IPS Podcast — Singapore Unpacked

About IPS Podcast — Singapore Unpacked

IPS Podcast — Singapore Unpacked will deep dive into IPS’s latest research projects and policy updates in Singapore, bridging the gap between data and daily life. In each episode, IPS Associate Director Liang Kaixin will sit down with a researcher and a guest to unpack what these findings mean for Singapore and beyond.

Publisher

IPS Podcast

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

25 Mar 2025

Latest episode

16 Jan 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Jan 2026

   Singapore's National Identity: Ancient Civilisations and Modern Trends | Singapore Unpacked Episode 10

   What does it mean be Singaporean? In a recent study conducted by IPS and CNA, many identified Singlish, multiculturalism and iconic national symbols such as the Merlion and local hawker fare to be what they associate closely with Singapore’s national identity. It prompts the question, how did we arrive at this national identity, and how will it evolve as the world around us changes? In the tenth episode of Singapore Unpacked, Host Liang Kaixin sits with Professor Wang Gungwu, University Professor at NUS and IPS’ 12th S R Nathan Fellow, and Melvin Tay, Research Fellow at IPS Social Lab, to examine a question that is both ancient and contemporary: how have great civilisations — Indic, Sinic, and Islamic — shaped Singapore’s identity today, and how do these civilisational influences sit alongside the modern Singapore state? Prof Wang took a long view of the history of Singapore. He situates Singapore within a Southeast Asian region historically defined by waterways, trade, exchange and long-running cultural influences, arguing that civilisations are not bounded by borders but travel through ideas, meanings and ways of life. He also traces how Singapore emerged with a distinctive British imperial culture, as a modern, secular and capitalist state. The British also brought the free port model and the administrative ordering of a port city to Singapore. Speaking on Singapore’s post-independence choices, Prof Wang emphasises that Singapore decided to be a uniquely plural society: a society that does not expect a single civilisation or culture to dominate, and that relies on the law to uphold equality across groups. He also highlights how major political decisions — including maintaining armed forces and adopting English as an official language — shaped the framework within which a national culture and identity could evolve. To bring in perspectives from the contemporary, Melvin shares on the findings from the IPS-CNA Study on National Identity in Singapore, including survey responses showing that over 95% of respondents say Singapore has an identity, even if there is diversity in what people think that identity comprises. He discusses how “good food” and “speaking Singlish” frequently appear in open-ended responses, alongside tangible markers like the Merlion and the Singapore passport, while practices such as multiculturalism, being multi-racial and multi-religious, and meritocracy are closely linked to respondents’ sense of pride and belonging. In closing, the guests concludes Singapore’s national identity to be a continuing work in progress. Questions on topics like immigration — including how Singaporeans view new migrants, and whether newcomers adopt Singapore’s norms, practices and values — will shape how the national identity evolves, intersecting with the modernisation of the civilisational influences that have historically shaped the nation. About our Guests: Wang Gungwu University Professor, NUS 12th S R Nathan Fellow Professor Wang Gungwu is best-known for his explorations of Chinese history in the long view, and for his writings on the Chinese diaspora.  He has been University Professor of the National University of Singapore (NUS) since 2007, and Emeritus Professor at the Australian National University since 1988. Professor Wang received his BA and MA from University of Malaya (UM) in Singapore, and PhD at the University of London (1957). His early teaching career was in the UM History Department at Singapore, and then at Kuala Lumpur,1957-1968, and History Chair at UM in Kuala Lumpur,1963-1968. He was appointed to the Chair of Far Eastern History at the Australian National University, 1968-1986, where he was also Director of the Research of Pacific Studies, 1975-1980. From 1986 to 1995, he was Vice-Chancellor of The University of Hong Kong. In Singapore, he was Director of the East...

2. 

   10 Dec 2025

   Workplace Fairness: Tackling unconscious bias | Singapore Unpacked Episode 9

   Host Liang Kaixin interviews IPS researcher Sophy Tio and Lepak Conversations founder Yulianna Frederika about unconscious biases in Singaporean workplaces, exploring how these biases affect hiring, promotions, and team culture, ultimately impacting diversity and inclusion.

3. 

   26 Sept 2025

   Public Housing: a Home, an Investment, or a Retirement Plan? | Singapore Unpacked Episode 8

   Host Liang Kaixin interviews Christopher Gee, Deputy Director at IPS, and Ismail Gafoor, Executive Chairman at PropNex Realty, about the multifaceted roles of public housing in Singapore, including its affordability, investment value, and impact on retirement security.

4. 

   30 Jul 2025

   Deepfake Nudes — The Impact on Singapore’s Youth | Singapore Unpacked Episode 7

   Host Liang Kaixin interviews Dr Annabelle Chow and Dr Chew Han Ei about the impact of deepfake nudes on Singapore's youth, highlighting the psychological trauma and need for education and support in this digital age.

5. 

   10 Jul 2025

   Will AI replace my work? | Singapore Unpacked Episode 6

   Host Liang Kaixin interviews Dr. Laurel Teo and Jonathan Sim about AI's impact on the Singaporean workforce, exploring automation, necessary skills, and educational adaptations for future success.

6. 

   2 Jun 2025

   Flexible Work Arrangements — How It Shapes Women’s Lives and Workplaces in Singapore | Singapore Unpacked Episode 5

   Host Liang Kaixin interviews Dr Tan Poh Lin and Mr Ang Yuit about how Singapore's flexible work arrangement policies impact work-life balance, especially for women, and how SMEs are adapting to these changes.

7. 

   16 May 2025

   The CMIO model — is it still relevant? | Singapore Unpacked Episode 4

   Every now and then, discussions on the CMIO model — Chinese, Malay, Indian and Others — resurface in Singapore, debating its usefulness and relevance. In the latest 2024 Institute of Policy Studies survey on Race, Religion and Language which polled 4,000 Singaporean residents, when asked whether to keep, remove or change the CMIO framework, as many as one in five respondents (22 per cent) chose the “not sure” option, while the majority wanted the framework to stay. What does this mean for Singaporeans, and how does it impact those who fall under the “Other” category? In this episode of Singapore Unpacked, host Liang Kaixin sits down with Dr Mathew Mathews, Principal Research Fellow and Head of IPS Social Lab, and Elliott Danker, a media consultant, to explore what those numbers mean for how Singaporeans view race, identity and belonging. Dr Mathew explains that, while academics often critique the CMIO categories for privileging fixed group identities, most Singaporeans still see the model as an everyday administrative necessity, from housing quotas to self-help group membership. Elliott Danker, drawing on his own experience as an Eurasian — which falls into the “Others” category — describes how he and his family members differ in their views of this category. He reflects on Eurasian traditions, growing up with mixed heritage, and on how today’s intermarriages and “new Eurasians” challenge the neat categories of the past. The episode explores how a more inclusive racial model might better capture Singapore’s evolving multiracial reality, and as Singapore absorbs new citizens from all corners of the globe, how can we retain this administrative tool without constraining our sense of kinship and shared national identity? About our Guests Dr Mathew Mathews Principal Research Fellow Head of Social Lab Dr Mathew Mathews is Head of IPS Social Lab, a centre for social indicator research and a Principal Research Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, National University of Singapore. He also leads the IPS Programme on Race, Religion and Intergroup Cohesion. To date, Dr Mathew has been involved in over 70 research projects, most of them addressing social policy issues. These have included research using both quantitative and qualitative methods on societal faultlines and cohesion, family, ageing, poverty and platform work. Dr Mathew also studies the impact of social programmes on social issues and has been involved in a number of evaluations on the usefulness of various government initiatives. He has taught courses on social policy and has published in a range of academic and media outlets. Dr Mathew currently sits on the boards of OnePeople.sg and National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre. He is a Research Advisor to the Ministry of Social and Family Development and is on the Money Sense Council. Elliott Danker Media Consultant Elliott Danker is currently a media consultant focused on business and brand development through audio channels like podcasting as well as media training and interview negotiations. He specialises in geopolitical, policy, law and tech interviews. He is a former anchor presenter and founding member of Money FM 89.3 and has almost 20 years of experience in the media industry. Elliott is also an Executive Board member for the Singapore Hockey Federation as well as a Brand Ambassador for First Drop Profights, focused on developing the growth of boxing in markets like Taiwan, South Korea, Japan and the Philippines." Find Out More: For more on the CMIO model and Singapore’s multiracial policies, visit IPScommons.sg or follow @IPSsg on Instagram.

8. 

   29 Apr 2025

   Do Millennials and Gen Z Spend as Recklessly as We Think? | Singapore Unpacked Episode 3

   In this episode of Singapore Unpacked, host Liang Kaixin examines whether the widely held stereotypes about younger Singaporeans and their spending habits hold water. Drawing on insights from the IPS–CNA survey on financing behaviours among millennials and Gen Z in Singapore, the episode unpacks how these cohorts really manage their money — from the appeal of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) schemes to their approach towards savings and essential expenses. The conversation explores the how and what of broader anxieties surrounding cost of living are driving more cautious financial decisions than many would expect. Joining this deep dive are Dr Teo Kay Key, Research Fellow at the IPS Social Lab, and He Ruiming, co founder of The Woke Salaryman. Dr Teo shares her analysis of the survey findings and explains the patterns she observed in young adults’ use of credit, debt and savings instruments. Meanwhile, He Ruiming contributes practical perspectives on how BNPL and other modern lending products interact with young people’s aspirations and vulnerabilities. This episode challenges the notion that younger generations are reckless with their money, instead showing how they navigate a complex financial landscape with equal parts caution and innovation. About our Guests: Dr Teo Kay Key Research Fellow at IPS Dr Teo Kay Key is Research Fellow at IPS Social Lab at the Institute of Policy Studies. She has a PhD in Political Science from the National University of Singapore. Her research interests are in political and social attitudes, public opinion, voting behaviour, and Singapore society. She is interested in examining these topics using a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods. Her current projects examine a myriad of issues in Singapore, including attitudes towards the family, social norms and values, and national identity. Prior to joining IPS, she worked in the civil service for nearly 3 years doing strategic planning, training, and policy work. She also has a Masters in Political Behaviour from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom and a Bachelors in Social Science from the Singapore Management University. He Ruiming Co-founder and Main Writer, The Woke Salaryman Council Member, 18th National Youth Council He Ruiming is the Co-founder and Main Writer at The Woke Salaryman, a personal finance blog that helps Singaporeans make better financial and life choices through their educational webcomics. Ruiming is also a Council Member of the 18th National Youth Council, and was recognised in the Gen T 2021 List as a Leader of Tomorrow shaping Asia’s Future. Find Out More: Listeners who wish to explore further can visit IPScommons.sg or follow @IPSsg on Instagram for updates, resources and ongoing conversations about Singapore’s evolving financial landscape.

9. 

   13 Apr 2025

   Fake Videos, Real Problems: Can AI and Deepfakes Influence Elections in Singapore? | Singapore Unpacked Episode 2

   In this timely episode of Singapore Unpacked, host Liang Kaixin explores the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence (AI) on the integrity of Singapore’s electoral process. As advanced AI tools generate increasingly realistic deepfakes and AI-driven disinformation, concerns grow not only in global contexts — as seen in recent US elections — but also here at home. With the introduction of Singapore’s Elections (Integrity of Online Advertising) (Amendment) Bill, which bans deepfakes targeting election candidates, this episode asks whether regulatory measures alone will be enough to safeguard the democratic process and prevent digital manipulation from undermining public trust. The episode is joined by Carol Soon, Associate Professor at the Department of Communications and New Media in the National University of Singapore, and Joel Lim, media entrepreneur and content creator at Zyrup Media. The discussion delves into the myriad ways AI influences politics — from generating misleading content that blurs the line between fact and fabrication, to the challenges posed by rapidly circulating misinformation on social platforms. Their conversation touches on recent examples such as the deepfake audio and video incidents from the US elections, highlighting how even low-cost AI tools can produce content that, unless carefully scrutinised, might sway voter opinions. About our Guests: Dr Carol Soon Associate Professor at the Department of Communications and New Media National University of Singapore (NUS) Dr Carol Soon is Associate Professor (Practice) at the Department of Communications and New Media in the National University of Singapore and Vice Chair of the Media Literacy Council. She is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Information Integrity and Adjunct Principal Scientist at the Centre for Advanced Technologies in Online Safety (CATOS). Her research interests are in media regulation and digital policy, social media governance, digital literacy and policy communication. Joel Lim Media entrepreneur and content creator at Zyrup Media Experienced in media strategy and business development, Joel Lim specialise in building successful IP portfolios in the media and entertainment industry, and bring expertise in podcasting, video production, media strategy, business development, and team leadership. As Managing Director (Business Development & Strategy) at ZYRUP Media, he leads growth initiatives and shape strategies across three key divisions: Zodapop (podcast network), ZYRUPMAG (digital magazine), and ZYRUP Studios (creative production). Joel Lim works with brands, influencers, and organisations to create impactful content and meaningful partnerships. He also hosts Political Prude: The Podcast, which reached #1 on the podcast chart on Spotify in Singapore. Find Out More: For those who wish to delve deeper into the conversation or share their perspectives on the evolving landscape of AI and elections, visit IPScommons.sg or follow IPS on Instagram @IPSsg (https://www.instagram.com/ipssg). Stay tuned for more conversations that transform research into real-world policy stories.

10. 

    28 Mar 2025

    Large families scheme — will it nudge families to have a third kid? | Singapore Unpacked Episode 1

    Singapore Unpacked | Episode 1 — Large families scheme – will it nudge families to have a third kid? The first episode of IPS Podcast — Singapore Unpacked delves into the new Large Families Scheme announced in the Budget 2025 statement, aimed at addressing the nation's declining birth rate. The initiative provides additional financial support to parents who welcome a third or subsequent child, raising critical questions about whether monetary incentives alone can overcome the entrenched two-child norm. The episode explores if additional measures — such as enhanced childcare leave, flexible work arrangements, and supportive workplace policies — could make a tangible difference for families navigating the complexities of modern parenthood. Together with host Liang Kaixin, Associate Director at the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), Dr Kalpana Vignehsa, senior research fellow at the same Institute, and Peggy Teo, a working professional with two young children, examine the specifics of the scheme, and discuss the practical challenges parents face, such as balancing career demands with the responsibilities of raising children, and consider broader policy implications on Singapore society. About our Guests: Dr Kalpana Vignehsa Senior Research Fellow at IPS Dr Kalpana Vignehsa is Senior Research Fellow in the Governance and Economy department at the Institute of Policy Studies. She works on topics related to immigration and social integration in families and workplaces. Kalpana also has interests in the lived experience of parenthood and behavioural interventions in healthcare and environmentalism. Peggy Teo Mother of Two Peggy is a working professional and mother of two with experience managing the dual demands of career and parenting. Find Out More: For further insights into family policies and the evolving dynamics of work-life balance in Singapore, visit IPScommons.sg or follow IPS on Instagram @IPSsg (https://www.instagram.com/ipssg). Stay tuned for more conversations that transform research into real-world policy stories.

11. 

    25 Mar 2025

    IPS Podcast Singapore Unpacked Trailer

    IPS Podcast — Singapore Unpacked will deep dive into IPS’s latest research projects and policy updates in Singapore, bridging the gap between data and daily life. In each episode, IPS Associate Director Liang Kaixin will sit down with a researcher and a guest to unpack what these findings mean for Singapore and beyond.

Who has been a guest on IPS Podcast — Singapore Unpacked

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Sophy Tio
• Yulianna Frederika
• Christopher Gee
• Ismail Gafoor
• Dr Annabelle Chow

Podcast Authority Score: 13 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

26

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0