We got Entomologist Foo Maosheng in our studio today to talk about the new cockroach species he discovered in Singapore & named after a Pokemon! We covered this story back in May 2023 (YLB #374), and now we get to hear about his love for creepy crawlies, the passion for Pokemon shared by him & his co-author and his estimate that we’ve only discovered about 30% of the insects in Singapore! A big thanks to Foo Maosheng, Entomologist from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National ...
Jun 27, 2023•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 414
The entire world has been riveted by the search and rescue effort for the missing Titanic submersible, but some have already started questioning the apparent lack of safety features on the underwater tourist vessel. We take a look at whether their critiques are justified. Closer to home, Singapore plays host to the inaugural Olympic Esports Week, which has riled up some in the gaming community for the exclusion of some of the most popular Esports games. Why the discontent? Find us here! YLB Subr...
Jun 22, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 413
Last week, Ho Ching, PM Lee’s wife, ignited online debate after posting a lengthy Facebook post about the role of the President in Singapore’s political infrastructure. What did she say that caused such a ruckus? Elsewhere, a man knocked on doors along Nassim Road, with the intention to interview “owners from the richest neighbourhood in Singapore” for his TikTok video. Why did his actions rub so many people the wrong way? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory If you...
Jun 20, 2023•58 min•Ep. 412
With Haresh away this week, comedian Rishi Budhrani steps in to be the supersub once again! And the timing couldn’t have been better, as we talk about the ongoing fallout from the Jocelyn Chia controversy, and how the local standup comedy scene is feeling about this incident. Rishi also weighs in on entrepreneur George Goh’s announcement of his intention to run against Tharman for President. Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory If you’re looking for a meaningful gif...
Jun 14, 2023•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 411
[NOTE: This podcast was recorded 2 weeks ago, on 30 May 2023] Marathoner Soh Rui Yong, fresh from his men’s 10,000m medal win and viral show of sportsmanship at the SEA Games in Cambodia, joined us in the YLB studio to talk candidly about the entire experience back in Singapore colours. Find us here! YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory If you’re looking for a meaningful gift, we’d love to help you create a personal podcast for a loved one. Get started at Folklory.com ! Article Links SEA Games...
Jun 12, 2023•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 410
This week, Singapore-born comedian Jocelyn Chia incurred the wrath of furious Malaysians after posting a video of her stand-up comedy performance, in which she insulted Malaysia and made a joke about the missing airliner MH370. Government officials from both countries have released statements, protests have been planned, and even other comedians, like Dr. Jason Leong, are facing blowback from this incident. Was the joke really THAT bad? Also, Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam announced his ...
Jun 09, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 409
This past week, ex-NMCP Daniel Goh announced his expulsion from the Workers’ Party. While it was not unexpected, we discuss what this move means for public perception of the internal workings of the WP. Elsewhere, MP Sun Xueling shared a Punggol resident’s rude and vulgar email addressed to her, underlining the needlessness of verbal abuse in giving feedback. However, we questioned the need for her post, as it might have unintended consequences. Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB ...
Jun 05, 2023•56 min•Ep. 408
From 1st June, tray and crockery return will be more strictly enforced by enforcement officers in Singapore. What changes are expected, and will it make a material difference in making Singapore a more gracious society? Elsewhere, a migrant worker won a life-changing amount of money in a Squid Game-inspired company dinner and dance event. Why are there mixed feelings on the internet about the event? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory If you’re looking for a meanin...
Jun 01, 2023•57 min•Ep. 407
This week, President Halimah Yacob announced that she will not stand for re-election in the 2023 Presidential Election. What does this mean for the presidential race ahead? Elsewhere, it was also announced that all national servicemen in the Singapore Armed Forces, Police Force and Civil Defence Force will receive an increase in their National Service (NS) allowance. Was this increase warranted, and more importantly, is it enough? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklor...
May 30, 2023•55 min•Ep. 406
On the back of announcing record annual profits, Singapore Airlines is reintroducing elements of its in-flight dining experience, such as appetisers for economy class meals and hot towels, which were removed during the pandemic. Why the sudden change of course? Elsewhere, the Football Association of Singapore acting president made a number of announcements that underline the necessity for change in the country’s most popular sport. While these changes won’t reverse the national team’s abysmal sh...
May 27, 2023•56 min•Ep. 405
This past week, a COVID-stricken PM Lee ordered an independent review of the Ridout Road situation to address the allegations that have arisen over the matter. How did a blogpost by an opposition politician escalate to this? Elsewhere, a Singaporean influencer has drawn flak for uploading a video showing how to manipulate IKEA’s ice cream machines to dispense more ice cream than the usual portion. Why has this “hack” drawn such strong reactions? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB ...
May 24, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 404
Education Minister Chan Chun Sing spoke to students and staff at Raffles Institution’s bicentennial lecture this week, and emphasised that RI has a duty to bring others along and let more benefit. We break down the speech and why it’s representative of the times we live in. Elsewhere, Protected Area signs in Singapore will be getting a facelift, with a new silhouette that more accurately represents what a guard looks like. Why the sudden change? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB ...
May 17, 2023•53 min•Ep. 403
Last Friday evening, the Singapore Land Authority responded to a series of blogposts from opposition politician Kenneth Jeyaratnam that questioned how Ministers K Shanmugam and Vivian Balakrishnan came to occupy two huge state-owned colonial bungalows on Ridout Road. We break down SLA’s response, and examine why this house rental issue is generating a lot of buzz on social media. Elsewhere, many Blackpink fans were left disappointed with their concert experience on the Singapore leg of the band’...
May 15, 2023•59 min•Ep. 402
Singapore won its first SEA Games e-sport gold medal, but the win was mired in controversy. We break down the spat between the Singapore and Indonesian teams, and discuss if there could have been any other outcome. Elsewhere, a man took to social media to call out a bazaar stall that hired a tudung-wearing employee, but was selling pork satay, even prompting MUIS to respond to the issue. Is the anger directed at the stall justified? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Singa...
May 12, 2023•54 min•Ep. 401
This week, NCMP Leong Mun Wai proposed that the government set aside $1 million for a parliamentary research department, among other proposals for more resources to help parliamentarians. While the idea was shot down, were there any merits in his suggestions? At the same parliamentary session, MP Edwin Tong also defended the need for buskers to undergo live auditions annually. Why is this a big sticking point for the busking community? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Fo...
May 10, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 400
King Charles’ coronation, a historic moment for the British monarchy, was the talk of the town this past weekend, but much of the attention was directed at Prince Harry and his demeanour at the ceremony. What stood out, and do people actually care about the royal family? Closer to home, people also scrutinized an exhibit at the National Gallery that featured live chickens, asking about the welfare of the animals involved. Does this exhibit run a-fowl of any ethical considerations? Find us here! ...
May 08, 2023•52 min•Ep. 399
IN DPM Lawrence Wong’s May Day Rally, he spoke about how Singapore can prevail in a changing world, and also touched on the hot topic of rising housing prices. How did he fare in his first May Day Rally as PM-in-waiting? Elsewhere, some condos have banned or restricted access to delivery riders. Is this a trend that will continue even as deliveries become part and parcel of daily life? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory Get 30% off with code “MOTHERSDAY30” on Folk...
May 04, 2023•56 min•Ep. 398
This past week, popular GP tutor Brooke Lim was revealed by an anonymous TikTok account to have plagiarised others’ content for a blogpost she wrote. This has led to an apology video, international news coverage, and a firestorm of vitriol directed at her. Why has this issue become such a big deal ? Elsewhere, Netflix has also drawn the ire of Egyptians, with the revelation that the historical figure Cleopatra will be played by a black actress in an upcoming Netflix documentary. Why the outrage?...
Apr 28, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 397
Last week, only 30 names were put up for consideration for Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) positions, the lowest number since 2001. Why are so few people applying for this prestigious parliamentary position? Elsewhere, a dispute between an LA party organiser and a Singapore venue management company has made international news, as the plug was pulled on an LGBT party that was scheduled for May at the Capitol Theatre. We break down the controversy, and discuss whether it was a clear-cut case ...
Apr 24, 2023•53 min•Ep. 396
This past week, the Charles & Keith girl had to post a video refuting the claims that she’s been less than honest about her family’s financial background. Why was it necessary? Elsewhere, a Singapore company sued an engineer who quit after getting his bonus, looking to claw the money back. While they ultimately won the case, we debate whether it’s fair for the company to resort to this legal action. Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory Get 30% off with code “MOT...
Apr 21, 2023•53 min•Ep. 395
Performer and writer Jo Tan comes by our studio to spill the beans about her brief stint as a DJ on SPH’s Kiss92 FM radio station. Why did she jump into it, despite her reservations? What made her quit? And what does she want to say about the experience via her new play, Happy Place? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Folklory If you’re looking for a meaningful gift, we’d love to help you create a personal podcast for a loved one. Get started at Folklory.com ! One Shiok Th...
Apr 19, 2023•1 hr 36 min•Ep. 394
Son of Ex-Changi Airport Group Chairman Jailed for Lying Karl Liew, son of ex-Changi Airport Group chairman, gets jail for lying to judge in Parti Liyani's trial No apology from Karl Liew or his family, says Parti Liyani who 'lost reputation and money' after false theft claims - TODAY Statement From Parti Liyani Singapore jails son of ex-Changi Airport boss for lying to judge that family’s helper stole his clothes | South China Morning Post Timeline: How former maid Parti Liyani was acquitted of...
Apr 17, 2023•55 min•Ep. 393
Dee Kosh finally released a 51-minute tell-all video in which he finally talks about his conviction for sexual offences. Reactions on social media have mostly been positive, but some have also called him out for jumping back onto social media so quickly. Why the mixed reactions? Elsewhere, a 12-year-old boy was caught after allegedly stealing a private bus and taking it for a joyride over 100km around Singapore. The reaction from the bus operator company, however, was surprising. Find us here! Y...
Apr 15, 2023•59 min•Ep. 392
The Dalai Lama is facing a huge backlash after a video of him kissing a child on the lips and telling him to “suck my tongue” at a public event went viral. Was it really just a playful gesture, or does it point to something more sinister? In Seoul, Singapore livestreamer Kiaraakitty was stopped by Korean police for “having her boobs out”. Was she really breaking any laws with her provocative outfit? Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Links for “She’s a Terrorist & I Lo...
Apr 12, 2023•53 min•Ep. 391
Marathoner Soh Rui Yong is back to represent Singapore at the upcoming Sea Games again! He talks about how he stayed motivated in the past few years, the difference between sports in Singapore and the UK, as well as what he hopes to do after his running career comes to a close. Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG YLB YouTube Links for “She’s a Terrorist & I Love Her” Full series on YouTube Reddit AMA Liquidation Lethargy: The Local Filmmakers HOOQ Abandoned In Debt Filmmakers trapp...
Apr 08, 2023•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 390
This week, Donald Trump was indicted in a Manhattan court with 34 felony charges in a historic move that has polarised the nation. We discuss the ramifications of the American justice system starting criminal proceedings against an ex-president. Closer to home, a survey has found that a higher percentage of Singapore residents now return their trays after finishing their meals at food centres, and not just because of the new fines that were implemented last year. Are we really becoming a more co...
Apr 05, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 389
A recent CNA poll revealed that 80% of 500 Singapore-born citizens surveyed were in favour of an English test being part of the country’s citizenship application process. As this was the core of one of our more contentious YLB episodes in recent memory, what are our thoughts about this new poll? Also, we answer the burning questions on Reddit that listeners had about our recent revelations about the HOOQ liquidation, and how it’s affected us since. Find us here! YLB Subreddit YLB TikTok YLB IG Y...
Apr 03, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 388
On Wednesday, FIFA stripped Indonesia of their hosting rights of this year's Under-20 World Cup, after a series of protests against Israel’s participation in the tournament, and several government officials’ refusal to welcome the Israeli football team. How did the situation reach such a breaking point? Closer to home, Minister Sim Ahn was criticised for disrupting a live music performance at the Esplanade when she entered the venue and started greeting people in the audience. Was she really bei...
Mar 31, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 387
This past week, the organisers of a Ramadan bazaar in Woodlands had to step in to stop the sale of pork at some of its stalls. Is it really that big of a deal that there were non-Halal stalls selling pork at a pasar malam? Elsewhere, the city of Amsterdam launched a campaign to discourage rowdy tourists looking for drugs, alcohol and parties from visiting their city; the campaign is literally named “Stay Away”. Will this campaign help to change the image of Amsterdam as Europe’s party central? F...
Mar 29, 2023•53 min•Ep. 386
This past week, jobs portal Indeed announced that they would be cutting 120 employees from their Singapore office. One of their laid off employees then filmed himself on TikTok raiding the pantry’s snack shelf on a ‘final office snack run’, which won him supporters and detractors in equal measure. Who’s right? Also, on the 3-year anniversary of the HOOQ liquidation, we’re finally going public with the details of what happened to us and our TV show, “She’s A Terrorist And I Love Her”. This is as ...
Mar 27, 2023•54 min•Ep. 385
