and the promenade opposite Coney Island, the conversation turns to other wildlife in our midst – from the common palm civets that tend to sneak into private houses, to the ever-present junglefowls.

Animals in urban areas being culled is never a clear-cut decision, as Ms Anbarasi says: “Removal (of animals) is always not a solution. And where do we draw the line, right?

“We are okay with hornbills, but we're not okay with other birds.”

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:10 Why is Punggol a monkey hotspot?

4:45 Monkey see, monkey don’t do

11:08 When otters and civets visit homes

14:30 Is culling the best way to reduce bird numbers?

17:08 What to do when you encounter a snake

Read ST’s previous commentary about co-existing with wildlife: https://str.sg/tYpq

Find out more about macaques in Punggol: https://str.sg/ephc

Listen to other Green Trails episodes:

Ep 1: Visit to Sungei Buloh: How Singapore can better host migratory birds - https://str.sg/BrqS

Ep 2: Visit to East Coast: How reclamation will shape up against rising sea levels - https://str.sg/mRG8

Ep 3: Visit to Windsor Park: Can insects in SG's backyard be foraged? - https://str.sg/4V6nQ

Host: Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg)

Trail producers: Hadyu Rahim, Fa‘izah Sani, Amirul Karim & Elsa Goh

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive Producers: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg) & Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

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S2E6: Climate finance at COP29: Loans can't help developing nations avert climate crisis

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The amount, quality and access of climate finance among key issues to be discussed at COP29.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Expectations are mounting on negotiators at COP29, the UN climate conference, to produce an outcome on climate finance. The annual summit, from Nov 11 to Nov 22 in Baku, Azerbaijan, is shaping up to be a “finance COP”, where discussions on the new collective quantified goal for climate finance – or how much money should be channelled to developing countries to help them take climate action – are expected to conclude.

In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty chat with Ms Illari Aragon, the climate policy justice lead at nonprofit Christian Aid.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:39 What do we mean by climate finance?

4:18 Why are discussions on the new climate finance target so contentious?

11:29 The situation on climate finance in South-east Asia

12:38 The difference between providing and mobilising climate finance

14:40 Challenges for developing countries to access climate finance

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

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S2E6: How does working abroad help your career?

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The move may be difficult, but can be rewarding for both personal and professional development.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Talents with overseas exposure are coveted for their ability to help companies realise their global aspirations.

There is also robust appetite among Singapore talents to work abroad.

However, employers frequently find it challenging to convince talents here to take up overseas opportunities.

Journalist Tay Hong Yi speaks to those who have navigated and are helping others to navigate this complex undertaking to work abroad to shed light on the dilemma.

His guests are:

Dr Nadir Zafar, chief experience officer at the Human Capital Leadership Institute and director of the Singapore Leaders Network

Ms Cheryl Lin, a business analyst based in Copenhagen who moved there for further studies

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:39 What are the pathways to working abroad?

5:23 What are some of the trade-offs to consider?

7:52 Why do employers find it especially challenging to convince talents to move elsewhere?

16:58 What can you do to increase the chances of an offer?

24:57 What support is needed to increase the number of locals who work abroad to develop professionally?

Read the feature by Kai Xiang discussed on the podcast: https://str.sg/dPro

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S1E2: Tariffs, deportation, Musk: 3 words could define US' Trump 2.0 era

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

We examine the impact of the recent US presidential election result.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ associate foreign editor Lim Ai Leen and senior columnist Lin Suling meet up in the studio with Bhagyashree Garekar, The Straits Times’ United States bureau chief who covered the US presidential election all year long, and is back in Singapore for a short break.

In this episode, they discuss how Bhagya arrived at her early prediction of a Trump win before the Nov 5 election, how Trump played to the male and minority voters, global anti-incumbency election trends and how they think Asian countries will shape to deal with the impact.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:12 How Trump appealed to male voters in this 'woke' age, why Trump beat expectations to win the minority vote in the US

15:50 Political lessons for governments in Asia and how they relate to voters; expected impact from incoming Trump administration

17:54 Dissecting the dynamics of the phone call between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and US President-elect Donald Trump on Nov 11

24:00 Tariffs: Making sense of Trump's promises from the Asian perspective

27:50 3 words to define US politics in the incoming Trump era

Hosts: Lim Ai Leen (limal@sph.com.sg) and Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg)

Follow Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E15: Going Ga-Ga Over Labubu: Why?

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The Labubu craze exploded earlier in 2024 thanks to Blackpink's Lisa. What's keeping the love for Labubu going?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Inspired by Scandinavian folklore, Labubu was created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung as part of his Monsters character series in 2015.

How do you know when a toy is a big deal?

When people are brazenly committing crimes to get it. And when hundreds of people queue overnight to be the first to get their hands on it. When fans get into shoving matches and the police have to be called.

Bakers make cakes in its image, while enterprising sellers offer product customisations like braces, make-up and custom identity cards.

Perhaps the true hallmarks of a product’s popularity are a hot reseller market and the existence of fake versions.

In a nutshell, these events describe the months-long craze over Labubu – the fanged little elf that everyone around the world is going gaga over.

Even though Labubu has been around since 2015, her star skyrocketed earlier in 2024 with a little bit of help from a popular K-pop star Lisa of Blackpink fame.

Distilling it for the people who don't get the hype, Natasha finds out what the hype is all about and why collectors enjoy these art toys so much.

To give her the download on all things 'LBB', Jeremy Lee, 44, the business director for South-east Asia at Pop Mart International and Yumiko Kayahara, 35, a KISS92 FM DJ, join her on The Usual Place to explain the current craze.

Pop Mart is the international brand that owns the exclusive rights to the Labubu intellectual property (IP).

From being a “kidult” to how Pop Mart is keeping up with the demand, they chat with Natasha in this wide-ranging interview on why this plushie has people going ga-ga.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:55 The celebrity endorsement effect

13:10 The reseller market and fakes on the market

20:15 Customisations and copyright of Labubu - will Pop Mart do something about it?

26:24 Who is a “kidult”?

36:21 Will Pop Mart have another toy that matches Labubu’s popularity?

6 things you did not know about Labubu: https://str.sg/dNhY

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E18: How to get from autonomous vehicles to flying cars: Xpeng CEO

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Technology is advancing at such a pace as Chinese electric vehicle brand Xpeng is aiming to prove to the global market.

Synopsis: In this special episode, The Straits Times' Lee Nian Tjoe meets Mr He Xiaopeng, the chairman and chief executive of Chinese electric vehicle brand, Xpeng.

By 2025, Xpeng cars will bring the driver from door-to-door with barely any human intervention and in 2026, it plans to deliver its first flying vehicle.

Xpeng is using automated driving technology to make driving safer and more relaxing.

The target, Mr He says, is to make the cars behave like “good drivers” on the road, adapt to local conditions and behaviours.

Concurrently, the company is taking to the skies. Its first flying vehicle will reach customers in 2026.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:55 By 2025, Xpeng’s drivers will only need to step in to take control once or twice per 100km covered

3:45 Level 5 autonomous driving means that the vehicle can handle itself in all conditions, whether it is a typhoon or an earthquake

5:25 Automated driving technology does not mean drivers will lose their jobs

7:00 Flying cars?

8:46 How Xpeng picks its markets and goes about entering them

9:35 On why only a minority of car companies in China today will survive in the next five to 10 years

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow COE Watch Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

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S1E14: Getting death plans in order: Our young guests discuss

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Should young people be talking about - and planning for - their deaths?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In this episode of The Usual Place, three millennials under 35 get candid about mortality and what changed their perspectives on death.

Ho Hui Sze, 30, a counselling psychologist and host of Being With Grief podcast, G. Kethlyn Gayatiri, 32, a freelance educator, and Muhammad Alif, 28, a financial advisor and content creator, are no strangers to talking about death.

They feature on Let's Talk About Death - a five-episode docuseries by The Straits Times, which premiered on Oct 23, 2024.

From choosing a casket to protecting their passwords for their online accounts, each of them explores different aspects of end-of-life planning and dying well.

Kethlyn is filmed in Episode 2 with her mother, Irene Koh, while Alif appears with his wife Liyana (@financewithliyandlif), in Episode 4.

As for Hui Sze(@beingwith.grief), she chooses to memorialise her own bedroom in Episode 5.

Natasha wants to find out how discussing death can be liberating, the misconceptions that often come up when planning for death, and how thinking about dying has made them live life differently.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:36 What made these millennials change their perspective of death?

6:16 Hui Sze talks about the pain of death and the gifts of grief

17:19 What if I die first? Kethlyn recounts talking to her mother

23:12 Alif gets emotional when creating his will - his “last love letter”

31:25 A ‘Dabao Kit’ and and Death Cafes to talk about death

39:32 How has talking about death made them live life differently?

Watch ST's "Let's talk about death" video series here: https://str.sg/a4Ey

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

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Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

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S1E129: The difference between Asian and Caucasian dementia

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Where is Singapore dementia research headed?

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

This episode is on a topic that affects millions worldwide: dementia. We will explore the differences between how dementia presents in Asian versus Caucasian populations, and what this means when it comes to early intervention and future treatments.

Professor Nagaendran Kandiah, director of the Dementia Research Centre (Singapore) at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine at Nanyang Technological University is our guest. He also talks to Joyce Teo about Lecanemab and Donanemab, two drugs that can slow down Alzheimer’s disease by treating the root cause. Donanemab, for instance, has been approved, but not recommended for the National Health Service in England.

Highlights (click/tap above)

1:05 Differences in the way dementia shows up in Asians and Caucasians

6:01 A blood test to pick up dementia

11:59 Lecanemab and Donanemab, two drugs that have been approved elsewhere for those with Alzheimer’s disease

18:50 What can you do to lower your risk of vascular dementia?

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E5: Avoidance, removals and reduction: What blocks agreement on carbon markets at COP29?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

International carbon markets can help to channel funding to developing countries and help them take action to tackle climate change.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

What is the difference between carbon avoidance, removal or reduction? This question is one of a few key ones holding up global consensus on the establishment of a global carbon credit programme under Article 6 the Paris Agreement. At the UN climate conference COP29, which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from Nov 11 to 22, negotiators will be hammering out the details to enable this programme to be implemented. Article 6 of the Paris Agreement allows countries to cooperate with one another to achieve their climate targets, such as through carbon markets.

What are the differences between these three terms, and why are they so contentious? To find out more about the roadblocks hindering an agreement on carbon markets at COP29, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty chat with Mr Anshari Rahman, director of policy and analytics and investment firm GenZero. Mr Anshari was a former climate negotiator on Article 6 with the Singapore Government.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:08 What is Article 6 all about?

4:07 Why is Article 6 important for South-east Asia?

7:42 What are the main sticking points of negotiations on Article 6?

9:33 What are the issues surrounding the varying definitions of carbon avoidance, removal, or reduction?

13:58 What are the other benefits that Article 6 can deliver?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Eden Soh

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S2E5: Sustainable finance: Where are the investing and job opportunities?

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 16:00:00 +0000

DBS’ sustainability chief reveals ways to get into sustainability and why sustainable finance matters.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

The warmer the weather, the more we feel the impact of human activities on climate change. But how do we make a difference? Should we find jobs that work on sustainability, particularly on the environment front? Or invest in more meaningful asset classes in the sustainability field?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan examines why sustainability matters, how to get a job in the ESG field, and what we can do in our daily lives and with our investing to contribute to a more sustainable world.

Her guest, Helge Muenkel, also describes how his career started with a Masters in development economics, and the twists and turns he made before finally landing in his current position as DBS chief sustainability officer.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:52 What skills do I need to work in sustainability?

10:20 What is sustainable finance?

12:47 Do my individual efforts make a difference?

15:07 How caring about climate change protects what we love

26:03 Three little things you can do to change the world

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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S2E6: What lies beneath: Chongqing’s subterranean world

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Its warren of underground bunkers and tunnels, which sheltered the city’s residents during the heavy bombing of the Second Sino-Japanese war, are turned into lifestyle destinations today.

Synopsis: The Straits Times chats with ST’s global correspondents about life as it goes on, amid the screaming headlines and bubbling crises.

Chongqing bears a grim wartime history. As China’s wartime capital which Chiang Kai-shek’s Kuomintang government decamped to in 1937, it was heavily bombed during the Second Sino-Japanese war. Bunkers - some 16,000 - were built into the city’s hills and mountains, sheltering terrified residents as the bombs rained down.

Some eight decades on, the Chongqing government has given these underground shelters a new lease of life.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks to China correspondent Aw Cheng Wei about what it is like to be in those bunkers today, and why Chongqing is approaching its wartime past differently from other Chinese cities.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:39 Bookshops, car washes and mahjong sessions

2:51 A real coming to terms with its history?

8:24 Making the most of one’s past

14:04 The Straits Times sets up shop in Chongqing

Read Aw Cheng Wei’s article here: https://str.sg/w2Esn

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Lynda Hong

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Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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S2E5: What next after Japan's political earthquake?

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Political upheaval in Japan as its snap elections see the ruling party lose its majority, reshaping its ties with the US and Asia.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the Asian continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Tobias Harris, founder of political risk consultancy Japan Foresight on the fallout from the stunning electoral reverses suffered by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba following his decision to hold snap polls.

They discuss what the results, which saw the long-governing Liberal Democratic Party and allied party Komeito lose their parliamentary majority, mean for Japan, its alliance with the US, and its ties with wider Asia.

Tobias and Ravi also discuss how the results could impact on fiscal policy, and whether the government would now be forced to go in for further fiscal expansion.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:36 Japan’s political ‘earthquake’

4:33 Anger, frustration in Japan

7:50 Domestic priorities to be a focus

8:33 Japan’s foreign policy

17:55 Fiscal discipline will be difficult

21:17 A modernised LDP

Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg)

Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Lynda Hong

Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S2E4: Concern over potential post-election instability in the US

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Unless one candidate wins swing states decisively, a quick settlement is unlikely in America’s cliffhanger election.

Synopsis: The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

The United States’ presidential election, which polls show is currently in a statistical tie, is unlikely to be settled quickly unless one candidate decisively wins enough swing states - which remains a possibility.

Short of that however, both parties have armies of lawyers ready to file challenges to the result - with resolution potentially taking a long time, and concerns over instability in the interim.

While a Kamala Harris presidency would bring a degree of continuity to foreign policy - and possibly some push back against Israel’s conduct - a Donald Trump presidency would have echoes of his first term, in which he bristled against the traditional post World War II international order, bringing up issues even with American allies such as NATO. A second term would bring more transactionalism and disruption even as some countries would like to see him back in power. He has also claimed that he will end the Russia-Ukraine war in 24 hours.

From the eye of the gathering storm in an increasingly severely polarised America, senior journalist, author and veteran foreign correspondent Steven Herman, Chief National Correspondent of Voice of America, shares his views with Asian Insider host Nirmal Ghosh.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:17 The implications from the elections on foreign policies

5:05 Global perceptions of America and how some are eager to see Donald Trump return

6:33 Potential for political instability and the possibility of a long unresolved election

11:16 The public sentiment and political polarization of the elections

15:03 How Trump and Harris are looking at reaching out to younger audience through podcasts

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

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S1E1: 10,000 miles in Trump country

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Navigating the US election scene - from Trump's rise to economic worries and the shifting tides of masculinity in politics.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ assistant foreign editor Clement Tan catches up with US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar to share her insights into the US presidential elections on Nov 5, 2024.

Clement Tan speaks with Bhagyashree Garekar, ST’s US bureau chief, about her experiences covering the US elections. They discuss the changes in American society, the rise of Trump, and the impact of inflation concerns on voter sentiment.

In this episode, Bhagya shares memorable encounters from her travels across the US, highlighting the political landscape and the growing diversity in the population. The conversation also touches on the psychological aspects of masculinity in politics and the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming election results.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:51 Memorable encounters on the campaign trail

8:23 Changes in infrastructure and American society

12:33 The rise of Trump and white nationalism

16:41 Masculinity and political identity

18:57 Economic concerns and election predictions

Follow Clement Tan on X: https://str.sg/uErS

Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62

Host: Clement Tan (clemtan@sph.com.sg) & Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Lynda Hong

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S2E4: Beyond diversity, inclusion buzzwords: How to be more inclusive at work

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Observing with empathy, asking the right questions and listening will go a long way to charting out how to give meaningful support.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Diversity, equity and inclusion are aspirational ideals that have permeated conversations of work life and good employment.

Yet, there is still room for improvement when it comes to putting these aspirations into practice, if a survey on diversity issues commissioned by The Straits Times and release in August is anything to go by.

In this episode, ST journalist Tay Hong Yi finds out how employers and employees both have their part to play in making workplaces more inclusive in meaningful ways without patronising those who benefit.

His guests are:

Ms Winifred Ling, a couples therapist and relationship coach who has lived with an invisible disability for close to two decades

Ms Hsu Yi Peng, a young leader who helmed an initiative to provide students with diverse needs internship opportunities at her company, HSBC, on top of her day job as a product specialist.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:46 How did the idea of diversity, equity and inclusion come to the guests’ attention?

5:01 What was the learning curve like for Yi Peng when she took on the initiative?

9:20 Should employers or employees lead the charge to promote inclusion?

13:20 How did HSBC devise the support moves for students in the initiative?

19:12 How to balance between providing accommodations and seeing individuals for who they are beyond their traits?

Read the feature by Rosalind Ang discussed on the podcast: https://str.sg/x4oC

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E4: After the 'Paris Agreement' for nature was adopted in 2022, what's next at COP16 biodiversity meet?

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Unlocking new sources of financing for nature, ending harmful subsidies and benefit sharing among issues to be discussed

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

It has been two years since the Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted, and almost 200 countries are set to gather in Cali, Colombia, from Oct 21 to Nov 1 to discuss the way forward. The framework, touted as the biodiversity equivalent of the Paris Agreement that aims to help the world avert catastrophic climate change, wants to help slow, even reverse, nature’s decline.

The framework outlines four goals that the world hopes to achieve by 2050, including protecting and restoring nature and closing the biodiversity finance gap. The framework also outlines 22 targets, to be achieved by 2030, to help the world achieve the longer-term goals. Targets include the one to restore 30 per cent of all degraded ecosystems by 2030, and to protect and restore 30 per cent of the world’s lands and seas by that same timeline.

At COP16, countries are expected to come up with an action plan to translate these goals and targets into concrete action. But what are some hot topics, and how will countries navigate this? To find out more, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty chat with Mr Will McGoldrick, Asia-Pacific managing director for The Nature Conservancy.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:29 Why is COP16 important?

4:48 What does The Nature Conservancy – one of the world’s largest environmental non-profit organisations that is tracking negotiations – expect to see at COP16?

6:40 Protecting nature does not come cheap. What are negotiations looking like on the finance front?

9:46 How do we start to phase out subsidies that harm nature?

14:30 Benefit sharing is expected to be another topic of discussions at COP16. What is it and why is it important?

17:12 How are South-east Asian countries approaching nature conservation?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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S2E2: How will Singapore fare under a Harris or Trump 2.0 US administration?

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

US trade policy and US-China competition concerns are high on the minds of South-east Asia observers.

Synopsis: The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Hardening strategic competition with China will remain front and centre of the foreign policy focus of the next US Administration in Washington DC. But while Asian countries have a mixed response to this superpower competition, most seek to stay on the right side of the United States and off the wrong side of China.

Ahead of the US presidential elections on Nov 5, South-east Asia would foresee more continuity under a Kamala Harris Administration, with the Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF, launched in 2022 by the Joe Biden Administration) continuing - while a second Donald Trump regime’s approach would be more bilateral, with Washington’s relations with individual countries shaped by factors such as trade deficits.

Within the broader context of US-China competition though, South-east Asian countries would be looking for more clarity from Washington on distinctions between trade and investment and economic issues, and national security concerns, as host Nirmal Ghosh finds out in this episode.

His guests are:

Dr Satu Limaye, director of the East West Centre in Washington DC, creator of the Asia Matters for America initiative, and founding editor of the Asia Pacific Bulletin.
Singapore-based APAC Advisors CEO Steven Okun served in the Clinton administration and is a veteran of numerous Democratic presidential campaigns.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:57 Directionally, the US-China relationship is going to be more tense… regardless of who wins on Nov 5

9:12 More fundamental understanding of the fragmented multi-polar and deconstructing international order

13:14 South-east Asia has been masterful at internationalising the search for autonomy; what could happen if there were to be a Trump 2.0 Administration?

16:02 How will Singapore fare? Why it will be very difficult for businesses and investors to do business or to invest if what's allowed today is not allowed tomorrow - for national security concerns

21:48 US-Asia relations: Why the threads of continuity are likely to overcome the threads of discontinuity

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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S1E13: Confronting suicide: The conversations we need

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The conversation in this episode dives into suicide prevention, stigma, and the changes needed to get to Zero-Suicide.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In Singapore, suicide remains the leading cause of death for young people aged between 10 and 29.

A 160-page white paper report called Project Hayat (meaning ‘life’ in Malay) was launched in conjunction with World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept 10 by advocacy group SG Mental Health Matters.

Project Hayat outlines a national suicide prevention strategy for Singapore, and laid out its own research findings and 23 recommendations for addressing the gaps in suicide prevention here.

In this episode, host Natasha Ann Zachariah finds out how we could talk more openly about suicide matters among young people, and what more can be done to address the gaps in support.

Her guests on the show are the project’s co-lead Dr Rayner Tan, 35, who is from the National University of Singapore’s Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health.

Shantini Sathiyanesan, 38, calls herself a “wounded healer” for her journey through suicidality, and also for having experienced the grief of losing someone to suicide.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:55 Has Project Hayat’s data studies shown unique barriers specific to minorities in society?

5:30 How to tell if someone has suicidal thoughts; passive and active suicide ideation; what is psychache (psychological pain)?

9:25 Shantini shares her own lived experience of suicidality - having suicidal thoughts, ideation, and losing someone to suicide - despite living a highly functioning life

13:58 What is the suicide question and why is it important to ask it? Paradox of saying “I don’t want to be a burden”

20:10 Importance of Project Hayat’s suicide prevention strategies; what can we do better when someone comes to us for help?

31:23 Dr Rayner Tan on Project Hayat’s bold ‘zero suicides’ target for Singapore; on SOS (Samaritans of Singapore) helplines and the experience it offers

The Project Hayat White Paper is available here: www.sgmentalhealthmatters.com

MENTAL WELL-BEING

Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)

COUNSELLING

Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366
We Care Community Services: 3165-8017

ONLINE RESOURCES

https://moht.com.sg/mindline-sg/
https://fycs.org/ec2-sg/
https://www.tinklefriend.sg/
https://www.imh.com.sg/chat/Pages/default.aspx
https://carey.carecorner.org.sg/ (for those aged 13 to 25)
https://www.limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

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S1E47: Tan See Leng: How tough talks resulted in job seeker support

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The SkillsFuture JobSeeker Support aims to help the retrenched tide over financially, while between jobs, after tough talks with unions, employers and the Government.

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

As the global economy changes more rapidly and unpredictably, workers may face more risk from job loss despite best efforts.

Yet, going out of a job can pose a hit to household finances. In an era of rising cost of living, lower- and middle-income workers are more likely to jump on the first job offer without considering their aptitudes.

To give these workers more time to find the ‘right’ job for them, the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme will be launched in April 2025, with financial support structured to spur an active job search without incentivising prolonged unemployment.

The scheme, estimated to cost the Government $200 million every year, comes as a result of tough talks among employers, unions and the Government.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and journalist Tay Hong Yi host Manpower minister Tan See Leng to learn how the scheme has taken shape behind the scenes.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:38 On the Government relooking its position on financial support for those who have lost jobs

11:11 On the scheme’s gestation: What took place behind the scenes

17:51 What are the safeguards in place for the scheme and why?

21:48 Eligibility criteria: Too complex to understand for job seekers?

25:36 Will the scheme help workers at higher risk?

28:58 How does this scheme reflect the 4G leadership’s approach to policymaking?

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Tay Hong Yi’s articles: https://str.sg/dSAE

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Studio+65 and Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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S2E3: Should we play with FIRE?

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

We don’t all have to live frugally and retire by 40 years old, but we need to be financially disciplined so we can retire meaningfully.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

FIRE in this context, stands for financial independence, retire early - a movement that points to the desire to retire earlier than the usual age range of 65 to 70, through a regime of aggressive investing, saving and frugality during one’s working years.

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan investigates if Fire is for everyone, and if there are other ways to sustainably achieve financial freedom and retire at leisure.

Her guests are Mr He Ruiming, 35, who as co-founder of the Woke Salaryman, talks about how he initially wanted to retire at the age of 32, and DBS financial literacy expert Lorna Tan, who feels that retiring meaningfully is more important to her.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:42 What are the different types of Fire?

3:14 Ruiming’s journey to achieve Fire by the age of 32

9:40 If I’m 25 now, what should I do to retire at 40?

12:56 What Ruiming wished he knew when he was younger

16:45 Lorna’s alternative to Fire, which is 'Firm' - financial independence, retiring meaningfully

21:46 Trends like loud budgeting which support more financial discipline

27:29 Using excel spreadsheets to track finances and goals

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E3: A relook at nuclear energy's role in the net-zero goal

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Powering up: The world is warming up to nuclear energy as nations scramble for zero-carbon electricity.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

For years, nuclear energy has been reviled as an energy source over safety, cost and the time taken to build the power plants.

But with the world’s growing need for clean electricity to fuel everything from electric vehicles, heating and cooling to giant data centres, nuclear energy is getting its time in the sun again.

Some countries, such as the United States, Japan and France, have committed to tripling nuclear energy capacity by 2050, while others, like Singapore, have said it is not ruling out its use. China is also making big investments in nuclear energy.

Compared to generators powered by fossil fuels, nuclear reactors do not produce any planet-warming emissions.

But will this be the silver bullet to getting the world to net-zero? What else is needed in the world’s decarbonisation journey?

Our guest is Mr Chris Bradley, Director of McKinsey Global Institute and Senior Partner of McKinsey & Company. The institute is the consultancy’s research arm. Chris co-wrote a recent report looking at the global decarbonisation challenge and found that we are only about 10 per cent of the way on the low-emissions journey.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:07 What is accounting for the resurgence in interest in nuclear energy?

7:36 What are some outstanding issues hindering nuclear energy deployment?

10:18 What are the other challenges to the world’s path to net-zero?

12:18 What are the challenges for Asia’s decarbonisation journey?

15:56 How can South-east Asia speed up its energy transition?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E1: Is Cantonese dying out in Hong Kong?

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Some are holding fast to their mother tongue, even with migration overseas, and are coming up with creative ways to spread the learning and use of Cantonese.

Synopsis: The Straits Times chats with ST’s global correspondents about life as it goes on, amid the screaming headlines and bubbling crises.

Want to pick up Cantonese? Some Hong Kongers - from a software engineer to a playgroup teacher based in Britain - have created new ways of learning the Chinese dialect such as through apps, videos and social media accounts.

This surge in a grassroots effort is coming at a time when many Hong Kongers are feeling unmoored by the political turbulence of the past decade. As more migrate to non-Cantonese speaking societies, they are holding fast to their identity and language in a foreign environment.

There are also growing fears that Cantonese in Hong Kong and Guangdong is a dying language with people abandoning it for English or Mandarin.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying speaks with Hong Kong correspondent Magdalene Fung on how true such concerns are, and her assessment of these new Cantonese-language tools.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Why Hong Kongers are championing the use of Cantonese

5:20 How these new tools are different from traditional methods

9:50 A living and constantly changing language

13:00 The situation in Guangdong

Read Magdalene Fung’s article here: https://str.sg/AfVW

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E12: Rooting for our mother tongues in Singapore

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Your mother tongue can also be your super power - that’s what our three guests on The Usual Place tell us.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In this episode, Zhang Xi Ying, a content producer at HeyKaki, C Aishwarya, a branding and promotions executive from Tamil Murasu and Rabiatul Adawiya Binhan, deputy audience and growth editor from Berita Harian, share their views on what it takes to be bilingual.

Beyond acquiring another language, your mother tongue helps shape some sense of your identity, and preserve culture and connections with your roots.

For one, it’s no longer passe to be fluent in your mother tongue, say Xi Ying and Aishwarya. But sometimes, the struggle to pick it up can be real, adds Rabiatul, who is trying to get her two children to learn Malay.

Learning our mother tongues came up at the National Day Rally (NDR) in August 2024.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, said in his Mandarin speech, that he understood that the Chinese community is “very concerned” about the standard of Mandarin in Singapore.

In an effort to spur on students who are strong in their mother tongue, Mr Wong announced that those who do well in these languages at primary school will be able to study it at a higher level from Secondary 1.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:59 Why learning your mother tongue brings you closer to culture

10:48 Clinging to their culture when they can’t speak their mother tongue

13:42 Mixing English and mother tongue languages to appeal

21:23 Hating on your mother tongue

27:26 Connecting with your mother tongue starts at home

Check out the full vodcast here: https://str.sg/sfG2

Follow our guests on HeyKaki, Orang Muda Gitew and இன்னொரு day இன்னொரு slay

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Eden Soh & Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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S1E128: Let’s talk about mental health!

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 04:30:00 +0000

There is no health without mental health.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Mental health is a national priority in Singapore. While the recent 2023 National Population Health Survey showed that there was an improvement in the mental health of the general population between 2022 and 2023, younger adults aged 18 to 29 remained more affected than other age groups, with about 26 per cent of them reporting poor mental health.

We, at ST, want to normalise conversations about mental health so that people can get timely support. This is super important because there is no health without mental health.

This is why we’re starting a year-long Mental Health Series, which will feature a package of stories focusing on mental health every month.

We will talk to people with mental health conditions about the challenges they face, and what they do to manage their conditions.

We will also look at the evolving mental health landscape here, and tell you what is changing.

In this podcast, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to two guests about their help seeking journey.

They are her colleague Lee Li Ying, who’s a correspondent at ST and Yusri Shaggy Sapari, a freelance filmmaker.

Highlights (click/tap above)

4:35 Li Ying’s first visit to a psychiatrist

9:13 Shaggy’s help-seeking journey via the polyclinic route

13:06 What’s the difference between a psychiatrist, a psychologist and a counsellor?

18:13 Tips for those thinking of seeking help

Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E114: South-east Asian scam centres a growing regional security threat

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Why action is needed to avoid some countries being labelled as 'scam states'.

Synopsis: Every third and fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

With their heavy security, territorial control and global reach, we look at South-east Asia’s industrial-size scam compounds, where thousands are lured from low-employment countries to work as forced labour stealing billions of dollars from victims worldwide. They are a national security threat to the countries they are based in as well as to the countries they target.

The criminal organisations running these centres emanate mostly from China, and are physically located mainly in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar but across the region in other countries as well. Sporadic crackdowns of the type recently seen in Laos’ Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, are often choreographed ahead of time, enabling kingpins to evade them.

According to a report released in May by the US Institute of Peace (USIP), as at the end of 2023, scam centres operating out of Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos had accounted for US$39 billion (S$50.1 billion) in stolen funds.

Jason Tower, Myanmar country director at USIP, joins host Nirmal Ghosh in this episode of Asian Insider to talk about the many aspects of this criminal industry, from human trafficking to forced labour and cybercrime.

He suggests that Malaysia - as the next chair of Asean - has an opportunity to exercise leadership as 2025 will mark the 10th anniversary of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Combating Transnational Crime.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:37 Victims from over 100 countries, with the average scam victim losing more or less all of their assets

5:17 Why Chinese police are becoming more proactive and responding to the situation

7:19 How scam compounds are extremely well-networked around the globe and can get advance information about an upcoming crackdown

11:22 The amounts brought in by these online scams can rival countries’ formal GDPs

15:50 Role of sanctions in combating scams - such as one on Ly Yong Phat, a notorious business figure involved in online scam compounds

19:32 A global crisis that demands action now

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E15: Singaporean switches banking studies for music; debut album on US jazz chart

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown jazz saxophone player Sean Hong Wei is the 15th guest in this music channel.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the 15th episode of Music Lab, ST’s music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts Singaporean jazz saxophone player Sean Hong Wei.

The 25-year-old marked a milestone when his debut album The New Jersey Sessions - a collaboration with his mentor and home-grown jazz maestro Jeremy Monteiro - reached the Top 20 of the chart of American publication JazzWeek in July, 2024. The chart ranks releases based on airplay reports submitted by radio stations.

The album had earlier gone to No. 1 on the overall chart and jazz chart on iTunes Singapore within two days of its release on Jan 1.

The former banking and finance student is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in music at The New School, New York. He also plays regular shows in the city’s vibrant jazz scene, where he meets and learns from seasoned veterans.

He shares his experiences of touring in Asia, including recent performances in Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

Sean discusses his plans to return to Singapore after completing his studies to contribute to the local jazz scene.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:57 On his album charting in the US jazz charts

4:13 On how his Singaporean background is not a barrier in the close-knit New York jazz scene

7:55 His experiences of touring, including recent gigs in Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

15:25 Getting into the saxophone, and jazz music, in secondary school

18:15 Dropping out of banking and finance studies and switching to music

25:56 Paying $1 for his saxophone, which is now worth $8,000

28:10 His future plans to help the local jazz scene grow

Watch Sean Hong Wei's rendition of Body And Soul, a 1930 jazz standard composed by American songwriter Johnny Green: https://str.sg/nArc

Discover home-grown artiste Sean Hong Wei at:

Spotify: https://str.sg/An5E

Instagram: https://str.sg/yZVP

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team & Studio+65

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/7m92

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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S1E1: Workers aren't loyal anymore, why train them?

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How can Singapore business leaders become special?

Synopsis: The Straits Times speaks with the new dean of Insead Asia Campus, Professor Sameer Hasija, on executive education and Singapore business leaders.

The new dean of Insead Asia recounts the following meme in an era where workers do not stay put in one organisation for long anymore.

The chief financial officer asks: "Should we be investing in training our people? What if they leave?"

The chief executive answers: "Imagine we don't invest in them and they stay."

In this exclusive, Prof Hasija tells host Krist Boo how going to a business school differs from going to a career coach. He points out why businesses should invest in workers and why business leaders must throw out the 'elitist' in themselves, in today's multi-generational and fragmented workplaces.

He also talks about Singapore's strategy to put more Singaporeans into global leadership positions. Do Singaporeans lack ambition?

Highlights (click/tap):

2:05 What does executive education do for me?

7:46 Why pay for employee development when they don't stay?

9:17 Why are there so few Singaporean global business leaders?

11:47 Do Singaporeans lack ambition, or is it cultural? Are there 'invisible ceilings' in global companies?

16:35 Has performative leadership overtaken values and integrity?

19:02 What could make Singapore's business leaders special in today's polarised world?

Read Krist Boo's articles: https://str.sg/wB2P

Follow Krist Boo on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/shcB

Host: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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S1E17: Has pricey car ownership killed youths' desire for cars?

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A university professor says his students are not keen on owning a car, while a motor industry expert says that they would, if cars were affordable.

Synopsis: Every third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times offers expert insights on new vehicles or transportation trends.

In this episode, COE Watch host Lee Nian Tjoe invites Associate Professor Raymond Ong from the National University of Singapore, who wrote an opinion piece published in The Straits Times in August which said that the current price of certificate of entitlement (COE) needed to register a mass-market car is more affordable to households in Singapore today than it was in 2013. His other guest is motor trader-turned-consultant Say Kwee Neng.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:15 The reality at the showrooms, where the age of car buyers has changed from 10 years ago

12:05 Car-leasing firms for private hire have changed the game in the demand for COEs

26:20 The danger of the sense of defeatism in youths when cost of a car has reached far beyond their means

35:00 COE and car taxes in deterring ownership "have past a use-by date"

42:00 How much to pay under a distance-based road pricing system or a satellite-based system?

Read Assoc Prof Ong's article for ST: https://str.sg/yKAg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E11: Why parents should not see teachers as service providers: Chan Chun Sing

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:30:00 +0000

Can there be respect?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues of the day.

Education Minister Chan Chun Seng recently announced at the Ministry of Education Schools Work Plan Seminar, how parents should communicate with teachers from now on. He said teachers are not required to share their personal phone numbers, and do not need to respond to work-related messages after school hours.

Instead, they should use official channels like their e-mail and office number when contacting parents, and respond to work-related messages after school hours only in the event of emergencies, he added.

These guidelines aim to help schools and parents work together more “positively, constructively and respectfully” while also establishing boundaries so that teachers can have “protected time” of their own.

In this episode, Mr Chan dropped by The Usual Place to chat with host Natasha and her special co-host Jaime Ho, who is also the editor of The Straits Times.

Why is this culture the way it is for now? Or is it just down to a seemingly larger issue of over-parenting or parents being unable to go with the flow in general?

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:55 Is there a culture of over-parenting? Avoiding a 'crutch' mentality

9:50 Mr Chan on whether MOE should "over-protect, over-structure or remove all untidiness from life" for children in general

12:50 Social media impact today: The pressure of being compared, how children and also parents feel it in different ways

13:50 The 'spirit' of the new rule: why it matters, and how the culture could evolve

17:25 On the culture of bypassing the system to "get their own way"; on the case example of orientation for parents - not children - at one school

22:37 Mr Chan on why teachers in Singapore are not here to "service us"

32:40 Looking at flexibility for teachers too, while maintaining the "ethos of teaching", in a "code of conduct"; respecting teachers, their "private time" to "recharge"

36:10 Mr Chan's memories of teachers who inspired him

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: ST Video

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, Jamie Koh and Rubeen Raj

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

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S1E113: How a savvy Asean has helped prevent wars in region: Kishore Mahbubani

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The seasoned Singapore diplomat is bullish on India and Asean but says the US should not be underestimated.

Synopsis: Every third and fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Veteran Singapore diplomat Kishore Mahbubani, never shy about sharing his views, is bullish on India and Asean, believes China will not invade Taiwan unless the island declares independence - and warns that no one should underestimate America.

In this episode, Mr Mahbubani says Europe should also revise its notions of being a global economic powerhouse, and the United Kingdom needs to give up its seat on the UN Security Council so India can take it.

Asean has been successful as a regional organisation in preventing Brexit-style breakaways as well as wars in the region - and by 2030 its combined economy will be bigger than Japan’s, Mr Mahbubani contends.

Pressure on China will grow regardless of who occupies the White House after America’s presidential election. In terms of tactics, Kamala Harris would be predictable, but Donald Trump would not.

Mr Mahbubani, currently a Distinguished Fellow at the Asia Research Institute of the National University of Singapore, is among other things former Singapore Ambassador to the UN, former Permanent Secretary at Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and founding Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. He has just published a new book titled Living The Asian Century: An Undiplomatic Memoir."

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:54 Three geopolitical geniuses - Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee, and S. Rajaratnam

5:32 South-east Asia has an enormous agency; Asean will be bigger than Japan by 2030

8:46 "I am extremely bullish about the prospects of India," says Kishore Mahbubani

11:11 Chinese and Indian inventors are responsible for 20% of all US patents

15:04 Wars are draining

16:59 Near-universal consensus in Washington DC that the US has about 10 years to stop China from becoming No.1

18:44 You can’t predict what Donald Trump is going to do

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Host: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Studio+65 and Fa’izah Sani

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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S2E2: How do young workers view pay?

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Salaries need to be structured more flexibly to reflect broader aspirations.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Views on pay issues vary widely among young workers depending on their professional and life goals.

This was borne out in a survey of 1,000 young people commissioned by The Straits Times, carried out in May by market research firm Kantar and released in August.

In this episode, ST journalist Tay Hong Yi digs deeper into the implications of the results and underlying beliefs that give rise to different attitudes.

His guests are Dr Fermin Diez, a researcher on compensation issues with over 30 years of corporate experience, and young professional Jonathan Ng, who juggles being a business development manager with robotics company Otsaw while studying for a degree in marketing at the Singapore University of Social Sciences.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:38 How has working and studying at the same time influenced Jonathan’s views on salary?

4:10 How have career norms shifted?

8:33 Are companies keeping up with these shifting norms in how pay is designed?

12:43 Why does satisfaction with one’s salary and work-life balance decline with age?

15:29 Disclosing salary details

22:14 How can employers deal with inter-generational differences on how pay is perceived?

Read the feature by Prisca Ang discussed on the podcast: https://str.sg/9aLR

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy

Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E2: Bezos Earth Fund's menu for Asia: Bugs, slaughter-free meat and fermented protein

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

In the bid to make alternative protein palatable to the consumer, South-east Asian cuisine offers some advantages.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Home to glitzy bars and Michelin star restaurants, Singapore is a foodie paradise. It is a reputation that extends well beyond the dinner plate – and it is not just diners who are noticing.

The country’s research into ways of feeding the world in ways that are more beneficial for the climate and nature is also attracting global attention.

On Sept 5, the Bezos Earth Fund launched Asia’s first Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein at the National University of Singapore, with a $39 million commitment from the Bezos Earth Fund. The fund was started by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos as a philanthropic commitment to address the climate crisis.

What does this centre hope to do, and how will it help with Asia’s protein pivot? Green Pulse co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty get the lowdown from Dr Andy Jarvis, director of future of food at the Bezos Earth Fund.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:57 The link between food production, climate change and nature loss

4:27 Is producing alternative protein really more climate-friendly than regular animal-based protein?

5:34 What is the gap in alternative protein R&D identified by the Bezos Earth Fund?

9:23 What is the role of philanthropy in the great protein pivot toward sustainable source?

12:28 The focus for Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein in the National University of Singapore

14:27 What is one advantage that South-east Asian cuisine has over others, in terms of the move to sustainable protein?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S1E34: What future for the famed Gurkhas?

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Revered as soldiers, the Gurkhas are Nepalis who are recruited into the British Army, the Singapore Police, the Indian Army, and recently, even the Russian army.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the Asian continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with one of the most highly decorated officers of the Indian Army, retired Lt. Gen. Shokin Chauhan, on the future of Gurkhas, the famous warriors from the hill tribes of central Nepal. Gurkhas, who form the largest ethnic component of the Indian Army, have also lately been in the news after it was reported that some of them died fighting for Russia in the Ukraine War.

A celebrated scholar-soldier and a retired second generation Gurkha Rifles officer of the Indian Army, Lt. Gen. Chauhan and Ravi discuss recent changes to India’s military recruitment policies that led Nepal to ban Gurkha recruitment by New Delhi, whether Nepal’s Maoist government will permit Nepalese soldiers to continue participating in UN peacekeeping operations, and the relevance of foot-soldiers in the era of robotics in warfare.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Why Gurkha troops are special

08:50 Special height provisions for Gurkhas in British, Indian armies

11:15 Why Gurkhas go abroad to fight; Gurkhas in Russia

14:40 How India’s new recruitment policy hits Gurkhas

18:00 Could India’s Gurkha Regiment be disbanded?

22:50 Nepal and UN peace-keeping operations

25:00 Future of Gurkhas and infantry in the age of robotics

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

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Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

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S1E10: Bye-bye 5Cs. Hello, purpose: how we redefine success

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Does living a meaningful, purpose-filled life trump materialistic goals and climbing the corporate ladder these days?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues of the day, and finds out about what young people are talking about.

Talk about the new definition of success has been fronted this year by Singapore’s new prime minister Lawrence Wong, who has called for wider definitions of success.

But can it be done? In this episode, Natasha asks her three guests how possible it is to run on passion, and in redefining success, what does failure look like now? Also, what is one thing that young people need to do if they want to redefine what success looks like to them.

Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth and Trade and Industry Alvin Tan, founder and executive director of Access Singapore Clarence Ching, and co-founder of River Valley Irregulars Sheila Manokaran speak about how they see the Singaporean dream moving beyond the 5Cs.

The question - or is it an existential crisis? - that millennials and Gen Zs grapple with is about how they can make an impact that counts, even in a 9-to-5 job.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:49 Why is it necessary for us to redefine success now?

9:52 The stumbling blocks on the paths to success

18:35 Can chasing passions put food on the table?

24:54 ”What is the government doing to ensure I have a job?”

33:20 What does failure look like in this new definition of success?

40:25 What we need for a mindset shift

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's related story: https://str.sg/Mieu

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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S1E20: What is working in F1’s Red Bull Racing team like?

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Two Singaporeans share their experiences working for Red Bull racing.

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

The 2024 Singapore Grand Prix returns on Sept 22 when fans here witness exhilarating action over 62 laps of the 4.94-kilometre Marina Bay Street Circuit. And while the title race between Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen and McLaren’s Lando Norris heats up on track, The Straits Times’ Hard Tackle revs up for the race weekend by learning more about what happens behind the scenes at a F1 team.

In this episode, sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by Singaporeans Charis Chua and Heng Yi-Hsin, students from Nanyang Technological University who look back on their 2½-month stint with Red Bull Racing and look ahead to the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:30 Finding out about winning the internship challenge to work for Red Bull Racing

7:45 What Yi-Hsin and Chua did during their stints with RB

11:25 Why Formula 1 is more than just about fast cars and the famous drivers

13:30 The standout moments from the internship with RB

18:30 Looking ahead to 2024 Singapore Grand Prix

Read: https://str.sg/LtoJ

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S1E2: Sumiko at 60: Friendship isn't about age groups

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Straits Times' executive editor Sumiko Tan, who turns 60 this year in 2024, finds out the challenges to growing older as she confronts her own negative attitudes about ageing.

Intergenerational friendships are not just about age groups, as Sumiko finds out from Michael Chiang. The playwright is nearly three decades older than married couple Jonathan Leong and Jeneen Goh, but the trio share a firm friendship.

Host: Sumiko Tan (sumiko@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: Studio+65

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E46: BNPL: Buying power or financial trouble?

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The 'buy now, pay later' (BNPL) scheme allows for purchase on zero interest instalment plans with less credit requirement.

Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

In 2023, Singapore consumers spent $3.4 billion online and in-store using 'buy now, pay later' (BNPL) services from third-party providers like Atome and Grab PayLater, banks and retailers - without the need for minimum income as required by credit cards.

And members of Gen Z, those between 18 and 24 years of age, and young millennials between 25 and 34, were among the bigger users of this method, according to the Worldpay’s 2024 Global Payments Report.

With BNPL strengthening the purchasing power of youths, are there worrying social and financial implications from this new payment method, despite seemingly having more purchasing power?

To discuss more about this, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong co-hosts with business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan to speak with their guests about the possible implications of the BNPL scheme on youths.

Once in financial trouble with a $75,000 debt, Khairul Abbas Hamzah is now heading a consultancy to help debtors who are in the same boat - that he managed to get out of.

Also on the show is financial literacy expert Aaron Chwee, head of Wealth Advisory at OCBC Bank.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:03 Instant gratification impulse among younger generation?

10:55 When BNPL becomes a slippery slope; what types of financial habits BNPL inculcates

21:18 Phantom debt and the recourse to get out of debt troubles

26:24 Abbas’ $75,000 debt trouble

32:14 Social implications from BNPL

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Sue-Ann Tan’s articles: https://str.sg/KpUx

Hosts: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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S1E36: Chinese sauces are popular in India; less so are their purveyors

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The bitter aftertaste though, is the story of how Chinese Indians are struggling to fit in.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times chats with ST’s correspondents in the Asia-Pacific, the US and Europe, about life as it goes on, amid the screaming headlines and bubbling crises.

There is a popular sauce in India, which involves massive amounts of green chillies, salt and Indian spices such as turmeric. And it is sold as a Chinese sauce, in Kolkata’s Chinatown.

From paneer chilli to green chilli, Chinese sauces, adapted for Indian taste buds, are very popular in India.

It is also a representation of how ethnic Chinese - their origins in Kolkata can be traced to the 18th century in India - have assimilated.

But that is not the complete story, for the community whose history has been fraught, from the fall-out from the 1962 war between India and China, to the after-effects of today’s border conflict.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with India correspondent Debarshi Dasgupta on the Chinese-Indian community’s hopes and fears.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:48 What are Chinese-Indian sauces

1:59 Indian influences

3:13 A story of decline and atrophy

8:10 A painful history

Read Debarshi Dasgupta's article here: https://str.sg/feZA

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider here every month:

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S1E127: The war on salt and saturated fats

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How to choose a healthier salt and cooking oil.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Singapore is planning to introduce Nutri-Grade labelling for salt, sauces and seasonings, instant noodles and cooking oil.

These are labels that will allow consumers to tell at a glance how healthy they are. The products will be graded A to D – with D being the least healthy choice, having the highest levels of sodium and/or saturated fat, among other possible nutrients.

The mandatory Nutri-Grade label has been successfully used on pre-packaged and freshly prepared beverages. Drinks that exceed a threshold of sweetness are graded C and D, and there are also prohibitions on advertising such beverages that are grade D.

Still, it would appear easier for someone to cut down on sugary drinks, or even eliminate them, than it is to significantly reduce the intake of sodium and saturated fats as savoury foods can form a big part of our diets.

Will this new labelling requirement truly benefit us, and what should we watch out for, when it comes to maintaining healthier diets in the meantime?

ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo finds out more from the president of the Singapore Nutrition Dietetics Association, Dr Kalpana Bhaskaran.

She is the deputy director of Industry Partnerships and the head of the Glycemic Index Research Unit at the School of Applied Science at Temasek Polytechnic.

Highlights (click/tap above)

2:29 The taste test: what’s the difference between potassium salt and table salt?

3:08 Watch out for hidden sodium

6:59 Salty tolerance for the elderly is much higher

10:39 What exactly are saturated fats?

13:17 How to pick out a healthier cooking oil

15:13 Is there any truth to the claim that coconut oil is actually good for health?

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong

Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E9: Flexibility at work: The secret sauce to more babies?

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We ask Indranee Rajah - Minister in the Prime Minister's Office - to explain the mindset shift aim of the enhanced parental leave scheme, announced on Aug 18.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues of the day, and finds out about what young people are talking about.

When it was announced at the National Day Rally that the parental leave scheme would be enhanced starting in April 2025, Ms Indranee recalls young parents being happy to hear the news.

Employers, she adds, on the other hand, are cautiously welcoming the news as they put forth their concerns about managing schedules and workloads.

Ms Indranee talks about the need for a well-designed workplace to make shared parental leave work for all, not just parents of newborns.

This would mean fathers giving advance notice of when they want to take their leave or compensating those who take on a parent’s workload - with the money freed up by the government-paid paternity leave.

Natasha asks Ms Indranee why fathers haven’t been so keen to take up the existing provisions - reluctant line managers seem to be standing in the way - and if this would be the game-changing move couples need to support their aspirations to start and grow their families?

Highlights (click/tap above)

1:56 Who’s happy, post-National Day Rally?

6:40 Sending a signal that dads should be more involved in child-raising

10:57 A mindset change and cultural shift in the workplace

19:06 Will the enhanced parental leave improve Singapore’s TFR?

21:42 Making a family-friendly Singapore

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's related story: https://str.sg/Mieu

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S2E1: Investing with $100 a month as an undergrad? Why not!

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Start early, compound your wealth, and try not to beat the market.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Finance literacy experts always tell us to “start young” so we can make full use of the effect of compounding and grow our wealth from a young age.

But how early is early enough for first-time, young investors? Can an undergraduate without a full-time job start investing?

Crucially, if someone has just $100 a month to invest, what can they do with that amount?

In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan also looks at how university investing clubs help undergraduates to start growing their money, and the first investments that they can buy to begin.

Her guests are Associate Professor of Finance Matthew Dearth from NTU who brings 30 years of finance experience, and NTU undergraduate Victor Tan, who has invested since age 18.

The NTU Investment Interactive Club helps to link students to the finance community and hone their practical investing skills. It was founded in 1999 and now has over 5,000 members.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 How did Victor start investing at 18?

4:53 What’s the recommended age for people to start investing?

9:25 What products should people buy as a first investment?

12:17 Should we try to beat the market or do individual stock picking?

16:06 The biggest investment mistakes our guests have made

21:27 Where do you get your investing advice or knowledge from?

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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S2E1: Eco-nomics: Putting a value on nature is also key to saving it

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Businesses are buying into new financial products that could help save nature, but funds for nature’s protection have not reached the scale required.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Coral reef bonds, biodiversity credits and schemes that enable national debt to be forgiven in exchange for conservation efforts.

These are just some of the financial instruments that have been in the news recently, as the world races to find the funds needed to prevent nature from falling into further decline. But when did the financial sector start paying attention to nature, and can their involvement in conservation truly help to protect and restore natural ecosystems?

Financing for nature is expected to be a key topic of discussion at the COP16 biodiversity conference in Colombia in October. In the lead-up to the United Nations summit, Green Pulse co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the role of the financial sector in nature conservation with Ms Hoon Ling Min, investment director at decarbonisation investment platform GenZero.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:05 Who are the buyers of nature-linked investment products?

9:14 What drives the development of new types of nature-related financial products?

15:43 In the absence of a measurable metric for nature, how can biodiversity benefits be quantified?

17:30 How important is the role of the private sector in protecting nature?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E1: Get a Headstart in your finances & career from our new ST podcast

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

New episodes from our rebranded podcast channel will drop here: https://str.sg/wB2m

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times.

Our previous Money and Career podcast channel is now rebranded Headstart on Record, taking on a fresher and sharper approach on how to chase your aspirations and grow your money.

Hosts Sue-Ann Tan and Tay Hong Yi will speak with guests on how to navigate jobs and finances in a daunting, complex world.

Hong Yi has been covering manpower and talent topics for ST, with a focus on careers, the job market and workforce trends.

Sue-Ann will look at how to invest your money and the delicate balancing act between saving and living. Sept 2 Monday sees her first episode dropping across our audio platforms and the ST app.

Stay tuned for more episodes on chewy topics like how far would you go for your pay cheque and how you can invest from age 18.

Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa

Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/D6vT

Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: str.sg/headstart-nl

Produced by: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg), Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E14: Despite his elimination from Rap Of China, Shigga Shay still sees it as a win

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown rapper Shigga Shay is the 14th guest in this music channel.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the 14th episode of Music Lab, ST’s music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts Singaporean rapper Shigga Shay.

The 31-year-old hip-hop artist speaks at length about his experience as the first Singaporean to take part in The Rap Of China 2024, the popular Chinese reality show (2017 to present) that looks for the country’s next rap star.

He was among the 72 contestants out of 600 who passed the first round, and reached the 41st spot before being eliminated in the third round.

It is still a win, he says, because his time on the show gave him a platform to reach out to a whole new fanbase in China.

He still makes regular trips to China to work with his counterparts there on his upcoming release, a mixtape titled Hanyu Pinyin.

Featuring verses in Mandarin, English and Hokkien, this new batch of songs reflect his identity as a multilingual rapper from Singapore who is ready to take on the global stage.

Shigga also discusses how hip-hop helped him overcome his shyness, and how his late father gave him his stage name.

In the episode, he also performs a rendition of his latest single, Overachieve, which will also be included in his upcoming release Hanyu Pinyin.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:54 On being the first Singaporean to take part in The Rap Of China

14:24 How his multilingual songs tells his story as a rapper from Singapore

18:15 On how he has been rapping for half is life

26:17 Why he calls himself Shigga Shay

30:20 He started making music videos in school

34:47 On running his own music company

Listen to Shigga Shay’s live performance of Overachieve here: https://str.sg/GRrZ

Discover home-grown artiste Shigga Shay at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/bnA6

Spotify: https://str.sg/BQLe

Instagram: https://str.sg/vMyR

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team & Studio+65

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Discover previous artistes' live performances featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/7m92

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E14: Shigga Shay - Overachieve (Live)

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear home-grown rapper Shigga Shay's intimate live studio take of his latest single, Overachieve, which will also be included in his upcoming release Hanyu Pinyin.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Listen to Shigga Shay talk about his musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/yzJA

Discover home-grown artiste Shigga Shay at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/bnA6

Spotify: https://str.sg/BQLe

Instagram: https://str.sg/vMyR

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

Host: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team & Studio+65

Mixed by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Discover previous artistes featured on Music Lab Podcast:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E3: Visit to Windsor Nature Park: Can insects in SG's backyard be foraged?

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Love or loathe them, could insects also become a food source in the wider context of the global population?

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Green Trails is a 4-part environment podcast special for 2024 where The Straits Times hits the ground with experts.

"Can this be eaten?” is an oft repeated question that every nature guide is familiar with.

In July, Singapore approved 16 species of insects for human consumption, to the delight of sustainable food firms and disgust of some Singaporeans.

But can bugs one day whet mainstream appetites like sambal stingray, a smokey South-east Asian dish crafted from the creature once considered as a “trash fish”?

In this third episode of Green Trails, our team speaks to members of the Entomological Network of Singapore, a group of insect researchers and hobbyists, about the stories of insects in the city-state and whether these creatures can be foraged.

At Windsor Nature Park, ST journalist Ang Qing meets Dr Sean Yap, a research fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s Tropical Ecology & Entomology Lab, Mr Foo Maosheng, a senior scientific officer at the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, and entomological educator and consultant James Khoo.

For almost two hours, they go on a trail while discussing everything related to insects - from Singapore's historical link to beetle science, to how pretty privilege shapes research in the insect kingdom.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:41 Singapore's historical role in beetle science

11:18 Debunking the myth about cockroaches

15:38 How insect as food can gain popularity akin to seafood like sambal stingray

17:53 The tastiest insects and can we forage for them

22:10 Sharing our home with insects

Read Ang Qing’s previous article about a cockroach discovery in Singapore: https://str.sg/ikhv

Listen to other Green Trails episodes:

Ep 1: Visit to Sungei Buloh: How Singapore can better host migratory birds - https://str.sg/BrqS

Ep 2: Visit to East Coast: How reclamation will shape up against rising sea levels - https://str.sg/mRG8

Follow Ang Qing on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ichp

Read her articles: https://str.sg/i5gT

Host: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg)

Trail producers: Hadyu Rahim, Fa’izah Sani, Amirul Karim & Hana Chen

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive Producers: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg) & Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E112: Understanding China-Philippines' dangerous South China Sea face-offs

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Aggression from China is driving Manila and Washington closer, spurring a loose coalition against Beijing.

Synopsis: Every third and fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Despite talks between China and the Philippines regarding resupply of the small contingent of Philippine marines aboard the World War II era ship Sierra Madre which Manila had grounded on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in 1999, tensions remain high in the South China Sea.

In the latest incident, Chinese and Philippine Coast Guard vessels collided near Sabina Shoal, a disputed feature in the Spratly Islands, in the early hours of Monday, Aug 19. The vessels were damaged and though there were no casualties, Washington responded by reminding Beijing of the US's 73-year-old Mutual Defense Treaty with Manila.

China claims most of the 1.3 million square miles of the South China Sea, including the Second Thomas Shoal, where Philippine vessels must run the gauntlet of a de facto Chinese blockade to resupply the marines on the Sierra Madre.

The United States however, also needs to maintain a fine balance, being careful not to be too provocative and back China into a corner, says Indo-Pacific security expert Lisa Curtis, former top US official and now Senior Fellow and director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security in Washington, DC.

Ms Curtis has served as deputy assistant to the US President under three successive national security advisors. She has 20 years of service in the US government including at the National Security Council, the CIA, the State Department, and Capitol Hill, specialising in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia.

Ms Curtis guests on this episode of Asian Insider alongside Filipina writer Marites Vitug, a longtime investigative journalist and author of several books including the 2018 Rock Solid: How the Philippines Won Its Maritime Case Against China, and most recently, the just-released, co-authored Unrequited Love : Duterte's China Embrace which explores the various aspects of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's appeasement of China.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:25 Why (former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte) hated the US and still dislikes it

5:07 How far the US-Philippines relationship has progressed under President Marcos

9:20 Why it would be helpful if there is more engagement between the Philippines and the Quad

12:49 Provocative air manoeuvres; Chinese shooting flares right in front of the Philippines’ aircraft - is this a test of the resolve of the Philippines and the US?

14:26 A lot of domestic support for Marcos' shift in foreign policy; how South China Sea could be a likely conflict zone besides Taiwan Strait

17:34 Why the Marcos government should make clear to the US, what kind of help they want

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every third and fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E16: The influence of Haidilao on our appetite for Chinese cars

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:55:00 +0000

A motor industry expert connects popular culture to the success of Chinese car brands in Singapore.

Synopsis: Every third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times offers expert insights on new vehicles or transportation trends.

BYD is leading the sales chart in Singapore and other Chinese car brands are also making their way here. In a market where the total number of vehicle registrations is capped, the success of the newcomers comes at the cost of incumbent players.

Dr Victor Kwan, who was in the motor trade for more than 20 years before joining academia, explains what is driving this trend and whether it is sustainable.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:15 The reason for the appearance of so many new Chinese car brands in Singapore

8:20 What BYD Is doing right

22:00 The pressure to develop the charging infrastructure to spur the desire for electric cars

24:50 What dealers think about when deciding to bring in a car brand

38:00 Chinese car brands are here to stay

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E129: Are climate and environment disclosures helping to cut carbon?

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Climate and environment data disclosures are vital. But real action is needed for cutting emissions and nature protection.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

There’s a saying in sustainability circles: What gets measured, gets changed.

And this applies particularly to companies, which are the major source of carbon emissions heating up the planet. Companies are also top sources of damage to nature, especially biodiversity loss. Corporate supply chains, products and services all have a carbon and nature footprint. So, what companies, as well as cities and public institutions, decide really matters.

But until recently, companies were under no obligation to fully measure and report their impacts and what they were doing about it.

Times have changed. A growing number of countries, including Singapore, are mandating annual corporate climate disclosures. And likely soon, nature impact disclosures, too.

One organisation that has been at the forefront of corporate environmental disclosures is the non-profit CDP.

But can we really trust the data in corporate climate and environment disclosures? Who's checking? And are disclosures really making a difference?

ST's climate change editor David Fogarty hosts Sherry Madera, chief executive of CDP, which manages an environmental disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:01 What data is being provided to CDP and is it getting better?

5:20 What percentage of companies, cities and public institutions that share data with CDP come from Asia?

7:32 How are investors using the data given to CDP?

9:40 What are the main gaps in the data? And where are companies, cities and others failing to take action?

12:42 How can we really trust the data supplied to CDP? How do you check it?

16:14 In what ways is data disclosure translating into real action on the ground? Some examples?

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E1: Why does it feel like Singaporeans are angry all the time?

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 09:33:04 +0000

What triggers one’s frustrations in Singapore? Even the smallest inconvenience can spark irritation, making it feel like we’re always on the edge of our temper.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

Murals and HDB block patterns, poor service, bad food, long queues, queue cutters, ‘undeserving’ seat occupiers on public transport, slow walkers, ‘pawrents’ spending money on their furkids, XMMs — the list of what grinds Singaporeans’ gears seems to grow by the day.

Throw in social media platforms into the mix, and the rants come fast and furious.

There's an appetite for it - just look at the existence of Singapore-centric complaint groups online and the number of members they have. Or the TikTok videos that pop up, where people rant about a perceived slight or minor irritation. Or the people who have been caught in 4K acting out on the roads, in malls or restaurants.

We could go on.

Natasha goes outdoors to find out if people share this sentiment and what we can do should we encounter the Angry Person.

Highlights (click/tap above)

0:45 Anger in comment section

1:55 The anonymity factor

4:50 Context is everything

6:58 Breathe in, breathe out - anger is unhealthy

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by: Amirul Karim and Hana Chen

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E19: A look back at Paris Olympics 2024 with Max Maeder

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

ST sports reporters and the SG bronze medalist look back at memorable moments in the Paris Olympics.

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

History was made on Aug 9, 2024, when kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder became Singapore’s youngest Olympic medallist after he clinched a bronze in the Formula Kite event.

In this episode, ST's sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath and sports correspondent Kimberly Kwek for a look back on that historic moment while also assessing the Paris Games as a whole and Team Singapore’s overall performance.

We also bring you the full audio from ST’s conversation with Maximilian a day after his final race.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:25 ST reporters talk about the mood on the ground at the Marseille Marina after Max won bronze

7:10 ST reporters discuss what is next for Max

15:25 Max surprised he has yet to receive negative messages

23:55 Max on why “connection” is the main takeaway from his debut Olympics

Read: https://str.sg/AsCE

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

Read Rohit Brijnath's articles: https://str.sg/wFu2

Read Kimberly Kwek's articles: https://str.sg/bWY9

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

Produced by: Rohit Brijnath (rohitb@sph.com.sg), Kimberly Kwek (kimkwek@sph.com.sg) and Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S1E17: The art of picking out a good job fast

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A well-written job description helps employers and jobseekers find the right fit.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you put your career on the right footing from the outset.

The job search is never easy, with limited time and lots of ground to cover.

This means it is important to be able to suss out, with confidence, the likelihood a job opportunity is the right one to put your chips into, starting from understanding what job advertisements are saying.

Host Tay Hong Yi speaks with a seasoned headhunter who has helped plenty of clients through this process over nearly 20 years.

His guest is Ms Agnes Yee, executive director for interim solutions and legal practice at Kerry Consulting.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:27 What does the way a job opening is described say about employers?

6:58 Why a less specific description may not always be a bad thing

15:20 Why is meeting all stated job requirements not always enough?

22:51 What to make of “quirky” job descriptions?

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Career Talk Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E45: Are you paying too much for your resale HDB flat?

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Two HDB resale flats had listing prices of $2 million in May, which were debunked by the authorities for being misleading and unrealistic.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

The authorities sat up and paid attention when a jumbo flat in Sengkang was put up for sale with an asking price of $2 million in May. Then there was a listing for a DBSS flat in Toa Payoh asking for $2 million.

But with a record number of HDB transactions above $1million each - a phenomenon that started around 2012 - is a HDB resale flat with a price tag of $2 million permanently unrealistic?

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan look at the percentages and context of HDB resale flats in the market with Nicholas Mak, who is now chief research officer of property search portal Mogul.sg.

He has over 25 years of experience in the Singapore and regional real estate markets.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:35 Why did the agents push these $2 million HDB resale listings, which have been debunked by the authorities as unrealistic or misleading?

3:30 Avoiding ripple effects and creating the wrong impression among other sellers and buyers

9:54 What should potential buyers do?

12:05 Can the government divert demand away from the resale market and delay reaching a $2m mark there?

16:35 How do buyers discern if a HDB resale listing price is unrealistically high?

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Sue-Ann Tan’s articles: https://str.sg/KpUx

Produced by: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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S1E28: Kamala Harris and Indo-Americans’ stunning rise in US national life

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

We chat with Mayank Chhaya, Chicago-based veteran chronicler of the Indian diaspora, on Kamala Harris’s appeal and chances in the upcoming Nov 5 US presidential election.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with the veteran journalist, author and broadcaster Mayank Chhaya, a former staffer with India Post in California and India Abroad, New York, on the rise in US politics of Americans with Indian heritage, including presidential hopeful Kamala Harris and Nikki Haley, who challenged Donald Trump for the Republican nomination.

They discuss Ms Harris’s racial identity, her chances of victory, and whether America is heading toward being a post-race society.

Mr Chhaya also comments on prominent Indian-Americans in the business field, including the heads of Microsoft, Google, IBM and YouTube, and why Indians seem to be doing so well in many facets of American life.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 Black, or Indian? ‘Harris has blended well’

6:50 Trump’s ‘just a bit younger’ than Kamala’s father

8:40 Could America see a ‘whitelash’?

10:40 A lengthening list: Usha Vance, Nikki Haley, Ro Khanna…

13:00 Judiciary, tech to pharma, “Indian Americans are everywhere”

16:00 Secret sauce behind Indian-Americans’ success

17:50 The Modi effect

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

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COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E126: The difference between Asian and Caucasian skin

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

How effective are your skincare products?

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

We all want to look as young and as healthy as possible, and one way to do so is to have healthy skin. But, as we age, our skin becomes thinner, less elastic and more dry and sensitive. There’s also a difference between Asian and Caucasian skin, but most dermatological research has focused on Caucasian populations.

How can we then delay the skin ageing process?

To find out more, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to an expert on ageing skin - Professor Rachel Watson - who had spent 30 years in the United Kingdom studying what exactly changes in the skin as we age and how the environment accelerates skin ageing.

She has come to Singapore to study Asian skin, and has just started a new research project looking at Asian skin ageing and the possible interventions that can be used to improve skin health and prevent skin diseases.

Prof Watson is the executive director of the Skin Research Institute of Singapore and the A*STAR Skin Research Labs.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:04 Difference between Asian and Caucasian skin

6:48 Prof Watson’s new four-year study on ageing in Asian skin.

17:38 Ingredients to look out for in your skincare products

22:29 Protect the health of all your skin, and not just the skin on your face

31:20 The myth of collagen drinks

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here every month and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#healthcheck

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S1E1: Sumiko At 60: Former actor Edmund Chen and daughter Yixin on ageism

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: The Straits Times' executive editor Sumiko Tan, who turns 60 this year in 2024, finds out the challenges to growing older as she confronts her own negative attitudes about ageing.

Despite the 38-year age gap between former actor Edmund Chen, 62, and his Gen Z daughter Yixin, the bond between father and daughter is warm and playful as Sumiko Tan finds out in this episode of Sumiko At 60.

Host: Sumiko Tan (sumiko@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: Studio+65

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

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ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E32: Can mid-lifers use social media to boost dormant careers?

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Can mid-lifers breathe new life into stale careers with social media?

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Will a leap into social media rain new work opportunities for a stale middle-age career? Will being on TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and more show the boss that mid-lifers are still in tune with technology and on-trend?

Join me and my special co-host, senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe in this episode of Work Talk. We will explore the potential of social media for mature careers that need a second wind.

Our guests are Mr Walter Lim, founder of marketing agency Cooler Insights, and Ms Jessly Chew, an associate director at recruitment agency Michael Page.

Together, we will delve into the possibilities, pitfalls and planning for mid-lifers who are curious about putting out their first TikTok or YouTube video, Instagram or LinkedIn post.

Listen and get started!

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:50 What a strong social media presence does for job seekers.

5:45 Enhancing the perception of being tech-savvy and adaptable.

9:45 The importance of authenticity and pitfalls of oversharing.

11:44 Leveraging different platforms to showcase skills and interests.

14:08 Tips for a content strategy, and the importance of planning and interaction on social media.

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's articles: https://str.sg/wB2P

Follow Krist Boo on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/shcB

Read Lee Nian Tjoe’s articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E128: Hundreds of dams endangering the Mekong

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

In the quest for renewable hydropower, indiscriminate dam building in the basin of the Mekong is changing the landscape and negatively impacting local communities and ecosystems.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Unilateral and indiscriminate dam building has been taking place in the quest for hydropower and control over water in the basin of the Mekong river - the lifeblood of mainland Southeast Asia.

But local communities most impacted by the changing face of the river system struggle to be heard amid elite-driven, urban-based decision-making and an engineering mindset, critics say.

Only one in ten of over 600 dams have been notified to the Mekong River Commission, following the 1995 Mekong Agreement among Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. The Agreement was supposed to focus on sustainable development and management and tries to balance needs and rights.

Two other countries where the Mekong river flows - China and Myanmar - are not bound to notify the Commission as they are only dialogue partners.

On this episode of Green Pulse, host Nirmal Ghosh speaks to Senior Fellow and co-lead of the Mekong Dam Monitor at the Stimson Center Brian Eyler and Thailand-based Campaigns Director for Thailand and Myanmar of International Rivers Pianporn (Pai) Deetes.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

02:31 Sounding the alarm with more dams coming up

03:55 Dams in China’s part of the Mekong river are doing the most damage

06:43 How Laos attracted huge amounts of foreign investment with its “Battery of Southeast Asia” programme

12:04 In Thailand, why build more dams when there has been an oversupply of electricity

15:54 Significant environmental impacts on Vietnam and Cambodia from the Funan Techo canal, whose development would also violate the Mekong agreement

19:20 No accountability for damaging consequences

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa'izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Climate Change microsite: https://www.straitstimes.com/climate-change

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

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S1E1: What makes a National Day song a classic? Tell us your favourites

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 03:03:10 +0000

Is it catchy lyrics, a snappy beat, or is there something else that captures the Singaporean heart?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

Why do some songs, basking under the golden glow of nostalgia, come back year after year, and why do others fade from the public consciousness once their time has passed?

In this new episode of The Usual Place podcast, host Natasha Ann Zachariah takes her show onto the streets of Singapore, to ask members of the public what their favourite National Day theme song is, and what makes these songs so special.

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Amirul Karim and Hana Chen

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

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S1E35: Micro-drama boom: In this town, Chinese youths chase their showbiz dreams

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hengdian, in Zhejiang province, is booming as the location set for two-thirds of China’s period dramas.

Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times chats with ST’s global correspondents about life as it goes on, amid the screaming headlines and bubbling crises.

They come with stars in their eyes, hoping to become the next Fan Bingbing or Jackson Yee. In Hengdian, they put their names down and hope to be picked - to deliver a line, to stand next to an actor, or even just to be a face in the crowd in one scene.

Hengdian is touted as China’s Hollywood, and with good reason - it was here that high-budget dramas and films such as Story of Yanxi Palace and Curse of the Golden Flower were shot.

But it has gained renewed attention in recent years, as Chinese audiences get hooked on micro-dramas - low-budget productions shot in vertical format to be viewed on smartphones.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with correspondent Goh Yan Han on the dreams that Hengdian represents to Chinese youths.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:17 Different dynasties, same dream

4:51 Crazy plots in two minutes

6:23 Lower barriers to entry

11:01 Youths’ determination and drive

S1E15: Why Singaporeans should expect a lot from the transport system

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

From the evolution of MRT lines to buses, wider cycling paths and committing to being “car-lite”, our veteran transport reporter tells all.

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

In the second part of the conversation, COE Watch host Lee Nian Tjoe hosts long-time senior transport correspondent at The Straits Times - Christopher Tan - to talk about how he got into journalism, and what has been driving him all these years.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 On how Chris Tan once found out how much it cost to build the Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway

5:30 Chris recalls when he first raised the idea of the bus contracting model way before it was started, to help raise service levels

7:00 Debates on building a new MRT line: Why the Rail Financing Framework is good for the overall network

9:00 “Build ‘em and they will come”; positive knock-on effects

14:00 Why it is fair for Singaporeans to expect more from the public transport system

17:37 Christopher Tan retiring from full-time work end-July 2024; his plans

Listen to Pt 1 of Lee Nian Tjoe's conversation with Chris Tan here: https://str.sg/3EEQd

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read Christopher Tan's articles: https://str.sg/ohcVq

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hana Chen and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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S1E111: Why Myanmar’s crisis scuppers India’s Act East Policy

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear why this policy is in jeopardy on several levels, including the risk of being outmanoeuvred and encircled by China in its near east.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

It may have been called a “forgotten” war - but the civil war in Myanmar triggered by the military’s February 2021 coup d’etat, has grave implications for India’s national security, and plans for connectivity to South-east Asia.

Also, as it remains to be seen where the cards eventually fall, it has also heightened New Delhi’s concerns over potential encirclement by China.

India’s immediate concern is spillover of the conflict into its own volatile north-east, where the state of Manipur - which borders Myanmar - has been witnessing ethnic violence. More broadly, the crisis also threatens India’s Act East policy, and raises concerns in New Delhi as China extends its influence in Myanmar and also in Bangladesh.

Though Bangladesh’s current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is pro-India, the country’s army is supplied mostly with Chinese weapons, and there is latent resentment against India.

But India’s options are limited, as guest experts Dr Aparna Pande and Dr Avinash Paliwal tell Asian Insider host Nirmal Ghosh.

Dr Paliwal lectures in diplomacy and public policy at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, and has just published his book - India's Near East. Dr Pande is a research fellow at the Hudson Institute in Washington, DC and has written books on Indian foreign policy.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:50 India's big investment in building connectivity through Myanmar

4:51 China's interests in Myanmar's civil and military domains concern India deeply

13:00 All of India's neighbours are its first layer of security

20:18 An asymmetric connectivity benefitting India, but not for Bangladesh

21:49 Understanding India's regional geopolitics through domestic political lens

25:36 India's challenge is broadly with all of its neighbours

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E14: Why non-drivers are also paying the price of high COEs

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A veteran transport reporter tells us what can be done to bring down COE prices and how to buy a new car.

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

In the first of a two-part conversation, COE Watch host Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Christopher Tan, senior transport correspondent at The Straits Times, to get a grip of the current COE system.

He also shares his journey as a veteran reporter, having been with SPH since 1983. This was four years before Singapore had its first MRT Line, and before the Land Transport Authority was established.

He also offers tips on how to shop for a car and recounts some of his most memorable drives, having tested more than 3,000 cars and counting.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:00 Why newsmakers are often wary of Christopher Tan from The Straits Times

6:00 Recounting his “embarrassing” first car review

12:00 How electric vehicle adoption will peak around the world

16:10 What flying a helicopter is like

26:00 Reviewing a car fairly for the reader, not the car company

27:55 The impact of high COE prices on drivers and non-drivers alike

Listen to Pt 2 of Lee Nian Tjoe's conversation with Chris Tan here: https://str.sg/9y73

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hana Chen and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read Christopher Tan's articles: https://str.sg/ohcVq

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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#coewatch

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S1E13: How young Singaporean singer Hongjoin aims to make his mark in the US

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear how Spotify's Radar programme has helped expose home-grown singer-songwriter Hongjoin.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the 13th episode of Music Lab, ST’s music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts Singaporean singer-songwriter Hongjoin.

The 22-year-old, whose music encompasses genres ranging from R&B and indie-pop, is based in Boston, United States, and is trying to make his mark in the US music scene while studying there.

He has regular shows in various US cities and has been highlighted by Spotify as a Radar artist, a program that highlights rising talents from around the world.

He recently returned to Singapore to do two concerts - a solo headlining show at the Esplanade in June, and as the opening act for US singer-songwriter Ricky Montgomery’s show at the Pasir Panjang Power Station in May.

Like many singers from his generation, he is active on TikTok and Instagram, which has helped him build up an audience in regional countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines.

In this episode, he also sings a live rendition of the title track from his sophomore album released recently, Komorebi.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:55 How he ended up as a musician in the US

8:11 His solo show in Singapore was sold out

13:38 On tapping into his Japanese roots for his new album

15:50 How the pandemic led to his decision to take music seriously

22:08 On how TikTok and Instagram helped him find an audience in Indonesia and the Philippines

23:32 Taking a break from school to focus on music full-time

25:42 His plans to return to Singapore and contribute to the music scene here

Listen to Hongjoin’s live performance of Komorebi here: https://str.sg/ejzw

Discover home-grown artiste Hongjoin at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/o9mTN

Spotify: https://str.sg/pQwe

Instagram: https://str.sg/apXW

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team & Studio+65

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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#musiclab

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E13: Hongjoin - Komorebi (Live)

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear home-grown singer-songwriter Hongjoin's intimate live studio take of the title track from his sophomore album released recently, Komorebi.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Listen to Hongjoin talk about his musical journey in the full podcast here: https://str.sg/cTrZ

Discover home-grown artiste Hongjoin at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/o9mTN

Spotify: https://str.sg/pQwe

Instagram: https://str.sg/apXW

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team & Studio+65

Mixed by: Amirul Karim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E127: Every tool in the climate shed: How CO2 removal is a step towards net-zero

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

As more carbon dioxide accumulates in the atmosphere, the urgency is growing for safe and sustainable methods to remove this main greenhouse gas from the air to limit the impact of climate change.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

CO2 is the main greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. We can’t see it, we can’t smell it but we can definitely feel its growing impacts as the planet heats up with devastating consequences. And every year, it keeps accumulating.

Human activity is producing about 40 billion tonnes of CO2 a year. That’s mainly from burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

To fight climate change, we not only need to slash CO2 emissions, we would also need to remove billions of tonnes that our human activities had earlier emitted into the atmosphere.

And that means dramatically scaling up carbon dioxide removal technologies. We’ll never reach the Paris Agreement’s climate targets by 2050 unless we remove at least four times more CO2 from the atmosphere every year than we do at present.

That’s the conclusion of a major study on carbon dioxide removal released in June 2024.

So what exactly is carbon dioxide removal, or CDR? And what is needed to really get investment pumping?

In this episode, ST's climate change editor David Fogarty hosts one of the lead authors of the report, Gregory Nemet, a Professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s La Follette School of Public Affairs in the United States. Greg studies the process of technological change and the ways in which public policy can affect it.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:44 How does carbon dioxide removal (CDR) help in the fight against climate change?

3:12 The difference between CDR and carbon capture and storage (CCS)

4:58 Main findings from the recently published global report on CDR

7:58 Examples of the different types of CDR

11:43 What are the costs?

19:55 What are the environmental risks from CDR? How to ensure scaled-up methods can be sustainable?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#greenpulse

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E34: Japan fights to save its beloved bookshops

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry wants to take action to get people to return to brick-and-mortar stores.

The Japanese are sentimental about bookstores, viewing them as precious communal spaces that do more than just sell books.

And yet, fewer and fewer are going to these stores, in line with global trends.

What is more surprising is how the Japanese government has decided to seize the problem by its horns, with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry setting up a taskforce to look into the matter, even as the bookshops themselves are striving to find fresh ways to appeal to customers.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with Japan Correspondent Walter Sim on why the Japanese government has decided to be so interventionist.

Highlights (click/tap above):
1:59 One in two Japanese read “less than one book” every six months

3:26 Why the Japanese are sentimental about bookshops

6:15 A “psychic” bookseller in Osaka

10:06 Laments at shuttered shops but it’s too late

12:15 Taking action

17:12 Walter’s favourite bookshops in Japan

Read Walter Sim’s article here: https://str.sg/AWsW

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Letter From The Bureau Podcast every first Friday of the month here:

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Read Walter Sim's articles: https://str.sg/wHY2

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E8: The FOMO over old buildings in Singapore

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Is our celebration of old buildings, or even old-school businesses, a little too late?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

In the last few months before Peace Centre closed in 2024, people flocked to the Sophia Road mall to soak up the vibes. Golden Mile Complex in Beach Road, an architectural icon that is conserved, also came alive with new explorers along its corridors in the lead-up to its closure in 2023.

I wanted to find out if these last hurrahs could have come earlier.

In this episode, I had history buff Dhevarajan Devadas (@historyogisg), who produces content about Singapore’s history and heritage through a newsletter, podcast and on social media. The 33-year-old is also a public policy analyst.

Meanwhile, Khair Mas’od, 26, who runs video production company Subset, did his final-year university project on Golden Mile Complex (@thiswasgmc) in 2023.

Also joining us was John Siow, 38, who previously worked at the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) conservation department, managing outreach and education efforts. He and an ex-colleague teamed up to snap photos for @pintupagar.sg, an Instagram account featuring shots of buildings and various architectural forms around Singapore.

We discussed why people are drawn to these old buildings in their last days and how to keep young people interested in the spaces that came before.

Highlights (click/tap above)

1:40 Cool elements = a draw for young people?

3:25 When did Peace Centre and Golden Mile Complex become fashionable?

6:00 Does gentrification erase historical significance?

17:40 Can nostalgia be manufactured?

31:00 Successful ‘reboots’

36:30 History and heritage not just a collection of places, names and dates

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E26: Analysing Catalist: A segment of the Singapore market

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

What are the strengths and weaknesses as of today, since the Catalist board was set up in 2007?

Synopsis: Senior columnist Ven Sreenivasan offers you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

In this episode, Ven hosts Ong Hwee Li, the chief executive officer of SAC Capital. SAC specialises in areas like investment banking, corporate mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings and equities research.

They look at the profile of a segment of the Singapore market, Catalist. Sometimes referred to as the “junior board”, the Catalist board was set up in 2007 to cater for companies which do not meet the full earnings track record or compliance requirement for mainboard listing.

Today, there are about 207 Catalist companies listed on the Singapore Exchange, whose total market cap is about S$642 billion. Catalist companies account for S$8.5 billion of this.

SAC Capital is particularly known as a sponsor of companies which come to market via Catalist listings.

Does Mr Ong see non-sponsor activities being a conflict for such sponsors? How can such sponsors help Catalist companies to become better, improve their reputation and standing on the SGX?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:40 Stagnant Singapore equities market? Delistings overtaking new listings, and is there a lack of communications between listed companies and the markets?

3:30 On 'hidden gem' Catalist stocks; what is the role of a Catalist sponsor?

5:16 How SAC Capital prevents breaches from happening; what happens if Catalist sponsors are removed?

7:13 Are non-sponsor activities a conflict for sponsors?

8:20 How can sponsors help Catalist companies to become better, and improve their reputation and standing on the SGX?

Produced by: Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Ven Sreenivasan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQe

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E32: ‘Judo, botox and yoga’ – what’s Putin up to in Asia?

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Analysing this is our guest - Ambassador Peter Tesch, the veteran Australian diplomat and policy strategist.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with the eminent Australian diplomat Peter Tesch, a former ambassador to Russia and Germany for his country as well as policy strategist for the Australian defence ministry.

They discuss the recent Putin visits to North Korea and Vietnam, the message he is sending to China and the region, as well as Russia’s overall approach to Asia, including India. Mr Tesch also comments on the Quad, the security dialogue that groups the US with Australia, Japan and India.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:20 Russia the disruptor

10:10 A subtle message to Xi

16:00 For China, a convenient diversion

21:20 Judo, botox, and yoga!

26:00 Latest on Quad

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E1: Which old building or space in Singapore would you not want to see go?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

As we say goodbye to old buildings, spaces, and businesses in Singapore like the Golden Mile Complex and Peace Centre, how do Singaporeans feel about these places?

Many young people often revisit spots that hold a special connection for them, places filled with fond memories from their childhood. How would they feel if these cherished locations were to disappear?

The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hit the streets to find out.

Check out the full episode here: https://str.sg/7jJy

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E18: Why are the Olympics so special?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Singaporeans who have been to Olympics tell us why it is so important.

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

Whether you are an athlete or a sports enthusiast, it is clear that the Olympics hold a special place in hearts worldwide.

From historic achievements to record breaking feats, the Olympics serve up some unforgettable moments every four years. As Paris 2024 approaches, we enlisted the help of people who have been to the Olympics to tell us why the event captures the imagination the way it does.

In this special episode centred around the Olympics, sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath, former national sprinter C. Kunalan, former national shooter Lee Wung Yew, and current national swimmer Quah Ting Wen as they discuss the significance of the Games.

(This episode was recorded before it was confirmed on July 8 that Ting Wen will not compete in the Paris Olympics)

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:15 What did the Olympics mean growing up?

11:25 C. Kunalan’s memory of his first Olympics representing Singapore

17:33 Ting Wen on her realisation of being at her first Olympics

19:40 Why the Olympics is so inspiring for athletes

23:20 How do athletes wear the pressure of the Games given it comes around only every four years? Why parents should be a safe space for their children who pursue sports

29:30 On the mismatch of expectations of Singaporeans when it comes to the Olympics

37:26 Guests’ favourite Olympics moment

Read: https://str.sg/5Wn3

Listen to other Hard Tackle episodes:

Ep 17: Raising an Olympian in Singapore - https://str.sg/fUPc

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg), Amirul Karim, Hadyu Rahim and Hana Chen

Filmed by: Marc de Souza, Haziq Baharudin, Vikneshwaran Rao, ST Video

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E44: Singapore’s worsening road culture: What’s behind it and what can be done?

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The tension between drivers and motorcyclists in Singapore is longstanding, ugly and increasingly a fatality risk - but what lies at the root of this strained relationship?

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Traffic accidents claimed the lives of 54 people within the first four months of 2024.

Motorcyclists and pillion riders accounted for more than half those deaths - a trend that continues from the previous year.

With traffic accident fatalities in 2023 at an all time high since 2016, it’s time to ask what can be done to make Singapore’s roads safer.

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and co-host and STNow reporter Christie Chiu speak with their two guests to find out if Singapore’s roads are truly as hostile as these numbers depict, and what factors are driving it.

On the road for at least six hours a day with aspiring motorists, Aman Aljunied is an experienced motorbike and car instructor who previously taught at the Singapore Safety Driving Centre for nearly 40 years.

Joining the discussion is Dennis Quah, who heads the Singapore chapter of the Harley Davidson Owners’ Group, a motorcycle club renowned for its safe riding practices. When he’s not riding motorcycles, Dennis drives on a daily basis.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:59 Is Singapore’s road culture uglier than other South-east Asian countries? How the effects of a high-pressure society bleed into our roads

7:54 “High cost of these toys called cars”: Are the stark differences in COE and ERP fees a main factor of hostility between motorcyclists and drivers?

11:40 The pros and cons of social media as a tool to circulate footage of road incidents

18:29 Why Aman thinks Basic Theory Course lessons should go back to in-person classes

24:03 Dennis and Aman on why speeding up, does not actually save motorists much time

37:04 The human touch that has been lost on Singapore’s roads

Produced by: Christie Chiu (christiec@sph.com.sg), Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Christie Chiu’s article’s: https://str.sg/3ESxU

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E16: Would you be an intern for 2 years?

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Long internships are just one form of the many talent schemes that are accepted by employers.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you put your career on the right footing from the outset.

The job search is getting increasingly complex as the range of options broaden.

Employers are also placing increasing focus on grooming talent in a more structured way to let them learn more and perform better.

Host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guests on the bevy of talent schemes companies have developed to fill their talent needs, including a two-year rotational internship in the case of German enterprise software giant SAP.

His guests are:

Ms Betul Genc, senior vice-president and head of Asean at Adecco

Ms Jean Ooi, Student Training and Rotation (Star) programme manager at SAP

Mr Choy Zhan Hao, a recent Star alum and business development executive at SAP

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:45 Why employers create the various forms of talent schemes

4:50 Why take interns in for two-year stints?

10:20 How do firms cater to graduates and students for talent schemes?

12:56 How to balance work and studies while working as an intern for two years?

15:45 Spot the signs of a good talent scheme that is worth joining

23:20 Does it ever feel weird to be an intern for two years?

S1E126: Managing climate driven migration demands a new paradigm

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Humans can and must cooperate to manage climate-driven mass migration, as a heating planet forces the poor and vulnerable, particularly in the global south, to move in order to survive.

Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The concept of the modern nation state is a relatively recent construct, and distorts humans' innate capacity - notwithstanding our tribalism - to cooperate. Yet, a collective response is necessary to manage the mass migration of the most vulnerable groups of people in poorer countries escaping from the adverse effects of climate change, said award-winning writer Gaia Vince.

In this episode of Green Pulse, the author of Adventures in the Anthropocene and Nomad Century tells Nirmal Ghosh that the solution to dealing with looming mass emigration of desperate climate refugees is to redefine the concept of nations and citizenship, rather than turn them away.

But nationalism defined in terms of ethnicity - also known as ethnonationalism - is on the rise across the globe, observes Ms Vince. She argues that there is no basis for different races as the collective fate of societies is shared by global citizens of planet earth.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:02 "When a severe storm hit New York City, it was the poor black people living in basement apartments who drowned and died" - how climate change has a threat multiplier effect for the poorest and the most marginalised

5:02 Ethno-nationalism is a social disease - it's not based on biology

6:48 Climate change will only be solved when the human race come together as a species and address these global issues

13:46 Why easing human labour across borders can help to make emigration more gradual and safer

17:20 Why our human food system, rather than climate change, makes the biggest assault on biodiversity loss

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Fa'izah Sani and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Climate Change microsite: https://www.straitstimes.com/climate-change

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E1: How do you translate "tumpang" into standard English?

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Do you know what the Singlish word is for "afraid to lose out"? Are there direct translations of Singlish to standard English?

Here's a little bonus clip from our latest episode of The Usual Place.

Check out the full episode here: https://str.sg/c2sY

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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S1E7: Standard English vs Singlish: Is the lingual tug-of-war over?

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The kind of English we speak in Singapore has long been a discussion point.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

Throwback to 1999 when then-Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong urged Singaporeans to start using standard English instead of Singlish. These days though, we fiercely defend our use of Singlish and embrace the Singaporean accent, even as we continue to advocate for a strong standard English foundation.

How did we get here and what changed in our quest to speak good English?

I pose this question to recent university graduate Audrey Wan, 22, whose group’s final-year project inspired this episode. Along with Bernadette Toh and Erin Liam, university students from the Nanyang Technological University’s Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, their final-year project was titled Eye on English.

I wanted to find out what they had found through the interviews they did with various groups and individuals such as a linguistic researcher, teachers, students, a former chief of government communications and a representative for the Speak Good English Movement.

Joining Audrey and myself on the show are actress, host and voiceover artist Caitanya Tan, 37, who makes videos on social media teaching her audience how to correctly pronounce some words, and content creator Nicole Chen, 26, who is fiercely proud of her Singaporean accent and Singlish.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:53 Why three university students decided to survey Singapore’s standard of English

8:11 Singlish, embraced

13:30 Once upon a time, using Singlish was frowned upon

15:30 The power of code-switching

26:40 Why is it difficult to teach Singlish

30:10 What happens to those who cannot code-switch?

37:55 Is Singapore's brand of English here to stay?

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Zachary Lim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E125: Why babies and toddlers do not need screen time

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Excessive screen time can lead to speech delays, autism-like symptoms in children.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

My 18-month-old loves viewing videos on my phone; why is he not talking?

Screen time can help children develop social, creative, communication and other skills, but very young children, especially those below 18 months of age, are not ready for it. They should not be getting any screen time, unless it is for video chatting.

Find out how excessive screen time can affect them, and how too much time spent on digital devices can lead to a myriad of issues in children above 18 months of age. For instance, children here are getting myopia from a younger age, from spending too much time indoors on near work and too little time outdoors in the daylight.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks with her two guest experts - Dr Yvonne Ling, an eye surgeon specialising in adult squints and paediatric ophthalmology, from the Singapore National Eye Centre and Dr Christelle Tan, a consultant at the Department of Child Development at KK Womens’ and Children’s Hospital (KKH) to find out more. Dr Ling also sees young patients with various eye issues, including myopia, at KKH.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:06 Why is myopia something to watch out for?

5:18 What is the best sport that children can do to stave off myopia?

8:17 Why is my 18-month-old baby not talking?

10:07 Case of 3-year-boy who spent hours on video games

11:50 Should I be worried about the autism-like symptoms in my child?

26:16 What parents can do to protect their children from the effects of too much screen time?

32:24 How to prepare for a myopia check? What parents can do to protect their children from the effects of too much screen time?

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here every month and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#healthcheck

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E31: Who wants to be a public servant? We ask Chan Chun Sing

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The iron rice bowl is still sturdy, but demands on Singapore's public service have changed.

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

With 152,000 employees across 16 ministries and more than 40 agencies, the public service is the biggest department in town.

It reports to the government, but has a higher boss - Singaporeans who scrutinise its performance and spending. Why would somebody want to be a public servant? Can you have a good public service career without a degree? Will the public service ever lay off workers in this era of AI disruption?

We take on these questions, and take a look at its bigger challenges and mission.

Join host Krist Boo and the Minister-in-charge of the Public Service - Chan Chun Sing - for this 31st episode of Work Talk.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:43 What has changed for the public service in recent years?

7:13 Can a rank-and-file public servant make a difference?

10:11 Is joining the public service without a degree a career non-starter?

11:12 Will we ever see layoffs in the public service?

17:27 Can a mid-career jobseeker find success in the public sector?

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's articles: https://str.sg/wB2P

Follow Krist Boo on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/shcB

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E110: Looking back at 'pageantry' of Trump Presidency: A ringside view

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Our guest expert offers a striking insider look at what it was like to cover Donald Trump’s presidency, and lessons learnt from it.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Notwithstanding a conviction, and other cases against him, Donald Trump remains the frontrunner for the Republican nomination - and has a realistic chance of being elected President again in November 2024. A look back at his tumultuous four years in office (2017 through 2020) holds clues as to what to expect, if he returns to power.

Some world leaders - Vladimir Putin, Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe for instance - quickly learnt that the then-President Trump enjoyed being feted, says Steven Herman, former Voice of America (VOA) White House Bureau Chief. He notes that Modi and Trump in particular, held unprecedented massive joint rallies, in the US and in India.

Herman, now chief national correspondent for the state-funded but non-partisan VOA, looks back at Trump’s summitry around the world including with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore and Hanoi, and his combative relationship with the media, in his book - Behind The White House Curtain: A Senior Journalist’s Story Of Covering the President ― And Why It Matters.

Speaking with host Nirmal Ghosh, Herman says that for most US Presidents, the priority is substance over style, but in the case of Trump, leaders took pains to roll out the red carpet knowing that his mood greatly depended on how he was greeted, and whether his ego was massaged.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:33 On travelling the world with Donald Trump: How he very much enjoyed the pageantry

5:14 Why Trump was essentially franchising his name, but "when you're President of The United States, there tends to be a higher level of scrutiny..."

7:00 How the phrase “enemy of the people” that he used, really took a lot of journalists aback

9:45 How the media reacted to this phenomenon

13:07 Herman on the run-up now: "A lot of focus especially by the conservative media not on what Joe Biden is saying but how he’s saying it...they’ll chop up video to make it appear he is stumbling"

14:15 Herman has deep experience working in Asia too: How the Voice Of America has been received or perceived by governments of the countries here

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E1: Singaporeans can code-switch. Sure anot?

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Can you differentiate between the ways to use "can"? How good are you translating Singlish into standard English?

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

Join The Usual Place as host Natasha hits the streets of Singapore to ask the locals. Do you know what the singlish word is for "afraid to lose out"?

Are there direct translations of Singlish to standard English?

Check out the full episode here: https://str.sg/c2sY

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

YouTube: https://str.sg/wEr7u

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E13: Get into an 'Airbnb' for cars

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

This car-sharing service managed to convince the government to allow them to match private car owners to hirers.

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

Car-sharing causes traffic congestion because the cars are more heavily used; the cars tend to be abused by the hirers; and in the event of an accident, the insurance excess to pay will be stratospheric - beliefs that Mr Dirk-Jan Ter Horst disagrees with.

The Dutch co-founder of peer-to-peer car sharing platform Drive lah, which has been matching private car owners to hirers since 2019, speaks with host Lee Nian Tjoe to make sense of it all.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:02 Using data to convince the Land Transport Authority that peer-to-peer car-sharing works.

13:20 The secret ingredient to running a “two-sided marketplace”.

22:59 Driving a rental car into Malaysia

25:50 Why a resident in Marine Parade hires a car in Jurong.

35:01 Being a good host

43:14 The goal is to make cars accessible to the public.

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#coewatch

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S1E12: Meet Shazza, the Singaporean singer whose music has the attention of Coldplay’s Chris Martin and PM Wong

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer and songwriter Shazza is the 12th guest in this music channel.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the 12th episode of Music Lab, ST's music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts Singaporean singer and songwriter Shazza.

The past year has been quite eventful for the 22-year-old - her music caught the attention of several high profile personalities, including Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Chris Martin, the frontman of popular British band Coldplay.

A video that she did with Canadian pop duo Crash Adams went viral worldwide, earning her new fans from as far as Brazil.

As one of the artists fronting Spotify’s Equal campaign, her face was featured on a billboard at Times Square in New York City.

In July 2023, she put out her debut album Chapter One, a release that includes Right Person, Wrong Time, a song that has clocked over two million streams in Spotify alone.

The hijab-wearing singer, whose real name is Shareefa Aminah, speaks about how people assume she makes Malay music because of how she looks, as well as her drive towards inclusivity in the pop music world.

She also sings for our Music Lab Podcast, a live rendition of her latest single Rain In Manhattan, a duet with fellow home-grown singer-songwriter Umar Sirhan.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:58 On having to turn down an invitation to Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s swearing-in ceremony

3:25 How singing in the viral Crash Adams video made her famous worldwide

5:28 Chris Martin calling out her name at one of Coldplay’s Singapore concerts

9:45 On being featured on New York’s Times Square billboard

11:24 Being a hijab-wearing singer making English pop music

13:26 Realising her calling for music at a young age

16:00 On choosing the unconventional path of music as a career

20:39 How juggling school and a music career can get overwhelming

27:58 On plans to nurture new artistes in the future

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/b5za

Listen to Shazza’s live performance of Rain In Manhattan with Umar Sirhan here: https://str.sg/B3cx

Discover home-grown artiste Shazza at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/JS8i9

Spotify: https://str.sg/wKh4d

Instagram: https://str.sg/uoqd

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E12: Shazza & Umar Sirhan - Rain In Manhattan (Live)

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear home-grown singer-songwriters Shazza's and Umar Sirhan's intimate live studio take of their latest single, Rain In Manhattan.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/b5za

Listen to Shazza talk about her musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/LstG

Discover home-grown artiste Shazza at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/JS8i9

Spotify: https://str.sg/wKh4d

Instagram: https://str.sg/uoqd

Discover home-grown artiste Umar Sirhan at:

Spotify: https://str.sg/mWfw

Instagram: https://str.sg/kJwC

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Mixed by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E30: Budget 2024: Mid-year check for SMEs in Singapore

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How is the government's $1.3 billion budget working for SMEs so far? We invite them on the show.

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

It is June, the mid-point of 2024. Join Krist Boo and her co-host Timothy Goh on Work Talk to hear how Singapore's Budget 2024 measures are affecting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Joining them are Mr Ang Yuit, president of the Association of SMEs, and Dr Ramesh Rajentheran of AI healthcare start-up MiyaHealth.

SMEs are broadly struggling this year due to trade tensions, disruption from artificial intelligence, and manpower challenges. Start-ups face a chilly 'funding winter'.

Which part of the 2024 Budget package of support measures are useful to businesses in meeting the challenges? What more do our entrepreneurs wish for? And if the government has started thinking of Budget 2025, what do our SME guests hope to see included?

In a year marked by various disruptions, what is the hard question for businesses?

This episode of WorkTalk is brought to you by the Ministry of Finance: https://www.mof.gov.sg/singaporebudget

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:40 Why it's a challenging 2024 for SMEs so far

3:39 "Funding nuclear winter" for start-ups; coming at a bad time in region

6:28 On the idea of the Overseas Markets Immersion Programme

7:15 SkillsFuture could align workforce training with industry needs

13:32 Why corporate venture capital incentivised by the government could help support start-ups

19:50 Change is certain, firms with no long-term viability should face reality

More on Budget 2024: http://www.singaporebudget.gov.sg/

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's articles: https://str.sg/wB2P

Follow Krist Boo on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/shcB

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E2: Visit to East Coast: How reclamation will shape up against rising sea levels

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

While the future Long Island will guard against sea level rise, the trade-offs to marine life and the East Coast’s character must be addressed, stakeholders say.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Green Trails is a 4-part environment podcast special for 2024 where The Straits Times hits the ground with experts. The next episode drops in August.

By end-century, Singapore’s mean sea level is expected to rise by up to 1.15m. Now a top attraction in the area, East Coast Park would be a place to avoid if nothing is done.

Frequent floods are likely to put the beach underwater in the future, as climate change continues to exacerbate rising sea levels. And if exceptionally high tides or storm surges were to hit, seawater levels could rise up to 5m, breaking through the coast. The entire park, East Coast Parkway, vehicles and void decks at housing estates like Marine Parade in the vicinity could be submerged in water.

To prevent this reality, there are plans to have a defence offshore. That is Long Island, twice the size of Marina Bay reclaimed off the east coast, with a reservoir in between.

As the June 14 oil spill has shown, human activity - if not managed properly - can threaten coastal and marine habitats, including the biodiversity-rich Southern Islands.

In this second episode of Green Trails, our team heads to East Coast Park and a lesser known habitat near Marina Barrage - important to threatened species and likely to be threatened by reclamation - to find answers.

At the heart of East Coast Park, ST journalist Shabana Begum meets with representatives from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and National Water Agency PUB - Mr Lee Wai Kin and Mr Thoo Jung Chee. Both agencies are spearheading the Long Island project.

At the little-known Marina East Drive habitat, Shabana uncovers the wildlife there when she takes a walk with Mr Lester Tan, who chairs Nature Society (Singapore)’s Marine Conservation Group.

In the evening, Shabana returns to East Coast Park to speak with Mr Maximus Tan, 22 and Mr Crispus Tan, 27. These youths - who will live to see Long Island taking shape in the next few decades - voice their aspirations for Long Island.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:43 What will happen to East Coast if nothing is done to protect the shoreline?

4:00 How will Long Island defend Singapore from rising sea levels?

11:07 How will the authorities minimise the impact of reclamation on marine life?

16:13 What are the lesser-known biodiversity havens of the East Coast?

22:04 Lester on whether marine life along East Coast will eventually return post-reclamation

26:22 Reactions from Crispus and Maximus on East Coast's changing landscape

32:53 Crispus and Maximus on life on Long Island, their hopes and ideas

Read about Singapore's Long Island plan: https://str.sg/ixC7

More on the mega project here: https://str.sg/6zoP

Listen to other Green Trails episodes:

Ep 1: Visit to Sungei Buloh: How Singapore can better host migratory birds - https://str.sg/BrqS

Ep 3: Visit to Windsor Nature Park: Can insects in SG's backyard be foraged https://omny.fm/shows/green-pulse-1/visit-to-windsor-nature-park-how-big-of-a-role-can

Host: Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg)

Trail producers: Lynda Hong, Hadyu Rahim, Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive Producers: Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg) & Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Follow Shabana on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/FEid

Read her articles: https://str.sg/5EGd

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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#greenpulse #greentrails

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E6: Eat, shoot and post: What makes a good food reviewer?

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Scroll social media and you’ll likely be served a food recommendation or review, often one that’s either enthused or a takedown of sorts.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

If someone takes videos of their food and serves them with a side of honest opinions, does that make them a good food reviewer?

Singapore is a nation of foodies, and we're passionate about what we eat. But it seems like many food creators often go in with quick overviews, giving honest reviews or enthused recommendations without much context on social media.

Intrigued by this proliferation of content creators who feed their audience with clickbaity spiel and pepper their food recommendations with superlatives, I wanted to find out the highlights and pitfalls of online food reviewers in this age of quick-fire social media content.

To help me answer questions I have about this crowded scene, I invited food and lifestyle content creator Chiara Ang, second-generation hawker Melvin Chew, and former home-based baker-turned-marketing entrepreneur Then Zhi Wei to weigh in on the practices that make a good food review.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:35 Are there too many food reviewers on social media?

6:59 Being brutally honest

13:00 Eating at an establishment where you find your dish to be sub-par: To post or not to post online?

18:36 Adding value with food content

27:35 Showcase more than just the menu

34:07 What consumers should look out for when consuming 'social media' food reviews

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Zachary Lim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E25: Halfway mark of 2024: Our expert offers top stock picks in Singapore

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

"Why invest in Singapore, when you can invest in the US?" Our guest expert counters this argument with facts and his opinion.

Synopsis: Every third Monday of the month, senior columnist Ven Sreenivasan offers you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

In this episode, Ven hosts Thilan Wickramesinghe - regional head of research at Maybank Securities - to look at the investment outlook from our vantage point in Singapore, at the halfway mark of June, in 2024.

This also comes against the backdrop of the new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong sworn in on May 15, taking over from Mr Lee Hsien Loong, now Senior Minister.

They also cover opportunities that include bringing to fruition nascent projects such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Ideas mooted under the zone include a passport-free QR code system to speed up immigration clearance and a one-stop business and investment service centre in Johor to make it easier for Singapore businesses to set up shop there.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:11 What is the outlook for Singapore’s GDP for the rest of the year?

6:06 The 1Q 2024 results season just concluded: Major takeaways

8:32 There is a new PM and Cabinet for Singapore in place: How Singapore is benefitting from safe haven flows and a strong ecosystem for start-ups and innovation

11:10 On the Johor-Singapore SEZ: After previous attempts, what is different this time round and what are the opportunities?

13:55 "Why invest in Singapore, when you can invest in the US?": Is this a valid statement and how should investors think about South-east Asian markets?

16:26 Discover Thilan's top stock picks in Singapore at the halfway mark of 2024 and reasons for his choices

Produced by: Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Ven Sreenivasan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQe

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E125: South-East Asia’s carbon storage dreams: Visionary climate solution or folly?

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

South-East Asia has big plans to become a regional carbon storage hub. Can it work or are the risks too great?

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

For years now, we’ve heard a lot about carbon capture and storage as one possible solution to climate change. CCS, as it is known, involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from polluting operations, such as power plants, refineries and steel and cement production and injecting the CO2 deep underground.

And not just anywhere. It has to be the right type of geological formation to ensure the CO2 doesn’t escape.

But CCS hasn’t taken off quite as well as many, especially those in the fossil fuel industry, had hoped for. There have been several very costly failures.

And yet there are plans to greatly scale up CCS, including the creation of regional CCS hubs. One of these is in South-east Asia, using depleted oil and gas wells.

This would lock away CO2 captured from industries in the region, or, CO2 brought in by tanker ships from major polluting nations such as Japan. So, is this a good idea? Can it make a difference in fighting climate change? Or, is it just storing up trouble for the future?

To tell ST's climate change editor David Fogarty more about this is energy sector expert Grant Hauber, advisor for Asia for the Institute for Energy Economics & Financial Analysis, a US-based think tank.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:02 What is carbon capture and storage?

4:33 What are CCS hubs and can you explain the regional plans to create them?

8:43 CCS has been around for several decades. What have we learned?

17:10 And what about liability? Who’s responsible for any leaks?

21:01 CCS remains expensive. Will a high carbon price per tonne drive investment?

25:18 And what about alternative methods to remove CO2?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E31: Could China, India go to war again?

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Our expert guest on what to expect on the external front from Modi 3.0, India’s challenges, and options.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with the eminent foreign policy thinker C Raja Mohan, the noted scholar and close friend of India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

They discuss Indian foreign policy in the wake of the recent elections that returned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to power for a third time.

Mr Modi resumes office at a time of dire border tensions with China, ruffles in what was a swiftly developing relationship with the United States, and a growing compact between India’s traditional security partner Russia and China.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:50 A time for fresh choices

8:30 The Andhra factor in foreign policy

13:30 Could history repeat on the China border?

14:25 Soured ties with the West

17:30 Ties with Russia, now a junior partner of China’s

19:50 Soft-pedalling Quad

21:45 Where’s India’s ‘Act East’ policy?

S1E17: Raising an Olympian in Singapore

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

What does it take for parents to nurture an athlete who wants to reach sport’s pinnacle?

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

The Olympics is just around the corner and come July, several Team Singapore athletes will fly the flag for the Republic in Paris. Two of them, kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder and Singapore kayaker Stephenie Chen will make their Olympics debut.

Beyond their individual hustle to get to sports’ grandest stage, Maeder's and Chen’s journey to the Olympics has been helped by their families' relentless support.

In this episode, Maximilian’s parents Valentin Maeder and Hwee Keng and Michael Chen and Sarah-Yvonne, parents of Stephenie, join sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan to talk about how they have supported their children’s aspirations.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Did Maximilian Maeder's and Stephenie Chen’s parents have sporting backgrounds that influenced their kids?

13:10 Is there a point in which parents build a roadmap to sporting success?

17:40 Why is there a need to trust the experts and coaches as opposed to intervening?

21:12 Making sacrifices for your children when they pursue sports

26:28 Why parents should be a safe space for their children who pursue sports

35:00 Reacting to naysayers who say there is no future in sports

Read: https://str.sg/DMK2

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg), Eden Soh and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

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Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E43: Is parenthood a sacrifice young Singaporeans aren’t willing to make?

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Children can invoke feelings of joy, gratitude and fulfilment, but also thoughts of fatigue, financial stress, and lack of personal time?

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

For the first time ever, the resident total fertility rate (TFR) dropped below 1, hitting 0.97 in 2023. Singapore's replacement TFR rate meanwhile stands at 2.1 - the level of fertility at which the population replaces itself from one generation to the next.

The instincts to procreate, it seems, are varied and personal, as hosts Sarah Koh and Aqil Hamzah - journalists from The Straits Times - find out from their guests.

For Ms Charisse Grace Agustin, 29, being childless was a decision that she made at the age of 18, while still a junior college student.

Mr Sng Shan En, 27, on the other hand, is already a father to a three-year-old, with plans for more children in the future if his wife wants them.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 The advantages to having children younger rather than older

6:00 Heartwarming moments vs. material sacrifices of having children

10:17 The future regret in not having children

16:22 Would the government’s push for babies change your decision?

18:46 Is parenting a 50/50 effort between mom and dad?

21:04 Would higher cash incentives nudge more towards parenthood?

Produced by: Aqil Hamzah (haqil@sph.com.sg), Sarah Koh (sarahkoh@sph.com.sg), Lynda Hong, Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified of new episodes:

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Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore’s War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E15: Chip in to shape Singapore’s semiconductor ambitions

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Robust job prospects amid artificial intelligence race, despite trade tensions

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you put your career on the right footing from the outset.

The semiconductor industry has been a fixture of Singapore's advanced manufacturing space since 1968.

The industry has grown from strength to strength, and is now reentering the forefront of the global economy as companies hunger for hardware with the raw computing power to support intensive development of advanced artificial intelligence.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guests on job demand in the semiconductor sector.

His guests are:

Mr Ang Wee Seng, executive director, Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association

Ms Sim Cher Whee, vice-president of People Strategy, Technology, and Talent Acquisition, Micron Technology

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:57 Why is the semiconductor industry so important to Singapore?

4:18 The wide range of roles available beyond electronic engineering

13:42 What can small and medium-sized enterprises in the sector offer?

17:03 Talent challenges the sector faces and initiatives in place

24:16 Will ongoing trade tensions affect job prospects?

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Career Talk Podcast here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

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ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E33: Hong Kong's vanity car plates a creative outlet as freedoms narrow

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The affordable luxury of personalised car licence plates are proving an enduring and endearing avenue for self-expression in a changing Hong Kong

HEY YU, DREAMER, ADD OIL. The messages on Hong Kong's vanity car plates can draw nods of appreciation or chuckles for the city’s motorists. They can tell you a thing or two about their owners' status, sense of humour and beliefs.

Since the authorities made these special plates possible 20 years ago, Hong Kong has seen a proliferation of such plates on its roads. And along with it, communities have sprung up online devoted to sightings of this phenomenon.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with Hong Kong correspondent Magdalene Fung on the motivations behind this trend and what it reveals about Hong Kongers' deepest desires and obsessions.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:50 Why vanity plates aren’t just for vanity’s sake alone

3:20 What Hong Kong’s vanity plates reveal about the city and its people

9:55 How a car with a special plate came to be impounded in Hong Kong on the anniversary of China’s Tiananmen incident

12:33 The biggest changes in Hong Kong society in recent years

Read Magdalene Fung’s article here: https://str.sg/KKxa

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Letter From The Bureau Podcast every first Friday of the month here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Read Magdalene Fung's articles: https://str.sg/dbo9

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

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Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E5: Are young people breaking up with dating apps?

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Swiping for love used to be the way for millennials to find a connection, but there seems to be growing dating app disillusionment among the young.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives.

Bernice Fong, Dhareeni Shanmugam and John Lim are three under-30s who have had different experiences with dating apps over the years.

John, who runs a content agency, finds that with everyone having many options, he feels “like a piece of meat” - an experience the 28-year-old finds can be dehumanising.

Meanwhile Bernice has sworn off dating apps. The 28-year-old brand and marketing manager felt jaded and tired from swiping through but not quite finding the match she wanted.

Dhareeni, a 26-year-old account executive for a public relations agency, shares why she swiped right on her boyfriend, and why she was drawn to his “niche preference” for fish.

Host Natasha wants to find out why there’s no love lost between young people and dating apps.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:16 Are younger people ditching dating apps?

7:52 Making dating intentions clear

16:20 Getting dating app fatigue

27:54 Have young adults lost the art of conversation?

38:38 Is it more difficult for young people to date these days?

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Zachary Lim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

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Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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#tup #tuptr

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S1E124: Did you know that vapes can expose you to toxic metals?

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Vape users inhale not just harmful chemicals, but toxic metals into their lungs.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

E-cigarettes or vapes can contain less chemicals than cigarettes, but did you know that the former can expose users to toxic metals?

Is vaping safer than smoking and just how harmful is vaping? Find out these and more in the latest Health Check episode with ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo, as she dives into the topic with two experts from Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

They are Adj Asst/Prof Clive Tan, Public Health Specialist and Senior Consultant, Department of Preventive & Population Medicine and Adj Asso/Prof Puah Ser Hon, Head and Senior Consultant from the Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine.

With vaping on the rise here, despite it being illegal, they also talk about the help available to a vape user who wants to quit the habit, and what can be done about the vaping problem here.

In Singapore, simply purchasing, using or owning an electronic vapouriser or vape, can attract fines of up to $2,000 per offence.

Yet, vaping is on the rise here. The purchase, use or possession of vapes jumped 58 per cent to about 7,900 cases in 2023, from about 5,000 cases in 2022, according to data from the Ministry of Health.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:33 Are vapes safer than cigarettes?

8:17 Inhaling chemicals and toxic metals

20:35 Considering an amnesty for vape users

27:42 You can get the help that you need to quit vaping

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here every month and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

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Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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#healthcheck

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S1E124: Why the warming Himalayas are a water crisis for half of Asia

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Local solutions are critical for vulnerable millions as the scorching heat rapidly melts snow and ice across the fragile "third pole".

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

As the planet warms, with north India’s plains sweltering under an unprecedented heat wave, Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever before. On current trends, glaciers in just the Eastern Himalayas, which include Nepal and Bhutan, will lose up to 75 per cent of their ice in the near future.

The accelerated melt will expand existing glacial lakes, and form new ones. The new and enlarged lakes are a hazard as they can burst their banks and let loose all the water in flash floods downstream. In October 2023, a lake in Northern Sikkim breached, destroying an entire dam and 33 bridges downstream, killing scores of people.

But that is only one aspect of the impact of planetary warming on the so-called Third Pole - which supplies water to around 1.5 billion people. The climate crisis is a water crisis which is already affecting half of Asia.

In this episode, Green Pulse host Nirmal Ghosh discusses the complex factors at play, and their implications, with Kunda Dixit, the Kathmandu-based publisher of Nepali Times, and visiting faculty at NYU in Abu Dhabi where he focuses on climate; and Dr Bandana Shakya - also based in Kathmandu - who coordinates the Landscapes portfolio at the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:34 There is plenty of water; just not where it’s needed

3:53 Data sharing is critical but the process is inadequate

7:17 Depopulation of some mountain districts is up to 30 per cent in the last 10 years

12:20 Appreciating potential of co-designing nature-based solutions

17:20 Sometimes scientific collaboration is much easier than political collaboration

18:33 One major concern now: Climate despair and climate anxiety among younger people

19:30 Failure of governance has led to large parts of the Himalayan region being in food deficit

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa'izah Sani

Edited by: Fa'izah Sani

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Climate Change microsite: https://www.straitstimes.com/climate-change

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E109: Why war 'by design' over Taiwan is unlikely: Bilahari Kausikan

Thu, 23 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

South-east Asian countries appreciate there is no strategic balance in the region without the US, so they will find ways to deal with whoever is in the White House.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

How South-east Asia - situated at the crossroads of Asia and the Pacific - sees and navigates growing tensions between China and the United States, is little understood outside the region.

Views of China in the region are mixed, with recent surveys showing that China is seen as a valuable partner, and yet not trusted. There is an appreciation that dealing with the US - whoever occupies the White House - is critical as Washington is seen as a strategic balancer.

Meanwhile, as the US deepens and expands an architecture of alliances across the Asia-Pacific, China has fewer friends and allies and has done little to assuage countries’ concerns over what is, despite Beijing’s professions to the contrary, seen as its hegemonic tendencies.

The United States’ support of Israel’s actions in Gaza, has also not gone down well in the region, which is dotted with either Muslim-majority countries, or countries with significant Muslim minorities.

In this episode of Asian Insider, Nirmal hosts Bilahari Kausikan, famously forthright former Permanent Secretary and former Ambassador-at-Large at Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Now the chairman of the Middle East Institute at the National University of Singapore, Bilahari lays out the regional perspective, and explains why - despite the real risk of an accident between the US and China over Taiwan - a war by design between the two big powers, is highly unlikely.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:47 China: Neighbour with great opportunities yet displays hegemonic tendencies

4:01 Anxieties about Chinese behaviour and the US' balancing acts

7:05 "War by design between the US and China is highly unlikely": Bilahari Kausikan

11:27 "The Global South represents a mood rather than any coherent convergence of interests"

13:43 "To deal with China, you have to deal with the US"

14:10 Why the US does not bear the burden or pay any price to uphold international order

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E2: The story of Kangxi Coming, the little Taiwanese talk show heard around the world

Thu, 23 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How a variety talk show with one of the oddest hosting pairings became one of the most successful in the Chinese language entertainment scene.

Synopsis: How Did We Get Here is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which will take a look in each episode about a celebrity, a band or the cast of a movie or film that made an impact on Asian entertainment and how they got to where they are now.

If you follow Chinese-language entertainment, there is a good chance you have heard of the variety series Kang Xi Lai Le, also known as Mr Con & Ms Csi or Kangxi Coming.

The light-hearted Taiwanese talk show, which ran from 2004 till 2016, is easily one of the most successful talk shows of all time in Chinese-language entertainment - a staple of Taiwanese television that continues to make people laugh even eight years after the end of its run.

The show began as a wacky experiment, by pairing the intellectual and cultured Kevin Tsai and the wild, funny Dee Hsu as hosts in one programme. Their chemistry was magic and the show consistently maintained high ratings throughout its run.

Not only was it a hot spot for celebrities to come on and promote themselves and their projects, the show even attracted personalities like politicians - former Taiwan president Ma Ying-jeou and social commentator, critic and historian Li Ao.

Even with its varied line-up of guests, the hosts never switched up their style - a mix of inane and sometimes raunchy questions about underwear and farts, lots of banter and good-natured mocking.

Now, 20 years after its debut and eight years after its last of close to 3,000 episodes aired, its legacy and impact remain - with some clips of the show going viral even today. Many fans are still clamouring for the show to make a comeback.

#PopVultures host Jan Lee discusses exactly how we got here.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:00 Introduction and an update about a possible Kangxi Coming relaunch

4:19 The show’s inception and how complete opposites Kevin Tsai and Dee Hsu came to be paired together

12:50 The first episode of Kangxi Coming and why it became so popular

17:33 The show’s evolution over the years and the introduction of assistant host Hank Chen

23:31 How Kangxi Coming managed to capture Chinese audiences despite a tight budget

29:49 The show coming to an end

34:53 Kangxi Coming’s resounding legacy till today

37:15 What are Dee Hsu, Kevin Tsai and Hank Chen up to today?

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#PV #HDWGH

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E12: Why COE bidding gives this seasoned motor dealer a heartache

Wed, 22 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A seasoned motor industry insider says the COE system is bad for health because of the stress that comes with not knowing “the full picture”.

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Singapore seems to be tracking well. In 2023, 18.2 per cent of all new car registrations were EVs. This was up from 11.7 per cent in 2022.

In this episode, host Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Ms Sabrina Sng, managing director at Wearnes Automotive. This seasoned motor dealer - with 20 years of experience - believes that uncertainty over the price outlook of certificate of entitlement (COEs) is discouraging the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

This is worsened by what she considers to be a premature cut in incentives to encourage EV adoption.

Highlights (click/tap above):

7:30 Call for changes to the COE bidding system - why motor dealers want to cut out companies, like those in private hire, from bidding for COEs because they distort the market

12:00 Reduction of various incentives to encourage EV adoption came too soon

19:38 High COE premiums have pushed up prices of EVs, diminishing the distinction between premium and mass market

21:40 Making the case for EVs to have higher tax rebates

26:42 Does Tesla still have an edge in the automotive world?

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#coewatch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E16: Singapore EPL fans, sports presenter John Dykes debate a thrilling season

Wed, 22 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join in this passionate post mortem of the recently concluded 2023/24 English Premier League season.

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

As the dust settles on another thrilling English Premier League (EPL) season, the post-campaign analysis has begun at the Hard Tackle.

ST Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan and guest co-host Zia-ul Raushan - assistant program director for Money FM 89.3 - invited nine die-hard EPL fans and renowned sports presenter John Dykes to dissect the highs and lows of their favourite teams, reflect on the past season's triumphs and tribulations and eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.

Is there a world after Jurgen Klopp for Liverpool, and can we talk about Manchester City’s title win without mentioning their alleged breaches?

Will Arsenal return for another tilt at the title next season? We discuss all that and more on this special end-of-season podcast.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:30 Has Manchester City’s title celebrations been overshadowed by Premier League’s 115 breaches of regulations?

12:44 After finishing second again, can Arsenal continue to challenge for the title next season?

15:04 Do fans agree with Phil Foden being crowned player of the season?

20:55 How are Liverpool fans feeling after the emotional final day farewell to Jurgen Klopp?

32:45 On Aston Villa balancing Europe and Premier League next season

45:57 Will Newcastle be able to hold on to their key assets?

55:17 Erik ten Hag: In or out?

Guests/fans:

Arsenal fan - Eddy Hirono
Liverpool fan - Imran Fariz
Liverpool fan - Rishi Budhrani
Man City fan - Haizam Shah
Man Utd fan - Fauzie Laily
Newcastle fan - Terence Ong
Spurs fan - Nitin Nambiar
Aston Villa fan - Jod Gill
Chelsea fan - Kalvinder Gill
Sports presenter - John Dykes

Watch the full video podcast here: https://str.sg/cbY4

Read: https://str.sg/7aUq

Hosted & produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg), Zia-ul Raushan (raushan@sph.com.sg)

Filmed in: Studio+65

Edited by: Amirul Karim & Studio+65

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Zia-ul Raushan at Sports Minutes Podcast, Money FM 89.3: https://str.sg/umMD

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#hardtackle

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E11: Newcomer rhyu - Singapore’s answer to Laufey?

Tue, 21 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer and songwriter rhyu is the 11th guest in this music channel.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the 11th episode of Music Lab, ST's music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts home-grown singer and songwriter rhyu.

The newcomer’s arresting vocals and original songs, a mixture of pop, jazz, and R&B, have garnered comparisons to popular Icelandic-Chinese singer Laufey, who reposted one of her videos on TikTok.

The 19-year-old, whose real name is Raine Hahn Yu, started releasing music in 2022 and started dabbling in writing and composing songs as a child.

She has since staged performances at venues such as the Esplanade, music festivals and was an opening act for Taiwanese band Cicada’s concert in Singapore.

In this episode of Music Lab, she sang a live rendition of It’s fine, a song that has garnered over 1.3 million streams on Spotify alone.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:15 Having her song blow up on TikTok

3:28 She came up with the melody while queuing at Old Chang Kee

4:46 Laufey reposted one of her videos on TikTok

6:04 She started writing songs at the age of 4

10:36 Her early influences were Mandopop artistes like JJ Lin and A-mei

13:59 On her studies and a music career

16:25 Her new song came to her in a dream

21:47 Her family used to organise concerts

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/tWma

Listen to rhyu’s live performance of It’s fine here: https://str.sg/3FX8Y

Discover home-grown artiste rhyu at:

Spotify: https://str.sg/bxbh

Instagram: https://str.sg/g9Pt

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E11: rhyu - It's fine (Live)

Tue, 21 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer-songwriter rhyu's intimate live studio take of It's fine, a song first released in 2023, which has a million streams on just Spotify alone.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/tWma

Listen to rhyu talk about her musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/Aqou

Discover home-grown artiste rhyu at:

Spotify: https://str.sg/bxbh

Instagram: https://str.sg/g9Pt

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Mixed by: Amirul Karim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#musiclab

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E24: Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and their growth in Asia

Sun, 19 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear why active ETFs are becoming more popular.

Synopsis: Every third Monday of the month, hosts Lee Su Shyan and Ven Sreenivasan - both senior columnists at The Straits Times - offer you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

In this episode, J.P. Morgan Asset Management's Apac head of ETF - Philippe El-Asmar - discusses the growth of ETFs in Asia.

In particular, there is a growing focus on active ETFs.

Being actively managed, they may offer better returns. However, what are the risks?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:05 Growth of the ETF market

5:20 Misconceptions that all ETFs are passive ones

6:25 ETFs are also used by institutional investors, not just retail investors

7:50 What are fixed income ETFs?

9:45 Advantages of investing in active ETFs

12:50 Risks to be aware of when investing active ETFs

Produced by: Lee Su Shyan (sushyan@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Su Shyan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQs

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E123: Climate talent scout: Meet the investor backing cutting-edge green tech

Sat, 18 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Investors are on the hunt for companies that not only cut greenhouse gas emissions but also transform industry and society.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

There’s growing investor interest in companies at the cutting edge of green tech innovation. Specifically, companies whose solutions aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions while helping industry wean itself off fossil fuels and switch to greener and cleaner materials.

More than ever, green-tech investment is needed. Much of the energy we use to produce electricity, power our industries and our cars produces emissions that are heating up the planet. It's like we're stuck in a vicious cycle as climate impacts worsen.

The good news is there are private companies working on solutions that can provide green power to industries, boost battery efficiency, even create a new type of leather from mycelium, or fungal fibres. The green solutions out there are growing quickly as more entrepreneurs move into this space.

To find out more about this, ST's climate change editor David Fogarty hosts Meghan Sharp, global head of Decarbonization Partners, a joint venture between Blackrock and Temasek that invests in private companies working on clean energy, electrification, green materials and the circular, digital economy.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:34 Tell us about your role and what you look for in green-tech companies.

2:46 What is the investment focus of Decarbonization Partners?

7:13 Of all the available types of green technology, which ones excite you the most?

13:34 Which emerging technologies will attract the most investment in the coming decade?

15:34 And is investment in green technology growing or is there still a large gap?

17:35 “For great companies, there will always be funding.”

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#greenpulse

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E4: Titus Low: From SG's most famous OnlyFans creator to real estate agent?

Wed, 15 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Singapore’s most well-known OnlyFans creator Titus Low is slowly moving on from the platform that has brought him fame, money and drama. Lots of it.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives and digs deeper into issues of the day.

Sitting down with The Usual Place’s host Natasha Ann Zachariah, Titus opens up about asking to work with his family’s business and pursuing his childhood dream of becoming a real estate agent.

He shares the lessons learnt and the fallout from baring all online.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:10 What is Titus up to these days?

9.00 His post-pandemic popularity has dipped, no thanks to today's economic situation

14.26 Dealing with mental health issues

23.30 Why he has become more cautious about sharing his life online

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Edited by producers: Eden Soh and Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E42: Do Gen Zers really have no savings for the long term?

Sun, 12 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

This generation, it appears in a survey result too, is not afraid to spend immediately for happiness or instant gratification, but they do so within their means.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

It used to be that avocado toast was the symbol of millennial extravagance, infamous for dashing that generation’s chance of ever owning property - at least, according to Tim Gurner.

The Australian real estate millionaire in 2017 said that millennials should stop spending $19 for avocado toast if they ever want to own homes. Over half a decade since the rise of the avocado millennial, Gen Z - those born 1997 to 2012 - have outstripped them in splurging. And mostly, for pleasure.

Just in Singapore, we’re seeing 20-somethings fork out $10,000 for holidays and almost just as much to catch Taylor Swift overseas. But a recent IPS study found that the young are still spending within their means.

Still, are they putting aside enough funds for a rainy day in the future?

In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong and co-host and STNow reporter Carmen Sin speak with their two guests to find out if youths are caught in a financial jam between spending and saving the fruits of their labour.

Having saved his first $100,000 at age 28, He Ruiming, now 35 and co-founder of personal finance blog The Woke Salaryman, urges disciplined financial perspectives for Gen Z.

Joining the discussion is Daisy Anne Mitchell, 26, who is British but has lived and studied in schools in Singapore since she was five. She has worked two full-time jobs after graduating from school, but made a U-turn to freelancing and working as an influencer now - where she has gotten flak online for being candid about her cashflow.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:15 Eating broccoli and chicken for three years? Freelancing as a career - Ruiming and Daisy share their habits on saving, earning and spending

9:30 Managing financial prudence even when renting

16:38 Taking private hire transport like Grab or taxis to work: Is that prudent all the time?

21:26 Why Daisy thinks that the recent Covid era has reduced the value of money for Gen Zers

28:12 Daisy on her working life since she was 15, and discusses how an influencer career has worked for her

33:59 Ruiming and Daisy on gaining financial freedom

Produced by: Carmen Sin (carmensin@sph.com.sg), Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis & Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

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Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E14: Fail well, and you learn better

Sun, 12 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Adult learning research shows “productive failure” builds tenacity and deepens learning.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you put your career on the right footing from the outset.

Failure is not fatal. Instead, organisations and individuals can set themselves up to learn from each failure better and faster.

However, this requires thought and effort to be put into fostering productive failure.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest on how to make productive failure work.

His guest is Associate Professor Sim Soo Kheng, director of the innovation centre at the Institute for Adult Learning.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:24 How is failure the mother of success?

4:51 Creating safe spaces to fail in

10:52 Is productive failure impossible in high-stakes roles like medicine?

16:47 What can you do to learn well from the approach?

21:56 Prof Sim’s own brush with productive failure

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Career Talk Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E30: Singapore’s stakes in India’s election: Will polls bring a surprise?

Thu, 09 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear from our guest expert on Singapore’s stakes in seeing a stable government rule the world’s fifth biggest economy.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' senior columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

The world’s most populous nation began voting on April 19 in a seven-phase election in which nearly one billion people are eligible to vote, with ballots set to be counted on June 4.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with the political scientist Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea, director of the Institute of South Asian Studies, a think-tank under the National University of Singapore.

They discuss the ongoing Indian election marked by a dip in voter turnout, the competing narratives, the improving national profile of Mr Rahul Gandhi, chances of a decisive victory for Mr Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

They also look at the need to heal wounds the election has opened in the national fabric.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:10 Continuity vs high unemployment and inflation

8:09 Singapore’s stakes in the Indian election

15:01 Why it is not a ‘wave’ election this time

16:08 A new Rahul Gandhi?

20:38 Why women voters are key

24:01 Could polls spring a surprise?

27:25 Can India heal its wounds after the polls

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

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Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E15: What is the state of the Deloitte Women's Premier League?

Tue, 07 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Diving into women’s football in Singapore

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

In this episode of Hard Tackle, we look at the state of women’s football in Singapore and what the Republic needs to do to improve its standards.

In the Lionesses’ most recent international friendlies, they suffered 3-0 and 8-0 defeats by Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the Deloitte Women’s Premier League (WPL) kicked off on March 9 but lacklustre field conditions at the Choa Chua Kang stadium caused much frustration and anger to players, coaches and fans.

Join ST Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan, current women’s footballer Sara Merican, former national captain Charmaine Lim and former national footballer Chris Yip-Au who is now with Seychelles Football Federation as its head of women’s football and women’s national team coach.

They explore the current issues in women’s football and what the future holds for the ladies.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:45 How Yip-Au, Sara and Lim were introduced to football in the early days

9:55 Has access to information on women’s football increased in recent years?

18:50 What is needed for countries including Singapore to progress up the rankings in women’s football?

19:55 How do national team players balance work or school with playing football and get that aspect be improved or helped?

30:15 Discussion on the facilities in the WPL

Read: https://str.sg/d3CE

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#hardtackle

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S1E29: Gen AI, you started work yet?

Sun, 05 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The promise of it transforming our work lives is happening, but maybe not in the way we expected it to.

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

It has been 18 months since ChatGPT's public debut. Has the technology touted to change our work lives been helpful, but underwhelming? Or is it us?

Of course, we had to ask gen AI Claude to produce our synopsis: This podcast goes beyond AI hype to explore surprising realities. Executives anticipate huge productivity gains, but the real disruption may lie in automating mundane tasks. Lawyers and students face skill shifts as research becomes effortless. Most intriguingly, could AI enable Singapore to "insource" outsourced work affordably? Uncover fresh perspectives on AI's quiet revolution reshaping jobs.

Join me and my special co-host Davidson Chua, a second-year student of business analytics at NUS, in our conversation with Messrs Laurence Liew and Lewis Garrad.

Laurence is the director for AI innovation at AI Singapore, and Lewis is a partner and the Asia career practice partner at consultancy Mercer.

We hope you'd enjoy this 29th episode of Work Talk, our podcast series to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Highlights (click/tap above):

02:22: Has gen AI underwhelmed?

04:29: Are companies really using it?

05:17: Let's generate more content, because we can

07:56: Forget the old ways of learning

14:16: How Laurence wrote a book, with Gemini as his biographer

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Teo Tong Kai and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's articles: https://str.sg/wB2P

Follow Krist Boo on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/shcB

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E122: Why birds are an indicator of the changing face of Earth

Sat, 04 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Migratory species are broadly in decline, disrupted by alteration of field and forest habitats, and by hunting in the case of South-east Asia.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The East Asian migratory bird flyway is perhaps the most diverse of the world's nine north-south migratory bird flyways, with millions migrating north to south, from freezing latitudes to warmer climates - some shorebirds even fly down to as far as Australia.

But migratory species are in deep trouble; a recent UN report revealed that nearly half of the world's migratory species are declining in population. Habitat loss has been affecting up to 75 per cent of them.

The state of birds is one indicator of how humans have altered the environment, largely due to infrastructure developments transforming landscapes. Fragmentation and loss of habitats are key issues for migratory shorebirds as their coastal feeding areas on mud flats along the East Asian seaboard are being reclaimed.

In this episode of Green Pulse, Thailand-based Philip Round, regional representative of the Wetland Trust and associate professor at the Department of Biology at Mahidol University, and Singapore-based Yong Ding Li, regional coordinator at BirdLife International, join co-host Nirmal Ghosh to talk about what birds are up against.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

6:06 Why rice growing is making it difficult for birds to thrive

14:58 Hunting happens on a large scale for the pet bird industry in various parts of Southeast Asia

20:12 How the use of netting to protect crops, particularly aquaculture ponds, becomes accidentally fatal to birds

24:04 Many government agencies in Southeast Asia are inadequately resourced to enforce conservation measures.

26:02 Bright spots on conservation for migratory birds

Listen to related podcasts on birds:

A visit to Sungei Buloh: How Singapore can better host migratory birds: https://omny.fm/shows/green-pulse-1/a-visit-to-sungei-buloh-how-singapore-can-play-a-b

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg), Lynda Hong, Fa'izah Sani and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Climate Change microsite: https://www.straitstimes.com/climate-change

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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S1E32: Chinese' salve for loneliness: Pay to drink at strangers' homes

Thu, 02 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The rise of home bars in cities across China shows how young Chinese are craving for companionship but without having to invest in relationships.

#family-style bars is now a search term for listings of home bars, not just for first-tier cities Beijing and Shanghai, but also Zhengzhou in central China, Chengdu in the south-west and Hangzhou on the eastern coast.

Instead of going to commercial nightspots, young Chinese are looking to spend their free time in the living rooms of strangers’ homes, where they pay for drinks, conversations and games.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with China correspondent Aw Cheng Wei on why the trend is taking off, and what it says about the Chinese wanting to make connections in a safe and casual environment.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:48 How are home bars different from regular bars?

5:08 Home bars are not meant to make money for some owners

7:00 How home bars are part of China’s “da zi” or companion culture

11:50 Chinese youths need for a deeper connection

Read Cheng Wei’s article here: https://str.sg/iAyf

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Letter From The Bureau Podcast every first Friday of the month here:

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Read Aw Cheng Wei's articles: https://str.sg/wzce

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

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S1E3: Youths on their expectations of Singapore's next PM Lawrence Wong

Thu, 02 May 2024 03:00:00 +0000

Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong becomes Singapore’s fourth prime minister on May 15, 2024, when he succeeds current PM Lee Hsien Loong.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives and digs deeper into issues of the day.

The upcoming leadership transition - when Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong becomes Singapore’s fourth prime minister on May 15 - has ignited discussions about where Singapore goes from here.

In particular, what issues are youths most concerned about before they go to the ballot box in the next General Election?

In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha hosts three guests:

Joel Lim, 31, host of Political Prude: The Podcast
Gautham Vijayan Kumaran, 26, a final-year student at the National University of Singapore
Carissa Cheow, 28, the chief strategy officer for a tech firm and a career counsellor

From expectations of DPM Wong when he takes over as prime minister, to their thoughts of how the impending general election will play out, these three guests candidly share their views and shed some insight on what youths might want to see from their future political leaders.

Highlights (Click/tap above):

4:18 Qualities youth are looking for in Singapore's next PM

12:19 What youth are looking for when the next election comes around

19:31 Is there a dichotomy between traditional bread-and-butter concerns and wider, all-encompassing issues such as climate change and civil liberties?

21:58: Are younger voters harder to convince?

31:51: How will scandals of politicians in 2023 factor into the next election?

34:28: Will social media be the dominant platform among voters at the next GE?

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Edited by producers: Teo Tong Kai and Eden Soh

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

Filmed by: Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza, ST Video

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

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S1E1: Chinese drama My Fair Princess: The cast's dramatic off-screen lives

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000

It is one of the most famous Chinese period dramas ever, but where are the members of its main cast now?

Synopsis: How Did We Get Here is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, where host Jan Lee will deep dive into a celebrity, a band or the cast of a movie or film that made an impact on Asian entertainment and how they got to where they are now.

There is a good argument to be made that the most famous Chinese drama ever aired is the Qing dynasty period royal romance My Fair Princess, best known for its first two seasons aired in 1998 and 1999.

The story is about a case of mistaken identity. An orphaned street urchin named Xiaoyanzi accidentally becomes a princess in place of her friend, the Qing emperor Qianlong’s illegitimate daughter Ziwei.

The series broke viewership records, became extremely popular across Asia and was an unprecedented hit that turned its main cast members into household names - Vicki Zhao, Ruby Lin, Alec Su, Zhou Jie, Fan Bingbing and Julian Chen.

Now, 26 years since the drama first aired - a lot has happened to the main cast. Two have been effectively cancelled by the Chinese government, one has apparently become a successful farmer, one is widely disliked by Chinese netizens and one quite literally got "burnt".

#PopVultures host Jan Lee discusses How Did We Get Here.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:20 Introduction about My Fair Princess

4:11 How the series got cast and its impact on Asian entertainment

11:57 What happened to Julian Chen?

14:16 What happened to Alec Su?

17:16 Is there a feud between Ruby Lin and Zhou Jie?

28:03 The cancellation of Fan Bingbing

35:12 The many troubles of Vicki Zhao and her eventual downfall

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

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Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#PV #HDWGH

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S1E108: No magic bullet but vaccines may help long war against dengue virus

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Asia is on the cusp of a summer of life-threatening dengue fever.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Dengue fever case numbers have gone up across the global tropics. This includes Singapore, a model in many respects for health surveillance and epidemic control, and mosquito control. In the first quarter of 2024, Singapore recorded more than double the number of cases than in the same period in 2023.

Meanwhile across the world, Latin America and the Caribbean have been warned to prepare for their worst dengue season ever.

The long war against dengue must contend with many factors including climate, weather, and human behaviour. Even without an outbreak or epidemic, dengue may circulate silently among populations.

No single solution is perfect. Dengue vaccines have been developed, but there are four strains of the virus, and the vaccines have different degrees of efficacy.

The key to effective dengue control is health surveillance and a good laboratory system - and in Singapore’s case especially, collaboration with neighbouring countries. Vaccinating populations could help complement other dengue and mosquito control measures.

Globally, we discuss how countries must build urban infrastructure to be less mosquito-friendly.

Nirmal Ghosh hosts his guests who are also global dengue gurus:

Dr. Duane Gubler, Emeritus Professor and founding director of the Emerging Infectious Diseases Signature Research Programme at Duke-NUS Medical School
Dr. Ooi Eng Eong is a Professor in the Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases at Duke-NUS Medical School

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:31 Dengue vaccine - the solution for Singapore?

8:06 Important lessons from Sars and Covid-19

16:03 Why a single vaccination cannot prevent dengue entirely

17:52 Contrarian view: Global warming is not the main cause of dengue fever

20:00 Better living standards can help control mosquito-borne diseases

23:19 Should new cities consider mosquito-related issues in building plans?

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

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In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

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Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E11: How are the 3,000-plus chargers at the HDB carparks being used today?

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The head of the EV-electric shares some of the learnings from Singapore’s electrification journey.

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

The pace of EV charger deployment at HDB carparks in 2024 will likely be slower than in the previous year - at least initially - before things pick up speed again. According to EV-Electric's chief executive, Mr Derek Tan, the target is to have another 700 or so chargers ready by 2024 and another 700 by the end of 2025.

The head of the company set up by the Land Transport Authority to coordinate the roll-out of Singapore’s public EV charging network said that the data shows that the bulk of the charging at the housing estates happen at night. As EVs become more popular, will we see users fighting over who gets to use the chargers when they return home from work?

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:50 The expected slowing down in the rate of charger deployment in 2024 and how every HDB carpark is different

12:05 The struggle between taking up a parking space for charging versus the needs of those who do not drive an EV

15:00 Data shows that 60 per cent of charging happens overnight

17:30 Ideas to encourage better charging etiquette - from fines to imposing a minimum spend

30:00 The one technological development that will turbocharge the deployment of chargers.

36:20 Why there should be parity in terms of the total cost of owning and using an EV with an internal combustion engine option.

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#coewatch

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S1E1: Visit to Sungei Buloh: How Singapore can better host migratory birds

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Why mudflats are vital for dwindling numbers of birds that stop over seasonally.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): In this new 4-part environment podcast series for 2024 - Green Trails - The Straits Times hits the ground with experts in spaces that are critical to the interlinked crises the planet faces: climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. The next episode drops in June.

For this inaugural episode, our team heads to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, the local haven for birds that travel across the world to refuel at.

Nature Society (Singapore) - one of the island's oldest non-governmental organisations - convinced the government to preserve Sungei Buloh as a wetland reserve by showing officials the diversity of birds that depend on the spot.

ST journalist Ang Qing takes a walk with representatives from the society - Veronica Foo and Tan Gim Cheong.

They talk about the lesser-known Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat, which is key to supporting the thousands of migratory shorebirds that stop over in Singapore between August and March, and why it should also receive full protection from the law.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:30 Why is Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve so special?

7:01 Have there been fewer shorebirds at the reserve?

11:15 What kind of man-made features threaten migratory birds?

18:00 Why a lesser known mudflat needs to get stronger legal protection

Read an earlier article on migratory birds: https://str.sg/JtYUU

Discover the Nature Society (Singapore) Bird Group: https://str.sg/wNzGa

Read also: Green Trails Podcast: Experience Singapore’s spaces through sound - https://str.sg/qcCm

Listen to other Green Trails episodes:

Ep 2: Visit to East Coast: How reclamation will shape up against rising sea levels - https://str.sg/mRG8

Ep 3: Visit to Windsor Nature Park: Can insects in SG's backyard be foraged https://omny.fm/shows/green-pulse-1/visit-to-windsor-nature-park-how-big-of-a-role-can

Host: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg)

Trail producers: Lynda Hong, Hadyu Rahim, Teo Tong Kai, Amirul Karim, Eden Soh

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive Producers: Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg) & Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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---

#greenpulse #greentrails

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S1E121: Can carbon credit ratings bring peace of mind to a troubled market?

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Carbon credit ratings can bring much needed transparency and accountability to the market – but is it enough to overcome years of mistrust?

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Depending on who you speak to, carbon credits hold great promise as a tool to achieve deep cuts in carbon emissions to fight climate change. Or they are a scam that fails to deliver what they promise.

A major problem around the carbon credit market is trust and transparency – do carbon offset projects achieve what they pledge? How can we be sure? And will local communities benefit?

Ultimately, carbon credits should be treated like any other financial asset – they should be held up to scrutiny. And that means they should be rated for their quality and integrity, just like bonds.

And increasingly that is what is happening. Several companies now offer ratings services for carbon credits to help buyers make better choices and meet due diligence requirements. But will this be enough to answer critics’ concerns about the carbon market?

To learn more about this, we speak to Mr Duncan van Bergen, co-founder of Calyx Global, a carbon credit ratings company based in Singapore.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:38 What are the main concerns about carbon credits?

4:04 How is trust being restored to the carbon credit market?

6:13 What does a high-quality carbon credit look like?

10:47 Your firm rates credits from projects from highest (A-rating) to lowest (E-rating). What percentage are at the highest rating and what types of projects are these?

14:40 What is the main worry about forestry projects?

20:54 What are the non-carbon benefits of carbon projects and why are they important?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Fa'izah Sani & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#greenpulse

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E2: TMI: Has social media made us oversharers?

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 03:00:00 +0000

How much is too much when sharing details of your life online?

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives and digs deeper into issues of the day.

Why do people feel so comfortable sharing intimate details of their lives online?

The Usual Place’s host Natasha Ann Zachariah sits down with TikTokers Candice Gallagher and Shaun Elias Chua, and Twitch streamer Jacey Vong, to find out why they started sharing personal details of their lives online.

When everything now becomes free game, is there a line that crosses into oversharing and how do they deal with negative comments?

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:33: Why do the three of them put out so much of their lives on social media?

16:36: Is it weird that virtual strangers know small details about their lives?

23:15: Dealing with haters - why not just quit instead?

33:20: Being cancelled - the risk of sharing their opinions

DM Natasha your thoughts on this topic at her IG: https://str.sg/8Wav

Candice Gallagher on TikTok: https://str.sg/KVvw

Shaun Elias Chua on TikTok: https://str.sg/AeCK

Jacey Vong on Twitch: https://str.sg/752E

Produced by: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, Joel Chng and Marc Justin De Souza

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E23: US tech stocks: Is it time to diversify?

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Consider other markets and the wider US tech sector.

Synopsis: Every third Monday of the month, hosts Lee Su Shyan and Ven Sreenivasan - both senior columnists at The Straits Times - offer you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

In this episode, Mr Adam Reynolds, Asia-Pacific CEO of Saxo, discusses the large exposure many investors have to the US tech stocks.

What are the implications for them if the stocks face headwinds and how can they diversify?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:12 Headwinds that the Magnificent 7 are currently facing

3:42 Should you be diversifying away from Big US tech and how you can diversify by looking at other markets?

6:12 What about the wider US tech sector, apart from the Magnificent 7?

7:15: Implications of investing in tech sectors with the growth of AI

11:00 How investors can be positioned for the rest of the year

Produced by: Lee Su Shyan (sushyan@sph.com.sg), Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Ven Sreenivasan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQe

Read Lee Su Shyan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQs

Follow Lee Su Shyan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/bZqN

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

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S1E123: A new personalised treatment for stubborn depression

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

IMH trial to study efficacy of personalised transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression.

Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Researchers from the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore are studying a new personalised treatment for resistant depression.

It is the personalised version of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate and reset the specific part of the brain that regulates mood.

A clinical trial that aims to study its efficacy is currently being conducted at IMH. It pairs TMS with the algorithm of each patient’s functional magnetic resonance imaging to identify a precise spot on the head where magnetic stimulation can be applied to achieve better outcomes.

In this Health Check podcast episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to two experts involved in the trial. Dr Tor Phern Chern is a Senior Consultant at the Mood & Anxiety department and Head of Neurostimulation Service, at IMH and Associate Professor Thomas Yeo is from the Centre for Sleep and Cognition at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:28 How does TMS work?

8:47 Using a tape measure to ascertain the target area

10:34 What is depression?

23:29 Using Professor Yeo's algorithm to find an individual treatment target

25:52 What is the trial about?

29:27 Envisioning a future of TMS treatments

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here every month and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

#healthcheck

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S1E14: What Singapore can learn from Joseph Schooling's retirement

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Did Singapore let its golden boy down in any way?

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

In this episode of Hard Tackle, we delve into the lessons from the recent retirement of Singaporean swimming sensation Joseph Schooling on April 2, 2024, at just 28 years of age.

Join ST Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan and assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath as they host two guests - Singapore Aquatics president and former national swimmer Mark Chay and two-time Olympian David Lim.

They explore the implications of Schooling's decision and discuss how Singapore can draw valuable lessons from his meteoric rise to the 100m butterfly gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics and his struggle after that historic win.

Could the Singapore sports ecosystem have done more for Schooling?

Is there a conversation about national service and high performance athletes and crucially, who will be Singapore swimming’s next superstar after Schooling?

We ask the hard questions, the guests respond, and now it is time for you to listen in on our debate.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:00 Rohit Brijnath on how he felt after speaking to Schooling about his retirement

12:10 Why retirement was the better option for Schooling rather than going for success at regional competitions?

14:05 Could there have been better support for Schooling?

22:30 On how Singapore can do better in drawing on the knowledge, experience and ups and downs of our successful athletes

28:40 Why we need to have a closer look at how Schooling became a success

34:00 Will stakeholders have a conversation about NS and its impact on athletes?

Listen to our earlier episode with Joseph Schooling himself: https://str.sg/LFUG

Read: https://str.sg/JJJQF

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#hardtackle

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E1: Get into the new Hard Tackle Podcast channel from The Straits Times

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Hear the tough questions posed to our sports stars or authorities in our studio, and how they react.

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

The Straits Times' sports podcast has been around for the past few years, in different formats - from Game Of Two Halves, to Sports Talk, and now...the Hard Tackle.

We've found that this format has worked the best for us, and the harder the tackle, the more our listeners come back for more.

Host Deepanraj Ganesan's boyhood Manchester United hero Roy Keane would be so proud to hear this.

He will engage guests from the local or foreign sports community as ST looks at the biggest talking points in sport.

Catch back episodes of Hard Tackle:

Olympic champ Joseph Schooling in his own words as he retires

The Lions’ Tsutomu Ogura era is underway

New Lions head coach Tsutomu Ogura talks his vision for SG football

Catch visual snippets of the podcast from ST's sports Instagram page: https://str.sg/vn2F

Connect with Deepan on X to give him your ideas/feedback: https://str.sg/wtra

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Hard Tackle every month here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Deepan's articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#hardtackle

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E13: How cutting-edge firms interview candidates

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A tech and corporate veteran breaks down the intensive interview process at top firms.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you put your career on the right footing from the outset.

As skill demands and job complexity increase with economic advancement, so do employer needs as reflected in increasingly intensive job interviews.

The stakes are especially high for candidates seeking a foot in the door at cutting edge companies in the technology sector and beyond.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest on how to make an impression in the interview.

His guest is:

Mr Huang Wen, Asia-Pacific chief technology officer for information technology consultancy, SoftServe

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:23 What goes on in interviews for cutting-edge roles?

5:02 What makes people apply for jobs despite numerous intensive interviews?

12:04 How to stand out in an especially competitive interview process

16:58 How are young candidates raising the bar on interview performance

20:24 The hardest interview Mr Huang took part in as a candidate

22:59 How else can an organisation suss out the right talent?

S1E41: Why volunteering is worth our time and effort: 2 young working adults

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Two youth volunteers - adults with full-time jobs - explain what motivates them to spark change in the community.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Youth Corps Singapore, which is under the National Youth Council, turns 10 in 2024. It is a division under the council that champions youth volunteerism to ignite positive change in society through community service.

In this episode, ST podcast assistant editor Lynda Hong speaks with two volunteer leaders Afzal Hadi and Valerie Kwa, to find out about their experience with Youth Corps Singapore.

Afzal is currently the Welfare Lead in the Engagement Taskforce Cluster and is a member of the Ambassadors Team cluster, while Valerie is Publicity Team Lead within the Mental Health Cluster. The two young working adults - Afzal is in business development while Valerie is in social service - also offer tips on how to pick a cluster to volunteer with.

Clusters can be thought of a “specialisation” - youth-led, youth-run interest groups within Youth Corps. They include: Children, Youth and Family, Eldercare, Special Needs, Beyond Singapore, Mental Health and Sustainability.

This podcast is brought to you by National Youth Council: https://str.sg/wFbf

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 Life-changing experiences from volunteering - Afzal's U-turn from business school to study social work instead, and Valerie advocating for mental health

5:50 How youths can pick their preferred cause from Youth Corps’ 12 clusters - specialisation areas

7:40 Discovering leadership style through volunteerism

11:04 Afzal and Valerie on Youth Corps allowing interested youths to try out in a small way, before deciding which cluster to volunteer in

12:30 How much time Afzal and Valerie spends on volunteering?

14:40 Despite working full-time jobs, hear why Afzal and Valerie are still volunteering

*Youth Corps will also organise a 10th Anniversary Carnival at *Scape Playspace in Somerset on July 6, 2024.

*Interested youths can also participate in the Do Good Fest, which will be held from May to July, providing over 3,000 opportunities to learn about volunteerism.

S1E120: Climate change only one of three ecological crises: Tommy Koh warns

Sat, 06 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

In a storied career, the diplomat Professor Tommy Koh also chaired the Earth Summit in 1992 and negotiated the Law of the Sea.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The framers of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea did not foresee global warming affecting oceans to the extent that it does - causing acidification and the death of coral reefs - said the top diplomat who was president of the 1973 conference that produced the Convention known as UNCLOS.

In this episode, Singapore’s ambassador at-large and foremost international environmental law expert Tommy Koh - who also chaired the pivotal 1992 Earth Summit - tells host ST's global contributor Nirmal Ghosh that plastic debris in the oceans now is of severe concern. He adds that the international community has also failed to be good stewards of the world's fisheries.

According to the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), unsustainable practices have depleted about 90 per cent of major fisheries - and fishing fleets continue to be subsidised. The total capacity of the world’s fishing fleets is beyond the sustainable limit of the oceans.

Meanwhile, unlike climate change, the loss of biodiversity has failed to capture the popular imagination even as some scientists are calling the current era "the sixth extinction."

There is hope, however, that the international community is at a tipping point, with people and governments waking up to the danger of this unprecedented loss.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:22 The blind spot during negotiations of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

3:57 Large amounts of marine plastic debris in the ocean is a very serious problem

5:01 Why it is unsustainable to subsidise the fishing industry

6:05 How the man or woman on the street can link the loss of biodiversity to their individual welfare and interest

9:46 What are the shortfalls in efforts to curb global warming

12:43 How densely populated Singapore managed to maintain green spaces

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Fa'izah Sani and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Climate Change microsite: https://www.straitstimes.com/climate-change

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

#greenpulse

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E31: Thai music, Thaksin, a ‘tattoo’: Thailand feels its way forward

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Tan Tam Mei reflects on her time as Thailand correspondent, and looks ahead to how the country could navigate geopolitical and domestic politics.

A man sings. It is part of Thailand’s folk music tradition from its north-east region of Isan. But he is warbling in Laotian - a reminder of Thailand’s location in the heart of the Mekong region, and its shared culture, language and borders with its neighbours.

The pull and push dynamic that Thailand engages with its neighbours is one challenge. Another is how it is grappling with its turbulent domestic politics and shifting attitudes about traditional institutions and beliefs including the monarchy.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with ST’s former Thailand correspondent Tan Tam Mei about her two and a half years based in Bangkok, bookended by Covid-19 protests, and the return of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra after 15 years in exile.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:43 The rise of Thailand’s “rural people” music

6:00 Selling soft power

10:28 The pull and push of Mekong countries

12:41 Thaksin returns, but to a different electorate

13:11 Thailand looks peaceful, but an uneasy dynamic is at play

16:34 A ‘tattoo’, a souvenir of Thailand

Read Tam Mei’s articles here: https://str.sg/oZRkj and https://str.sg/uNXj

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Letter From The Bureau Podcast every first Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Read Tan Tam Mei's articles: https://str.sg/ifku

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E1: Having babies: Natural next step after marriage or thank you, next?

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 03:00:00 +0000

Our guests discuss if parenthood is an expectation or choice.

Synopsis: The Straits Times’ Natasha Ann Zachariah explores contemporary societal choices and youth perspectives and digs deeper into issues of the day.

In Singapore, where preliminary estimates indicate its Total Fertility Rate hit a record low of 0.97 in 2023, some are opting to remain child-free.

In the first episode of our new podcast series, The Usual Place’s host Natasha Ann Zachariah brings together two guests who hold opposing views on being parents.

Joan Chong, 35, never wants kids. She never yearned for them before she got married, and flat out told her partner when they started dating, that she did not want to be a parent.

Meanwhile, Dainial Lim is a passionate voice in favour of embracing the joys of parenthood. To him, having children is a natural path in life after getting married, and it would have been a relationship dealbreaker for him if his wife was not for it.

They sit down with Natasha to dissect their personal choices in a candid and unfiltered conversation. What unfolds is a discussion about their choices and dissecting the misconceptions that come with it.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:56 Is it still taboo to say you want to be childfree

6:48 Do women still bear the burden of raising children?

9:44 Joan’s realities of being childfree

14:31 The scary part about having children

17:16 How kids changed Dainial’s life

23:05 Does Joan feel left out for not receiving government incentives?

25:17 Are Singaporean parents entitled?

31:25 If anyone’s on the fence about having children, what would Joan and Dainial tell them?

DM Natasha your thoughts on this topic at her IG: https://str.sg/8Wav

Watch the video version of this episode: https://str.sg/nZDz

Produced by: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong and Studio+65

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Follow The Usual Place Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Natasha Zachariah's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#tup #tuptr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E13: Olympic champ Joseph Schooling in his own words as he retires

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Eight years after his stunning success at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Singapore’s greatest athlete has called time on his career.

Synopsis: The Straits Times tackles the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

In this special episode, we bring you an excerpt of assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath’s interview with Singapore’s Olympic gold medallist Joseph Schooling.

The swimmer who won the 100m butterfly gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics called time on his career on April 2.

Listen to Schooling as he looks back on his career with honesty and relives the moment he stunned the world and put Singapore on the sporting map.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:13 Schooling on how life changed after the 2016 Olympic gold

7:20 What was it like to deal with the cannabis saga that put Schooling in the headlines again?

8:00 Is it fair to have expectations on sportsmen to have a certain level of responsibility in how they conduct themselves?

11:04 How Schooling felt on the day he made history

15:11 When did Schooling realise he had won that historic race?

What Singapore can learn from Schooling's retirement: https://str.sg/Mor8

Read: https://str.sg/JJJQF

Produced by: Rohit Brijnath (rohitb@sph.com.sg) & ST Video

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Rohit Brijnath's articles: https://str.sg/wFu2

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#hardtackle

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E28: Stereotyping at work. Who? Me?

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Old vs young, abled vs disabled, woman vs man.

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Labels invariably affect workplace policies and work opportunities today. Why do we put labels on others? Do Singapore workplaces pay lip service to inclusivity? Are Human Resources teams doing enough? With a fast-ageing Singapore, are we about to see real change at the workplace?

Join me and my special co-host this week, communications executive Jonathan Tiong, as we speak to sociologists Professor Paulin Tay Straughan and Dr Issac Lim.

Prof Straughan is dean of students at the Singapore Management University, and Issac is the founder of Anthro Insights, a consultancy that provides evidence-based human insights to help organisations change.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:40 When is stereotyping not a trend?

8:30 Why bother looking at it?

13:05 Is inclusivity just lip service? HR, can you do more?

16:35 Do consumers have a part to play?

20:40 Older, disabled colleagues don't pull their weight. True?

24:00 Humanistic workplaces, why should we care?

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Teo Tong Kai and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's articles: https://str.sg/wB2P

Follow Krist Boo on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/shcB

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E12: The Lions’ Tsutomu Ogura era is underway

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Can the Lions roar under Ogura?

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

In this episode of Hard Tackle, Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by former Singapore international Noor Ali and Singapore Premier League commentator and Lions fan Zia-ul Raushan to dissect the Singapore national football team’s first two matches under new coach Tsutomu Ogura.

The Lions played out a hard-fought 2-2 draw against China on March 21 in front of the 28,414 crowd at the National Stadium. Five days later in chilly Tianjin, the Lions fell to a 4-1 loss, although there were signs of progress once again as the Republic showed grit and bravery in their play before being undone by a controversial penalty and two late goals.

So what do our pundits make of the start under Ogura and what is the way forward?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 Why is there a positive feeling amongst fans despite the Lions not posing a victory against China?

8:30 Noor Ali on how the team has shaped up tactically under Ogura

17:15 The need for stronger mentality amongst players and the importance of leadership

21:00 What Ogura and the Lions can improve on

34:00 On the new standards in the national team and why players must step up

Read: https://str.sg/8Kmc

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#hardtackle

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E10: The story behind the 312 “redistributed” motorcycle COEs

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0000

The head of the industry body for motorcycle sellers and workshops recounts how the association has been pushing for change, from COEs to rules on safety equipment

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

With all the attention on certificate of entitlement (COEs) for cars, it is easy to forget about the motorcycles, which are the smallest of all vehicle types on the road.

But as this conversation with Mr Rex Tan, president of the Singapore Motor Cycle Trade Association reveals, the industry body has a big voice, and the Government is listening, from asking for reviews to the COE supply to rules on safety equipment.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:10 The price is right! If you are talking about motorcycle COE premiums.

15:25 Why the motorcycle insurance premium seems so high

20:40 The practice of penalties for paying back loans early

25:00 What consumers have to do to avoid getting a bad financing deal

26:15 The saying about the rider protecting the motorcycle

27:30 An ongoing push to review motorcycle helmet safety standards

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E10: Home-grown singer Rangga Jones’ regional fan base includes a K-pop star

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer, songwriter, and producer Rangga Jones is the tenth guest in this music channel.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the 10th episode of Music Lab, ST's music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts home-grown singer, songwriter, and producer Rangga Jones.

He might not be a household name in Singapore, but in recent years, the 27-year-old has been steadily building up a fanbase in the region with his R&B/pop songs.

On streaming services, the Singapore-based singer has racked up millions of plays, mostly from fans in the Philippines and Indonesia, where he was born. Call Me, a song first released in 2022, has 23 million streams on just Spotify alone.

The song also caught the attention of Ruka, a member of South Korean girl group Babymonster, who added it to her public Apple Music playlist.

Jones, who started releasing music in 2019, dropped his first full-length album, Emotions, in late 2023. He has already started on new projects, and recently released his latest single, Pushing Me Away.

In this episode of Music Lab, he sang live renditions of Call Me as well as Not Good Enough, one of the songs off Emotions.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:45 - On having K-pop star Ruka from Babymonster as a fan

4:19 - Turning his self-consciousness into a song

7:41 - His transition from metalhead to pop singer

9:26 - Ed Sheeran inspired him to be a songwriter

13:01 - On becoming a full-time singer just before the pandemic hit

15:36 - He only learnt to speak English at eight years old

16:04 - On his international fanbase

18:51 - Fans recognise him at his part-time job at a cafe

19:43 - A recent break-up inspired his latest song

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the new Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/KRFD

Listen to Rangga's live performance of Call Me here: https://str.sg/GpM7

Listen to Rangga's live performance of not good enough here: https://str.sg/77tv

Discover home-grown artiste Rangga Jones at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/uqA8

Spotify: https://str.sg/LNPc

Instagram: https://str.sg/koXE

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E10: Rangga Jones - not good enough (Live)

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer, songwriter, and producer Rangga Jones' intimate live studio take of not good enough, a song from his first full-length album, Emotions.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the new Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/KRFD

Listen to Rangga Jones talk about his musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/eN65

Discover home-grown artiste Rangga Jones at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/uqA8

Spotify: https://str.sg/LNPc

Instagram: https://str.sg/koXE

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Mixed by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E10: Rangga Jones - Call Me (Live)

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer, songwriter, and producer Rangga Jones' intimate live studio take of Call Me, a song first released in 2022, has 23 million streams on just Spotify alone.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Watch the special live performance and video podcast version of this episode on the new Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel: https://str.sg/KRFD

Listen to Rangga Jones talk about his musical journey in the full audio-only podcast here: https://str.sg/eN65

Discover home-grown artiste Rangga Jones at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/uqA8

Spotify: https://str.sg/LNPc

Instagram: https://str.sg/koXE

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Mixed by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E40: Boosting Singapore's low birth rate: Indranee Rajah, young parents discuss

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

With Singapore’s resident total fertility rate dropping below 1 for the first time - hitting a historic low at 0.97 last year in 2023 - we discuss how the birth rate can be boosted.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

For many years in Singapore, we have not had enough babies to replace ourselves, with the Total Fertility rate, or TFR, remaining below the replacement rate of 2.1.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Indranee Rajah - who assists in oversight of the National Population and Talent Division in the PMO - said in Parliament on Feb 28, that preliminary estimates indicate a resident TFR of 0.97 in 2023, posing twin demographic challenges for Singapore alongside an ageing population.

In this episode, ST podcast assistant editor Lynda Hong hosts Ms Indranee to find out how workplaces here can become more family-friendly, and debates what an “excellent parent” should ideally mean in this day and age.

Two young parents - unmarried to each other - are also in the studio to ask Ms Indranee about how Singapore's workplaces can be made friendly for parents juggling child-rearing responsibilities.

Mr Daniel Lim, a 31-year-old research analyst, is a father of three. Ms Deniece Grace Foo, 37, runs Emerge Arts and Media Academy, a performing arts school for children. She has two young children.

They also share their personal challenges and joys in raising a family.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:40 The government-paid paternity leave has just been doubled to four weeks on a voluntary basis; Minister Indranee on how the take-up rate is at just over 50% for now

2:33 Deniece asks the Minister: What can be done to support manpower challenges faced by SMEs?

7:38 Minister Indranee addresses the fear of a lack of mobility in one's career due to flexible work arrangement requests, and why Singapore employers who are hesitant to adopt such practices, should see it as a competitive advantage in hiring

9:20 Daniel’s experience as a "young parent employee", on "wanting to succeed at home and at work", and Deniece’s experience as an young employer helping "young parent employees"

23:24 Daniel asks the Minister: Would there ever be a form of grandparents childcare leave, especially if they will be the new "young working seniors" in future? Can Singapore be branded as one of the most "family-friendly nations" globally?

31:20 Minister Indranee on a line in her Parliament speech, on how “pressures to be an excellent parent” is one of the concerns to having children;

35:10 Daniel and Deniece on juggling pressures to be "excellent" young parents

Produced by: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read ST's Budget 2024 coverage: https://www.straitstimes.com/tags/budget-2024

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

#inyouropinion

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E84: Update for new #PopVultures series from April 2024 onwards

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

PopVultures host Jan Lee explains her transition from the previous year-long Can I Tell You Something Crazy series about pop culture zeitgeist moments to a new scripted series in 2024 along the lines of Where Are They Now.

For once-famous Asian or global celebrities you might like to know more of but just don’t know where to start, DM Jan Lee your suggestions on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc or reach her at janlee@sph.com.sg

Meantime, you can catch up on back episodes of the Can I Tell You Something Crazy series at our show links below.

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

#PV

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E107: Why Asean is watching the Philippines’ strategy in South China Sea

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the Philippines is raising its game to cope with an increasingly aggressive China in the South China Sea.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Increasingly dangerous encounters between Chinese and Philippine Coast Guard vessels in the South China Sea - claimed almost in its entirety by China but also in part by several other countries including the Philippines - have deepened worries over accidental escalation, not least because the Philippines and the United States have a mutual defence treaty.

The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has taken a more robust stand on China relative to his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, and the Philippines has sharply upped its defence budget and is enhancing its defence cooperation and military interoperability with the United States.

However, neither the Philippines nor the United States have the appetite for conflict with Manila's giant neighbour - China.

To shine a light on the Philippines’ strategy, host Nirmal Ghosh has two guests in this episode:

1. Former rear admiral with the Philippine Navy Rommel Ong - now professor of praxis at the Ateneo School of Government in the Philippines

2. Dr. Colin Koh, senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:43 Why did the Philippines allocate more budget for defence and maritime security in 2024?

3:48 Dr Koh on the Philippines facing uncertainties; Why Prof Ong does not expect a significant increase in US troops in the Philippines

7:58 Dr Koh and Prof Ong on China using "grey zone" tactics like water cannons and aggressive blocking manoeuvres in the South China Sea

8:27 Could tensions escalate to armed conflict in the South China Sea?

14:52 "War" of a different kind between the Philippines and China since April 2023

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#STAsianInsider

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S1E22: Things to consider now that CPF Special Account will be removed for those 55 and older

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How much should you put into your CPF Life then?

Synopsis: Every third Monday of the month, hosts Lee Su Shyan and Ven Sreenivasan - both associate editors and senior columnists at The Straits Times - offer you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

In this episode, Mr Christopher Tan, CEO and founder of Providend - a fee-only wealth advisory - discusses the closure of the CPF special account for those 55 and over from early 2025, which was announced during Budget 2024.

What are the implications for CPF members and how can they best manage their CPF savings?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:30 Context for why the CPF Ordinary, Special and MediSave accounts were set up

7:30 Reasons for the removal of the CPF Special Account for those 55 and older

13:15 Considerations for CPF members as they aim to boost their returns

15:10 What to bear in mind: Whether to go for the Enhanced Retirement Sum and what you can do with CPF Life

20:00 CPF Life and longevity risk

Produced by: Lee Su Shyan (sushyan@sph.com.sg), Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Ven Sreenivasan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQe

Read Lee Su Shyan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQs

Follow Lee Su Shyan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/bZqN

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

#moneycareer

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E119: Why greening the building sector is a towering challenge

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Humanity will never achieve net-zero emissions by the middle of the century unless the building sector figures out how to become truly green.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Who hasn’t escaped a scorchingly hot day by seeking refuge in a nicely chilled shopping centre? Or, for those in cold climates, in a toasty warm office or cafe?

But have you ever wondered how much energy it takes to cool, heat and power the buildings in our cities and towns? It’s a lot.

In fact, the building sector is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions – about 39 per cent of all energy-related CO2 emissions come from buildings and the materials used to construct them.

Humanity will never reach net-zero emissions by the middle of the century unless we can make buildings truly green. So, how is the building sector responding to the climate challenge?

How are building owners and managers cutting emissions and what more can they do? What regulations are there in Singapore and the region to encourage greater energy efficiency and retrofitting of older buildings to help them go from brown to green?

To learn more about this, ST's climate change editor David Fogarty hosts the Singapore-based head of ESG consulting & sustainability services at global real estate agency CBRE, who also happens to be named David Fogarty.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:55 How large are the emissions from the building sector and how fast is the sector growing?

2:50 What can be done to cut emissions? What steps are being taken now?

5:09 What are embedded emissions? And how great is the challenge in cutting carbon emissions from making building materials?

7:17 There are regulations incentivising energy efficiency in buildings, including retrofitting. Are these making a difference?

11:49 In David Fogarty's role, some of the key trends he is seeing, such as green leasing

15:10 What will the buildings of 2050 or 2060 look like?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

#greenpulse

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E80: Singapore sisters making waves with Olympic qualification

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

History-making sisters making waves with Olympic relay qualification

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

On Feb 18, Quah Ting Wen, Quah Jing Wen, Letitia Sim and Levenia Sim clocked 4 minutes and 2.88 seconds at the World Aquatics Championships to not just set a new women's 4x100m medley relay national record, they also booked their ticket to Paris 2024.

In this episode of Sports Talk, David Lee is joined by the two sets of sisters who became the first Singaporeans to qualify for an Olympic swimming relay event.

They share what it is like to train and compete as sisters, and what they need to do to create more history and make it to an Olympic final.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:08 Realisation of the accomplishment

3:39 The beginning of a strong combination

5:52 Strengths and weaknesses

6:30 Perks of competing as sisters

8:59 Swimming as an a-Quah-tic family

11:41 Not so Sim-ple decision to choose to swim for Singapore

14:26 Redemption for Asian Games disqualification

16:36 Going under four minutes and fighting for a final

18:00 Get to know the sisters

Read: https://str.sg/JursU

Produced by: David Lee (davidlee@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

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Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

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S1E12: Returning strongly from a career break

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A talent expert who has helped over 200 people clinch jobs after a career break shares what works.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you put your career on the right footing from the outset.

At the best of times, making calculated career moves to meet one's financial and professional goals is hard, and even more so when one is returning from a career break.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest on how to make a successful return to the workforce.

His guest is:
Ms Wiwiek Sindarta, senior regional director at talent consultancy Talentvis

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:29 Why do workers go on career breaks and then return?

3:04 In what situations are career breaks hardest to return from?

6:06 What distinguishes people who get off to a flying start?

8:31 Should you hold off on returning if the job market is weak?

12:53 Wiwiek's own experience with mulling over a career break

16:46 How do women returning from breaks have it especially hard?

Read more: https://str.sg/H5Y7

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E29: Saving the Shompen tribe – when survival collides with strategy

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with the noted anthropologist and Andamans expert Vishvajit Pandya on the need to balance heritage, developmental and strategic interests as the Andaman and Nicobar islands become a geopolitical hotspot.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' associate editor and senior Asia columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Prof Visvajit Pandya, an anthropologist who has researched tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar islands for four decades.

They discuss the fate of the Shompen in Great Nicobar, a tribe of fewer than 600 people whose lives are likely to be upended by plans to build tourism resorts and a transhipment port as well as a naval base on the island. Dr Pandya, who has worked with the Shompen, makes a strong case for including their point of view in developmental plans for their island.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:12 India’s plans for the Great Nicobar

5:35 ‘Shy Shompens’ under threat

9:20 Strategic significance of the Andaman and Nicobar

13:15 Limited “carrying capacity” of the islands

16:30 Last of the ‘hostiles’ are Sentinelese

18:45 Port is like a ‘bad sewage system’

22:45 A right to make choices

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

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Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

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S1E122: You don’t need to join an exercise class to be healthy

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Get started on moderate intensity physical activity to stay healthy.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Singapore wants to be a healthier nation, and everyone needs to play their part by leading healthier lifestyles. This would only benefit the individual, but not everyone exercises regularly.

And, if you have watched the popular Netflix documentary series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, which are spots where people tend to live to around 100, you will know that the world’s longest-lived people do not exercise. They don’t go running in the stadium, nor do they go for a workout in the gym.

So, just how much of it is necessary when it comes to doing it for health, weight management or weight loss? What’s the minimum amount of exercise that you can do to obtain any health benefits?

In this Health Check podcast episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Clinical Assistant Professor Ivy Lim, a Senior Consultant and the Chief of the Department of Sport and Exercise Medicine at Changi General Hospital to find out more.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:01 Do we really need to exercise?

4:35 Pairing exercise and diet will lead to greater weight loss than solely relying on diet

8:09 Is it okay to focus on resistance training and not cardiovascular exercise like running?

9:52 Can you get rid of your belly fat by doing a lot of sit-ups?

12:04 Will brisk walking and stair climbing cause you to have knee problems?

15:53 Sprint training snacks at CGH: Doing less but at a higher intensity

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here every month and rate us:

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Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

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True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E27: Next job disruptor, quantum?

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Will we cede jobs to quantum computing next?

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

We may not time travel anytime soon, but quantum computing may go mainstream among businesses within a decade.

What is this technology that inspires science-fiction tales? What do bosses and workers need to know about it?

Join me, Krist Boo, and my guests, Dr Paul Griffin, associate professor of information systems (practice) at the Singapore Management University and Dr Scott Crowder, vice president for IBM quantum adoption and business development, as we talk about the quantum revolution. Strap in, because it might be closer than you think.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:00 How quantum computers differ from classical computers.

5:15 IBM roadmap: quantum adoption by 2033?

7:47 Classical, graphic, quantum - different uses for different computers

11:51 Is Singapore ready for the quantum revolution

13:35 What businesses need to know, for now

15:40 Jobs and skills in the quantum age

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai.

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's Work Talk columns: https://str.sg/wB2P

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E118: Are carbon emissions from wars and militaries finally getting attention?

Sat, 02 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The role of militaries, and conflicts, in driving global warming can no longer be ignored.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Even in peace times, militaries are huge emitters of the greenhouse gases that drive global warming. The US military with its global network of bases, has a particularly large carbon footprint - and outsources it to host countries who must account for it under their own reports to the United Nations.

Humanity is at war in two places currently - Ukraine and the Middle East - with several other low-level conflicts in different parts of the globe, and military expenditure on the rise.

Historical data shows that past wars produced staggering amounts of greenhouse gasses. The destruction of forests in Vietnam in the 1960s by the US’s use of the chemical herbicide Agent Orange is estimated to have generated emissions in the range of 300-400 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) - about seven to eight times the annual emissions of the country of Switzerland.

The burning of oil wells by then-dictator Saddam Hussein's army in 1990 as western coalition forces drove Iraqi forces out of Kuwait, generated probably more than 400 million tonnes.

Until recently however, the carbon emissions of wars and militaries were not seriously considered. When the Kyoto Protocol was negotiated in 1997, the United States pushed for the exclusion of bunker fuels - essentially transport fuel for ships and airplanes, much of which is used by its military.

That is slowly changing. While militaries’ carbon footprints are trending downwards in line with other economic sectors, as economies broadly become more fuel efficient, conflicts sharply spike CO2 emissions, and any increase in geopolitical conflict risks diverting taxpayer funding from climate adaptation and mitigation programmes.

There is now a clear view in the United Nations, that this dilemma must be addressed, says University of Zurich climate policy expert and senior founding partner of Perspectives Climate Group Dr Axel Michaelowa, in conversation with Straits Times Global Contributor Nirmal Ghosh in this episode of the Green Pulse podcast.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

3:30 Impact of Agent Orange on forest destruction during the Vietnam War; carbon emissions in the range of 300 to 400 million tons

4:57 Conflict in Gaza - the destruction of buildings and emissions of 30 to 40 million tons

6:10 How 10 to 15 years of opportunity for mitigation was lost due to the United States advocating to exempt the need to report and cover emissions from ships and planes - driven mainly by military.

9:05 With US bases outside of its country, these substantial emissions would be accounted under the country where the base is located.

11:25 The indirect consequence of geopolitical conflicts on increased carbon emission

14:13 International recognition that carbon emissions from militaries and conflicts need to be accounted for.

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E30: The $1 chip that keeps Taiwan’s tech devices in working order

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Feeling peckish? Find out why Taiwan is mad about the “Kuai Kuai” brand of corn snacks.

Taiwan is the world’s top manufacturer of semiconductors and advanced chips. But here is the super-chip that rules them all: a corn chip snack that is a favourite among Taiwan kids.

Bags of it can be found atop laptops, ATM machines, printers all over the island, even in the offices of engineers in Hsinchu Science Park – home of the island’s semiconductor industry.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with ST’s Taiwan correspondent Yip Wai Yee about how these chips became the go-to lucky charms for Taiwan appliances, and the folk traditions and pseudoscience that continue to thrive in the technologically advanced society.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:00: Why Kuai Kuai corn chips are so popular in Taiwan

2:05: How they “bestow their magical powers” on appliances

4:28: TSMC, the world’s leading semiconductor company, has its own edition of Kuai Kuai chips

5:47: The propensity for Taiwanese to turn to such folk beliefs

8:29 The wrong use of Kuai Kuai chips was believed to have crashed Taiwan’s tax filing system in May 2017

Read Wai Yee’s article here: https://str.sg/6vYn

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

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Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E9: A new way of selling cars in Singapore?

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

No other car company has invested as much as Porsche to sell cars to consumers in Singapore with a high-end “studio” in the heart of the city. How is it working?

Synopsis: The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

Cars in Singapore are the most expensive in the world. In this episode, ST's senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe visits the Porsche Studio Singapore in Guoco Midtown along Beach Road, to speak with Mr Brendan Mok, head of PR and communications at Porsche Asia Pacific.

They discuss how the German sportscar brand is going to sell more units in Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:30 What is so different about how Porsche is selling cars in Singapore?

17:20 How frequently do car companies review their contracts with dealers?

19:00 Answering the EV question

23:25 Only one in five Porsches sold are actually “sports cars”

28:30 Porsche’s sales projection for Singapore in 2024

36:30 When there will be a garage sale of Porsche in Singapore

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, T Kumar & Willy Wong

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

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Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E11: New Lions head coach Tsutomu Ogura talks his vision for SG football

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

So why do the Lions have yet another Japanese coach?

Synopsis: Every fourth Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times dives into a sports topic and tackles the hard questions with its guests on Hard Tackle.

In this episode of Hard Tackle, Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by Football Association of Singapore president, Bernard Tan and the newly appointed head coach of the Singapore national football team, Tsutomu Ogura.

For the first time since Ogura’s appointment on Feb 1, Tan describes the process undertaken by the FAS in terminating former head coach Takayuki Nishigaya’s contract and then selecting Ogura to lead the Lions.

Ogura also shares his journey to becoming the Lions’ head coach, his vision for the team and his plans ahead of his first match in charge of the Lions, when they take on China in a World Cup qualifier on Mar 21.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:49 When and how did the process to fire Takayuki Nishigaya and hire Tsutomu Ogura began?

8:30 Ogura’s initial thoughts when he was offered the Singapore national team head coach job

14:19 What gave Ogura the edge over the other candidates?

24:07 Ogura on the importance of working with a local coach

35:38 Does FAS president Bernard take sole responsibility for the hire of Ogura?

Read: https://str.sg/q8ro

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

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Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E39: Young hawkers talk: Cost pressures from food, rental and manpower

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Two young hawkers chat about the profession in this era of high inflation - how to maintain profitability while still serving that affordable meal.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

The cost of living has gotten more expensive in the last two years. Inflation measured by a basket of consumer goods was 4.8 per cent higher in 2023 than 2022, more than in 2021 when the price increase was at 2.3 per cent.

For young hawkers who also have their families to care for, maintaining a profit margin while resisting raising prices, can be challenging.

Cost differences between running a stall in private coffee shops vis a vis hawker centres managed by NEA, could make a stark difference in profitability, according to two hawkers.

In this episode,ST podcast assistant editor Lynda Hong speaks with Jeevan Ananthan, 32, who sells Li Na noodles - bak chor mee - in three stalls in coffee shops with a central kitchen.

Also in the studio is Cornelius Tan, 38, vice-chairman of the Chinatown Complex Hawker association. He is also a second-generation hawker of Chai Wee Cuttlefish stall in a hawker centre managed by the NEA.

They also talk about how the government subsidy waives the 0.5 per cent transaction fee that stallholders will have to pay for each digital transaction – those made via QR code payments under the Singapore Quick Response Code (SGQR) platform.

The new subsidy window, under the Hawkers Go Digital initiative to spur more merchants to digitalise, continues until Dec 31, 2024 – the second time it has been extended. It was initially extended to the end of 2023 to support stallholders during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Highlights (click/tap above):

7:34 “Let hawkers increase prices without guilt”? How rentals in hawker centres managed by NEA are charged differently from private coffee shops and food courts

13:20 Juggling manpower costs: Hiring Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs)

15:19 Is there "greed" when it comes to rent in private coffee shops and food courts?

16:13 Why the SGQR unified payment code method has helped many hawkers survive lately

17:30 Jeevan's and Cornelius' journey from the corporate world to the hawker profession; did their university degrees help in current hawker profession?

24:32 Overseas ventures: How will the Lina Noodles empire strike out next?

26:01 Advice for young and aspiring hawkers or “hawkerpreneurs”

Produced by: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

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Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

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S1E83: Will Taylor Swift win the Nobel Literature Prize someday?

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 04:00:00 +0000

One of our guests also shows us the brilliance of her lyrics by reading them out to us. What are your faves?

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

American superstar Taylor Swift has dominated pop culture with her mega-successful Eras Tour, her historic fourth Grammy win for Album of the Year in 2024 and her fairytale-like romance with American football star Travis Kelce.

And she will soon be bringing her tour for a sold-out six-night show at National Stadium in Singapore from March 2-9. Ahead of her concert, #PopVultures host Jan Lee sits down for a throwback to her English-literature-student days.

Joining her in this episode to explore Swift's multi-generational appeal, are Life correspondent and "Swiftie" Yamini Chinnuswamy, 15-year-old Gen-Z "Swiftie" Yvonne Inglin as well as Ravi Agarwal, a 51-year-old connoisseur of Swift's lyrics.

Together, they discuss the literary value of her songs while Ravi also reads out the best of her lyrics. They analyse the appeal of her songs and how different songs reflect different periods in Swift's life.

They spotlight three of Swift's most famous songs from different eras of her career - Blank Space, Anti-Hero and All Too Well (10 Minute Version) - and talk about Swift's use of metaphors, rhymes and sentence structure. They also talk about their own impressions of these songs and why it fascinates and appeals to them.

They also ponder the very important question: Is a Nobel Literature Prize in Swift's future?

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:30 Introduction and everyone's favourite Swift kitty - is it Olivia Benson, Meredith Grey or Benjamin Button?

7:00 Favourite songs

9:30 Dissecting Blank Space

16:40 Examining/Exploring Anti-Hero

26:20 Debating All Too Well (10 Minute Version)

35:30 Rapid-fire Swiftie questions for Yvonne & Ravi

Watch the special video version of this episode on the new Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel, where Yamini has set up a mini-Taylor Swift shrine: https://str.sg/itdC

Download ST's Taylor Swift 9-era infographic series in high-res PDF: https://str.sg/qQQU

More of ST's Taylor Swift coverage here: https://str.sg/CJDx

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg), Yamini Chinnuswamy (yaminic@sph.com.sg), Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Video Producers: Joel Chng, T Kumar, Zeke Tan and Marc de Souza

Edited by: Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

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Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E106: Guns, drugs, politics ravaging Manipur in India’s north-east

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Hear why most Manipuris - of different ethnic groups - just want an end to militarisation and violence.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Manipur, in north-east India, is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious state of 3.1 million people. In May 2023, violence exploded between the ethnic Meitei and Kuki people, leaving many dead. Ongoing ethnic violence has claimed many more than 200 lives and left tens of thousands displaced.

Next door in Myanmar, the military regime has at best, tenuous control over its own borders given drug and other kinds of trafficking across the Myanmar-Manipur border.

Most Manipuris - of different ethnic groups - just want an end to militarisation and violence, says Manipur native Binalaskshmi Nepram. The writer, democracy activist, Sean McBride Peace Prize recipient and founder of several local organisations working for disarmament and peace in Manipur and across the north-east, speaks with host Nirmal Ghosh.

They shine an insider’s light, on the complexities and the traumas of the troubled border state in a volatile region.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:33 Eruption of violence in Manipur the result of decades of neglect and discrimination, a criminal political nexus and violent extremism

4:58 War-within-a-war phenomenon: Manipur had about three to four armed groups in the 70s but that has grown to 60 today

8:09 Why the struggle in the north-east of India is also about identities

14:18 What is the future for children growing up in Manipur?

16:45 India wants to build a fence along the border with Myanmar to curb trans-border crime and trafficking

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

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S1E21: Wee Cho Yaw's impact on Singapore's banking industry

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Do local banks really have succession issues?

In February 2024, banker Wee Cho Yaw passed away at the age of 95. His father founded the predecessor of UOB but it was Mr Wee that grew the bank, and made UOB what it is today. Together with DBS and OCBC, UOB is now among the top three local banks in Singapore.

In this episode, we delve more into the impact Mr Wee had on the banking industry. Over at DBS, there has always been talk about who will take over from CEO Piyush Gupta.

Su Shyan and Ven discuss these succession plans and the outlook for the banking sector. Also, as interest rates may be cut in 2024, according to the US Federal Reserve, how will Singapore local banks be affected?

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 Wee Cho Yaw's impact on the local banking industry; will his passing affect ops and strategy?

7:20 Are there succession issues within top three local banks?

9:50 Today, there are more than enough Singaporeans with global exposure and capability to step up in these local banks

11:50 Challenges ahead: S&P Global Ratings recently said Singapore’s net interest margins (NIM) will peak this year at 2% to 2.2%

Produced by: Lee Su Shyan (sushyan@sph.com.sg), Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

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The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E117: On the edge: Why everyone needs to talk about planetary tipping points

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Tipping points are a grave threat but it’s not too late for humanity to reduce the risks.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The world is on the brink of major changes to the natural world that could have truly devastating consequences for billions of people.

These are parts of the natural world that are at risk of abrupt and irreversible changes. For instance, runaway melting of the Greenland and West Antarctic ice sheets; collapse of a key ocean circulation in the Atlantic; melting of permafrost; dieback of the Amazon rainforest and warm-water coral reefs. There are many more.

What’s causing this? Man-made global warming is a major reason. So is pollution and over-exploitation of resources.

Planetary tipping points represent one of the gravest threats to humanity, yet many people seem unaware of the danger. And some of these tipping points might be close to, or already past the point of no return.

Yet, there’s still time to stop others from occurring if we act fast.

To learn more about this, we speak to Professor Tim Lenton, Director of the Global Systems Institute at Exeter University in Britain. Tim recently led the biggest study yet into global tipping points.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:29 What are planetary tipping points and why should we be concerned?

2:23 What are some examples and how close are we to some of these tipping points?

4:06 And what are the major tipping point risks for Asia?

9:01 Tell us more about the danger from a cascade of tipping points, where one major planetary change causes a domino effect of triggering other tipping points?

14:29 The good news is that there are steps humanity can take – positive tipping points. What are some examples?

17: 40 But humanity has already caused major changes to the planet. Does that mean we have to adapt to a rapidly changing world no matter what we do?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

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Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E38: First impressions of Budget 2024 for the youth

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

This Budget 2024 special analysis examines how measures announced would benefit Singaporean youth, from education, to housing, childcare and inflation.

Synopsis: Titled “Building our Shared Future Together”, Budget 2024 was delivered by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong in Parliament on Feb 16, 2024.

The plan for revenue and expenditure of the Singapore government was laid out to address immediate challenges like cost-of-living pressures while investing in longer-term goals of strong economic growth, better jobs and a culture of lifelong learning.

We examine how Budget 2024's measures announced would benefit Singaporean youth, from education, to housing, childcare and inflation.

In this special episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong hosts two guests:

Ms Cherlyn Ng, 35, a video producer who has two young children. Ms Ng is also a young union leader with Creative Media Publishing Union, which is affiliated to NTUC.

Mr Jod Gill is global employer services partner at Deloitte Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:46 Should the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme, which gives $4,000 to a Singaporean worker aged 40 and above, also in future, include workers in their 30s?

4:38 Cherlyn on how the new SkillsFuture Level-Up programme might in future, help young mothers restart their careers for example; Jod on the impact on younger workers

7:40 Thoughts on the financial support from the (Open Market) Voucher under the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme for young couples waiting for Build-To-Order (BTO) homes.

9:08 Would new subsidies for pre-schools be enough to push Ms Ng to consider having a third child? Pre-school subsidy indicative of inflation pressures on younger families?

11:25 Cherlyn on renewed support for cost-of-living measures like CDC vouchers and U-save rebates; Jod on how personal tax rebates can help cushion higher cost of living

15:40 Reacting to how ITE graduates will get S$5,000 when enrolling for a diploma, and a S$10,000 CPF top-up when attaining it

Read ST's Budget 2024 coverage: https://str.sg/6kzj

Produced by: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

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S1E28: Will U.S. interest in Asia hold if Trump returns?

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Former South Korean foreign minister Kang Kyung-wha also ponders the challenges posed by Kim Jong Un’s moves on missiles and Moscow, and Seoul’s ties with Japan.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, join The Straits Times' associate editor and senior Asia columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with Dr Kang Kyung-Wha, the incoming President and CEO of Asia Society. In 2017, she was the first woman to be appointed foreign minister of South Korea, holding the post until early 2021.

They discuss how she handled the Trump administration as foreign minister, the South’s position on nuclear deterrence vis a vis a provocative Pyongyang, and her plans for Asia Society.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:38: The US is “certainly overextended”; will US interest in Asia survive a Trump return?

10:11 US-China tensions “will probably increase”

15:30 On North Korea: “War preparation is not the right interpretation”

22:36 Analysing the Kim Jong Un-Putin relationship; does South Korea intend to go nuclear?

30:30 On her experience on multilateral diplomacy

34:54 Will Asia Society open a China office?

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

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Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

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S1E79: Jowen Lim and Vera Tan on their love for wushu and each other

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Love is in the air for these wushu athletes.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

In this episode of Sports Talk, Deepanraj Ganesan gets into the Valentine’s Day mood and spoke to a sporting couple in wushu exponents Jowen Lim and Vera Tan.

The pair started dating in 2015 and have since gotten engaged. Lim and Tan who had a good year on the sporting front with medals at the World Championship also have plans to get married pretty soon.

In this episode, they speak about how it all started, whether their relationship has affected their personal ambitions and what’s next for them in and out of wushu.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:00 How Jowen Lim and Vera Tan fell in love with Wushu

2:15 On meeting each other for the first time

6:20 Do Lim and Tan avoid speaking about Wushu away from competition and training?

9:00 What is the best thing about having a partner who is also an athlete?

11:15 What is next for both Tan and Lim in 2024 both in and out of Wushu?

Read: https://str.sg/iqt7

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg), Amirul Karim & Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

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The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E37: The great communication catch-up: Is Singapore SimplyGo-ing too fast?

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Empathy for the generation divide and user behaviour patterns may need to be studied more as Singapore digitalises itself rapidly.

Synopsis: Every second and fourth Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at social issues of the day with guests.

The hard deadline for full transition from an older card-based ticketing system to the account-based SimplyGo public transport payment system by June 1, 2024 eventually went away. This is after public outcry over SimplyGo’s inability to display fares and card balances at fare gates and bus card readers.

Such negative reactions have raised questions how impactful nationwide policies, like the adoption of SimplyGo, can be better communicated to the public. And is a one-size-fit-all approach even possible for Singapore’s rapidly ageing population that must constantly overcome the first hurdle in adapting to technology?

ST podcast editor Ernest Luis and assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong host two guest speakers in this episode:

Associate Professor Helen Ko from the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) for her insights on ageing issues

Ms Neeta Lachmandas, founder of ConsciousService, a training and consulting company, and also a former executive director of the Institute of Service Excellence at SMU and assistant chief executive of STB.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:33 Technology and convenience versus customer experience and communication

4:55 Selling people the upside on digital policies as well as how to handle major changes; was this just an issue for the 'older' generation?

8:05 Tailoring "instructional design" - the art and science of teaching seniors

11:25 Understanding the need for bite-sized info in small steps across older generations, "empathy" in designing public policy for an increasingly ageing population

18:08 Contradictory "digital transformation" messaging not an issue exclusive to only Singapore

20:45 Why it's good to aim for "universal design"; why seniors are a highly diverse group

Produced by: Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg), Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) and Hadyu Rahim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E11: What goes on during a career coaching session

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A seasoned career coach shows what career coaching entails, using host Tay Hong Yi's CV as an example.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times helps you take charge of your budding career and realise your ambition.

Career coaching is a term frequently bandied about in discourses surrounding employment and employability, and related policies.

Though the basic concept is intuitive, some workers may be hesitant to pursue coaching as they are not sure what issues career coaching can help address.

That is why host Tay Hong Yi looks at how career coaching can benefit workers in this episode.

His guest is: Mr Tan Kok Guan, founder of career coaching firm Broccolise

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:51 What should workers prepare before their first coaching session?

9:00 What is the range of career issues coaching can provide clarity on?

12:50 What is the structure of a career coaching session?

17:40 How competence and motivation are not the same thing

21:06 What does Hong Yi's CV show?

28:40 How to spot a good career coach to book sessions with?

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Career Talk Podcast here:

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Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E29: In this Kashmiri hamlet, locals wave to ‘enemies’ across the river

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

We transport you to Keran, which sits on the Line of Control - a ceasefire line dividing Kashmir into territories administered by India and Pakistan.

At a time when people-to-people links are practically non-existent between India and Pakistan, Keran is a rare place where greetings, waves and even smiles could be exchanged. A river, less than 100 metres wide, divides both sides.

Keran, a tiny village of around 1,500, is nestled in a valley within the part of Kashmir that is administered by India. It is here that tourism has boomed in recent years. Visitors come - to stay in houses pockmarked by mortar fragments and to peep into the Pakistan-administered side of the land.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with ST’s India correspondent Debarshi Dasgupta, who also shares his personal history - of family members being torn asunder after the 1947 partition of South Asia.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:14 Why India is moving to promote border tourism

3:15 A beacon of hope but one single major terrorist attack in Kashmir can set this story back by many, many years

7:31 A deep and haunting sense of loss when families are torn apart after South Asia was carved up in 1947

13:25 Difficult questions remain: what are the steps that India and Pakistan are taking to heal this long festering bilateral wound?

16:30 Other frontier towns to visit in India

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

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---

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True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E121: Monitoring your heart with your phone

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Wearable tech can help us monitor our heart.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Today, we can easily find heart rate monitors in wearable devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers. As Singapore shifts the centre of gravity in healthcare from acute hospitals to the community with its preventive care strategy Healthier SG, such wearable technology will likely become more popular as they enable us to take charge of our health.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks with Clin Assoc Prof Ching Chi Keong, a Senior Consultant at the National Heart Centre Singapore about how one can make use of these devices and just how accurate they are.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:55 How do ECG readings taken with a smart watch compare with a traditional ECG done in a medical setting? How accurate are they?

3:41 Interpreting ECG readings on your phone and what it means to have a sinus rhythm

11:09 When should you seek medical help?

14:35 Which group of people should use wearable devices to monitor their heart rate?

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here and rate us:

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Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E1: Do young people have a say in the conversations at WEF?

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

They share their experiences trying to be a part of the discourse at Davos.

Synopsis: The Straits Times speaks with young delegates at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2024 to find out about their experience.

The WEF, held in Davos, Switzerland, brings together some of the biggest names in politics, business and economics from all over the world every year.

But it has been criticised for being nothing more than a public relations exercise, with a lack of accountability and fading relevance.

Some of the world’s most passionate and engaged young changemakers were in Davos this year. ST’s political correspondent Goh Yan Han speaks with some of them to hear how they tried to make their mark.

They are:

Benjamin Von Wong, Canadian artist and activist

John Dongo, Zimbabwean youth mental health advocate

Luona Cai, partner at Xishi Magic Bag, from China

Marie-Claire Graf, Swiss environmental activist

Daniel Liu, Singaporean co-founder of Morrow Intelligence

Saravanan Sugumaran, Singaporean co-founder of Morrow Intelligence

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:59 Thoughts on Davos and being at the WEF for the first time

11:05 Marie-Claire describes the beauty and the ugly at the WEF

14:14 Trying to be a part of the bigger conversation

25:22 How the WEF can be more relevant to young people

25:45 John Dongo on the need to talk about youth mental health at the WEF

Produced by: Goh Yan Han (gyanhan@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Podcasts:

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Read Goh Yan Han's articles: https://str.sg/kgq4

---

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E26: How a back-office agency is reinventing its 500 humdrum jobs

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

To secure his 500 colleagues' jobs, this CEO is making them developers. Bonus segment: What could the Dragon Year bring you?!

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Vital is the Singapore public service’s central agency for corporate shared services entrusted with managing and transforming corporate services delivery for the government.

For years, Vital had been humming in the background, paying out the salaries and expense claims of more than 100,000 public servants in Singapore.

No one paid it much attention, as its 500 workers chugged along, cutting, pasting, reconciling spreadsheets. Much of their work was laborious, tedious, and honestly, could have been done by machines.

Four years ago, something happened. The agency got a new chief, a new dream, and for its 500 workers - a new aspiration to become citizen developers.

In this episode of Work Talk, ST senior correspondent Krist Boo takes you into Vital to meet Mr Dennis Lui, its chief executive and hear how employees are automating their own work processes.

And in a bonus podcast segment - with Chinese New Year days away - hear what the 2024 Dragon Year could bring you, from Master Ken Koh from The House of Feng Shui.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:26 Vital's existential crisis; finding the right partner to customise its courses for retraining

5:18 Validation boost: In 2020, the government gives it the mandate to transform corporate services delivery

6:28 The elephant in the room: Addressing fears of automation, advice for employers in similar situations

8:59 Join us at a work station in Vital's office to hear about a citizen developer's work

10:38 Bonus segment: How will your dragon year be?

Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Teo Tong Kai and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Krist Boo's Work Talk columns: https://str.sg/wB2P

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E116: India saves tiger from brink but must manage human-wildlife tensions

Sat, 03 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Human development is rapidly destroying the natural habitat for recovering wildlife populations such as tigers.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The success of India’s conservation efforts conversely means that rising wildlife populations increasingly, have nowhere to go. Wild tigers are being spotted in many small towns and villages - from the mustard fields of Haryana near New Delhi, to the mountains of Bhimtal in Uttarakhand.

In many cases, accidental encounters have resulted in human casualties, and the big cats have had to be tranquilised and relocated to jungles or rescue centres out of harm’s way. Clashes of humans with elephants have also taken a weekly toll in some Indian states.

In this episode, we look at why a rethink is necessary to manage growing wildlife populations. ST's global contributor Nirmal Ghosh speaks with two field conservationists who are working the ground in and around wildlife habitats across India.

They are the director of The Corbett Foundation Kedar Gore and the president of the Wildlife Conservation Trust Anish Andheria. Both experts give their first-hand account of the implications of the growing interface between people and wildlife, and debate new solutions for India.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:55 Are we reaching the limits of wildlife conservation, as shown in India?

7:33 Lessons learnt from human-wildlife negative interaction

14:33 On the new debate on limited hunting, like in a few places in Africa, to generate revenue and reduce conflict - how feasible is this in India's context?

17:25 Why controlled hunting comes with many risks and why regulation is difficult to achieve in India

21:29 How aware are local communities of the larger threat of climate change and a warming planet?

24:55 On habitat restoration work that started in 2017

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

ST's Climate Change microsite: https://www.straitstimes.com/climate-change

---

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E27: India is now a ‘Hindu nation’

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

The sociological and political implications of the temple to the Hindu God Rama that was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India on Jan 22, 2024.

Synopsis: Join The Straits Times' associate editor and senior Asia columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with the respected sociologist and head of Indian Century Roundtable Salvatore Babones, an Associate Professor at the University of Sydney.

They discuss the consecration of the temple, its likely effect on voters in the coming election, unease felt by minority groups and talk by some elements in the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party about a ‘Hindu Vatican’.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:11 Indian state endorsing religion; ‘secularism’ was added to the Constitution later

8:15 Why temple inauguration is unlikely to affect voters

14:00 Birth of a second Republic?

19:13 How minorities feel

21:47 Some Muslims do vote BJP, says Prof Babones

22:45 The Hindu ‘Vatican’?

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E8: How used car dealers make money; tips for selling your car

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:01:00 +0000

As it turns out, it is not from the mark-up on the car itself that pays the bulk of the bills for used car dealerships

Synopsis: In this new podcast, The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

Almost 60 per cent of those who sell their cars, are looking for another one. This means that the business of used cars will continue.

ST's senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Mr Kuanyu Tan, the country manager of Carro, a used car dealership that buys and claims to sell 6,000 cars a year, to understand the business and what it means to the car buyer.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:20 Where do used cars go? How do used car dealers get inventory financing?

6:10 Are used cars really more affordable than new cars? Price trends in relation to COE prices

17:36 Top two tips for car owners to get the best deal when selling their vehicles

20:48 How long is too long for a car dealer to hold on to their stock?

26:30 Carro's scheme to “test-own” electric vehicles in Singapore, to help educate consumers about EVs

29:40 Why used car dealers are not making offers for electric vehicles

32:26 The impact of the Lemon Law on used cars

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

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Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

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---

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E78: Xabi Alonso my pick to succeed Klopp: Former Liverpool great Riise

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Xabi Alonso is now head coach for Bayer Leverkusen in the German Bundesliga.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month. This is a special episode featuring a former Liverpool legend John Arne Riise.

In this episode of Sports Talk, ST's Deepanraj Ganesan speaks to former Liverpool and Norway defender John Arne Riise who says that his ex-teammate Xabi Alonso should be the man to step into Jurgen Klopp’s big shoes when the German manager leaves his role at the end of the season.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:50 How Riise reacted to Klopp’s bombshell announcement

3:22 Why Riise picks Alonso to replace Klopp?

4:30 Could Riise tell early on - during their time as teammates in Liverpool - that Alonso would one day go on to become a football club manager?

6:16 Can Liverpool win the English Premier League this season?

8:30 The possibility of Reds legend Steven Gerard working with Alonso at Liverpool

Read: https://str.sg/FwpH

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

---

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E105: Myanmar’s parlous economy rooted in ruinous policies

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Find out why Myanmar is in a state of economic collapse with only one per cent growth in fiscal year 2023/24.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' global contributor Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Military-driven policies and conflict have shrunk Myanmar’s formal economy, but its illicit economy - long a feature of its borderlands in particular - has been thriving.

Myanmar's military regime is not entirely to be blamed for this tradition of transnational crime syndicates as many of the areas concerned have been controlled for decades by ethnic armies, which essentially make a living from the informal or illicit economy.

To unravel the complexities of Myanmar’s crisis, Nirmal Ghosh hosts two guests in this episode.

First is Professor Sean Turnell, former economic advisor to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the former State Councillor, now in jail, who held office from 2016 until the military coup of February 2021.

Second is Dr Michael Vatikiotis, a veteran journalist, author and broadcaster who has been based in Asia for 35 years.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:33 Why is Myanmar's economy performing poorly?

3:38 Recently, there has been an unprecedented coalescing of ethnic armed organisations into effective alliances, different from historic fragmented resistance to the military in the past

7:00 Recent crackdowns by China’s proxies indicate the level of concern about Myanmar's transnational crime syndicates, as these prey especially on the Chinese

8:47 Can the military regime be completely blamed for this too? Many of the areas controlled by ethnic armies have essentially made a living from the informal or illicit economy

14:40 Tremendously deep, long lasting levels of mistrust between constituent elements; is the younger generation leading the revolution impressive?

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

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Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E10: Outlining 2024 in Singapore sports with SportSG and SSI

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Top Singapore sports administrators take the hot seat in our studio.

Synopsis: Every fourth Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times dives into a sports topic and tackles the hard questions with its guests on Hard Tackle.

In this episode of Hard Tackle, Deepanraj Ganesan speaks to Sport Singapore CEO Alan Goh and Singapore Sport Institute chief Dr Su Chun Wei and quizzes them on what is ahead for Singapore sports in 2024 and gets them to address some hot issues in local sports.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:45 What can Singaporeans expect from local sports in 2024?

6:50 What is SportSG doing to revive the mass participation scene, and what more needs to be done to get it back to pre-pandemic levels?

12:10 Do Alan Goh and Chun Wei believe Singapore football will recover from the lows of 2023?

20:20 How SportSG plans to convince more Singaporeans to go to events given the low turnout at 2023 Women's World Floorball Championships

28:00 On helping Shanti Pereira to get even quicker in 2024

Read: https://str.sg/iYfd

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg), Amirul Karim & Penelope Lee

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

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Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

---

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E36: Play in shared spaces: How can S'pore balance competing needs?

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

How can community spaces co-exist with competing demands while fostering spontaneous and free play?

Synopsis: Every second and fourth Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at social issues of the day with guests.

Managing the use of void decks in Singapore is like a cagey board game – one where Sembawang Town Council played the ultimate “no ball games” card, recently barricading Block 638 Woodlands Ring Road's void deck due to noisy school kids, stirring both controversy and reflection.

This was not a solo act; similar void deck blockades have hit Jalan Kayu and Tampines, creating a recurring match between communal play and resident grievances in recent years.

The incident sparked a lively online commentary, with opinions ranging from “Give kids space!" to "Stray balls are public enemy #1."

The barricades may have been taken down, but bigger questions persist: Have we taken for granted the community spaces we share? Do we still value conviviality, or have we become too individualised? Is there still room for spontaneous play and social cohesion, or are Singaporeans becoming more intolerant?

As the city evolves, the challenge remains – how can we rejig our infrastructure requirements to preserve the magic of free-access public spaces? The game is afoot!

In this episode, ST journalist Gabrielle Chan and assistant ST Now editor Sazali Abdul Aziz delve into this discussion with Professor Laavanya Kathiravelu, who specialises in sociology with a focus on urban planning in cities at the National Technological University of Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:37 Why has the discussion of this issue evoked such strong emotions among Singaporeans?

7:44 Is too much balance and structure limiting the creativity of Singaporeans?

11:39 The “Not In My Backyard” syndrome

16:07 Are playgrounds still a good tool for social integration?

21:02 Are authorities too heavy-handed in dealing with complaints?

27:22 What other solutions are there to balance the needs of the community when it comes to shared spaces?

Read Gabrielle Chan’s article: https://str.sg/iYrX

Read Sazali Abdul Aziz’s opinion column: https://str.sg/iggq

Produced by: Gabrielle Chan (gabchan@sph.com.sg), Sazali Abdul Aziz (msazali@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here twice a month and rate us:

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Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Gabrielle Chan’s articles: https://str.sg/nYBZ

Read Sazali Abdul Aziz’s articles: https://str.sg/Jbxq

---

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E115: Power to the people: South-east Asia on cusp of green energy revolution

Sat, 20 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Renewable energy is cleaner and more affordable and is poised for rapid growth in South-east Asia once key roadblocks are overcome.

Synopsis: Every first and third Sunday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Green Pulse is starting off 2024 with an appropriately green theme -- renewable energy. Specifically, the investment opportunity for green power in South-east Asia.

The region is one of the world's economic growth engines and it is hungry for power to drive that growth, fuel its factories and lift millions out of poverty.

And yet it remains deeply dependent on polluting coal, oil and gas. But cleaner wind and solar, and increasingly battery storage, are becoming more competitive and compelling investment choices. So what is the outlook? Are we on the cusp of a green revolution?

ST's climate editor David Fogarty hosts Mr Edward Northam, head of Core Renewables and head of Asia-Pacific for Macquarie Asset Management Green Investments.

Singapore-based Mr Northam is a veteran of the clean energy space and they both discuss an investor's point of view of the opportunities for the region.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:23 What are the opportunities for green energy investment in SE Asia?

2:57 Edward Northam on what he sees as the best opportunities in terms of countries and technologies

8:26 What are three key roadblocks to faster investment that need to be overcome?

12:25 Industry veteran Northam on his background and Macquarie’s green investments

19:55 How is Singapore helping SE Asia accelerate the green transition?

22:03 Green investment is good investment: The way of the future?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

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Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E28: Social trends that will take off in Japan in 2024

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

One of them is the sauna boom. Find out why it is taking off in a country of hot springs.

Japan is in transition - where younger Japanese are questioning the rules and strictures that traditionally govern their society.

One manifestation of that is the increasing number of schools in both cities and rural parts that allow genderless uniforms, including for boys who want to wear skirts to schools.

Even the country’s exquisite cuisine is undergoing a revolution of sorts, with insects being introduced into the repertoire as Japan grapples with limited arable land.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with Japan correspondent Walter Sim - who has been based in the country for eight years - about what other social changes and trends he sees will take place in 2024.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:05 What is behind the trend of genderless uniforms and what kind of reactions do schoolboys get when they wear skirts?

6:35 Japan is in a period of social change, but these are not yet translated into policy change

9:48 Subverting ideas about Japanese food: Cricket yakitori and ramen now on the menu

12:51 Three trends that will take off in 2024

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Letter From The Bureau Podcast every first Friday of the month here:

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Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Read Walter Sim's articles: https://str.sg/wHY2

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

---

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COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E20: Investing in an active ETF or exchange-traded fund

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Find out more how active ETFs are somewhat different from the traditional product.

In this episode, Su Shyan discusses active ETFs with Ms Ong Ai Ling, portfolio manager and head of AIOI at Lion Global Investors. AIOI stands for Artificial Intelligence of Investments.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:30 Difference between active ETFs and passive ETFs

4:55 Find out about the first active ETF on SGX

7:00 Japan’s improving macroeconomic indicators; corporate governance reforms

13:30 The use of AI in active ETFs

16:00 Safeguards for investors in active ETFs

17:20 Expect to see more active ETFs

Produced by: Lee Su Shyan (sushyan@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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Read Lee Su Shyan's articles: https://str.sg/wuQs

Follow Lee Su Shyan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/bZqN

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

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In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E82: Unpacking the tragedy of Parasite actor Lee Sun-kyun

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The actor was found dead in an apparent suicide after a two-months long high-profile investigation into his alleged misuse of drugs.

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

The year of 2023 ended on a shocking and tragic note for the South Korean entertainment industry when actor Lee Sun-kyun, best known for playing a wealthy patriarch in the Oscar-winning film Parasite (2019), died of an apparent suicide at the age of 48 on Dec 27, 2023.

Lee was a well-respected and prolific star, both known for his versatile acting and clean, upstanding image. He was married to actress Jeon Hye-jin and shared two sons with her.

But in the two months leading up to his death, Lee suffered a dramatic fall from grace. News broke in October that he was being investigated for allegations of illegal drug use - something heavily stigmatised in South Korea. The scandal, which arose after a bar hostess reportedly claimed that Lee took drugs at her residence, heavily affected Lee's career. Even though investigations were ongoing, Lee was dropped from projects and several of his works which were slated for release were halted.

After several rounds of investigation, including a 19-hour long questioning the weekend before his death, Lee was found dead in his car next to charcoal briquettes.

In this episode of #PopVultures, host Jan Lee recaps Lee's case and discusses the reported blackmail and extortion involved. She also examines why the scandal hit Lee so particularly hard and shares why some believe the police mishandled the case.

She also talks about other cases of drug investigation in South Korea involving celebrities like K-pop star G-Dragon and actor Yoo Ah-in and shares her own thoughts on the South Korean government's push for a "war on drugs".

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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---

Helplines

Mental well-being

Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151 1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
Aware’s Sexual Assault Care Centre: 6779-0282 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline: 1800-777-0000

Counselling

TOUCHline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
TOUCH Care Line (for seniors, caregivers): 6804-6555
Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366

Online resources

mindline.sg
eC2.sg
www.tinklefriend.sg
www.chat.mentalhealth.sg
carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

#PV

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S1E26: Understanding Bangladesh's poll in a wider Asian context

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with a veteran economist, editor and geopolitical expert on the recently concluded election in Bangladesh.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, join The Straits Times' associate editor and senior Asia columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distils his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, Ravi speaks with the respected journalist and geopolitics expert Dr Sanjaya Baru.

They discuss the recent election in Bangladesh, the country’s perceived democratic backsliding, and its economic performance under Prime Minister Hasina Wajed. They also talk about what it means for the wider Asian neighbourhood.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:25: ‘Exit clause’ needed for long-serving leaders

4:12: A question of legitimacy

7:00: The Bangladesh paradox

9:35: Balancing India and China

12:40 The Eastern India factor

14:10 What’s the military up to?

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E77: How 1.94m Viktor Axelsen become a badminton giant

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Standing tall with badminton world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

One Olympic gold, two senior world titles, one Thomas Cup triumph, 27 Badminton World Federation World Tour and Superseries titles, and more than 100 consecutive weeks as world No. 1, there's no men's singles player as dominant as Viktor Axelsen now.

In this episode of Sports Talk, David Lee chats with the great Dane to understand more about the man who is unique in more ways than just his towering height and all-rounded game.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:23 Overcoming the negativity from feeling small for being so tall

2:17 How Axelsen seems so relaxed on the court

3:05 Being in control off the court

4:49 Chasing the GOAT

8:16 How Axelsen would like to be remembered

Read: https://str.sg/jxoN

Produced by: David Lee (davidlee@sph.com.sg) & Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Lee on X: https://str.sg/fcZW

Read his articles: https://str.sg/35bBw

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E10: Is a contract role right for you?

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

These roles may provide a gateway to coveted roles, an expert says.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, the Career Talk podcast by The Straits Times helps you take charge of your career and realise your ambition.

As economic cycles turn shorter and more volatile, the labour market has turned to hiring workers on contract, including for roles with high skill requirements and leadership opportunities.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with Mr Nilay Khandelwal, managing director of talent consultancy Page Group in Singapore, to unpack the prospects and pitfalls of this trend for workers.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:32 Which sectors commonly hire for highly skilled roles on contract?

3:32 Are prestigious employers increasingly filling openings with contract workers and why?

4:40 Choosing between a dream role on contract and a permanent job

10:51 Impact of a contract role on the resume for future jobs

13:36 Evaluating remuneration holistically as benefits may differ

16:06 What kind of contract experience future employers find attractive

19:04 Who are contract roles suited for?

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Career Talk Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

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Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E35: What do safer transport options for workers have to do with the cost of a BTO flat?

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Why more evidence is needed to break down the cost of transitioning migrant workers away from being ferried on lorries.

Synopsis: Every second and fourth Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at social issues of the day with guests.

Migrant workers have been transported in the backs of lorries here for decades, with an ongoing debate about whether the practice should be banned. Yet, despite the platitudes and petitions signed, employers and the authorities have stopped short of doing so, citing knock-on effects on society.

Besides delays to various construction projects, higher costs for businesses and consequently all Singaporeans, are often cited as a justification for why a ban should not be imposed.

But are Singaporeans really unwilling to fork out more money to ensure that the lives of migrant workers are better protected? Especially when more are stepping up now to call for an end to the unsafe practice?

In this episode, ST journalists Ang Qing and Aqil Hamzah examine the age-old debate with their guests - labour economist and associate professor Walter Theseira, who heads the master of management in urban transportation programme at the Singapore University of Social Sciences, and Suraendher Kumarr, an activist with workers’ rights group Workers Make Possible.

They discuss a survey recently commissioned by The Straits Times and conducted by market research firm Milieu Insight, on how young people in Singapore feel about the practice of ferrying workers on lorries and how much they are willing to pay to stop it.

The survey of 1,000 residents aged 16 to 35, found that while most young people here think that migrant workers should be transported safely to work, more than half surveyed are unwilling to pay more to ban the practice of ferrying migrant workers on lorries.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:05 Why are businesses reluctant to adopt alternative transport methods?

4:51 Who should bear the brunt of any increase in costs if other forms of transport besides lorries are used?

7:45 What are the challenges businesses face in making such a decision?

16:34 Young people in Singapore appear more concerned about whether current infrastructure can support migrant workers taking public transport

22:29 Why organisations wrote letters to the government in July 2023, calling for a ban on migrant workers being transported on the backs of lorries

34:27 Policy, not just individual action, needed to enact change

Produced by: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg), Aqil Hamzah (haqil@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Fa’izah Sani & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here twice a month and rate us:

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Read ST's Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Read Ang Qing's articles: https://str.sg/i5gT

Read Aqil Hamzah’s articles: https://str.sg/i5gS

---

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COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

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Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E120: Is ADHD affecting you or your family?

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

An ADHD diagnosis can help you make sense of your life.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

The awareness of ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, a common neurodevelopmental condition is growing around the world and more people have been diagnosed with it. Yet, many do not know that they have it while others may not have a good understanding of the condition, in order to thrive with it.

ADHD is characterised by inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behaviour. It can greatly affect one’s life, but it can also be turned into a superpower if it is managed correctly.

In this Health Check podcast episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Moonlake Lee, the founder of Unlocking ADHD, the first site in Singapore that aims to help individuals with ADHD and their families live life to the fullest, to find out more.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:31 Moonlake’s journey as an ADHDer and how her diagnosis has helped her

6:12 On the growing awareness of ADHD in Singapore

21:25 How to tell if you have ADHD?

28:43 Deciding whether to put your child on ADHD medication

Helplines

MENTAL WELL-BEING
• Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
• Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
• Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
• Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
• Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
• Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
• Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)

COUNSELLING
• TOUCHline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
• TOUCH Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
• Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180
• Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366

ONLINE RESOURCES
• moht.com.sg/mindline-sg
•  eC2.sg
•  tinklefriend.sg
•  chat.mentalhealth.sg
•  carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
•  limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

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SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

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In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E25: We will have you covered: Manpower Minister Tan See Leng to workers

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

What's the buzzword from our manpower minister in 2024?

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Jan 1, may mark the beginning of a geopolitically hard year with persistent heart-stopping price tags on things, but the manpower minister wants Singapore workers to know his ministry is hands on deck to soften the blows.

In a New Year podcast interview with The Straits Times, Dr Tan See Leng talks about nudging workers to self steer their careers, his own way of coping with work, and how he thinks bosses can encourage younger workers.

S1E7: Why a single female pays less for motor insurance than a married one

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

How premiums are calculated and how making a claim does not mean a higher premium renewal.

Synopsis: In this new podcast, The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

It is compulsory for all vehicles to have third-party insurance and vehicles that are under financing are required to have comprehensive insurance policies.

To find out how motorists can avoid some of the pitfalls of getting coverage for their vehicles, ST’s senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Mr Douglas Chia, the chief executive of Eazy, an insurance brokerage.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:33 Why does it seem that motor insurance premiums are always going up, even when the car is getting older?

10:00 A married male driver pays less for insurance than an unmarried one, but the opposite is true for female drivers: an unmarried one is deemed to be less risky than a married one

21:33 How the No Claim Discount (NCD) protector does not work to the motorist’s benefit

28:00 Why accidents in rental cars are so shockingly expensive

33:49 Horror stories of exorbitant claims from staged accidents

44:35 What happens if the other party runs away in an accident?

Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow COE Watch Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E9: What awaits Singapore sports in 2024?

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

We look at the nation's prospects in sailing, athletics and football.

Synopsis: Every fourth Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times dives into a sports topic and tackles the hard questions with its guests on Hard Tackle.

As the curtain comes down on an incredible year for Singapore sports in 2023, The Straits Times sports desk is already excited for what’s to come in the year ahead.

In this episode of Hard Tackle, Deepanraj Ganesan and his colleagues on the sports desk - Kimberley Kwek, Rohit Brijnath, David Lee and Melvyn Teoh - bid farewell to 2023, reflect on the triumphs, peer into the future, and explore what's in store for Singapore sports in the upcoming year.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:30 Can 2023 be seen as a year where it was a catalyst for Singapore sports?

11:00 The chances of Maximilian Maeder winning an Olympics gold medal in 2024

13:30 Did Loh Kean Yew have a forgettable year?

18:30 What can we expect from Shanti Pereira in 2024

24:00 What’s next for Singapore football in 2024 after a year to forget in 2023

Read: https://str.sg/iYCK

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa

Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra

Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E9: Newcomer Josh Makazo's rise as one of Singapore's top artistes on TikTok

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown singer and songwriter Josh Makazo tells us about his breakout year in 2023.

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In this ninth episode of Music Lab, ST's music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts home-grown singer, songwriter, and producer Josh Makazo.

A rising name in the home-grown music scene, he is one of the most popular artists on TikTok in Singapore in 2023.

While he was still serving national service, he released his song - half of my heart - which went viral on TikTok and has since racked up over 5.3 million views.

Makazo discusses how his strategy of targeting the fanbase of artistes that he was inspired by, such as Korean-Australian singer DPR Ian, helped his music blow up on TikTok. The two versions of the song that he released on Spotify have also clocked over 6 million streams in all.

In November, Makazo, 20, released his debut album, Gradient, and it has already gained over 10 million streams across various platforms.

In this episode of Music Lab, he sings a live rendition of half of my heart, which is also in his new album.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:59 K-pop fans are using his song to soundtrack their TikTok videos

5:42 How he made his song half of my heart go viral

8:20 His hit song inspired by his first love

14:01 On his musical theatre background and acting in hit musical The Sound Of Music

16:47 His beginnings as a songwriter

21:17 How he used to make music to become famous

Listen to Josh's live performance here: https://str.sg/iYCk

Discover Singaporean artiste Josh Makazo at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/iY96

Spotify: https://str.sg/iY9u

Instagram: https://str.sg/iY9L

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim, Eden Soh & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Music Lab Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E9: Josh Makazo - half of my heart (Live) @ ST Podcast Studio

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Singaporean singer-songwriter Josh Makazo's intimate live studio take of half of my heart, a song from his latest EP, GRADIENT.

Synopsis: This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Listen to Josh Makazo talk about his musical journey in the full podcast here: https://str.sg/iYCZ

Discover Singaporean artiste Josh Makazo at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/iY96

Spotify: https://str.sg/iY9u

Instagram: https://str.sg/iY9L

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Mixed by: Amirul Karim

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's articles: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E8: Singaporean model Bonny Hicks and her book that ignited a culture war

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Revisiting the legacy of a 1990s Singaporean icon

Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

In 1990, Singaporean model Bonny Hicks, just 22 at the time, published her first book Excuse Me, Are You A Model?

The book was meant to be a tell-all about the modelling industry. How does one become a model, what are the perks of the job and are there any secrets to success? But instead of writing about modelling, Hicks ended up writing about her own life. She shared about her childhood, her various love affairs with different men, alluded to a romantic relationship with a woman and even opened up about her one-time desire to have an illegitimate child.

The book, an unprecedented local bestseller, scandalised and divided Singaporeans. While there were schoolgirls who rushed out to purchase the book, which sold 12,000 copies in just three days, there were also angry members of the public who scolded Bonny for being irresponsible, promiscuous and scoffed at her lack of a university education. One even called Hicks the demise of the Singaporean novelist.

She was judged, not just for her writing, but for her life and her moral values. Two years after the book's publication, Hicks took off to Indonesia, going into a self-exile to shield herself from the social shunning she received in her home country.

But just as her work was slowly being reconsidered as an important piece in Singapore's publishing and literary history, Hicks boarded the ill-fated Silkair MI185 flight.The plane tragically crashed on Dec 19, 1997, killing all 104 people onboard - leaving Singapore with only the memories of a life cut short.

In this episode of Can I Tell You Something Crazy, #PopVultures host Jan Lee travels back in time to 1990s Singapore to revisit the legacy of Bonny Hicks, a model who became more known for her prose than her photos. Through Hicks' story, this episode examines what has changed about Singapore, its social mores and celebrity culture at large.

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E104: Eliminating cervical cancer in Indonesia a movement, not a programme

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Indonesia’s bold plan to catch cervical cancer early will see 50-60 million women screened and vaccinated

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' US Bureau Chief Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Indonesia’s bold plan to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern - the country’s cervical cancer rate is higher than the global average - is being approached not as a programme but as a movement, says its Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin

The plan aims at using thousands of primary health clinics and also private sector partners across the sprawling and diverse country, to screen 50-60 million women early for cervical cancer - because catching it early is the key to bringing down the numbers.

Currently roughly 70 per cent of cases are diagnosed when they are already in an advanced stage - and the fatality rate is high.

The Minister, a nuclear physicist and among other things former CEO of Indonesia’s micro lending bank giant Mandiri Bank, spoke to Asian Insider host Nirmal Ghosh on this episode, stressing that early intervention and a massive vaccination drive, enabled by wide buy-in across the government and private sector - the result of a wide consultation process - will reduce the fatality rate.

Highlights (click/tap above):

00:48 Indonesia's cervical cancer rate is higher than the global average

04:28 Reducing mortality rate to below 30 per cent, possible but with early detection

06:37 The key strategy is to fix this problem earlier, not later

07:45 First: Massive immunizations for about 50 to 60 million Indonesian women

11:16 Approach as a movement, not a programme

12:55 Providing healthcare facilities to private sectors - free screening, free vaccine

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on X: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E119: Treatment is available but when do you pull the plug on a grievously ill person?

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

It is always good to start having end-of life conversations early.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

There are some conditions that are difficult to treat, others possibly pointless to treat. Doctors know the limits of medical care and they can advise against further treatment, if the care is deemed futile.

In this episode, we will hear about the difficult decisions that some doctors and some families have to contend with, in their work and life.

Dr Shirlynn Ho is a senior consultant and deputy head of the division of Supportive ＆ Palliative Care at the National Cancer Centre Singapore. She’s also the assistant secretary of the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Network, which works with the Lien Collaborative for Palliative Care in Singapore.

Dr Tan Yia Swam is a breast surgeon, with her own practice at Mount Alvernia Hospital. She was the past president of the Singapore Medical Association and a former Nominated MP.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:23 What is Advanced Medical Directive?

4:33 A difficult decision made by doctors

6:35 Advice on Advance Care Planning

15:16 How people in the region view death

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

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True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E19: Should investors adopt emerging technologies in 2024?

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Find out about the upcoming market trends and how should you invest in 2024.

In this episode, Ven Sreenivasan hosts Mr Thilan Wickramasinghe, head of research at Maybank Securities.

They discuss the concerns for the emerging mega themes such as AI, climate change, changing demographics as well as the outlook for the Singapore market.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:27 How should investors be positioned in 2024?

3:28 Why are Singapore stocks underperforming despite interest rates trending down?

5:17 The outlook for the Singapore market going forward

7:50 Can Singapore as a small island play a significant part in sustainability or AI?

10:23 Mr Thilan's top picks in this market

Produced by: Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow ST's Your Money & Career Podcast channel here:

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Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E76: After successful 2023, Maximilian Maeder dreams of Olympic gold

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

We speak to national sailor Maximilian Maeder about his year of wins.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

National sailor Maximilian Maeder has enjoyed a bountiful 2023 where the accolades have kept coming for the kitefoiling star.

The 17-year-old became the first Singaporean nominated for the prestigious World Sailing’s Male Sailor of the Year after several milestone victories in 2023. He first won the Formula Kite Youth World Championships in Gizzeria, Italy in July before securing a spot for the 2024 Paris Olympics and claimed the coveted title at the Sailing World Championships a month later in The Hague, Netherlands.

He then went on to win a gold medal at the Asian Games in Hangzhou at the end of September.

On the latest episode of Sports Talk, Maximilian spoke to sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan on his memorable year and his thoughts on what awaits in 2024 with his eyes firmly fixed on a shiny gold medal on offer in Paris

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:11 Maximilian’s favourite local sporting moment of 2023

6:04 On becoming a world champion at 16 in 2023

9:23 Qualifying for the Olympics and what it meant

12:35 How would Maximilian define 2023 in terms of his own personal growth

13:56 Looking ahead to 2024 and the Paris Olympics

Read: https://str.sg/ifqz

Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow ST Sports Talk every month:

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Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G

---

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---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E9: How will salaries grow in 2024?

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Increases converges at around 4 per cent across the board in a mature high-cost market like Singapore.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times' Career Talk podcast helps you take charge of your own career and make your ambition pay off.

One source of both cheer and uncertainty in this festive period is talk of performance appraisals, promotions and pay raises.

To find out more about salary trends in 2024, host Tay Hong Yi speaks to Mr Rahul Chawla, partner and head of talent solutions for South-East Asia at professional services firm Aon.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:43 What are the salary trends in 2023 and 2024 generally?

3:39 Why is Singapore's projected gain lower than elsewhere in the region?

5:36 Which are the sectors likely to be top gainers in 2024?

12:42 What are the roles with increases that will likely outrun inflation?

15:50 Advice for talent whose pay increases didn't outrun inflation in 2023

S1E1: Liu Thai Ker on being the "architect of modern Singapore"

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

They share their principles behind the groundbreaking design and their favourite features.

Synopsis: The Straits Times speaks with experts to discuss how public housing design has evolved in Singapore.

Public housing is all around us. They are in older towns such as Queenstown and Toa Payoh, and in newer ones like Punggol and Bidadari. Eight in ten Singaporeans live in HDB flats.

How has the design of HDB blocks evolved over the decades? What has worked out and what hasn't?

ST's housing correspondent Michelle Ng speaks with Dr Liu Thai Ker, widely known as the architect of modern Singapore. This is because he helped to plan 20 out of the 24 HDB towns in Singapore during his time from 1969 to 1989.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:33 Essence of early public housing: "Low-cost" evolving to "public" housing, home ownership and affordability a challenge back then

5:27 What did liveable public housing look like back then?

8:13 The design principles behind the early HDB flats

13:56 Slab blocks versus point blocks; Dr Liu on not allowing himself to compromise on floor area

20:08 Dr Liu explains the "courtyard in the sky" principle

26:45 Key principles he left behind to bear in mind when planning for the long term in Singapore

Listen to the the design duo behind HDB's gamechanging Pinnacle@Duxton: https://str.sg/iYZy

Discover ST's interactive graphic article of this topic: https://str.sg/JXMGj

Produced by: Michelle Ng (ngmich@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Teo Tong Kai and Fa'izah Sani

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST Podcasts:

Channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/wukH

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E1: Design duo behind HDB's gamechanging Pinnacle@Duxton

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

They share their principles behind the groundbreaking design and their favourite features.

Synopsis: The Straits Times speaks with experts to discuss how public housing design has evolved in Singapore.

Public housing is all around us. They are in older towns such as Queenstown and Toa Payoh, and in newer ones like Punggol and Bidadari. Eight in ten Singaporeans live in HDB flats.

How has the design of HDB blocks evolved over the decades? What has worked out and what hasn't?

ST's housing correspondent Michelle Ng speaks with architects Khoo Peng Beng and his wife Belinda Huang, founders and directors of Arc Studio Architecture + Urbanism.

They are the design duo behind the groundbreaking Pinnacle@Duxton in Cantonment Road, the first 50-storey public housing project in Singapore, and also the first one in the world to have two sky bridges linking the seven towers that it comprises of.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:50 How the Pinnacle@Duxton was part of evolution in HDB public flat design

3:03 Background to the design features of the Pinnacle, including its "Sky Gardens"

10:15 Peaceful "bridges in the sky": But can the sky garden on the 50th floor be turned into a more active space for people?

12:45 How Mr Khoo and Ms Huang are regularly invited to talks overseas to talk about this special high-rise and high-density public housing model

15:19 Their favourite feature of the Pinnacle; can things be improved? For eg, a music studio, art centre, elderly care, communal areas opened up for evolution

25:23 Is there life beyond a 99-year leasehold HDB flat? Sustainability, adaptive reuse

Listen to Dr Liu Thai Ker on being the "architect of modern Singapore": https://str.sg/iYZF

Discover ST's interactive graphic article of this topic: https://str.sg/JXMGj

Produced by: Michelle Ng (ngmich@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Teo Tong Kai and Fa'izah Sani

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST Podcasts:

Channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/wukH

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E114: COP28: Vanuatu climate minister on the 'loss and damage' fund

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A fund to pay highly vulnerable countries for loss and damage from climate impact, was finally initiated at the COP28 climate talks in Dubai.

Synopsis: The Straits Times' climate editor David Fogarty is at COP28 from Nov 23 till Dec 12 in Dubai, the United Nations climate change conference.

The Pacific island nation of Vanuatu is a remote chain of about 80 islands, many of them mountainous, with a total population of over 300,000 people. It has suffered devastating cyclones, rising sea levels, coral bleaching from warming oceans and other impacts, costing its people and the economy dearly.

Each major disaster drains the budget and sets the country back, with damaged houses, roads, schools and hospitals needing to be repaired or rebuilt.

Vanuatu has long championed the idea of a fund to pay highly vulnerable countries for the loss and damage from climate impact. And it has been a strident voice pushing for big polluting nations to face up to their responsibilities for the human rights impacts caused by their emissions.

Vanuatu, along with other Pacific island nations, is calling for a total phase out of fossil fuels to try to save their nations at COP28.

In this episode, recorded at COP28, ST's David Fogarty hosts Mr Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, who is a leading voice for ambitious climate action.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

0:56 Why is Vanuatu so vulnerable to climate change impacts?

3:14 How are the worsening impacts affecting people and the economy?

5:51 Vanuatu’s role in pushing for big polluters to take responsibility for the impact of their emissions

11:50 Australia is a major donor but also a major fossil fuel exporter. How best to manage that relationship?

17:50 Is there a limit to what Pacific island nations can withstand in terms of climate impacts? What does the future look like?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E81: 2023 wrapped: Biggest news and happenings in entertainment

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Host Jan Lee recaps everything from Barbieheimer to K-pop boyband BTS entering the military

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

As 2023 comes to an end, #PopVultures host recap and give updates on some of the biggest happenings in entertainment across the world, from the revenge concert-going and ticket-buying mania that gripped Singapore to the writers and actors strike in Hollywood and the fall of idol management agency Johnny & Associates in Japan.

She also runs down her list of favourite television shows and films of the year.

Here is what she covers:

2:07 Concert mania - Taylor Swift, Coldplay and J-pop acts like Yoasobi

6:23 Summer of Barbieheimer - blockbusters Barbie and Oppenheimer - bringing audiences back to the movie theatres

11:13 The Hollywood writers and actors strike, which gained both unions historic gains and protections

15:29 Updates on the sex abuse scandal that brought down Japanese idol agency Johnny & Associates

26:15 Taiwan's #MeToo wave and why it was disappointing to observe

31:13 The case of K-pop girl group Fifty Fifty takes a turn

33:22 Drug allegations against BigBang leader G-Dragon and South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun

34:51 BTS enlists into the military

36:50 Jan's favourite television shows and movies of the year

TV: The Last Of Us, Succession, The Glory and Oh No! Here Comes Trouble
Films: Past Lives and Marry My Dead Body

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

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Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E25: Why Myanmar is in a dark place

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with a veteran Myanmar watcher and geopolitical analyst about the deteriorating situation in Myanmar.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, join The Straits Times' associate editor and senior Asia columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distills his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, he speaks with the respected Myanmar watcher, Richard Horsey of the International Crisis Group.

They discuss the deteriorating situation in Myanmar, the military’s loss of morale, the ongoing geopolitical power play over the country, Asean’s role in trying to mediate the conflict, and whether the military regime would consider holding elections as a balm for the crisis.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:30 ‘Historic’ military weakness

9:30 Half of Myanmar’s economy is illicit

12:30 A certain Myanmarese resilience

15:30 Asean’s priorities

19:00 Indonesia “pressing against a closed military door”

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

#STAsianInsider

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E113: Scientists who track world’s rapidly diminishing carbon budget

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Can burning fossil fuels be phased out before the world gets too hot to live in?

Synopsis: The Straits Times' climate editor David Fogarty is at COP28 from Nov 23 till Dec 12 in Dubai, the United Nations climate change conference.

Every year, the Global Carbon Project releases its Carbon Budget, which projects global fossil fuel and land use emissions. The Global Carbon Project is a consortium of scientific institutions and the annual carbon budget study involves more than 100 scientists.

And this year’s study predicts that fossil fuel carbon emissions will reach a new record in 2023, driven largely by strong growth in coal, oil and gas consumption in India and China. On top of this are carbon emissions from land use, such as deforestation and fires globally.

And the world could hit the 1.5 deg C key temperature limit within 7 years at current rates of emissions, the study says.

In this episode, recorded at COP28, ST's David Fogarty hosts leading climate scientist Professor Pierre Friedlingstein, who coordinates the Global Carbon Budget study. He is also Chair in Mathematical Modelling of the Climate System at the University of Exeter in Britain.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

4:07 Key findings from this year’s Global Carbon Budget analysis

6:38 What are the trends for fossil fuel emissions in India and China?

9:38 Which findings from this year’s study concern Professor Friedlingstein the most, and which give him hope?

12:00 Is the world any closer to a global peak of emissions?

14:56 The land and oceans absorb a lot of CO2; will they remain in good shape as the world warms?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

#GreenPulse #COP28

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S1E118: What are the stories you want to tell with your life?

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

It is always good to start having end-of life conversations early.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

End-of-life planning is never easy. A better way could be to start the process early by planning for the life you want to lead and leave behind.

After all, death is a part of life, and it may be helpful to start thinking about it years before, said a palliative care doctor and a surgeon who does not shy away from talking about death and dying well with her patients.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to two guests. They discuss the importance of end-of-life planning and palliative care, and how talking about death can help us come to terms with this reality.

Dr Tan Yia Swam is a breast surgeon with her own practice at Mount Alvernia Hospital. She was a former Nominated MP and the past president of the Singapore Medical Association.

Dr Shirlynn Ho is the deputy head and senior consultant of the Division of Supportive ＆ Palliative Care at National Cancer Centre Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:08 Broaching the topic of palliative care

6:30 Why is there a rising urgency for palliative care?

10:41 Story about a dying patient

13:32 How do medical professionals convey information to families?

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

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S1E24: Copilot, we'll code where we never coded before

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

In a universe roamed by software developers, problems are to be conquered by code.

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Now, with a new Copilot in generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), will we enter an era where coders solve some of the world's biggest challenges? Will coding become mainstream?

Listen to this episode, brought to you from GitHub Universe, held in November in San Francisco.

ST's senior correspondent Krist Boo hosts her guests - GitHub chief executive Thomas Dohmke, GitHub head of accessibility Ed Summers, and chief executive of Singapore firm NodeFlair, Ethan Ang.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:51 The gift of natural language gen AI brings to code

3:26 An age where developers can focus on solving problems

4:29 One of the ageing world's biggest problems: disability

5:08 The story of Ed Summers, a blind developer

17:31 For the love of coding

https://str.sg/ifw8

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Produced by: Krist Boo (kristb@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

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S1E112: First COP28 Health Day highlights climate link to health crisis

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000

At the COP28 climate talks in Dubai from Nov 30-Dec 12, a first-ever dedicated Health Day has been set aside today on Dec 3.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

From heatwaves and floods triggering illness and death to air pollution from burning fossil fuels killing millions of people a year, climate change really is a global health crisis and requires urgent action to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Yet for nearly 30 years, the annual UN climate conferences, or COPs, have failed to focus on the escalating human impacts from climate change. Negotiators have focused more on cutting greenhouse gas emissions than on the link to health.

In this episode, ST's climate editor David Fogarty hosts Dr Maria Neira, the World Health Organisation's top public health and environment official, to talk more about the importance of such issues on the COP's first-ever Health Day.

They discuss why it is so urgent that nations take action now to tackle climate change and why doing so could be the ultimate public health opportunity.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:06 Why is the climate crisis a health crisis? Key connections

6:53 Why haven’t UN climate talks focused more strongly on the link between climate and human health?

9:48 Dr Maria Neira: “If we reduce the bad quality of the air we breathe every year, we could save at least 5 million lives.”

11:37 Tough action against climate change could be the ultimate public health opportunity

13:34 Dr Maria Neira: “The moment people connect health and climate change, I think there will be an incredible increase in the sense of urgency.”

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

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S1E27: Thailand looks to the stars in bid to woo tourists

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

First, the sea, the sand, the shopping. Now add stars to the Southeast Asian country’s list of attractions as it strives to get creative post-pandemic.

Thailand’s location near the equator means that one can catch a glimpse of both northern and southern constellations, along with planets, nebulae and galaxies.

Across Thailand, interest in stargazing has soared, with people extending their trips with jaunts into the countryside where dark skies offer a backdrop for their stars.

The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand says more than 10,000 people have participated in its stargazing events since January 2022. It expects half a million visitors, locals and foreigners alike, to its six observatories across Thailand in 2023.

In this episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with ST’s Thailand correspondent Tan Tam Mei about “dark sky” tourism.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:55 Stargazing trend: Tan Tam Mei recounts her trip and experience in the town of Pak Chong, a 2.5-hour car ride from Bangkok

4:55 What kind of tourists is Thailand hoping to attract with these new “astro tourism” activities? Stimulating domestic tourism for now first

7:30 Post-pandemic tourism strategies besides the “sand, sun, shopping” model: Thailand’s attempts to pursue new markets

12:57 Tam Mei on the local community’s passion for astronomy and astrophotography in Pak Chong

Read Tan Tam Mei’s article here: https://str.sg/ifSZ

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

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S1E6: Road testing ideas to bring down COE premiums

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A motor trader with more than 25 years experience in the industry, gives his perspective.

Synopsis: In this new podcast, The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

With the big swings in the price for certificates of entitlement (COEs) in recent tender exercises, ST’s senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe hosts Mr Nicholas Wong, general manager of Kah Motor, to get his views on some suggestions to address the issue.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:30 Would COE prices come down if we adopt the “pay as you bid” system?

6:26 Car buyers bid for COEs themselves: Is that advisable?

9:17 Cash payment only for COEs, no financing allowed: How feasible?

13:10 Addressing the problem with electric vehicles in the COE system

18:00 "Let’s just do away with Open category COEs": Mr Nicholas Wong explains why

28:25 The types of hybrid technologies in the market today

38:00 Why hybrids are disadvantaged under the current system

S1E34: ComLink+: Partnering low-income families with befrienders and family coaches

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Hear how you can donate in terms of financial assistance or even in other ways if you can set aside your time.

Synopsis: Every second and fourth Monday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

The Forward Singapore exercise began in June 2022, and over 16 months, more than 200,000 Singaporeans from all walks of life have taken part in engagement sessions on a wide range of topics. The engagement exercise ended with the Forward Singapore Report released by Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Oct 27, 2023.

The report reflects Singaporeans’ collective aspirations and shared understanding of our roles and vision for the future.

Today, about 14,000 families with children who live in public rental housing are supported by the Community Link programme – in housing, employment and education. It’s a programme to support lower-income families in all HDB towns, with a focus on those living in public rentals with children under 21.

In this episode, we’ll look at the new and boosted ComLink+ programme.

ST's podcast editor Ernest Luis hosts three guests in this episode:

Mr Manas Gupta, a ComLink volunteer befriender who conducts home visits to help families in need of community support
Mr Malminderjit Singh, a volunteer with a foster home and who is also on advisory boards related to community support
Mr Lim Teck Kiat, a senior director in policy from the Ministry of Social & Family Development

This podcast is brought to you by the Ministry of Communications and Information, in support of Forward Singapore: https://str.sg/wFbY

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:35 Why Mr Manas became a "befriender" to a low-income family, and how they have interacted with him

5:30 Mr Malminderjit on how the financial assistance scheme was crucial in shaping his own life, and what low-income families actually want, what moves the needle

10:56 Mr Lim explains how the new ComLink+ programme will work

16:05 Ensuring longer-term financial support and reducing gaps in early childhood development - befrienders can also link the dots for ComLink+ new "family coaches"

18:30 Can potential donors reach out financially? Also, can the community chip in more, besides just financial donations, such as in mentorships, internships, jobs

21:50 The ComLink+ programme's new “family coaches”: How this new role works, and other volunteer partnerships

S1E103: Why the Middle East war offers a lesson in India’s priorities

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Hear the parallels to the crisis and why India has more immediate strategic interests in the Indian Ocean than in the Pacific.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' US bureau chief Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

While partnerships to its east - and with the United States - are deepening, India’s strategic interests remain more naturally weighted towards its west, and to the Indian Ocean.

Indian officials have growing concerns about when China will have a carrier strike group or other large capabilities in the Indian Ocean, which is India's neighbourhood from the Gulf of Aden to the Straits of Malacca. For India, the Indian Ocean matters not just for security, but for economic, energy, and diaspora reasons.

India also has to navigate a fundamental contradiction with the United States. The US believes that it should be the pre-eminent power in the world, while India sees a world evolving towards multi-polarity in which it can punch above its weight and play a proper role.

In this episode, unpacking India’s strategic priorities are Dr Satu Limaye, vice-president and director of the East West Center in Washington DC, and Dr Aparna Pande, director of the Initiative On The Future of India and South Asia at the Hudson Institute, also in Washington, DC.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:05 India's relationship with Israel: Why many in the "Indian right" see Israel as a model and believe India is in a similar position in a "similarly hostile neighbourhood"

2:56 India's support for a two-state solution in the Middle East remains; its foreign policy is consistent but there are nuances to be observed

3:45 "Nuance and navigate": Keywords key to understanding India, which is managing a land and border dispute with China, and being worried about China's growing People's Liberation Army Navy capability and incursions into the Indian Ocean

8:50 Parallels to Middle East crisis: 9 million Indian citizens in the Gulf and India has in the past had to evacuate them when there are conflicts in the region

10:30 The world order India is facing now, and why it's tougher than it was during the Cold War era; deconstructing India's interests

18:10 Has India been successful in cultivating partnerships in its "maritime neighbourhood"? Why China's money can help it compete in a tricky region

26:00 Can India do more in other critical areas instead of trying to outspend China?

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

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S1E80: 'Book Club' Pt 2! Dissecting Britney Spears' memoir The Woman In Me

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Part Two: The horror of how Britney Spears came to be placed under a 13-year-long involuntary conservatorship.

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

Pop diva Britney Spears' memoir has been a smash hit, selling over 2.4 million copies worldwide in the first week of its release. In our previous episode (Pt 1), host Jan Lee discussed the bombshells the now 41-year-old singer dropped in the first part of her book, including the revelation that former beau, pop star Justin Timberlake, talked her into having an abortion.

Continuing the discussion of the book, part two of the podcast delves into the horrifying story of Britney’s mental breakdown and her eventual entry into an involuntary conservatorship.

It looks at the misogyny and media scrutiny she had to endure and details how her family conspired against her and lured her into a conservatorship that stripped her of the right to make personal and financial decisions for herself.

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

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Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

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S1E8: Can Singapore host an Asian Games or a World Cup?

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

We discuss if Singapore is capable of hosting a major sporting event.

Synopsis: Every fourth Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times dives into a sports topic and tackles the hard questions with its guests on Hard Tackle.

A Fifa World Cup or perhaps a Commonwealth Games being hosted in Singapore in the future, have been discussion points in the last month.

In early October, it was reported that Indonesia were in discussions with Australia about a possible joint bid to host the 2034 football World Cup along with Malaysia and Singapore. This ultimately came to nothing officially as Saudi Arabia were the sole bidders.

But more recently, at its general assembly held in Singapore, the Commonwealth Games Federation spoke up about the possibility of Singapore being future hosts.

Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by former CEO of Sport Singapore Lim Teck Yin and Singapore Aquatics president Mark Chay as they discuss if Singapore is capable of hosting a major sporting event in the future.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:22 What do cities and countries stand to gain from hosting sporting events?

8:57 How Singapore became hosts of World Aquatics Championships and what it involves

14:00 Was Singapore ever a viable host for a football World Cup?

16:50 Mark Chay and Teck Yin weigh in on whether Singapore can play hosts to major sporting events

21:15 Will cost be a concern for hosting major events

S1E18: What investors should know in a “higher for longer” interest rate environment

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Find out whether investors should still remain in the market.

In this episode, Su Shyan and Ven discuss the recent pause in rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. There are signals that rates may have to remain higher for longer than markets had initially expected, if inflation is to sustainably return to the Fed’s 2% target.

They discuss the implications for businesses and investors as well as savers and borrowers.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:40 Tricky to tame US inflation; any decision the Fed makes will be data-driven

5:43 How will businesses be affected?

8:10 Savers and cash-rich individuals will benefit

10:05 Pay off what you can if you are a borrower

11:25 Medium-term outlook for the market is still promising

Produced by: Lee Su Shyan (sushyan@sph.com.sg), Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

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S1E111: Coral reefs can recover - but can they keep up with warming seas?

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Better protection, waste management imperative for coral reef survival.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Coral reefs occupy only about 0.2% of the ocean floor, yet they are home to a quarter of all marine life. But oceans absorb most of the heat trapped in the atmosphere due to increasing greenhouse gases; this has caused oceans to warm and become more acidic, and there has been a lot of damage to corals. The corals can recover, but can they keep up?

In this episode, The Straits Times’ US Bureau Chief Nirmal Ghosh discusses the risk to, and the resilience of, coral reefs, with experts on either side of the world - Jennifer Pollom in Florida, executive director of the Ocean Conservation Foundation and director of conservation for Rainbow Reef Dive Centre, and marine ecologist Dr Jani Tanzil, facility director at St John’s Island National Marine Laboratory in Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

00:42 Australia's Great Barrier Reef has suffered six mass bleaching events between 1998 and 2022 - with back-to-back events in 2016 and 17.

02:58 In Key Largo, month over month photographs of massive deterioration

04:51 In the Gulf of Thailand, some low levels of bleaching in the shallow waters - but it's nothing like what was seen in 2016 in Southeast Asia.

05:55 Heat waves are pretty typical in South Florida, but this is the largest bleaching event that we've basically ever seen.

08:08 Human anthropogenic stress - like sedimentation - has a huge additional, negative synergistic effect with global warming.

10:16 Instant morbidity in shallow reefs in Florida

11:17 Huge concern for the future because the reefs are what everybody comes to, to see, to snorkel, to scuba dive, and also to fish.

12:38 There has been a rise in conservation tourism in Southeast Asia - a good thing overall.

14:15 In Indonesia over a million corals have been transplanted, but only a fraction actually followed throughStandards on what constitutes green investments: Why this is important

18:27 Wish list : more protection, more waste management

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Fa’izah Sani & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

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Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E117: The promise of digital medicine

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Learn about digital therapeutics.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Traditional healthcare is based on doctor and hospital visits, and it can take a long time to obtain appointments to see a healthcare professional. What if one day, an individual can be prescribed a digital therapy for their depression or other health issues remotely? He or she would not have to take any medications.

In this Health Check podcast episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Professor Dean Ho, the director of the Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM) at the National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and the head of the NUS biomedical engineering department, to find out more about digital therapeutics or DTx.

He’s just written a book on DTx with two other researchers Mr Yoann Sapanel and Dr Agata Blasiak from the institute titled Medicine Without Meds: Revolutionising Healthcare With Digital Solutions.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:12 What is DTx?

9:24 Challenges of DTx?

10:57 How can DTx further personalise care?

23:05 Prof Ho’s experiments

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Amirul Karim & Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here and rate us:

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

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Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

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In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E8: How to use ChatGPT responsibly at work?

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Discourse over responsible workplace use of generative artificial intelligence software like ChatGPT, is just getting started.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, The Straits Times' Career Talk podcast helps you take charge of your own career and make your ambition pay off.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) models can swiftly generate convincing text and images based on user prompts. Suddenly, it seems jobs thought immune from automation, like those involving creative expression and communication, could be forever changed with Gen AI.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guests on the limitations and responsible use of the technology at the workplace.

His guests are:

Mr Gavin Barfield, vice president and chief technology officer for solutions, Salesforce Asean

Assistant Professor Jerrold Soh from the Yong Pung How School of Law, Singapore Management University

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:35 How is generative AI being used at the workplace?

7:00 Why are some employers and workers anxious about generative AI?

11:28 Who is responsible if generative AI software makes a mistake?

12:47 Is it a good idea for companies to draw up rules of engagement with the technology?

15:22 What are some principles employers and employees can abide to help them use generative AI responsibly?

22:15 Can generative AI be overused?

S1E75: Special: In conversation with German football legend Jurgen Klinsmann

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

He also shares simple lifelong advice for parents and children on how to nurture striker skills at an early age.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

Not many know their way to goal like Jurgen Klinsmann does. The German football legend has scored goals aplenty on the world's biggest stages and mesmerised fans of Tottenham Hotspur, Inter Milan, Bayern Munich and others.

The former USA and German national team head coach is now the man at the helm of the South Korean national side and he was in Singapore for a few days to catch the Lion City Sailors’ incredible 2-0 win over Jeonbuk in the Asian Champions League on Wednesday.

Klinsmann, was taking a closer look at Sailors’ Singaporean players who will feature for the Lions against South Korea in a World Cup Qualifier on Nov 16 in Seoul.

ST Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan caught up with Klinsmann just ahead of the match to learn more about how he became the striker he was, his thoughts on modern day football forwards and how he is feeling before South Korea takes on Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:00 What made Klinsmann want to be a striker

4:00 Why Klinsmann believes the best place to learn is in the neighbourhood

5:45 How coaches are to blame for fewer No.9s in modern football and why they are still important

7:40 Does Klinsmann think Germany will have a successful Euro 2024?

9:05 What made Klinsmann come to Singapore to watch the Lion City Sailors

S1E24: Albanese visits Xi: ‘A laying down of arms, not a reset’

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A conversation with a veteran Australian diplomat, commentator and politician on his prime minister’s recent visit to China.

Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, join The Straits Times' associate editor and senior Asia columnist Ravi Velloor, as he distills his experience from four decades of covering the continent.

In this episode, which follows Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to Shanghai and Beijing, Ravi hosts the veteran Australian diplomat and Conservative Party politician Dave Sharma.

They discuss the state of Australia’s relations with China that have come under intense strain these past three years, the lessons Canberra drew from its spat with China and the future of the Western alliance in the Indo-Pacific.

They also look at whether Australian consensus over the nuclear submarine deal that is at the core of the Aukus military arrangement with Britain and the United States, has collapsed.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:52 Why this trip was important for stabilising Australia-China ties

6:37 Did the previous Scott Morrison government push too hard against China?

10:52 What the visit means for the future of the Indo-Pacific strategy

12:40 Has consensus on Aukus collapsed in Australia?

16:22 "Quad has pushed China to be more cooperative": Dave Sharma

Produced by: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Speaking Of Asia Podcast every second Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Ravi Velloor's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP

Ravi Velloor on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E79: 'Book Club' Pt 1! Dissecting Britney Spears' memoir The Woman In Me

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Part One of the bombshells the pop star dropped in her best-selling book.

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

After being freed from a 13-year long conservatorship, pop diva Britney Spears released her highly anticipated memoir The Woman In Me on Oct 24. The book is a smash hit and a New York Times best-seller, with 2.4 million copies sold worldwide in just a week. Previously unknown bombshells - like how Spears aborted her child with former flame and pop star Justin Timberlake - dominated headlines.

The book charts the now 41-year-old Spears' journey to superstardom during her childhood and adolescent years and later details of how fame, failed relationships with stars like Justin Timberlake and Kevin Federline and abuse derailed her life and cornered her into an exploitative conservatorship.

She was involuntarily placed under the conservatorship in 2008, during which she lost the ability to make basic decisions about her finances, career, life and medical care. Spears was freed from the conservatorship only in 2021.

In the first of two parts, #PopVultures host Jan Lee, who read the book from cover to cover, shares her most memorable takeaways from the book. Here is what she talks about in Part One.

3:52 Is The Woman In Me well-written or trustworthy? Does Spears show self-reflection and introspection in the book?

9:28 The Justin Timberlake-era of Britney's life

23:33 Why Britney's love story with Kevin Federline is tragic from the get-go

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) and Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

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Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E74: A new dawn for Singapore after Mirxes Nations Cup win

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A rejuvenated Singapore netball team aims to be best in Asia.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month.

A new era of Singapore netball arrived on Oct 28 when the Republic ended a 16-year wait to claim its third netball Nations Cup title. The breakthrough win was delivered by a young side filled with potential, with four players in the starting line-up aged 24 and under, signalling a changing of the guard.

Singapore netball head coach Annette Bishop and national Goal shooter Amandeep Kaur Chahal join ST Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan to talk about the Nations Cup campaign and the ultimate goal of being top of Asia.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:55 How did the Nations Cup win feel like for Amandeep?

5:30 The reason behind why Annette Bishop chose a young side for the Nations Cup

9:50 How Amandeep got hooked to Netball

12:30 The selection process of the national team

17:50 Why being the best in Asia is the team’s next goal

S1E23: If work is war, how do we psych up for victory?

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Our guests take on the battles in our minds.

Synopsis: Every first Monday of the month, listen to the Work Talk podcast to help you work smarter, think deeper and get ahead in your work life.

Oct 10 was Mental Health Day. Listen to Mr Larson Ong, co-founder of Visual Studio Singapore, and Mr John Lim, social worker and author, talk to host Krist Boo about mental resilience.

They both struggled with depression and anxiety. Now, they are sharing stories of their dark moments to help others.

Joining us too is Ms Hetal Doshi, organisational psychologist and chief executive of O-Psych, who talks about her work invigorating organisations to win.

This is an episode of hard questions and heartfelt stories.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:11 What is an organisation's psychological strategy?

2:25 Mental health problems happen only to others, don't they?

4:07 Why are we lonelier despite having more technology to connect?

9:48 Has the pandemic changed how companies support workers' mental wellness? Could this warrant a meltdown in young people today?

16:51 Do we really want to know our bosses' "whole" selves?

19:07 Does feeling mentally strong make you more productive?

S1E110: Big tech can help firms and consumers be more active "climate game changers": Google's chief sustainability officer

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Technology has the tools to help all of us cut our emissions. But to be credible, big tech firms also need to cut their own large carbon footprints.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

A lot of technology at the centre of our lives, from data centres to laptop computers to video streaming and our data-hungry mobile phones, requires a lot of energy. So, what is the solution? And can clever technology really help all of us cut our carbon footprints?

Who better to tell us about this than Ms Kate Brandt, the chief sustainability officer for Google. The tech giant is also developing products and services that help people around the world cut their emissions.

ST’s climate change editor David Fogarty hosts Ms Brandt to discuss Google’s initiatives to cut emissions right across its operations and some of the new technologies that can help its billions of daily users shrink their carbon bubbles.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

4:14 What are people searching for regarding steps they can take to cut carbon pollution?

7:21 How is tech/AI saving people during extreme weather events, such as early warning systems?

09:53 Steps Google is taking to cut its own emissions

13:57 What are some of the climate tech tools available, or soon to be available, in Singapore?

16:17 Ms Brandt's reflections from her discussions with political and business leaders at the New York Climate Week in September 2023

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E26: China’s latest most liveable city: No it’s not Beijing or Shanghai

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Hear why the Chinese are plumbing for Changsha, the capital capital of central Hunan, instead.

In this 26th episode, ST’s foreign editor Li Xueying chats with ST’s China correspondent Aw Cheng Wei about the allure of Changsha.

Located in the heart of middle China, Changsha is usually under the radar for those outside of the country. But for the Chinese, it is instantly recognisable as the scenic backdrop for many popular shows produced by Hunan Television’s Mango TV.

Its reputation as the “Chinese Hollywood” aside, Changsha has become the go-to destination for those who seek a laidback lifestyle with decent living standards and affordable property prices. What does its appeal say about the aspirations of many Chinese today?

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:09 The charms of Changsha

5:05 Why Changsha’s property prices baulk the nationwide trend of housing prices in free fall

7:00 What accounts for Changsha’s fairly robust economic growth in Changsha, and how representative it is about the trajectory in middle China

9:30 A favoured destination for remote workers, post-Covid

Read Aw Cheng Wei’s article here: https://str.sg/iGjn

Produced by: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Letter From The Bureau Podcast every first Friday of the month here:

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR

Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x

Read Aw Cheng Wei's articles: https://str.sg/wzce

Read ST's Letters From The Bureau: https://str.sg/3xRd

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

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Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E116: Take charge of your menopause

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Find out more about menopause and what you can do about it.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Menopause is a natural part of aging but the time leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, affects each woman differently.

Associate Professor Rukshini Puvanendran, the head and senior consultant of Family Medicine Service, and the co-lead of KK Menopause Centre at KKH, said that while many people are aware of menopause, they do not fully understand it. There are also many misconceptions surrounding menopause, with the most common being that hormone replacement therapy or HRT is harmful.

Still, menopause is a stage of life that also marks a new beginning for women. In the west, there's even a new trend in the travel industry - menopause retreats. Women are embracing their menopausal transition and willing to pay for vacations that combine spa treatments with fitness or yoga sessions and advice on how to deal with symptoms like hot flushes.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Assoc Prof Rukshini to find out more about how menopause affects women, how safe HRT is as well as other ways of managing the symptoms.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:07 When do women in Singapore experience menopause

2:20 How does it affect the body?

6:46 What other issues should menopausal women be aware of?

13:36 When should women seek help for the symptoms they experience?

19:33 Misconceptions of hormone replacement therapy

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Amirul Karim & Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

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SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

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S1E5: Should the COE system be revamped? 2 motor industry veterans have their say

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 11:30:00 +0000

Motor industry veterans pitch their ideas to bring down premiums.

Synopsis: In this new podcast, The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.

Certificate of entitlement (COE) premiums have doubled from what they were a year ago with expectations that they will continue to rise. This translates to higher vehicle prices.

To understand what is driving up COE prices and what can be done about it, host Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with two motor industry veterans - Mr Neo Tiam Ting, President of Singapore Vehicle Traders Association, and Mr Neo Nam Heng, adviser to the Automobile Importer and Exporter Association and chairman of diversified motor group Prime.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:48 Why the industry experts say that it is the private-hire fleet owners that are driving up the COE.

7:40 We appeal to have a “lock-in period” for car ownership like it is with HDB flats.

12:35 Car rental companies are having it too easy.

21:45 How the industry appealed for changes to the COE system in 2012 for taxis.

23:30 Why cars will become even more expensive in 2024.

28:00 Are there good bargains for vehicles in the market today?

S1E78: Everything Taylor! Taylor Swift, her new man, her old men, her music and more

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Three Swifties discuss the pop star’s romance, music and how she has changed and matured

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

#PopVultures host and recent Swiftie convert Jan Lee invites The Straits Times lifestyle journalists Yamini Chinnuswamy and Charmaine Lim, both fellow Swifties, to talk about superstar Taylor Swift’s new relationship with American football player Travis Kelce.

They discuss the masterful rollout of the Taylor-Travis romance and how well Swift uses the media and pop culture zeitgeist to her advantage. From being seen with British actress Sophie Turner amid her acrimonious divorce with Swift’s ex-boyfriend Joe Jonas to posing with Beyonce at the premiere of her Eras concert film - the singer knows how to generate headlines.

Here is what they talked about.

Highlights (tap/click above):

1:51 Our relationship with Swift - how did we become Swifties?

6:36 The Taylor-Travis romance - how it began, the reveal of their relationship and whether it is a PR stunt

12:59 Sophie Turner, Joe Jonas and how Swift took Turner’s side

18:43 How Swift handled her previous relationships and her image to the public

32:26 The turning point in Swift’s career - The Snake Incident

39:12 How petty Swift can be and why we love it

44:13 Swift’s business and management acumen

51:39: Our Taylor Swift awards - favourite boyfriend, worst boyfriend, favourite songs and more

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg) Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E102: Canada-India relations on the rocks over separatist delusion

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

US-Canada relations have plunged, but Canada should learn to accommodate India’s security concerns.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times' US Bureau Chief Nirmal Ghosh shines a light on Asian perspectives of global and Asian issues with expert guests.

Relations between India and Canada have plunged since Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there were “credible allegations” that Indian agents killed Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, in June.

Nirmal hosts two guests to get a better insight on the Canada-India relations:

1. Christine Fair is a renowned expert on South Asia, author of numerous books on aspects of South Asia, and professor in the Security Studies Program at the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University.

2. Terry Milewski is a former journalist who wrote the 2021 book “Blood for Blood – fifty years of the Global Khalistan Project.”

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:45 The late Sikh militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale is a Che Guevara-style icon for Sikh youth

6:15 Canada has normalised the display of terrorist iconography

7:30 Worship of a martyr cult

14:13 Khalistanis have appropriated black musical culture reflecting structural racism

19:50 Khalistanis are rewriting history

Produced by: Nirmal Ghosh (nirmal@sph.com.sg) and Fa’izah Sani

Edited by: Fa’izah Sani

Follow Asian Insider with Nirmal Ghosh every fourth Friday of the month here:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7

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Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Nirmal Ghosh on Twitter: https://str.sg/JD7r

Read Nirmal Ghosh's articles: https://str.sg/JbxG

---

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#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i4Y3

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E73: The Angela Lee interview: MMA fighter opens up about mental health

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

In an emotional interview, MMA star Angela Lee champions mental health.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second
Wednesday of the month.

The following podcast contains conversations on self harm and suicide. Audience discretion is advised.

In a recent article, MMA fighter Angela Lee recently opened up about her struggles with mental health, her attempt to take her own life in 2017 and that her sister Victoria died by suicide last December.

In an emotional interview, the One Championship star who retired at the end of September 2023, talks to ST sports journalist Deepanraj Ganesan about her sister and Fightstory, her mental health initiative dedicated to inspiring hope and building a community for those struggling with mental health.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:30 Angela Lee’s advice for aspiring MMA athletes

7:55 What prompted Angela Lee to open up about her mental health struggles

9:45 Does being an MMA athlete make it harder to open up about your weaknesses?

10:40 What kind of help did Angela Lee seek to feel better?

18:25 What will be the main focus of Angela’s Fightstory initiative

S1E8: Singapore singer Shye takes on China and US

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Home-grown pop singer Shye is the eighth guest in this music channel.

Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times invites music acts to its podcast studio.

In the eighth episode of Music Lab, ST's music correspondent Eddino Abdul Hadi hosts home-grown singer, songwriter and producer Shye.

At the age of 21, the multi-talented artiste, whose full name is Trinity Shye-Anne Brown, has already achieved much in recent times.

Since she made her debut in 2018 at the age of 16, she has released four EPs, one album, and multiple singles and music videos.

She was the youngest winner of music competition Vans Musicians Wanted and was also one of the singers behind 2021 National Day Song, The Road Ahead.

On streaming services, her songs rack up millions of plays. Love U, a song from her 2020 album days to morning glory, has over 3 million streams on just Spotify alone.

She has done concerts not just in Singapore, but also in the United States and China, where she recently took part in a television reality show, Youth Pi Plan.

In this episode of Music Lab, the singer sang a live rendition of Need, a song from her latest EP released in early October, 9Lives.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:20 On how her cats helped shape the songs on her new EP, 9LIVES

11:17 She went to China to take part in Youth Pi Plan, a reality television show for young musicians, and ended up as one of the finalists

19:47 Having bad skin as a teenager prompted her to start making music

23:24 What it was like to be the youngest winner of Vans Musicians Wanted at the age of 16

27:37 Singing the 2021 National Day Parade theme song, The Road Ahead, and becoming a role model for young students

35:06 On helping younger talents get a leg up in the music industry

Listen to Shye's live performance here:

https://str.sg/iGGe

Discover Singaporean artiste Shye at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/iGpt

Spotify: https://str.sg/iGpv

Instagram: https://str.sg/iGGk

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim, Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Music Lab Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's stories: https://str.sg/wFVa

Music Lab theme: Eden Soh (composer/arranger-guitar), Ernest Luis (guitar)

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E8: Shye - Need (Live) @ ST Podcast Studio

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Singaporean singer, songwriter, and producer Shye's intimate live studio take of Need, a song from her latest EP, 9Lives.

Synopsis: This Music Lab playlist features the full live performance of music acts invited by The Straits Times to its podcast studio.

Listen to Shye talk about her musical journey in the full podcast here: https://str.sg/iGGs

Discover Singaporean artiste Shye at:

YouTube: https://str.sg/iGpt

Spotify: https://str.sg/iGpv

Instagram: https://str.sg/iGGk

Produced by: Eddino Abdul Hadi (dinohadi@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Fa'izah Sani, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim & Teo Tong Kai

Recorded by: ST Podcast Team

Mixed by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Music Lab Podcast here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/w9TX

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/w9TB

Spotify: https://str.sg/w9T6

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Eddino Hadi's stories: https://str.sg/wFVa

---

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COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E115: Should you tell your boss that you have a mental health condition?

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Find out more about the possible support that companies can give to people with mental health conditions.

Synopsis: Every first and third Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you.

Content warning: This podcast discusses suicidal feelings.

Having a mental health condition can make work life pretty challenging sometimes, so should you tell your bosses about it? How should you go about doing that and what can companies do to support their employees who have mental health challenges.

In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to two guests.

Min Hui is a suicide survivor and a volunteer at mental health charity Resillience Collective (RC).

She talks about her mental health journey and how it has been like for her to be open about her mental health conditions at work.

Nicholas Lee is the executive director of RC. He shares his personal mental health story, what he has done for staff with mental health conditions and offers suggestions on what companies can do to support their employees recovering from mental health conditions.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:56 Minhui’s mental health journey and how she let a suicidal thought pass.

4:24 What happened after Minhui told her bosses about her mental health conditions

8:41 How Minhui’s superior supported her after an unpleasant work episode

15:32 Nick’s pragmatic approach to his mental health condition

24:25 Involving HR when it comes to supporting mental health persons in recovery

30:50 Should you disclose your mental health conditions at the job interview?

Helplines

MENTAL WELL-BEING

Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444 (24 hours) /1-767 (24 hours)
• Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
• Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)

COUNSELLING

TOUCHline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
TOUCH Care Line (for seniors, caregivers): 6804-6555
Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366

ONLINE RESOURCES

mindline.sg
eC2.sg
tinklefriend.sg
chat.mentalhealth.sg
• carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

Produced by: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

Edited by: Eden Soh

Follow Health Check Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E109: How Singapore sets the global standard for carbon offsets: Grace Fu

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Find out why support from governments could be just what the market needs to improve quality and integrity.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Carbon credits have been in the news a lot lately. And not always for the right reasons, with concerns about whether they really do help reduce emissions.

Yet carbon credits can be a useful tool in tackling climate change. Paying investors for every tonne of carbon emissions they take out of the atmosphere or avoid from being emitted can help developing nations ramp up climate action.

What is needed is tougher standards and more careful vetting of carbon offset projects. And Singapore, which is positioning itself as a global hub for carbon offset trading and project financing, is helping drive efforts to boost the quality and integrity of carbon offsets.

For instance, the government recently announced the eligibility criteria for carbon offsets that can be used by big polluters under the nation’s carbon tax regime.

In this episode, ST's climate editor David Fogarty hosts Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu, to find out more about this.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:05 Why are carbon credits a useful tool and how can they help Singapore meet its climate targets?

5:26 Yet concerns remain about carbon offsets. Why is that?

9:59 What are the new eligibility criteria for offsets that can be used in Singapore’s carbon tax regime?

15:03 How will carbon offsets used by firms in Singapore be vetted?

19:37 What are corresponding adjustments?

24:05 Will the 5 per cent offset cap in the carbon tax scheme be increased?

Produced by: David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim & Amirul Karim

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and rate us:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow David Fogarty on X: https://str.sg/JLM6

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E17: Investing in luxury assets can be a way of diversifying your investment portfolio

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Find out about adding a touch of luxury to your investments.

Synopsis: Every third Monday of the month, regular hosts Lee Su Shyan and Ven Sreenivasan - both associate editors at The Straits Times - offer you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

For this episode, Su Shyan and Tay Hong Yi from The Straits Times Business desk invited two guests Prof Sonja Prokopec, Professor of Marketing at ESSEC Business School and Aaron Chwee, head of wealth advisory at OCBC to discuss the pros and cons of investing in luxury assets.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:05 What is it about luxury goods that makes them attractive to investors?

3:30 Not all luxury goods have investible characteristics so evaluate your choices carefully.

7:50 Differences between luxury assets and traditional investments

10:00 Tokenisation is a new, affordable way of investing in luxury assets but there are things to take note of. Tokenisation may not suit every investor.

15:45 How much of an investment portfolio should be in the form of luxury assets?

17:00 What are the considerations for investors as they approach investing in luxury assets?

S1E7: When Xiao Zhan’s fans waged war on fan fiction

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000

How they "mass-reported" to Chinese authorities, a fan fiction about him and fellow actor Wang Yibo.

Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

In 2019, Chinese actor Xiao Zhan was easily one of the hottest stars in China. The previously little-known star had broken out that year in China and across the world with the mega-hit Chinese fantasy period series The Untamed, where he acted opposite fellow Chinese star Wang Yibo.

Adapted from a hugely popular boys' love novel named Grandmaster Of Demonic Cultivation, The Untamed attracted a large, ardent fan base that shot both its leads to A-list status. But less than a year after Xiao found fame, his loyal fan base became his undoing.

In a controversy termed the 227 (Feb 27, 2020) incident, Xiao’s fans following reported a piece of fan fiction that they felt portrayed their idol in an unflattering light and it caused one of the world's largest fan fiction sites - Archive Of Our Own - to be banned in China.

In response, fan fiction readers, writers and more, targeted Xiao Zhan, calling for the boycott of brands he works with and review-bombing projects he had previously been in. The boycott was so widespread and overwhelming that Xiao eventually apologised for his fans' actions.

In this episode of Can I Tell You Something Crazy, #PopVultures host Jan Lee takes another look at the 227 incident - a fight between two factions of fandom that blew up beyond anyone's imagination.

It is a story of para-social relationships, toxic fandoms, the murky politics of boys’ love in China, censorship, reporting culture and also, a story about stories - the value, power and refuge that fan fiction often provides.

Produced by: Jan Lee (janlee@sph.com.sg)

Edited by: Amirul Karim

Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E72: A ‘successful’ Asian Games for Singapore - We ask: Really?

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

We analyse Team Singapore's performance at the recent Hangzhou Asian Games.

Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second
Wednesday of the month.

After 15 days of competition, Team Singapore came away from the Hangzhou Asian Games with three golds, six silvers and seven bronzes. From Shanti Pereira’s history-making 200m win to the dominant triumphs in sailing, there were several individual performances to marvel at.

However, the Republic’s largest-ever contingent had a worst-ever haul of golds and overall medals this millennium. This tally was also fewer than the previous Games in 2018 (four golds, four silvers and 14 bronzes).

Despite the dip in performance, top sports officials hailed the Hangzhou outing as a “successful” one with “significant wins” for Singapore’s athletes.

ST Sports reporter Deepanraj Ganesan is joined by sports correspondent David Lee, journalist Kimberley Kwek and assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath. They analyse if it was truly a successful Asian Games for Singapore and pick out other moments that stood out.

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:23 Has this been a successful Asian Games for Team Singapore?

14:10 Reporting on Shanti Pereira’s success and what’s next for the sprint queen

19:00 How dominant was gold medallist and Paris 2024 contender Maximilian Maeder

21:00 Teong Tzen Wei’s road back to a silver medal at the Asiad

24:20 After Loh Kean Yew’s fall at the first hurdle in China, is there a need for a coaching change?

S1E1: Hear our podcasts on The Straits Times' app, besides Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Each follow on the audio apps below and a rating really helps us! Happy listening!

Synopsis: A brand new feature is within The Straits Times app, which you can download from the Apple app store or the Google Play store. For those of you who already have it, the latest version update now has a dedicated Podcast Section, where you can listen to our latest incoming show episodes and check out back episodes too.

You can also choose to follow our podcast RSS feeds, or the shows on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

If you have a smart home speaker like the Google Home or Nest device, or your Android phone, just say: “Hey Google, play me (name of any of the shows below) or The Straits Times Podcasts.”

Get The Straits Times app from

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

Produced & edited by: Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg) & Teo Tong Kai

Follow ST Podcasts:

Channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukK

Spotify: https://str.sg/wukH

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

---

ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

#stpodcasttr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E7: Who are career conversion programmes for?

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A staple of Singapore's training ecosystem, these programmes can pay off for the right trainee.

Synopsis: Every second Monday of the month, the new Career Talk podcast by The Straits Times helps you take charge of your own career and make your ambition pay off.

In Singapore’s economy now, workers now have to learn more in less time. Catering to this need are Workforce Singapore's (WSG) Career Conversion Programmes, particularly in the technology sector.

In this episode, host Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guests on talent trends in tech and preparing for a career shift to the sector.

His guests are:

Ms Gillian Woo, director for creative and professional services at Workforce Singapore

Mr Benjamin Tan, chief executive of Red Alpha Cybersecurity, a cybersecurity talent development company

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:34 What are WSG's Career Conversion Programmes?

4:25 How does being placed and trained in the tech sector work?

12:50 How do career conversion programmes differ from other training schemes and who is suited for these?

21:54 Can WSG's Career Conversion Programmes substitute tertiary educational qualifications or industry certifications?

Produced by: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Follow Career Talk Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz

Get business/career tips in ST's HeadSTart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl

---

Discover more ST podcast channels:

COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

---

Special edition series:

True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

---

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S1E25: Poor, elderly drag queens in conservative Philippines get a lifeline

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Many are ostracised by families and live in slums, but a younger generation is coming to their aid.

In this 25th episode, ST’s new foreign editor Li Xueying takes over the hosting duties from our previous show presenter Bhagyashree Garekar, who will be the incoming US bureau chief for ST in Washington.

Xueying chats with ST’s Philippines correspondent Mara Cepeda about the country’s ‘Golden Gays’.

They are a community of elderly people of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other sexualities (LGBTQ+) in their 60s to 80s, who have been living together and doing pageant shows to help make ends meet. They also belong to the non-profit organisation, The Home for the Golden Gays, established in 2002 by the late Aids activist and politician Justo Justo to provide permanent shelter for ageing LGBTQ+ members.

But when Mr Justo died in 2012, his family evicted the Golden Gays, who affectionately call themselves ‘lolas’ or grandmothers. Nine of them ended up living in a cramped, two-bedroom apartment in the slums of Pasay City, also near Manila, while the rest rented rooms with the same squalid living conditions.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:55 What it was like to visit the Golden Gays’ rented house in the slums of Pasay City, Philippines

4:55 The unique challenges that they face (as opposed to other needy elderly Filipinos?); social safety net for such demographics

7:45 Shifts in attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community; how pop culture is driving the change

12:13 Concerns that this new heightened profile of the drag queens could lead to a backlash from more conservative elements in society?

S1E1: Visit to Kranji Marshes: Rise of invasive birds in Singapore

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Why non-native species like the golden-backed weaver and monk parakeet need to be dealt with before they spread elsewhere.

Synopsis (headphones recommended): In our first audio trail of Singapore’s nature spaces, The Straits Times explores the ins and outs of creatures in these places with those who know them well.

Listen to birdsong at the Kranji Marshes with the president and vice-president of freshly hatched conservation group Bird Society of Singapore Keita Sin and Movin Nyanasengeran who take ST journalist Ang Qing around one of the largest freshwater marshes here.

During a two-hour walk, they experience a morning at the remote park, which is home to more than 170 birds in north-western Singapore.

They banter on all things bird-related, from ‘parrot politics’ to the mounting threat of invasive bird species to Singapore and South-east Asia.

This comes as the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services reported in September that more than 3,500 harmful invasive species have cost the global economy at least US$423 billion (S$576 billion) a year. And the annual expense has quadrupled every decade since the 1970s.

You can also read our accompanying ST podcast article to see pictures of the various bird species mentioned (link below).

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:49 The tale of the golden-backed weaver and what it means for Singapore

6:47 Parrot pet problems and ‘politics’

8:55 What you need to know about Kranji Marshes

9:25 The origins and ambitions of Bird Society of Singapore

15:55 Debunking common myths about birds

To see the various bird species named in this podcast, read our podcast article: https://str.sg/ichq

Produced by: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, Hadyu Rahim, Teo Tong Kai & Paxton Pang

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Discover The Bird Society of Singapore: https://str.sg/ichc

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