Plan B

ou’ve probably seen Ministry of Spud’s loaded potatoes all over your feed, and the long queues that come with them. For founders Khalil and Nana, going viral has fuelled the brand’s rapid rise. But for Khalil, the online fame has also come with criticism, with some branding him a “bully” over his blunt replies to commenters. His response? The criticism doesn’t bother him, in fact, he says he may even enjoy it because “at least they’re talking about me.” In this episode, we explore how social media has become the secret ingredient behind MOS’ success, and uncover the real story behind the closure of Tomaz.

Faraid selalu jadi punca pergaduhan dalam keluarga. Ramai fokus pada siapa dapat lebih atau kurang, tapi jarang kita fikir tentang amanah yang datang bersama setiap bahagian.Harta pusaka bukan milik kita selamanya. Jangan sampai harta yang ditinggalkan menjadi sebab hubungan adik-beradik dan keluarga pula yang hancur.

Singapore’s legal profession is confronting a difficult question: why are so many lawyers choosing to leave? A recent study has renewed attention on the pressures faced within the industry and for young lawyers, the transition into working life can be overwhelming. Hostile work environments, demanding clients and constant pressure can quickly drain the passion that first drew them to the profession. While steps are being taken to reduce attrition, is the industry prepared to confront toxic work mindsets and rethink the structures that continue to push lawyers to the brink.

When Marcus’ PowerJet artwork outside an MRT station was reported to the police and subsequently whitewashed, the internet rallied behind him almost instantly. Much of the outrage was directed at the alleged “Karen” who complained, while others criticised SMRT, with some netizens speculating that the transport operator had been involved in the artwork’s removal. But beyond the controversy lies a bigger question: in a society known for its strict regulations, bureaucracy, and cautious approach to public spaces, can creativity truly thrive, or is Singapore’s art scene constantly fighting for room to exist?

You’ve probably noticed the surge of running groups across Singapore’s central districts in recent months. But long before it became the latest fitness trend, runners like Izuan were already building communities around the sport. Widely regarded as one of the OGs of the Malay-Muslim running scene, he shares his perspective on how the community has evolved, and whether the boom is truly about health and fitness, or increasingly shaped by social media and the desire for online validation.

A growing number of alleged China-originated videos targeting Singapore’s Indian community have drawn criticism from MPs, including Edwin Tong. Some see Singapore as culturally aligned with China because of its Chinese-majority population. But Singapore has long defined itself as a multicultural nation with its own identity. As online narratives become more divisive and anti-Indian sentiments spread across social media, a question emerges: Is this what modern racism looks like?

When Nor Syazwan Abdul Majid performed the azan during his Malay Kampung Heritage Tour on Pulau Ubin, he never expected it would lead to a complaint and national headlines. The incident sparked a wave of criticism online, with some accusing him of “inciting religious tensions” or promoting religious conversion. While the backlash affected him, messages of support have kept him going. Yet behind the controversy lies a deeper story: Syazwan’s personal connection to Pulau Ubin and its disappearing heritage.

For the past week, marketing agency BrandTok has been making headlines, and not for the right reasons. Multiple SMEs have come forward accusing founder Sam Heedy of failing to deliver promised services, producing poor-quality work and going unresponsive. Today, we sat down with some of the most outspoken clients involved. While a few eventually recovered their money through the Small Claims Tribunal, why are they still determined to keep speaking out about Heedy?

24-year-old NTU student Sufi believes underprivileged students deserve equal access to education. That belief led him to found BrightGuides, a free tuition programme in partnership with the Muslimin Trust Fund Association for lower-income students. But beyond teaching, the work comes with challenges, from securing government grants to helping children whose parents may not have the bandwidth to focus on their education. With graduation and full-time work approaching, can Sufi continue balancing it all?

Singapore recently saw a record turnout at the Labour Day rally at Hong Lim Park, with more than 1,500 people in attendance. Among those present was Derek Wong, best known as the lawyer who represented the trio fined over the Istana procession. Beyond the courtroom, however, Derek is also part of anti-death penalty group Transformative Justice Collective. While some causes attract widespread public support, others remain deeply unpopular. So how does Derek continue fighting for issues that can often feel like an uphill battle?

Law is one of Singapore’s most prestigious professions, so walking away to launch a start-up is bound to turn heads, especially when it’s the country’s first olive oil brand. That’s the path Alia Ballout took, drawing on her Lebanese roots to bring her family’s olive oil to Singapore. But with her family farm affected by the Middle East conflict, rising costs and supply challenges are now part of the journey. Can the business hold up long-term, and does she have a backup plan?

Remember when Logan Paul made headlines selling a Pikachu card for US$16.5 million? It put the spotlight on the booming world of Pokémon card collecting, and now, Singapore has its own player in the game: Syamil from @Konbiniripz. We got a close-up of his collection, with some cards valued at $20K–$30K. But after the rise and fall of trends like Labubu and Bearbrick, will Pokémon cards last? Syamil shares his backup plan.

Everyone wants a flexible lifestyle with big financial upside, and trading is often seen as the shortcut. But from the outside, it can sometimes feel uncomfortably close to gambling without the right discipline. That’s why Zhar and Hairul from the trading education agency Top Tier Institute stress responsible trading, starting with not buying into flashy lifestyles online. They explain why in this episode, which they describe as a public service.

With ministers warning of rising living costs amid the Middle East conflict, many are bracing to tighten their spending. But what if there’s another approach? Enter Lily Khai, a ‘Wealth Architect’ who’s gone viral for her money mindset teachings. Instead of focusing on cutting back, she advocates for an abundance mindset: growing your income, building multiple streams, and thinking bigger. But in reality, is that possible when some families are still counting dollar to dollar?

Processed vs natural foods have long been debated, but is eating healthy really realistic today? We spoke to Dr Siva, better known by his IG handle @meditherapie, a strong advocate for healing through better nutrition. His views, however, sparked pushback from Darren, who argues that such practices aren’t practical in modern society. In response, Dr Siva says change should start from the ground up, with the government educating hawkers and even subsidising healthier food options. Is this something you see happening in the future?

Fuel prices are rising and supply is tightening across the region, with governments in Thailand introducing energy-saving measures and the Philippines declaring an energy emergency, fuelling concerns of a deeper crisis. While Dzar warns this could signal another spike in the cost of living, Darren argues Singaporeans should just deal with it, saying we’re still in a better position and well-prepared. So, could Singapore ever face such drastic energy measures, and if it does, would you be ready to bear the cost?

Oil prices keep climbing, and it’s hitting wallets hard. In fact, Rahman says his petrol jumped from $2.60 to $3.40 per litre, which works out to nearly a $100 increase per tank. The surge comes amid the ongoing US–Israel conflict with Iran, with Tehran tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route. Some believe things may stabilise after the US midterm elections in November, but that’s still months away. Back home in Singapore, leaders have said we have reserves for “rainy days”, so the question is, why does it feel like we’re the ones footing the bill right now?

Some avoid legacy planning because they do not see the urgency. But the cost of not planning is high. Minister of State for Social and Family Development Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim says failing to make a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can leave families facing lengthy court processes and paying thousands of dollars to appoint a deputy. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Applications using LPA Form 1 is now free for all Singapore citizens. Begin at go.gov.sg/planmylpa.

Many people notice high prices and smaller portions at Ramadan bazaars, but there’s more to the story. Syafiq from Ashes Burnnit, known for its charcoal buns, explains that it’s not just rental costs, vendors may also need to pay double or triple wages during Ramadan to get workers willing to stand in the heat all day. Add to that the uncertainty of not knowing which stalls will be next to them, and it’s clear that running a bazaar stall comes with its own challenges.

The strikes on Iran may be driven by politics, but many people are asking if religion is also shaping the conflict. Some Sunni Muslims have even debated whether they should support Iran, and many say the answer is yes. Whether this comes from anti-US and anti-Israel sentiment or a sense of Muslim solidarity, it raises a bigger question: could distant wars deepen divisions in multicultural societies like Singapore?

Ramadan Kareem! Breaking fast at the bazaar is a beloved tradition but if you’ve taken a walk lately, you might notice thinner crowds and stalls spaced further apart. Even as spending power in the Malay-Muslim community has grown, rising food prices are pushing some to look across the border or to Indonesia for more affordable baju and bites. It may feel like the bazaar scene is fading but maybe the true spirit of Ramadan isn’t about where we spend but where we find community, especially at a time when falling marriage rates hint at a wider sense of social disconnection.

Description:Everyone talks about upskilling, but is it really as scary as it sounds?Skills Ambassador Dr. Ramesh explains why staying comfortable in your job is actually a trap. He also shares the harsh truth: Upskilling isn't a magic pill that gets you a promotion overnight. It’s like going to the gym. You won’t get a six-pack instantly, but you have to start somewhere to see results.---Start your upskilling journey today:https://www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg/content/portal/en/index.html?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=organic-video&utm_campaign=project-real-talk&utm_term=yt&utm_content=real-talk-planb-mysfNot sure where to start? Use the RIASEC Profiling Tool to find the right career path based on your personality:https://www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg/content/portal/en/assessment/landing.html?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=organic-video&utm_campaign=project-real-talk&utm_term=yt&utm_content=real-talk-planb-rs

With modern skyscrapers dominating Singapore’s skyline, some question whether the city lacks cultural depth but heritage activist and historian Sarafian Salleh says that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just look at Kampong Glam, once known as Seduyong by the indigenous Orang Laut, meaning mermaid. And no, that’s not some wild conspiracy theory. In this ep, he joins us to debunk myths and prove that Singapore’s cultural depth runs far deeper than we think.

With F&B outlets shutting down left and right, starting a food business sounds risky, especially if you’re only 20 and still in school. Yet that’s exactly what the founders of Berjaya Western did. And perhaps it’s no surprise, considering they first ventured into entrepreneurship at just 16. In this episode, they share how they balance studies with running a business, and unpack the harsh realities of the F&B industry, from soaring rents to financial pressures.(01:55) Welcome founders of Berjaya Western!(08:18) Challenges of running a F&B business(14:33) Balancing school, life, and work(17:50) Bestsellers at Berjaya Western(25:20) Is the school supportive of their careers?(27:20) Future of Berjaya Western

Every other week, another beloved local business shuts its doors, and the reason is almost always the same: rising rents. As closures mount, some say the vacuum is being filled by foreign players, particularly from China. To understand what’s really happening, we speak to the founders of popular halal Chinese eatery Deanna’s Kitchen about their fears for the future, and to Vernon Lim of the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises to unpack what’s driving landlords’ decisions. The answers may surprise you.(00:58) Say hello to Vernon Lim!(02:18) Founders of Deanna’s Kitchen(05:30) Growing trend of businesses closing down(10:33) Explaining landlord’s decisions(17:25) Should the government step in?(30:00) Competition with China-owned businesses(34:15) “Running a business based on passion is a privilege”

It's this week's biggest political story: Pritam Singh is no longer Leader of the Opposition. With so many twists and turns, the latest question on everyone's minds is: should the LO role be constitutionalized? The Darren Aadam Mak show asked this question. We read out the comments(00:33) Darren’s Show(05:45) Should the LO role be given a framework?(07:55) Reading comments(21:15) What should our stand be on this?(25:30) Syed Harun’s Response

As local businesses in Singapore get squeezed by rising rents, many are shutting their doors, and increasingly, what replaces them are Chinese-owned businesses. In neighbourhoods like Kampong Glam, the surge has sparked concerns over the erosion of local heritage and culture. If this trend continues unchecked, are we looking at an economic takeover similar to what’s happened in places like Jeju and London?(04:33) Review of Ministers’ Salaries(10:00) Rise of Chinese businesses(16:35) US’ interest in Greenland(19:00) Iran Protest

Just days into 2026, global headlines have been dominated by the US’ capture of Venezuela’s then-president, Nicolás Maduro. As Singapore said it is “gravely concerned” by the situation, the episode has raised uneasy questions closer to home. In an era of intensifying great-power rivalry, are small states like Singapore more vulnerable than we think?(00:50) Dzar’s holiday(05:27) US’ intervention in Venezuela(10:00) Responses from other countries(15:26) Malays as providing “windows for the Chinese”?(23:30) Changing attitudes among Gen Z

What better way to wrap up the year than with something sweet? In this episode, we sit down with Darren, co-founder of Sugar Mama Lah, the halal tiramisu brand that went from a home-based hustle to a full-fledged storefront. Darren opens up about the “thick skin” mindset behind his success, from live streaming to unconventional marketing, and drops a surprising truth: many kunafa desserts in Singapore use colouring that isn’t halal-certified.(02:05) What is assorted tiramisu?(04:50) Home-based to storefront(11:35) Challenges of being halal-certified(20:45) Importance of live streaming(22:55) Meaning behind Sugar Mama Lah

A viral TikTok shows LTA and Traffic Police cracking down on a car meet at Decathlon Kallang, and while many cheered the enforcement, others say it’s exactly why Singapore’s car culture is dying. Compared to places like Japan, where modified cars are celebrated, Singapore feels far more conservative. But as the city pushes towards a car-lite future, is this scene inevitably fading away? And is that really a bad thing?(05:25) Terrorist threat at St Joseph Church(09:35) UN (Anti-Terrorism Measures) Regulations?(13:30) Singapore’s dying car culture(25:00) Car-lite society(27:55) Najib Razak fails in bid for home arrest

A devastating tragedy struck Bondi Beach in Sydney when two gunmen killed at least 15 people during a Jewish celebration. While many netizens expressed sympathy and grief, the aftermath quickly spiralled into controversy. From antisemitic and Islamophobic rhetoric to claims of a ‘false flag’ attack, the tragedy has been swept into a fierce online information war.(00:55) Darren’s Bar Exams(04:25) Bondi Beach Shooting(08:25) Start of ‘Information Wars’(14:00) Hero of Bondi Beach(17:10) Japan’s relationship with China(21:12) Predictions for 2026

Everyone’s travelling this year-end, especially to Japan, where the yen has plunged to about ¥120 for S$1. But while Singaporeans are chasing cheap flights and exchange rates, PM Wong is on the move for a different reason. His recent trip to South Africa and the announcement of Singapore’s 1st East African embassy in Ethiopia may seem unexpected but they hint at something bigger: Singapore is quietly deepening its footprint and ties across Africa.(0:33) Welcome back Darren!(07:34) Travelling during the holidays(10:57) PM Wong’s working trips(16:30) Are Africans the next generation of content creators?(19:05) Future trips

When influencer Simonboy launched the Forever Megan Charity in honour of his late daughter, some called it heartfelt while others called it clout. And leading the charge was the OG uncancellable content creator herself, Xiaxue. Her takedown earned her a cease and desist letter, and she’s firing back. In this case, do you think Xiaxue has a point, or do you feel sympathy for Simonboy?(01:25) Feud between Xiaxue and Simonboy(07:20) Opening a charity in Malaysia?(13:13) POFMA on MalaysiaNow(16:53) Future of censorship in Singapore(21:45) Intruder at Wicked premiere

The job market is changing rapidly, and jobseekers are facing challenges like finding stability, balancing personal commitments, and adapting to AI. At Plan B, our hosts share insights from both employers and jobseekers on their shifting expectations. With programmes mentioned in this year’s National Day Rally like GRIT and SkillsFuture available, we explore how jobseekers can get ahead as they navigate their careers. For more related information, visit: go.gov.sg/2025ndr-planb(01:00) Uncertainty of today’s job market(07:38) What are GRaduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT)?(12:30) Taking stock of your career (20:15) Using A.I. for a leg up in the workplace

This week, headlines swirled around Ong Beng Seng keeping his PR status, a move that’s raised plenty of eyebrows. In a country where one's PR status can be revoked for criminal convictions, ICA’s decision to issue only a warning has sparked questions about Singapore’s “clean and fair” legal image.(03:05) Possible Kyrgyzstan trip in 2026(10:35) Under-the-table payment for Hajj?(13:00) M’sian man bribed Sg’s traffic police(19:08) Ong Beng Seng’s PR status(23:35) Court of Public Opinion(28:19) Ringgit strengthened

We’ve all seen the shocking videos of youths staggering like zombies, hooked on vapes laced with etomidate. As Singapore clamps down on vaping, we speak with Prof Anantham Devanand, Senior Consultant at SGH’s Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, on why vapes can be are dangerous even without etomidate - and share the real-life cases he’s treated.For support to quit vaping, visit: gov.sg/quitvape(02:20) What are the harms of etomidate?(05:25) Is there such thing as secondhand vaping?(07:10) Real cases of vaping harm(11:00) Signs your child might be vaping(16:00) Doctor’s take on current penalties

Videos of Pritam Singh going from court to Parliament, and taking photos with the public in between, have gone viral, and online reactions show his public image is still holding strong. But let’s be real: he’s playing the political game. With his conviction now under appeal, we ask: Should Pritam keep fighting, or is this the point to step back and be the Leader of the Opposition in peace?(05:20) Pritam Singh’s convinction appeal(10:25) Optics of Pritam(17:58) Mandatory caning for scammers(21:52) ACS vs The Straits Times(24:55) Chick-fil-A coming to Singapore?!

The 47th ASEAN Summit gave us plenty of unforgettable moments, and we’ve ranked them from least to most memorable. But here’s the thing, Trump seems to pop up in almost every highlight, from dancing with Anwar to letting PMX ride in the Beast. Makes you wonder: was this summit a masterclass in bootlicking Trump?(01:40) Our listicle of best moments from the ASEAN Summit(08:40) Nominating Trump for Nobel Peace Prize(12:30) Timor Leste in ASEAN(16:55) Funny ASEAN Summit moments(23:15) Trump “almost got” into prison(27:12) RTM’s mistakes

As the Deepavali weekend winds down, the news cycle may be quiet but Singapore still has one major headline. The 3 women behind the pro-Palestine walk, Amirah Asrori, Annamalai Kolika, and Sobikun Nahar, have been acquitted. While many celebrate them as heroes of local activism, lawyer Rahman argues the real hero is the judge. Still, with the AGC appealing the decision, this case may be far from over.(01:10) Is the holiday mood kicking in?(03:47) Keeping up with international news(06:00) Acquittal of the 3 activists behind Pro-Palestine walk(14:22) Bad optics for Singapore(18:10) Favourite Indian foods

The Israel-Hamas hostage exchange marks the biggest breakthrough in the ceasefire yet, and Trump’s taking the credit with his 20-point peace plan. But in Singapore, netizens don’t seem to care. Some are even calling out the media’s double standards: Israelis are “hostages,” Palestinians are “detainees.” So, the big question is: does Trump’s plan actually bring peace, or is it all just wayang?(00:35) Singapore’s response to Trump’s 20-point peace plan(05:05) What exactly is this peace plan?(08:15) Indonesian President Prabowo’s ‘hot mic’ incident(11:05) How Israel’s attack on Qatar led to this ceasefire(11:45) Predictions for the future

Parliament got heated this week, and just like in GE2025, the Malay-Muslim community found itself in the crossfire. Shanmugam delivered a lengthy speech referencing Noor Deros and his meeting with Workers Party’s Malay-Muslim candidates, warning of the dangers of identity politics and the mixing of race and religion. But with little reaction online, do Singaporeans even care?(01:10) Watching Parliament for 3 hours?!(03:15) Why bring up the Noor Deros issue again?(05:35) Malay-Muslim community during GE2025(10:37) Identity politics in Singapore(12:32) Conclusion of Parliament session

This year’s F1 Singapore Grand Prix wasn’t just about the races, it came with its share of controversies. From crowds stranded after the MRT ends its service to the Petronas CEO’s champagne celebration that’s stirred debate online among Malaysians, questioning if it’s appropriate for a Muslim to join in. It’s got us wondering, is conservatism on the rise?(2:00) Problems with F1(4:15) Petronas CEO’s champagne showers(10:15) Conservatism in Singapore vs Malaysia(12:10) Previous controversies with foreign artists

The Ministry of Education’s recent move to adopt central kitchen models in school canteens has stirred fears among vendors worried about their livelihoods. But Rayner from Hearty Green Vegetables - famous for introducing Japan’s school bento culture to Singapore - sees things differently. Despite admitting that daily revenue can dip to just $100–200, he revealed his “secrets” for staying relevant and motivated in a changing landscape.(01:25) Say hi to Rayner from Hearty Green Vegetales!(04:30) What is “clean food?”(10:45) MOM’s switch to central kitchen model(14:45) Rayner’s exit plan(18:00) Balancing passion and practicality in careers

UK, Canada, Portugal have recognised Palestine. But what about Singapore? In Parliament this week, Foreign Minister Balakrishnan finally set out our position — and it comes with strings attached. But here’s the real question: even if Singapore does recognise Palestine, will it matter at all, when international law is already being trampled on everywhere?(02:10) What’s happening in Parliament?(09:30) Will the recognition of Palestine change anything?(12:00) Palestine shouldn’t be a Malay-Muslim issue(15:25) The global order faces chaos

Conservative podcaster Charlie Kirk’s assassination highlights how political discourse in the US has turned increasingly intolerant. Could Singapore face a similar future? Unlikely — not because we’re more accepting of extremism but because our laws swiftly curb such speech. Still, as the world grows darker, one question remains: what future are we heading toward?(00:30) Charlie Kirk’s assassination(02:50) Different forms of radicalisation(07:54) “Free speech” in Singapore(11:05) World’s response to Kirk’s death(13:23) Future of the world(16:05) Our Surabaya trip

Singapore’s Parliament has just opened with President Tharman pushing a bold “We First” agenda. But what does this mean for a society already known for its competitive edge? On this episode, we question whether systems like PSLE and university admissions clash with the spirit of collective progress, to debating viral flashpoints like the GoJek driver blasting music. We dive deep into the tensions between locals and migrants, the struggles of service workers trying to keep their dignity, and what it all says about where Singapore is headed.[0:40] Opening of 15th Parliament with a "Expats need to respect singaporean culture before living here" mindset[7:50] Gojek driver blasting music[9:58] Understanding Singaporean culture[13:06] Struggles of service industry workers

Recently, Singapore grabbed international headlines — but not for the right reasons. What began as the cancellation of American comedian Sammy Obeid’s show quickly escalated into a messy clash with the Singapore government, culminating in a POFMA order. Was Obeid simply chasing attention, or did the government make things worse by doubling down and fanning the flames?(02:57) Heartwarming efforts to search for 11-year-old boy(09:15) Indonesian riots(13:15) Southeast Asians sending food and aid via Grab(16:22) Anti-Chinese sentiment in Indonesia?(21:21) Sammy Obeid saga

Shocking recordings of Primary 3 students threatening “I might dissect her into pieces” and “kill you and your husband” have rattled Singapore, raising fears about bullying among children. We get to the heart of the problem with Senior Clinical Psychologist Muhammad Haikal, who says bullying can affect anyone, but a child’s home environment is often the biggest contributor to such behaviour.(01:50) Say hello to Muhammad Haikal, Senior Clinical Psychologist! (05:10) Why do children become bullies?(08:20) Do certain household environments contribute to bullying?(12:15) Gentle parenting(14:28) Ways schools should deal with bullying

Syed Saddiq has closer ties to Singapore than many realise. A brief stint at NUS’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy gave him a deep respect for Singapore’s founding father - especially regarding Malaysia-Singapore relations. With the RTS line set to strengthen connections, Saddiq sees plenty of ways the two countries can complement each other… but what exactly are they?(02:00) Say hello to Syed Saddiq!(04:44) Grit to continue being a politician(14:25) Saddiq’s plan to change Malaysia’s system(19:45) Young people not loyal to a single party?(26:40) Modern politics turning off older voters(30:25) The future of Malaysia(40:40) Sentiment of JohoriansWatch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/446GgVlu0fE

Many found this year’s National Day Rally a little boring — but two announcements stood out: the new Singapore College of Islamic Studies and the looming threat of AI on jobs. PM Lawrence Wong insists Singaporeans will remain the priority. But can they really, when it seems AI might even replace our asatizah in the future?(00:30) National Day Rally 2025(08:18) Treat of AI for jobs(09:55) Vaping crackdown(14:30) Plans for Northern Singapore(20:20) ‘We First’ mindset