S1E32: Ong Ye Kung's health tips, his love for Sembawang GRC and being lit on social media

Mar 25, 2025

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Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

In the lead-up to the expected general election that must be held by November 2025, Natasha looks at how MPs, and others involved, are preparing themselves.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung talks to Natasha about resetting the rules during the pandemic, his biggest challenge at the ministry now, and why he would love to be a Sembawang GRC MP till he retires.

Natasha also looks back at his political career - he got his feet wet in the 2011 general elections running in Aljunied GRC, though he lost there - and what convinced him to join politics. He also takes on questions about politicians campaigning on anti-vaccine sentiments and Singaporeans’ desire for more opposition representation in Parliament.

Highlights (click/tap above):

4:29 Did he feel the pressure to “walk the talk” as Health Minister?

16:25 Mr Ong on anti-vaccine sentiments seeping into society

22:34 His view on the PAP’s outlook for Aljunied GRC

35:44 Learning from his parents’ involvement in politics

41:50 He talks about why he struggles with social media

50:28 “Just remember, whatever it is, we have to be in it together.” Mr Ong reflects on the changing times

Host: Natasha Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this episode: https://str.sg/8Wav

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

Filmed by: Studio+65

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh

Co-edited by: ST Video (Aileen Teo and Jamie Koh)

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong

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