By many measures, Singapore continues to perform strongly economically. Yet some Singaporeans feel their personal aspirations are becoming more difficult to realise.

In this episode of Lens on Singapore, Claressa Monteiro speaks with Professor Wei-Jun Jean Yeung, director of Social Sciences at A*STAR Institute for Human Development and Potential (A*STAR IHDP), and Associate Professor Walter Theseira from the Singapore University of Social Sciences. From unpacking the idea of the broad middle class to examining falling birth rates, they explore the factors shaping perceptions of the Singapore Dream today.

Highlights of the conversation: 

01:49 Problems with the middle class concept

03:45 Shifting expectations of what success is

09:13 Singapore’s low fertility rate

15:33 The cause of rising financial pressures

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Written and presented by: Claressa Monteiro (claremb@sph.com.sg)

With Professor Wei-Jun Jean Yeung, director of Social Sciences, A*STAR Institute for Human Development and Potential (A*STAR IHDP); and Walter Theseira, associate professor, Singapore University of Social Sciences

Executive producer: Claressa Monteiro

Producer: Nicole Teo

Coordinating producer: Chai Pei Chieh

Video production: Studio +65

A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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