

#662 ft. Prof. Cherian George - PAP’s Insecurities, SG’s Media Decline & Life After GE2025
13 snips May 9, 2025
Prof. Cherian George, a seasoned author and academic specializing in media and politics, shares his insights on Singapore's evolving political landscape. He discusses the challenges of academic freedom and how it shaped his career. The conversation highlights the decline of mainstream media and the growing importance of social media in political discourse. Prof. George also examines the political insecurities faced by the ruling party and the rising presence of opposition forces ahead of GE2025, emphasizing the necessity for a more diverse political representation.
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Singapore's Compressed Campaign Cycle
- Singapore's election campaigns are short and intense, lasting just nine days officially.
- However, social media has caused politicians to perpetually campaign beyond official periods.
Singaporean Political Sensitivity
- Politics in Singapore is more conservative and calm compared to Hong Kong and much of Asia.
- Singaporeans are easily shocked by what others consider mild political controversies.
Straits Times' Past Editorial Fairness
- Cherian recounted how Straits Times in the 1990s ensured fairness in stories attacking individuals by including their responses.
- This editorial ethic has changed, with less effort now to get responses for government criticisms.