CNA

Deep Dive

A News podcast

#20 in News · 🇸🇬 #186 in Top Podcasts · 🇸🇬

About the show

Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang unpack Singapore news. Listen in as they take a deep dive into hot button issues that matter so that you are always in the know.

Newest episodes

More Singaporeans under 35 want to live on their own. Is renting worth it?

Nov 11, 2026 32 min

For some young Singaporeans, moving out before they can buy their own home means paying up to thousands of dollars in rent. But for those who want freedom and independence, that’s a price worth paying for. With Singapore exploring flexible housing options like the Build-To-Rent model and private co-living spaces, will renting make home ownership harder later down the road? On the Deep Dive podcast, Steven Chia speaks with 33-year-old Cheang Wai Yee, who started renting four years ago, and Dr Lee Nai Jia, co-founder of Property Doctors Singapore, on what young adults should consider before moving out and what is the possible impact on housing supply if we expand rental housing for young people. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How AI deprives young Singaporeans of jobs and critical thinking

Nov 4, 2026 20 min

As students are increasingly exposed to AI in schools, concerns are growing over whether relying too heavily on the technology could weaken their critical thinking and verification skills. How might this affect their readiness for a rapidly changing workforce? And as AI reshapes the job market, with much of the technology controlled by a handful of powerful companies, who stands to gain the most - and who risks being left behind? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with leading scholar on AI in financial economics Professor Will Cong from the Nanyang Technological University and Associate Professor Jennifer Ang from the Singapore University of Social Sciences, who sits on the AI Singapore Scientific Committee on Governance about the skills needed in the age of AI and how to balance technological progress with human values. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could rogue AI agents evade Singapore's safety guardrails?

Oct 29, 2026 33 min

AI agents can plan gym workouts, book flights and make decisions on our behalf. But granting them greater autonomy may pose serious consequences when AI agents go rogue. With AI researchers calling for tighter restrictions, what safety guardrails should Singapore put in place - and are we already doing that? In this week's Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with leading scholar on AI in financial economics Professor Will Cong from the Nanyang Technological University and Associate Professor Jennifer Ang from the Singapore University of Social Sciences, who sits on the AI Singapore Scientific Committee on Governance, to explore the risks of rogue AI agents and why human oversight remains essential even as AI is used to defend against AI threats. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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All episodes

More Singaporeans under 35 want to live on their own. Is renting worth it?

Nov 11, 2026 32 min

How AI deprives young Singaporeans of jobs and critical thinking

Nov 4, 2026 20 min

Could rogue AI agents evade Singapore's safety guardrails?

Oct 29, 2026 33 min

Making companies behind the haze pay: Can Singapore succeed?

Oct 20, 2026 27 min

Since the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act was enacted in 2014, no company has yet been successfully prosecuted. What is Singapore doing differently this time, to pursue the culprits behind this year’s haze? Ten companies linked to the fires have received preventive measure notices, while Coordinating Minister for National Security K Shanmugam has warned that Singapore will use every legal, regulatory and economic measure to pressure recalcitrant companies to act. Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with environmental law expert Sean Tseng of the Asia-Pacific Centre for Environmental Law to find out why unclear land ownership and corporate structures make criminal prosecutions difficult and how the use of other levers – such as banks and the Singapore Exchange - could put commercial pressure on haze-linked companies. More from Deep Dive on the haze - Learn how to better protect yourself from the unhealthy air, with advice from an air pollution expert: https://cna.asia/4yXW5Ia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does air-con keep you safe from haze? What we might be getting wrong about haze safety

Oct 20, 2026 27 min

With Singapore shrouded in unhealthy levels of haze for weeks – and authorities warning of worse conditions before they improve – how can we protect our health? If an air purifier isn’t an option, what hacks can help you minimise exposure and does staying in an air-conditioned place really help? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with urban air quality expert Professor Rajasekhar Balasubramanian, of the National University of Singapore, on the Internet’s burning questions such as: why can’t haze forecasting be more reliable? Which air quality indicators should I pay attention to? Will just any air purifier do? What happens to my body if I’m out jogging in the haze? And which is more toxic – haze or cigarettes?More from Deep Dive on the haze - What Singapore is doing differently to pursue companies behind this year’s fires: https://cna.asia/3WC8Olx See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do civil servants need tighter safeguards against misuse of confidential information?

Oct 14, 2026 26 min

Eight public officers have been referred to the police following a Public Service Division review of 191 officers’ property transactions near then-unannounced MRT stations. While this does not mean that wrongdoing has been established, the case raises questions about the use of confidential government information and public trust. Where is the line between legitimate personal decisions and the misuse of privileged information? Are Singapore's existing public service safeguards enough to prevent and detect potential abuse? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with lawyer and former deputy public prosecutor Marshall Lim and Dr Celia Lee, Senior Research Fellow at the Nanyang Centre for Public Administration, about the legal and ethical issues, the higher standards expected of civil servants and whether tighter safeguards could unfairly limit their personal choices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is dental care so expensive in Singapore?

Oct 7, 2026 41 min

Is the cost of dental care stopping Singaporeans from going for preventive checks or getting timely treatment? With almost 80 per cent of dental care provided by the private sector, those who cannot afford private fees may face longer waits for subsidised care. Tiffany Ang and Steven Chia speak with Dr Yeo Kok Beng, CEO of Royce Dental Group, and Associate Professor Jeremy Lim from the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine about what drives dental fees, why dental care has not received the same level of public support as medical care and whether the local dental industry's current public-private mix is leaving some people behind. Related: I'm Turning 55 With 24 Teeth Left: What Would Losing More Cost Me? | Talking PointReference: MOH Guide to Dental Treatment Costs and fee benchmarks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renovation red flags: What to know from start to finish

Sep 30, 2026 31 min

Ghosted by your interior designer, left with unfinished renovation work or stuck waiting for your furniture to be delivered? For some homeowners, creating their dream home can quickly turn into a costly nightmare. So, what can homeowners do to protect themselves from renovation woes? What red flags should they look out for before signing a contract, and what can they do when things go wrong? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with interior designer Shaun Fong and litigator Pang Khin Wee from IRB Law to unpack the risks, red flags and safeguards that every homeowner should know before embarking on a home renovation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North-South Corridor delay: Was it avoidable – and can businesses survive the impact?

Sep 22, 2026 24 min

Another delay to the construction of the North-South Corridor means two more years of dust, noise and disruption for affected residents, businesses and pedestrians. For an engineering project of this scale and complexity, are delays simply part of the process or could more have been done to prevent them? And as businesses grapple with declining footfall and mounting losses, what can be done to help them ride out the prolonged disruption? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia speaks with Dr David Ng from The Institution of Engineers, Singapore - who has worked on major infrastructure projects from the Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway (KPE) to MRT lines - and business owner Alvin Lin about the challenges surrounding the Corridor project, from the engineering difficulties to the business fallouts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do racist comments online really reflect what Singaporeans think?

Sep 16, 2026 33 min

Recent controversies over the Nepal-Tibet floods and the debate over Singapore Airlines’ investment into Air India have once again put Singaporeans’ attitudes towards race and immigration in the spotlight. Does this reflect growing racist views in society, or is social media amplifying the racism of a minority? Are we also up against something more sinister, like AI bots creating divisions? Can we have meaningful discussions about hot-button immigration or social issues without resorting to racism and stereotypes? And will the new racial harmony law – which took effect on Sep 15 – put the brakes on racist commentators online, or will it drive them underground? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Dr Mathew Mathews from the Institute of Policy Studies and associate professor Natalie Pang from the National University of Singapore about what’s driving these conversations, where the lines should be drawn and how we can do better. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buying food from livestreamers: Can you trust what sellers claim?

Sep 9, 2026 28 min

A convincing livestreamer, thousands of reviews or professional-looking packaging may make an online food purchase feel safe to buy. But none of these can tell you whether the food itself is safe. With more of our shopping moving online, have we become better - or worse - at assessing the risks? Tiffany Ang and Steven Chia speak with Dr Vinayak Ghate from the department of food science and technology at NUS and Dexter Tay, executive director at the Consumers Association of Singapore, about what consumers can and cannot tell from food labels, seller claims and customer reviews. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roxy Square incident: Have the rules changed on patting a child's head?

Sep 2, 2026 24 min

A pat on a child's head by an elderly man at Roxy Square, which led to a shoving incident, has ignited debate about how a gesture can be seen as friendly affection by one person but viewed as an unwanted touch by another. As social norms shift, how should adults respond when they feel that children's boundaries are crossed? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Tey Beng Huan, psychologist at Temasek Polytechnic Centre for Applied Behavioural Sciences, and Kelly Tay, CEO of Juicy Parenting (@juicy.parenting), parent educator and author. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will more childcare leave and cash move Singaporeans to have more kids?

Aug 25, 2026 35 min

This year’s National Day Rally brought welcome news for parents. From additional childcare leave and lower childcare centre costs to increased financial support under the new Singapore Child Support Package, the measures signal a push by the Government to provide families with more sustained support. But will these measures be enough to persuade parents who are already juggling full-time jobs and family life to have another child? How can those with no children not feel left behind? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau and working parents Rachael Cheong and Yuvaraj Uthaman about their lived realities and whether the new initiatives can truly move the needle when it comes to family planning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will AI replace musicians, artists and filmmakers?

Aug 19, 2026 29 min

Two AI-generated local films released over the National Day weekend sparked an uproar, with viewers calling them "AI slop". But in the age of generative AI when music, films and images can be created in minutes, what happens to the creatives who have spent years perfecting their technical skills? Is AI democratising creativity or devaluing the creative craft? Are we hurtling towards a future where the audience expects infinite content made with little creative input from humans? In this week’s episode of Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with two people who are on the opposite ends of this creative process for a debate – Playbox Studios founder Basil Yeo who doesn’t use AI in his media agency's works and Matthew Lee, co-creator of Recess Remix, a TikTok account that used AI to remix school songs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should we be rewarded for doing what's good for us?

Aug 13, 2026 24 min

From getting Healthpoints for donating blood to being paid for reading, Singaporeans are increasingly being incentivised to do what's beneficial for themselves and society. But when the rewards stop, will the good behaviour stop too? And could all these incentives make us a more transactional society? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Dr Serene Koh from the Behavioural Insights Team and assistant professor Lawrence Jin from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy on the intentions of putting incentives at work, when they backfire, and whether rewards produce long-term benefits. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why teenagers become self-radicalised - and the warning signs to look out for

Aug 5, 2026 37 min

The recent arrests of three self-radicalised teenagers under the Internal Security Act (ISA) have sent shockwaves through Singapore, with attacks in schools planned in two cases. What makes young people vulnerable to extremist ideologies? And what more can parents, schools and friends do as the online world increasingly shapes their exposure and belief? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Professor Kumar Ramakrishna, dean of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, and Dr Mohamed Feisal Hassan, secretary and counsellor at the Religious Rehabilitation Group, to unpack the evolving threat of radicalisation, the warning signs to watch for, and what you should do if you suspect someone may be at risk. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are Community Care Apartments struggling to attract older Singaporeans?

Jul 29, 2026 26 min

The government has lowered the minimum age to apply for Community Care Apartments from 65 to 55 and cut the cost of the basic service package to encourage more take-up. But will these changes meet the needs of a fast ageing society that still want their freedom and independence? In this week’s Deep Dive, Tiffany Ang and Steven Chia sit down with associate professor Kelvin Tan from the Singapore University of Social Sciences and Nicholas Mak, chief research officer from MOGUL.sg, to explore who these apartments are really designed for and whether they can sufficiently fill the gap to house an ageing nation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Faishal Ibrahim’s resignation: How far should politicians be judged on their private conduct?

Jul 21, 2026 31 min

The resignation of former Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Associate Professor Faishal Ibrahim, after Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said his interactions with a woman fell short of standards expected of a political office holder, shocked many Singaporeans. What do these standards look like in Singapore's political system? How do they shape expectations and what impact could this have on attracting the next generation of political leaders? Tiffany Ang speaks with Dr Norshahril Saat, principal fellow at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute and Nicholas Fang, managing director of strategic consultancy Black Dot and former nominated member of parliament, on what the resignation reveals about political accountability and public trust. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Singapore’s dialects survive or are they becoming history?

Jul 15, 2026 24 min

The release of Chinese film Dear You has reignited the debate over dialects in Singapore after the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) approved limited screenings of its Teochew original version. Has the time come to rethink Singapore's approach to dialects, or are they destined to fade away in the next generation? In this week's Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with assistant professor Luke Lu from Nanyang Technological University and Hokkien content creator Ong Yi Ting (@yitinggoyt) to explore whether dialects are worth preserving or are they fast becoming relics of Singapore's past. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond regular checks, should nursing home inspection results be made public?

Jul 8, 2026 31 min

As Singapore becomes a super-aged society, more families are facing the difficult decisions about long-term care. But after two nursing homes had their licences revoked over serious lapses in resident safety and care, how can families know which homes to trust? Beyond regular spot checks and audits, should inspection results be publicised for greater transparency? Tiffany Ang and Steven Chia unpack this issue with Dr Raymond Chua, Deputy Director-General of Health (Health Regulation) at the Ministry of Health, and gerontology expert Professor Andy Ho from NTU. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chan Chun Sing on keeping Singapore safe in an unstable world: 'We are not at war but neither are we at peace'

Jun 30, 2026 44 min

Singapore's security is not just built on military spending and might. With the security landscape evolving and the nature of warfare changing, what does it take to strengthen the country's defence? How can the state deter potential threats without unnecessarily raising tensions? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing in a wide-ranging interview on the role of defence diplomacy behind closed doors, the global arms race in military spending and how the Singapore Army is evolving to prepare soldiers for future conflicts.Are you an avid listener of the Deep Dive podcast? Share your thoughts on what you enjoy, how we can improve, what you would like to see in future episodes and stand to win a S$50 Grab voucher: https:channelnewsasia.com/cna-podcasts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What Pritam Singh’s re-election means for the Workers’ Party

Jun 30, 2026 30 min

Pritam Singh has been re-elected as leader of the Workers' Party after surviving a resignation call at a special cadres conference and party elections on Sunday. While the results appear to draw a line under years of intense public scrutiny, does it also come with higher expectations of his leadership going forward? And what challenges and opportunities lie ahead for the Workers' Party as it celebrates its 70th year in 2027? In this week’s Deep Dive, Tiffany Ang sits down with Associate Professor Eugene Tan from the Singapore Management University and independent political observer Dr Felix Tan to unpack what the latest developments mean for Mr Singh, the party and the future of opposition politics in Singapore. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the stay-at-home dad becoming Singapore's new normal?

Jun 24, 2026 29 min

More Singaporean fathers are leaving the workforce to become stay-at-home dads and take on more caregiving responsibilities. Amid concerns about lower household income, slower career progression and higher cost of living, is this a realistic choice for most families? How should couples decide who stays home and who goes to work? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Eugene Lim and Ryan Kong, two stay-at-home dads on the challenges and rewards of their decisions and what advice they would give to other dads who are thinking of making the switch. Are you an avid listener of the Deep Dive podcast? Share your thoughts on what you enjoy, how we can improve, what you would like to see in future episodes and stand to win a S$50 Grab voucher: channelnewsasia.com/cna-podcasts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When street art meets public complaints: Who decides what's allowed?

Jun 17, 2026 30 min

A complaint led to the removal of power washing artist Marcus Pang’s street artwork on a pavement outside Mountbatten MRT station, sparking a debate on who gets to decide how shared spaces should be used in Singapore. Why do Singaporeans prefer to turn to authorities to resolve disagreements instead of talking to one another first? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Pang, the street artist and assistant professor George Wong from the Singapore Management University on Singaporeans’ attitudes towards public spaces, social norms and navigating social differences. Are you an avid listener of the Deep Dive podcast? Share your thoughts on what you enjoy, how we can improve, what you would like to see in future episodes and stand to win a S$50 Grab voucher: channelnewsasia.com/cna-podcasts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are educators, fresh graduates and employers aligned on AI?

Jun 10, 2026 25 min

From 2027, all tertiary and ITE students will be taught AI skills relevant to their courses. But AI is already transforming classrooms and workplaces today, even as educators and employers scramble to keep pace. How can today's graduates stand out and prove they're AI-ready? Steven Chia speaks with Nanyang Technological University lecturer Ian Tan and university student Susan Khoo to discuss the gaps, expectations and opportunities in the AI era. Are you an avid listener of the Deep Dive podcast? Share your thoughts on what you enjoy, how we can improve, what you would like to see in future episodes and stand to win a S$50 Grab voucher: channelnewsasia.com/cna-podcasts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singlish is thriving, but it's also changing. What does that mean for Singaporean identity?

Jun 3, 2026 22 min

A recent survey by the Institute of Policy Studies found a growing acceptance of Singlish among Singaporeans, with many viewing it as an important part of national identity that is worth preserving. But like any living language, Singlish is constantly evolving, shaped by new generations and changing ways of speaking. Does this signal a shift in what it means to be Singaporean? Steven Chia speaks with associate professor Tan Ying Ying from Nanyang Technological University and Dr Melvin Tay from the Institute of Policy Studies about how Singlish has changed over the years, and why change may not be something to fear. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flash sales and countdown timers keep you buying - can we outsmart these tactics?

May 27, 2026 25 min

Three online retailers were recently flagged for using misleading marketing tactics known as “dark patterns” such as fake countdown timers or low-stock alerts designed to create a sense of urgency among shoppers. But when these nudges cross the line to become unethical or even fraudulent, how do we maintain a safe shopping environment? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Professor Sharon Ng from the Nanyang Business School and Liew Sai Ming from Behavioural Insights Team to discuss the psychology behind shopping habits and the challenges in outmaneuvering these rapidly evolving marketing tactics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why some Singaporeans are saying no to having children

May 20, 2026 28 min

Singapore's falling fertility rate is now framed as a national problem to solve. But for a growing number of couples, having children simply isn’t part of their plans. How have our attitudes towards parenthood changed and what does the rise of the "dual income, no kids" or DINK lifestyle say about the country's future? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Alisa Chopard, a 39-year-old who has chosen not to have children, and 31-year-old Alicia Lim, who hopes to start a family soon, to unpack the pressures surrounding couples in Singapore today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore's 'red line' on Strait of Hormuz is about survival and sovereignty: Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim

May 13, 2026 27 min

As the conflict in the Middle East drags on, Singapore along with the rest of the world, is feeling the strain: rising oil prices, disrupted supply chains and deepening uncertainty. Singapore has long prided itself on being principled, following the rules of the global order. But in a changing new world, how long can a small nation hold that line? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim on why this issue poses an existential challenge for a maritime nation like Singapore and what’s being done to keep our waters open and running smoothly. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI companions and chatbots: Friend or foe?

May 6, 2026 29 min

Relationships are being redefined with AI chatbots on the rise. These digital companions are always available, always agreeable - but at what cost? And with the younger generation growing up as AI natives, how will this affect their ability to communicate and form relationships with another human? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Associate Professor Swapna Verma from the Institute of Mental Health and Associate Professor Jennifer Ang from the Singapore University of Social Sciences to unpack the pros and cons of forming close connections with our AI companions. WHERE TO SEEK HELP If you or someone you know is struggling and needs support, please consider reaching out to one of the helplines below. Youthline: +65 6436 6612 (call), 8533 9460 (text) and over email at hello [at] youthline.sg (hello[at]youthline[dot]sg). Youthline provides free mental health support to youth via phone, email or a live chat service. It runs from 9am to midnight daily. Calls outside of operating hours are redirected to Samaritans of Singapore or the Singapore Civil Defence Force for emergency medical services. Samaritans of Singapore: 1767 (call), 9151 1767 (WhatsApp text) and over email at pat [at] sos.org.sg (pat[at]sos[dot]org[dot]sg). Samaritans of Singapore provides round-the-clock confidential emotional support for individuals in crisis, thinking about or affected by suicide. The call and text-based services are operational 24 hours a day, every day of the week. National Mindline: 1771 (call), 6669 1771 (WhatsApp) and through online webchat on the http://mindline.sg/fsmh website. This is a round-the-clock confidential national-level helpline. Beyond immediate counselling, those who require more support can be directed to the appropriate care and resources. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are younger workers leaving stable careers just a few years in?

Apr 29, 2026 31 min

Employees in Singapore are prioritising work-life balance over pay and benefits, and younger workers are switching careers fast. With attitudes toward work shifting, how can companies and workers close the expectation gap? In a post-COVID world shaped by AI, the challenge is clear: how do we maximise talent, find meaningful jobs while staying competitive? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with recruiter Lee Shulin from Aslant Legal and Edwin Tan from the Institute for Adult Learning to explore why expecting a 1990s-era commitment from workers is no longer possible. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The good and the bad of online reviews - and how to read them

Apr 22, 2026 26 min

A restaurant recently faced a barrage of negative reviews which affected its Google rating. It sparked a conversation on how we leave and read online reviews. Are we too quick to criticise from behind our screens? And as consumers, are we able to tell the difference between thoughtful feedback and unfair criticisms? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Dr Elmie Nekmat from the National University of Singapore and online food reviewer Leong Yong Xin aka @foodbaby.sg, to unpack what it means to give and recognise an authentic review in a noisy digital space. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

War on Iran: The hidden costs for Singapore - and best/worst case scenarios

Apr 14, 2026 25 min

Countries are feeling the ripple effects of the Middle East conflict, some bearing the brunt more than others. Are rising food and fuel prices only the tip of the iceberg? What is the hidden fallout we should be watching out for? Is there a silver lining for Singapore in this crisis? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Dr Reuben Ng from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and Denise Cheok from Moody’s Analytics to find out what will happen if the conflict drags on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Impact of some businesses moving out of Singapore - and what it means for jobs

Apr 8, 2026 25 min

Homegrown companies like Yeo's and Tiger Beer maker Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore are shifting their operations to neighbouring countries and some jobs will be cut as part of the move. What does this signal about Singapore’s competitiveness in the region and what other jobs do we want to create? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Karen Teo, country manager for recruitment firm Quess Singapore and Professor Sumit Agarwal from National University of Singapore to examine which jobs will be hit the hardest when companies move overseas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beverage container return scheme: Will 10 cents change how we recycle?

Mar 31, 2026 27 min

With Singapore's beverage container return scheme (BCRS) now underway, the next few months will test how well consumers, retailers and producers adapt to the new refundable deposit system. Will a 10-cent refund be enough to change recycling habits, or will convenience and confusion get in the way? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang speak with Stephanie Yip, chief executive officer of scheme operator BCRS Ltd, and Lionel Dorai, executive director of ZeroWaste SG, to unpack the mechanics of the scheme and how it could foster a broader culture of waste awareness. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore's restaurant closures: Why is it closing time for some in the F&B scene?

Mar 25, 2026 26 min

Running a business in Singapore is no easy feat, especially in the fiercely competitive F&B scene. For every outlet that closes, another quickly steps in. But does this constant churn signal a thriving industry or does it point to a growing challenge for local entrepreneurs competing against well-funded foreign players? In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia speaks with co-founder of The Black Hole Group Mustaffa Kamal and restaurant industry watcher Debbie Yong to unpack what it really takes for F&B establishments to stay relevant and profitable in one of the toughest dining landscapes around. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Raise kids who can use AI, not rely on it: Janil Puthucheary

Mar 18, 2026 29 min

AI is already transforming the classroom by reshaping the way students learn and teachers teach. But as AI becomes more powerful, how do we protect space for original thought and creative thinking? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Senior Minister of State for Education Janil Puthucheary to unpack AI's role in the classroom, and how the recent merger of SkillsFuture and Workforce Singapore will better align training with future job needs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore's fuel stockpile for electricity 'enough to last for months' in a crisis: Tan See Leng

Mar 12, 2026 27 min

The war in Iran has sent shockwaves through global energy markets, leaving nations scrambling to secure their oil and gas reserves. For Singapore - which generates 95% of its electricity using imported natural gas - the timing couldn't be more critical. In the race to become an AI hub, our power demands are skyrocketing. How do we keep the lights on and feed our AI ambitions without derailing our 2050 net-zero emission goals? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology, Dr Tan See Leng, to find out if Singapore has what it takes to power through. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crow shooting and wildlife control: How can we co-exist better?

Mar 5, 2026 27 min

Crow shooting is set to resume after an increasing number of reported crow attacks, highlighting the ongoing tension between humans and wildlife. If Singapore wants to be a City in Nature, what needs to change so that people and animals can co-exist peacefully? Tiffany Ang and Steven Chia unpack the issue with Soh Ze Bin from the National Parks Board and Kalai Vanan Balakrishnan from ACRES in this week’s Deep Dive podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

War on Iran: Trump's goals and what's at stake

Mar 3, 2026 26 min

The joint attack against Iran by the United States and Israel has sent shockwaves across the Middle East and the rest of the world. Why did they decide on military action and how is Iran going to respond? How could the war impact the global economy? Tiffany Ang speaks with Dr Jean-Loup Samaan from the Middle East Institute at the National University of Singapore and Eddy Loh from Maybank on what US President Donald Trump hopes to achieve and the ripple effect on fuel and shipping prices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supermarket plastic bag charge: Why public trust matters in Singapore's sustainability push

Feb 25, 2026 24 min

Where does your five-cent plastic bag charge actually go? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang unpack Singapore's supermarket carrier bag fee after reports that some retailers used the proceeds for business operations. Cheang Kok Chung from the Singapore Environment Council and Professor Lawrence Loh from NUS Business School join this week’s Deep Dive podcast to talk about what "green" spending should look like and how transparency shapes public trust in Singapore's green efforts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2026: ‘We are all at the starting line’ – Minister Jeffrey Siow on Singapore’s AI journey

Feb 18, 2026 29 min

This year’s Budget placed a strong emphasis on jobs and AI, with the government identifying key sectors to propel the economy forward. But can workers keep pace with the shifting dynamics? In this week’s Deep Dive, Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey Siow sits down with Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang to discuss preparing Singaporeans for AI and what lies ahead. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2026: The big push for AI and jobs in a changing world

Feb 13, 2026 27 min

Jobs and AI took centre stage in this year’s Budget, with the government committing significant resources to ensure no Singaporean is left behind. What are the concrete steps to propel Singapore forward and can they help build a truly “we first” society? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Associate Professor Walter Theseira from the Singapore University of Social Sciences and Dr Reuben Ng from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy to unpack the plans and implications of Budget 2026. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2026 wish-list: Job opportunities for fresh graduates and AI for everyone

Feb 4, 2026 25 min

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong will deliver his speech for Budget 2026 on Feb 12, addressing key concerns from cost of living to remaining competitive in a tough labour market. In this week's Deep Dive episode, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with final-year undergraduate Shaza Daliela Rahmat and business owner Beatrice Liu to discuss their hopes for this year’s Budget. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Living next door to conflict: Finding a way out of neighbour disputes

Jan 28, 2026 27 min

Living in a high-density society like Singapore makes friction with neighbours almost unavoidable. But with more than 90,000 noise complaints reported in the past three years, it raises the question: Are we becoming bad neighbours or are we less tolerant now? What can we do when misunderstandings and inconveniences turn into disputes that require mediation or legal action? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with mediator and senior lecturer at the Singapore University of Social Sciences Melvin Loh and research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies Nicholas Thomas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will the Workers’ Party take up PM Wong's offer to name new Leader of the Opposition?

Jan 21, 2026 31 min

Following Workers' Party chief Pritam Singh’s removal as the Leader of the Opposition, the nation now waits to see whether a new nominee will step into the role. In this week’s Deep Dive, Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang sit down with Associate Professor Eugene Tan from the Singapore Management University and independent political observer Dr Felix Tan to unpack whether the role of Leader of Opposition is necessary in Singapore and what lies ahead for the Workers’ Party. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why aren't more Singaporeans using their SkillsFuture credit?

Jan 14, 2026 25 min

Lack of time, too many courses to choose from and a difficult to navigate website – these are some of the reasons why Singaporeans are not using up their SkillsFuture credits to upskill. But with lifelong learning now a national push to keep workers relevant and employable, is there a “right” or “wrong” way to use our SkillsFuture credits? Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang unpack this with Associate Professor Victor Seah from Singapore University of Social Sciences and career development specialist Dr Yvonne Kong-Ho. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US seizure of Venezuela's president: What it means for smaller countries like Singapore

Jan 7, 2026 22 min

US military strikes on Venezuela and the dramatic seizure of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife have sparked international outrage and discussions about a new global order. Where does this leave countries like Singapore? In this Deep Dive episode, Tiffany Ang speaks with Professor Joseph Liow of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and Kevin Chen from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies to examine the broader geopolitical stakes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best of: Students using AI - cheating or smarter learning?

Dec 31, 2025 29 min

The Nanyang Technological University (NTU) accused three students of academic fraud this year, saying that they used generative AI tools in their assignments. What are the limitations around AI use, when does it cross the line and is it time to rethink the way assignments are designed and assessed? Steven Chia and Otelli Edwards speak with Associate Professor Ben Leong, director of the AI Centre for Educational Technologies at NUS, and Jeremy Soo, co-founder of Nex AI. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best of: Silent expectations and fatal outcomes - the suicide risk men face

Dec 24, 2025 21 min

Singapore reported 314 suicides in 2024, with the sharpest increase among adults aged 30 to 39. Nearly two-thirds were men. What pressures do these groups face? And what are the warning signs? Otelli Edwards and Steven Chia speak with Dr Jared Ng, a psychiatrist and the former chief of emergency and crisis care at the Institute of Mental Health, and Eugene Chong, counselling psychologist at Seeding Minds. WHERE TO SEEK HELP If you or someone you know is struggling and needs support, please consider reaching out to one of the helplines below. Youthline: +65 6436 6612 (call), 8533 9460 (text) and over email at hello [at] youthline.sg (hello[at]youthline[dot]sg). Youthline provides free mental health support to youth via phone, email or a live chat service. It runs from 9am to midnight daily. Calls outside of operating hours are redirected to Samaritans of Singapore or the Singapore Civil Defence Force for emergency medical services. Samaritans of Singapore: 1767 (call), 9151 1767 (WhatsApp text) and over email at pat [at] sos.org.sg (pat[at]sos[dot]org[dot]sg). Samaritans of Singapore provides round-the-clock confidential emotional support for individuals in crisis, thinking about or affected by suicide. The call and text-based services are operational 24 hours a day, every day of the week. National Mindline: 1771 (call), 6669 1771 (WhatsApp) and through online webchat on the http://mindline.sg/fsmh website. This is a round-the-clock confidential national-level helpline. Beyond immediate counselling, those who require more support can be directed to the appropriate care and resources. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Podcast details

Created by: CNA
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 11, 2026
Episodes: 200
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 25 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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