Air travels replaces vans for delivery

Kelantan dishes go viral in Malaysia

Surge in demand and daily deliveries

Following the supply chain to KL

Yearning for culinary authenticity

Geographic limits and reach across borders

Here's how an overnight supply chain brings Kelantan’s beloved dishes to feed hungry diners in Kuala Lumpur.

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 of Asian Insider, host Li Xueying speaks with Malaysia correspondent Hazlin Hassan as she uncovers the high-speed logistics behind the massive daily food deliveries that bring authentic tastes straight from Kelantan to the capital city every morning.

Hazlin shares her discovery of what drives this booming culinary phenomenon, the distinct flavours that keep food lovers waiting before dawn and why a simple breakfast can spark a cross-country operation.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:36 Vans replaced by air travel to deliver dishes

4:30 Kelantan dishes go viral in Malaysia

8:30 Surge in demand and daily deliveries

9:54 Following the supply chain to KL

15:51 Yearning for culinary authenticity

17:08 Geographic reach and limits across the border

Read Hazlin Hassan’s articles here: https://str.sg/NbFG 

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

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

Sign up for ST’s weekly Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/sfpz 

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 

YouTube: https://str.sg/rF3qR 

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

---

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

Here's how an overnight supply chain brings Kelantan&rsquo;s beloved dishes to feed hungry diners in Kuala Lumpur.
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 of Asian Insider, host Li Xueying speaks with Malaysia correspondent Hazlin Hassan as she uncovers the high-speed logistics behind the massive daily food deliveries that bring authentic tastes straight from Kelantan to the capital city every morning.
Hazlin shares her discovery of what drives this booming culinary phenomenon, the distinct flavours that keep food lovers waiting before dawn and why a simple breakfast can spark a cross-country operation.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:36 Vans replaced by air travel to deliver dishes
4:30 Kelantan dishes go viral in Malaysia
8:30 Surge in demand and daily deliveries
9:54 Following the supply chain to KL
15:51 Yearning for culinary authenticity
17:08 Geographic reach and limits across the border
Read Hazlin Hassan&rsquo;s articles here: <a href="https://str.sg/NbFG">https://str.sg/NbFG</a>&nbsp;
Read Li Xueying&rsquo;s articles:<a href="https://str.sg/iqmR"> https://str.sg/iqmR</a>&nbsp;
Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn:<a href="https://str.sg/ip4x"> https://str.sg/ip4x</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
Sign up for ST&rsquo;s weekly Asian Insider newsletter:<a href="https://str.sg/sfpz"> https://str.sg/sfpz</a>&nbsp;
Host: Li Xueying (<a href="mailto:xueying@sph.com.sg">xueying@sph.com.sg</a>)
Edited by: Fa&rsquo;izah Sani
Executive producer: Ernest Luis
Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/JWa7"> https://str.sg/JWa7</a>&nbsp;
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/JWa8"> https://str.sg/JWa8</a>&nbsp;
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/JWaX"> https://str.sg/JWaX</a>&nbsp;
YouTube:<a href="https://str.sg/rF3qR"> https://str.sg/rF3qR</a>&nbsp;
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7"> https://str.sg/wvz7</a>
Get more updates:<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts"> http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB"> https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX"> https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
#STAsianInsider

Why KL can't get enough of Kelantan's breakfast

Do workers need to get creative to stay safe?

How to make a “contemporaneous record”

Should contracts spell out recording rules?

An unequal balance of power?

Keeping receipts a smart habit or is it risky?

What to do instead of recording

Can you come back after trust is broken?

Should you secretly record your workplace meetings, even if it’s legally allowed?

A recent case, where a PR firm director was fired after secretly recording an internal meeting, has brought into focus the issue of how employees can document such meetings without putting their jobs at risk.

Also, should employment contracts now spell out the rules on recording conversations?

The director brought a wrongful dismissal claim to the Employment Claims Tribunal (ECT) - and it was thrown out.

In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha asks Angel Kilian, the founder & CEO of Career inFocus, and corporate lawyer Jennifer Chih from Nair, Jen and Tan whether keeping receipts of all workplace conversations is the way to go. We also look at what a “contemporaneous record” is, and when you should write one.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:25 Do employees need creative ways to protect themselves?

5:59 How to make a “contemporaneous record”

11:36 Should contracts spell out recording rules?

15:28 Employer vs employee: an unequal balance of power?

17:44 Is keeping receipts a smart habit or a career risk?

21:41 Treated unfairly? What to do instead of recording

26:53 Can you come back after trust is broken?

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/8KNT

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

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG:   / theusualplacepodcast 

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

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh & Yang Jiesan Cruz

Executive producer: Danson Cheong

Producers: Natasha Ann Zachariah, Elizabeth Law & Zachary Lim

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

---

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

Should you secretly record your workplace meetings, even if it&rsquo;s legally allowed?
A recent case, where <a href="https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/director-of-pr-firm-sacked-for-secretly-recording-internal-meeting-loses-wrongful-dismissal-claim?ref=inline-article">a PR firm director was fired after secretly recording an internal meeting,</a> has brought into focus the issue of how employees can document such meetings without putting their jobs at risk.
Also, should employment contracts now spell out the rules on recording conversations?
The director brought a wrongful dismissal claim to the Employment Claims Tribunal (ECT) - and it was thrown out.
In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha asks Angel Kilian, the founder &amp; CEO of Career inFocus, and corporate lawyer Jennifer Chih from Nair, Jen and Tan whether keeping receipts of all workplace conversations is the way to go. We also look at what a &ldquo;contemporaneous record&rdquo; is, and when you should write one.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:25 Do employees need creative ways to protect themselves?
5:59 How to make a &ldquo;contemporaneous record&rdquo;
11:36 Should contracts spell out recording rules?
15:28 Employer vs employee: an unequal balance of power?
17:44 Is keeping receipts a smart habit or a career risk?
21:41 Treated unfairly? What to do instead of recording
26:53 Can you come back after trust is broken?
Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)
Read Natasha&rsquo;s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm
Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8KNT
Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN
Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: &nbsp; / theusualplacepodcast&nbsp;
Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN
Filmed by: Studio+65
Edited by: Eden Soh &amp; Yang Jiesan Cruz
Executive producer: Danson Cheong
Producers: Natasha Ann Zachariah, Elizabeth Law &amp; Zachary Lim
Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:
Channel: <a href="https://str.sg/5nfm?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/5nfm?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/5nfm</a>
Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://str.sg/9ijX?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/9ijX?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/9ijX</a>
Spotify: <a href="https://str.sg/cd2P?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/cd2P?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/cd2P</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
SPH Awedio app: <a href="https://www.awedio.sg/?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://www.awedio.sg/?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://www.awedio.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/wvz7?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: <a href="https://str.sg/icyB?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/icyB?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play: <a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
--
#tup #tuptr

Can you secretly record your boss? An employment lawyer on how this could end your career

Worst Republican midterm loss since 1974

Why voters turned out in record numbers

Why Trump might ditch MAGA

Are Republicans distancing from Trump?

Trump’s scapegoat: Pete Hegseth

Democratic front-runners for president

Democrats “can’t do much about” tariffs

Midterm impact on Iran war & US policy

Will Asia alter its approach to the US?

China’s response to US midterm results

The Republican Party’s crushing defeat could reshape American politics, but Asia should not expect US politics to return to what it was before President Donald Trump, says the Blackbox Research CEO David Black. 

In this conversation with The Straits Times' senior columnist Bhavan Jaipragas - recorded on Nov 4, hours after polls closed - Black explains why he sees Trump's defeat as an extraordinary act of political self-sabotage. 

With Democrats projected to take control of both chambers of Congress, what comes next for President Donald Trump? Will he moderate his approach, or become even more combative?

Black also discusses what this means for Asia, and how Beijing might read the election results.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

3:48 Republican midterm loss is the worst result since 1974 

7:21 Why voters turned up in large numbers 

9:32 Why Trump might ditch MAGA

11:47 Are Republicans distancing themselves from Trump? 

13:03 Trump’s scapegoat: Pete Hegseth 

14:40 Potential Democrat front-runners for the US presidency

20:22 Democrats “can’t do much about” tariffs 

23:47 Impact of midterm results on the Iran war and US foreign policy 

26:03 Would Asian diplomats and leaders change their approach towards the US? 

28:05 China’s response to the US midterm election results

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

Host: Bhavan Jaipragas (bhavan@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim and Yang Jiesan Cruz

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & 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

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

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 

---

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

---

#inyouropinion

The Republican Party&rsquo;s crushing defeat could reshape American politics, but Asia should not expect US politics to return to what it was before President Donald Trump, says the Blackbox Research CEO David Black.&nbsp;
In this conversation with The Straits Times' senior columnist Bhavan Jaipragas - recorded on Nov 4, hours after polls closed - Black explains why he sees Trump's defeat as an extraordinary act of political self-sabotage.&nbsp;
With Democrats projected to take control of both chambers of Congress, what comes next for President Donald Trump? Will he moderate his approach, or become even more combative?
Black also discusses what this means for Asia, and how Beijing might read the election results.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
3:48 Republican midterm loss is the worst result since 1974&nbsp;
7:21 Why voters turned up in large numbers&nbsp;
9:32 Why Trump might ditch MAGA
11:47 Are Republicans distancing themselves from Trump?&nbsp;
13:03 Trump&rsquo;s scapegoat: Pete Hegseth&nbsp;
14:40 Potential Democrat front-runners for the US presidency
20:22 Democrats &ldquo;can&rsquo;t do much about&rdquo; tariffs&nbsp;
23:47 Impact of midterm results on the Iran war and US foreign policy&nbsp;
26:03 Would Asian diplomats and leaders change their approach towards the US?&nbsp;
28:05 China&rsquo;s response to the US midterm election results
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sH?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Bhavan Jaipragas (bhavan@sph.com.sg)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, Hadyu Rahim and Yang Jiesan Cruz
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts?ref=inline-article">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX?ref=inline-article"> </a><a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
#inyouropinion

What Trump’s midterm rout means for Singapore, Asean and China | Blackbox Research CEO David Black

Changes in perception of religion over time

Shift away from institutionalised religion

Changing modality of engaging with faith

Our fast pace of life on religious affiliation

Youth seeking tangible benefits in faith

The global push toward secularisation

Singapore's religious diversity at risk?

Divination & spirituality in Singapore

Morals, healing & community beyond faith

Is religious non-affiliation a concern?

IPS research fellow Melvin Tay discusses the changing nature of religion in Singapore.

More Singapore residents report having no religious affiliation, rising from one in five in 2020 to one in four in 2025, according to the Department of Statistics’ latest General Household Survey 2025. 

But a separate report by US-based think tank Pew Research found that almost nine in 10 Singapore adults surveyed still believe in God or unseen beings, higher than other South-east Asian countries such as Cambodia and Thailand. 

Is this growth in non-affiliation a cause for concern for Singapore, one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world? And what does religion do for us today?

In this episode, host Zachary Lim speaks with Dr Melvin Tay, a research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, to examine the changing religious landscape in Singapore. They also discuss whether religious institutions are losing relevance, and the implications of alternative spiritual practices gaining traction among young people.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

1:40 Changes in perception of religion over time

5:59  Shift away from institutionalised religion

10:41 Changing modality of engaging with faith

16:05 Singapore’s fast pace of life on religious affiliation

18:37 Young residents on needing tangible benefits from religious experiences 

20:32 The global push towards secularisation 

26:28 Is Singapore’s religious diversity in jeopardy?

29:46 Emergence of alternative divination and spiritual avenues in Singapore

37:42 Morality, healing, and community beyond institutionalised religions

47:00 Is increasing non-affiliation to religion a cause for concern? 

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

Host: Zachary Lim (zachlim@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Editorial producer: Elizabeth Law

Executive producers: Danson Cheong, 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

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

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 

---

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

---

#inyouropinion

IPS research fellow Melvin Tay discusses the changing nature of religion in Singapore.
More Singapore residents report having no religious affiliation, rising from one in five in 2020 to one in four in 2025, according to the Department of Statistics&rsquo; latest General Household Survey 2025.&nbsp;
But a separate report by US-based think tank Pew Research found that almost nine in 10 Singapore adults surveyed still believe in God or unseen beings, higher than other South-east Asian countries such as Cambodia and Thailand.&nbsp;
Is this growth in non-affiliation a cause for concern for Singapore, one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world? And what does religion do for us today?
In this episode, host Zachary Lim speaks with Dr Melvin Tay, a research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, to examine the changing religious landscape in Singapore. They also discuss whether religious institutions are losing relevance, and the implications of alternative spiritual practices gaining traction among young people.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
1:40 Changes in perception of religion over time
5:59&nbsp; Shift away from institutionalised religion
10:41 Changing modality of engaging with faith
16:05 Singapore&rsquo;s fast pace of life on religious affiliation
18:37 Young residents on needing tangible benefits from religious experiences&nbsp;
20:32 The global push towards secularisation&nbsp;
26:28 Is Singapore&rsquo;s religious diversity in jeopardy?
29:46 Emergence of alternative divination and spiritual avenues in Singapore
37:42 Morality, healing, and community beyond institutionalised religions
47:00 Is increasing non-affiliation to religion a cause for concern?&nbsp;
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sH?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Zachary Lim (zachlim@sph.com.sg)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Editorial producer: Elizabeth Law
Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts?ref=inline-article">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB?ref=inline-article"> https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX?ref=inline-article"> </a><a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
#inyouropinion

Young Singaporeans are turning away from institutionalised religion. Why? | IPS’ Dr Melvin Tay

The BCRS scheme and observations on the ground

Why we need this 10-cent incentive right now.

Why Singapore currently needs this scheme now.

Why blue bin schemes are not sustainable here.

Is 10 cents enough? Why BCRS is worth keeping

Observing the current local recycling systems.

Seeing discarded syringes among the recycling.

Shabana's experience at BCRS sorting facility.

Proper public sorting upstream helps the line.

These hidden behind-the-scenes costs SMEs face

Is 10 cents a strong enough incentive for us?

Should glass bottles be added to BCRS schemes?

Are side hustles using the BCRS controversial?

2026 stats show a record trash disposal level.

The scheme could help to improve Singapore’s low domestic recycling rates.

Blue recycling bins filled with non-recyclable trash have become a common sight around Singapore. This contamination has resulted in poor domestic recycling rates in the country, as food and liquid waste thrown into the commingled bins taints the other recyclables. 

In 2025, the Republic logged its highest amount of waste disposed of, at about 3.36 million tonnes, up from about 3.33 million tonnes in 2024. This is in tandem with economic and population growth, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

To overcome this challenge, the National Environment Agency on Oct 1 fully implemented its Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) to ensure that plastic bottles and cans are segregated for recycling. But this initiative has also been plagued with complaints. 

In this episode, host Audrey Tan chats with Ang Qing and Shabana Begum, environment correspondents at ST, on whether these criticisms are warranted, and whether Singapore should continue pushing ahead with the scheme. 

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:31 Observations on the ground

6:00 Why we need this 10-cent incentive at this stage?

7:55 Why Singapore needs this scheme now

9:11 Why the blue bin scheme is not sustainable given poorer habits in Singapore

11:05 Why BCRS is worth persevering with

13:00 Observations of current and various recycling operations in Singapore

13:56 Not ideal conditions: Seeing discarded syringes among recyclables

15:35 Shabana on the more automated processes at a BCRS recycling facility

17:25 Qing on the need for the public to sort better upstream

18:25 Behind-the-scenes additional costs that SME retailers face

23:25 Is 10 cents enough of an incentive for the public?

25:35 Should more drinks such as glass bottles be worked into BCRS scheme?

26:15 Dumpster diving? Side hustles using the BCRS scheme?

Read more:

Shabana Begum’s articles: https://str.sg/5EGd

Ang Qing’s articles: https://str.sg/i5gT

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

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

Host: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis 

Follow Green Pulse Podcast every Tuesday as we discuss how environmental issues intersect with business, politics and society:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

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

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

YouTube: https://str.sg/fapS

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 

---

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

The scheme could help to improve Singapore&rsquo;s low domestic recycling rates.
Blue recycling bins filled with non-recyclable trash have become a common sight around Singapore. This contamination has resulted in poor domestic recycling rates in the country, as food and liquid waste thrown into the commingled bins taints the other recyclables.&nbsp;
In 2025, the Republic logged its highest amount of waste disposed of, at about 3.36 million tonnes, up from about 3.33 million tonnes in 2024. This is in tandem with economic and population growth, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).
To overcome this challenge, the National Environment Agency on Oct 1 fully implemented its Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) to ensure that plastic bottles and cans are segregated for recycling. But this initiative has also been plagued with complaints.&nbsp;
In this episode, host Audrey Tan chats with Ang Qing and Shabana Begum, environment correspondents at ST, on whether these criticisms are warranted, and whether Singapore should continue pushing ahead with the scheme.&nbsp;
Highlights (click/tap above):
2:31 Observations on the ground
6:00 Why we need this 10-cent incentive at this stage?
7:55 Why Singapore needs this scheme now
9:11 Why the blue bin scheme is not sustainable given poorer habits in Singapore
11:05 Why BCRS is worth persevering with
13:00 Observations of current and various recycling operations in Singapore
13:56 Not ideal conditions: Seeing discarded syringes among recyclables
15:35 Shabana on the more automated processes at a BCRS recycling facility
17:25 Qing on the need for the public to sort better upstream
18:25 Behind-the-scenes additional costs that SME retailers face
23:25 Is 10 cents enough of an incentive for the public?
25:35 Should more drinks such as glass bottles be worked into BCRS scheme?
26:15 Dumpster diving? Side hustles using the BCRS scheme?
Read more:
Shabana Begum&rsquo;s articles: <a href="https://str.sg/5EGd">https://str.sg/5EGd</a>
Ang Qing&rsquo;s articles: <a href="https://str.sg/i5gT">https://str.sg/i5gT</a>
Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/848W">https://str.sg/848W</a>
Read her articles:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/JLM2">https://str.sg/JLM2</a>
Host: Audrey Tan (<a href="mailto:audreyt@sph.com.sg">audreyt@sph.com.sg</a>)
Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim
Executive producer: Ernest Luis&nbsp;
Follow Green Pulse Podcast every Tuesday as we discuss how environmental issues intersect with business, politics and society:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/JWaf"> https://str.sg/JWaf</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/JWaY"> https://str.sg/JWaY</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/JWag"> https://str.sg/JWag</a>
YouTube:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/fapS">https://str.sg/fapS</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB"> https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX"> </a><a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
#greenpulse

Singapore’s beverage container return scheme has been battered with criticisms. Why do we need it? 

Discussion of ETFs

Types of ETFs on the SGX

Are there drawbacks to buying ETFs

STI or S&P 500

Exploring SSBs and T-bills

REITs and the dividend play

How to build an investment portfolio

ETFs, REITs, SSBs, T-bills - what do they all mean?

In this episode, SGX director of capital market development Emelia Tan breaks down different investment assets and compares which ones are suitable for you. 

Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss why ETFs are so popular now, how to diversify your investment portfolio, and whether the SGX or US stock market gives higher returns. 

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:00 Introduction and discussion of ETFs

7:41 Types of ETFs on the SGX 

9:03 Are there drawbacks to buying ETFs

12:03 STI or S&P 500

16:27 Exploring SSBs and T-bills

26:24 REITs and the dividend play

35:50 How to build an investment portfolio

Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ

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

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

Hosts: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) and Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producer: Danson Cheong

Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here:

Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m

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

Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9

YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx

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

---

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

---

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.

---

#headstart

ETFs, REITs, SSBs, T-bills - what do they all mean?
In this episode, SGX director of capital market development Emelia Tan breaks down different investment assets and compares which ones are suitable for you.&nbsp;
Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss why ETFs are so popular now, how to diversify your investment portfolio, and whether the SGX or US stock market gives higher returns.&nbsp;
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 Introduction and discussion of ETFs
7:41 Types of ETFs on the SGX&nbsp;
9:03 Are there drawbacks to buying ETFs
12:03 STI or S&amp;P 500
16:27 Exploring SSBs and T-bills
26:24 REITs and the dividend play
35:50 How to build an investment portfolio
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: <a href="https://str.sg/qfwqQ">https://str.sg/qfwqQ</a>
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn:<a href="https://str.sg/A86X"> https://str.sg/A86X</a>
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles:<a href="https://str.sg/mvSa"> https://str.sg/mvSa</a>
Hosts: See Kai Wen (<a href="mailto:seekw@sph.com.sg">seekw@sph.com.sg</a>) and Sue-Ann Tan (<a href="mailto:suetan@sph.com.sg">suetan@sph.com.sg</a>)
Produced &amp; edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producer: Danson Cheong
Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/wB2m"> https://str.sg/wB2m</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wuN3"> https://str.sg/wuN3</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/wBr9"> https://str.sg/wBr9</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/3psqrx">https://str.sg/3psqrx</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter:<a href="http://str.sg/headstart-nl"> https://str.sg/headstart-nl</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: <a href="https://str.sg/icyB">https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play: <a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
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.
---
#headstart

S&P 500: Solid investment or internet hype? | Investing basics explained

Online world is important to our children

Being offline and left out

Bringing online rules into offline world

Lessons from gaming together: Natalie Pang

Measure screen use by purpose, not time

Consequences of parents being glued to screens

Children naturally upset when no more screens

Parents find it hard to set boundaries

How to better connect with a child offline and online. 

Synopsis: Join us for a five-part limited-edition podcast series this November by The Straits Times where we discuss the challenges of raising kids in a world that's always plugged in.

For many children and teens, there is little distinction between the online and offline world. 

Many parents worry that screens are getting in the way of their relationship with their children. 

But instead of pulling our children away from their digital worlds, should parents step into them, and journey with our children?

In this episode, Host Elisha Tushara is joined by Natalie Pang, a professor at the National University of Singapore. 

Having done research on digital well-being and online harms, and as the mother of a teenage boy, she recommends gaming with your children.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:00 Intro 

4:05 Why the online world is important to our children

7:42 Being offline and being left out

8:30 Bringing online rules into the offline world

10:50 What I learned about my child by gaming together: Natalie Pang

14:21 Screen use: Measuring by purpose, instead of time

17:55 What happens when parents are glued to their screens themselves?

21:22 It’s natural for children to get upset when screentime is over

26:02 Why do some parents find it hard to set screentime boundaries?

—

Read more ST Screen Timeout articles: https://str.sg/screentimeout 

Host: Elisha Tushara (elisha@sph.com.sg)

Read Elisha’s articles: https://str.sg/5VVJ

Follow Elisha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/94WA

Produced and edited by: Studio+65 and Fa’izah Sani

Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Amelia Teng

—

Follow Screens Down, Look Up limited series every Monday (Nov 2 - 30):

Channel: https://str.sg/bKan 

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/57aK 

Spotify: https://str.sg/agZP 

YouTube: https://str.sg/yxuv 

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

—

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

#screensdownlookup

How to better connect with a child offline and online.&nbsp;
Synopsis: Join us for a five-part limited-edition podcast series this November by The Straits Times where we discuss the challenges of raising kids in a world that's always plugged in.
For many children and teens, there is little distinction between the online and offline world.&nbsp;
Many parents worry that screens are getting in the way of their relationship with their children.&nbsp;
But instead of pulling our children away from their digital worlds, should parents step into them, and journey with our children?
In this episode, Host Elisha Tushara is joined by Natalie Pang, a professor at the National University of Singapore.&nbsp;
Having done research on digital well-being and online harms, and as the mother of a teenage boy, she recommends gaming with your children.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 Intro&nbsp;
4:05 Why the online world is important to our children
7:42 Being offline and being left out
8:30 Bringing online rules into the offline world
10:50 What I learned about my child by gaming together: Natalie Pang
14:21 Screen use: Measuring by purpose, instead of time
17:55 What happens when parents are glued to their screens themselves?
21:22 It&rsquo;s natural for children to get upset when screentime is over
26:02 Why do some parents find it hard to set screentime boundaries?
&mdash;
Read more ST Screen Timeout articles: <a href="https://str.sg/screentimeout">https://str.sg/screentimeout</a>&nbsp;
Host: Elisha Tushara (<a href="mailto:elisha@sph.com.sg">elisha@sph.com.sg</a>)
Read Elisha&rsquo;s articles: <a href="https://str.sg/5VVJ">https://str.sg/5VVJ</a>
Follow Elisha on LinkedIn: <a href="https://str.sg/94WA">https://str.sg/94WA</a>
Produced and edited by: Studio+65 and Fa&rsquo;izah Sani
Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Amelia Teng
&mdash;
Follow Screens Down, Look Up limited series every Monday (Nov 2 - 30):
Channel: <a href="https://str.sg/bKan">https://str.sg/bKan</a>&nbsp;
Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://str.sg/57aK">https://str.sg/57aK</a>&nbsp;
Spotify: <a href="https://str.sg/agZP">https://str.sg/agZP</a>&nbsp;
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/yxuv">https://str.sg/yxuv</a>&nbsp;
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
&mdash;
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>
&mdash;
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB"> https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX"> https://str.sg/icyX</a>
#screensdownlookup

Are parents making their kids' screen habits worse?

Roach clarifies controversial headline

Is Roach biased against Hong Kong?

What's not going right between US & China?

Trump's shallow thinking on AI hurts

Will a strong Democratic show constrain Trump?

Is Trump's claim of "golden age" true?

Will there be a repeat of a Great Depression?

Will the USD primacy be challenged?

When do you see China coming out of slowdown?

Or has US economist Stephen Roach changed his mind about Hong Kong’s survival and identity? 

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

In this episode, US Bureau Chief Bhagyashree Garekar chats with Dr Stephen Roach, a prominent economist with expertise on Asia. 

He spent three decades at global investment bank Morgan Stanley, serving as the firm's chief economist and later as chairman of Morgan Stanley Asia. He is currently a Senior Fellow at Yale Law School's Paul Tsai China Center.

In this wide-ranging conversation, he says the “unfriendly takeover” by mainland Chinese has changed the character of Hong Kong dramatically. This has left the market-based city - once idolised by iconic American economist Milton Friedman - in tatters, he adds.

While that might drive his critics crazy, the idea that his remarks are rooted in any bias against Hong Kong is “absolutely ludicrous,” he insists.

Roach also has a word of caution for China’s President Xi Jinping, who made a state visit to Washington for a summit with US President Donald Trump in September 2026.

The concept currently favoured by both the US and China to define their relationship - constructive, strategic stability - is also a bit of a mirage, he says. “There's nothing strategic about it, the best I think the Chinese can hope for would be stability,” he adds.

Roach is not among those anticipating a turning of the page with the Nov 3 midterm elections, even if the Democrats seize a majority in the Congress.

Roach also takes an axe to Trump’s frequent assertions of America being the “hottest economy”. “He calls it an “exaggeration” that also reflects the poor state of growth elsewhere in the world.

But a Great Depression-scale collapse is not in the cards, according to him. “I don't think we're gonna have a replay of the 1930s-styled bank-driven collapse,” he says.

Highlights (click/tap above):

00:50 "Hong Kong is over?": Stephen Roach clarifies the controversial headline in a Financial Times column in 2024

6:40 What’s not going right between the US and China?

7:40 Why Trump’s “shallow thinking” on AI hurts

10:28 His warning to China about a deal with Trump

14:00 Will a strong Democratic show in the Nov 3 midterm elections constrain Trump?

18:10 Is Trump’s claim of a "golden age” for America true?

24:20 As the 100th anniversary of the Great Depression nears, could there be a repeat?

30:00 Will US dollar primacy be seriously challenged?

33:00 When he sees China coming out of the slowdown

38:20 Lastly, on India: Will its economy continue to over-promise and under-deliver?

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

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

Sign up for ST’s weekly Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/sfpz 

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 

YouTube: https://str.sg/rF3qR 

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 

---

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

Or has US economist Stephen Roach changed his mind about Hong Kong&rsquo;s survival and identity?&nbsp;
Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times gets its US Bureau Chief to analyse the hottest political and geopolitical talking points.
In this episode, US Bureau Chief Bhagyashree Garekar chats with Dr Stephen Roach, a prominent economist with expertise on Asia.&nbsp;
He spent three decades at global investment bank Morgan Stanley, serving as the firm's chief economist and later as chairman of Morgan Stanley Asia. He is currently a Senior Fellow at Yale Law School's Paul Tsai China Center.
In this wide-ranging conversation, he says the &ldquo;unfriendly takeover&rdquo; by mainland Chinese has changed the character of Hong Kong dramatically. This has left the market-based city - once idolised by iconic American economist Milton Friedman - in tatters, he adds.
While that might drive his critics crazy, the idea that his remarks are rooted in any bias against Hong Kong is &ldquo;absolutely ludicrous,&rdquo; he insists.
Roach also has a word of caution for China&rsquo;s President Xi Jinping, who made a state visit to Washington for a summit with US President Donald Trump in September 2026.
The concept currently favoured by both the US and China to define their relationship - constructive, strategic stability - is also a bit of a mirage, he says. &ldquo;There's nothing strategic about it, the best I think the Chinese can hope for would be stability,&rdquo; he adds.
Roach is not among those anticipating a turning of the page with the Nov 3 midterm elections, even if the Democrats seize a majority in the Congress.
Roach also takes an axe to Trump&rsquo;s frequent assertions of America being the &ldquo;hottest economy&rdquo;. &ldquo;He calls it an &ldquo;exaggeration&rdquo; that also reflects the poor state of growth elsewhere in the world.
But a Great Depression-scale collapse is not in the cards, according to him. &ldquo;I don't think we're gonna have a replay of the 1930s-styled bank-driven collapse,&rdquo; he says.
Highlights (click/tap above):
00:50 "Hong Kong is over?": Stephen Roach clarifies the controversial headline in a Financial Times column in 2024
6:40 What&rsquo;s not going right between the US and China?
7:40 Why Trump&rsquo;s &ldquo;shallow thinking&rdquo; on AI hurts
10:28 His warning to China about a deal with Trump
14:00 Will a strong Democratic show in the Nov 3 midterm elections constrain Trump?
18:10 Is Trump&rsquo;s claim of a "golden age&rdquo; for America true?
24:20 As the 100th anniversary of the Great Depression nears, could there be a repeat?
30:00 Will US dollar primacy be seriously challenged?
33:00 When he sees China coming out of the slowdown
38:20 Lastly, on India: Will its economy continue to over-promise and under-deliver?
Read Bhagyashree Garekar&rsquo;s articles:<a href="https://str.sg/whNo"> https://str.sg/whNo</a>&nbsp;
Bhagyashree Garekar&rsquo;s LinkedIn: <a href="https://str.sg/gD6E">https://str.sg/gD6E</a>&nbsp;
Sign up for ST&rsquo;s weekly Asian Insider newsletter: <a href="https://str.sg/sfpz">https://str.sg/sfpz</a>&nbsp;
Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (<a href="mailto:bhagya@sph.com.sg">bhagya@sph.com.sg</a>)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Fa&rsquo;izah Sani
Executive producer: Ernest Luis
Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here:
Channel: <a href="https://str.sg/JWa7">https://str.sg/JWa7</a>&nbsp;
Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://str.sg/JWa8">https://str.sg/JWa8</a>&nbsp;
Spotify: <a href="https://str.sg/JWaX">https://str.sg/JWaX</a>&nbsp;
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/rF3qR">https://str.sg/rF3qR</a>&nbsp;
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>&nbsp;
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: <a href="https://str.sg/icyB">https://str.sg/icyB</a>&nbsp;
Google Play: <a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>&nbsp;
---
#STAsianInsider

Is Hong Kong really over? Warning China about a deal with Trump

Most extreme thing Peiying has done

Why did live streaming get so big?

Why merchants give huge discounts

Can you sell anything in a live stream?

No idea if I’m a good live streamer: Xiaxue

$20k-$30k commission possible, but outlier

Streamers treated differently from influencers

Does live streaming encourage drama?

Uneven rules on who gets flagged: Xiaxue

The words that you can’t say on a stream

Is the “limited stock” warning always true?

Would you eat 2kg of durian in one go to sell a batch of the fruit? How about yapping for eight hours straight to hit your sales numbers?

Live-streaming is booming, and for some, it looks like an easy gig with easy money. But seasoned live-sellers say the market is saturated and only the top sellers get high commissions.

In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha chats with social media personality Xiaxue (@xiaxue) and fellow live-streamer Yin Peiying (@officially.poopa) about the reality of selling on platforms like TikTok or Shopee.

We talk about banned words, “violations” that can hurt your viewership numbers, and why not every live-seller makes it big.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:45 Most extreme thing Peiying has done on a livestream

3:49 Why did live streaming get so big?

7:14 Why merchants give huge discounts

11:15 Can you sell anything in a live stream?

13:55 No idea if I’m a good live streamer: Xiaxue

26:04 $20k-$30k commission possible, but outlier

34:33 Why live streamers are treated differently from influencers

41:18 Does live streaming encourage drama?

45:26 Uneven rules on who gets flagged: Xiaxue

48:50 The words that you can’t say on a stream

51:10 Is the “limited stock” warning always true?

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/8KNT

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

Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG:   / theusualplacepodcast 

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

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by: Eden Soh & Yang Jiesan Cruz

Executive producer: Danson Cheong

Producers: Natasha Ann Zachariah, Elizabeth Law & Zachary Lim

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

---

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

Would you eat 2kg of durian in one go to sell a batch of the fruit? How about yapping for eight hours straight to hit your sales numbers?
Live-streaming is booming, and for some, it looks like an easy gig with easy money. But seasoned live-sellers say the market is saturated and only the top sellers get high commissions.
In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha chats with social media personality Xiaxue (@xiaxue) and fellow live-streamer Yin Peiying (@officially.poopa) about the reality of selling on platforms like TikTok or Shopee.
We talk about banned words, &ldquo;violations&rdquo; that can hurt your viewership numbers, and why not every live-seller makes it big.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:45 Most extreme thing Peiying has done on a livestream
3:49 Why did live streaming get so big?
7:14 Why merchants give huge discounts
11:15 Can you sell anything in a live stream?
13:55 No idea if I&rsquo;m a good live streamer: Xiaxue
26:04 $20k-$30k commission possible, but outlier
34:33 Why live streamers are treated differently from influencers
41:18 Does live streaming encourage drama?
45:26 Uneven rules on who gets flagged: Xiaxue
48:50 The words that you can&rsquo;t say on a stream
51:10 Is the &ldquo;limited stock&rdquo; warning always true?
Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)
Read Natasha&rsquo;s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm
Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8KNT
Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN
Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: &nbsp; / theusualplacepodcast&nbsp;
Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN
Filmed by: Studio+65
Edited by: Eden Soh &amp; Yang Jiesan Cruz
Executive producer: Danson Cheong
Producers: Natasha Ann Zachariah, Elizabeth Law &amp; Zachary Lim
Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:
Channel: <a href="https://str.sg/5nfm?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/5nfm?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/5nfm</a>
Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://str.sg/9ijX?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/9ijX?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/9ijX</a>
Spotify: <a href="https://str.sg/cd2P?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/cd2P?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/cd2P</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
SPH Awedio app: <a href="https://www.awedio.sg/?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://www.awedio.sg/?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://www.awedio.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/wvz7?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>
Get more updates: <a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: <a href="https://str.sg/icyB?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link"></a><a href="https://str.sg/icyB?ref=inline-article" aria-label="link" data-testid="custom-link">https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play: <a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
--
#tup #tuptr

“They treat us like dogs”: Xiaxue on the reality of being a live seller

A culture shock from McDonald’s to Chagee

The Chinese lack of fear of failure

Becoming “the Starbucks of tea”

The secret behind scaling a business quickly

How Chagee localises for different markets

Expanding faster than demand can keep up?

Taking lessons from other successful brands 

Will Chagee be yet another F&B fad?

S'pore's influx of Chinese retail brands

How China is building global brands

After 16 years at McDonald's, Chagee APAC CMO shares how Chinese companies operate differently in the global arena

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

What does it take to turn a Chinese tea chain into a global brand? And what can China's new generation of consumer companies learn from the likes of McDonald's and Starbucks?

Eugene Lee has seen both sides of the divide. After 16 years at McDonald's, where he rose to become international chief marketing officer, he joined Shanghai-headquartered Chagee as its Asia-Pacific chief marketing officer in 2025.

In this conversation with The Straits Times’ senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei, Lee describes the culture shock of moving from an 86-year-old American multinational to a fast-moving young Chinese company, where ideas can become reality within days. He explains how Chagee uses automation, standardisation and lessons borrowed from competitors to expand rapidly, and why building emotional connections with consumers matters as much as selling a good product.

He also addresses Chagee’s falling market valuation, slowing sales and the risk of becoming another passing fad in the food and beverage industry. Beyond tea, the conversation explores China's remarkable transformation from the world's factory into a creator of increasingly ambitious - and desirable - global brands.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

2:40 A culture shock from McDonald’s to Chagee

5:12 The Chinese lack of fear of failure

15:01 Becoming “the Starbucks of tea”

18:26 The secret behind scaling a business quickly

23:14 How Chagee localises for different markets

28:19 Is Chagee expanding faster than consumer demand can keep up?

31:15 Taking lessons from other successful Chinese F&B brands 

34:05 Will Chagee be yet another F&B fad?

39:57 The influx of Chinese retail brands to Singapore and the anxiety it brings 

42:50 How China is building global brands

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

Host: Tan Dawn Wei (dawntan@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & 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

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

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 

---

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

---

#inyouropinion

After 16 years at McDonald's, Chagee APAC CMO shares how Chinese companies operate differently in the global arena
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
What does it take to turn a Chinese tea chain into a global brand? And what can China's new generation of consumer companies learn from the likes of McDonald's and Starbucks?
Eugene Lee has seen both sides of the divide. After 16 years at McDonald's, where he rose to become international chief marketing officer, he joined Shanghai-headquartered Chagee as its Asia-Pacific chief marketing officer in 2025.
In this conversation with The Straits Times&rsquo; senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei, Lee describes the culture shock of moving from an 86-year-old American multinational to a fast-moving young Chinese company, where ideas can become reality within days. He explains how Chagee uses automation, standardisation and lessons borrowed from competitors to expand rapidly, and why building emotional connections with consumers matters as much as selling a good product.
He also addresses Chagee&rsquo;s falling market valuation, slowing sales and the risk of becoming another passing fad in the food and beverage industry. Beyond tea, the conversation explores China's remarkable transformation from the world's factory into a creator of increasingly ambitious - and desirable - global brands.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
2:40 A culture shock from McDonald&rsquo;s to Chagee
5:12 The Chinese lack of fear of failure
15:01 Becoming &ldquo;the Starbucks of tea&rdquo;
18:26 The secret behind scaling a business quickly
23:14 How Chagee localises for different markets
28:19 Is Chagee expanding faster than consumer demand can keep up?
31:15 Taking lessons from other successful Chinese F&amp;B brands&nbsp;
34:05 Will Chagee be yet another F&amp;B fad?
39:57 The influx of Chinese retail brands to Singapore and the anxiety it brings&nbsp;
42:50 How China is building global brands
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Tan Dawn Wei (dawntan@sph.com.sg)
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB">&nbsp;https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
#inyouropinion

He spent 16 years at McDonald’s, now he’s growing a Chinese tea brand | Chagee APAC CMO Eugene Lee

Synopsis: Almost every weekday, our ALL-IN-ONE channel showcases discussions on Singapore youth perspectives 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.

Produced by podcast editor Ernest Luis & The Straits Times, SPH Media.

Synopsis: Almost every weekday, our ALL-IN-ONE channel showcases discussions on Singapore youth perspectives 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.
Produced by podcast editor Ernest Luis &amp; The Straits Times, SPH Media.

The Straits Times Podcasts

The Straits Times Podcasts

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

2,318 clip(s)