headspace #3
on tracking singapore politics, interesting articles, comfort shows, and more.
Hi friends,
Before I start, I just wanted to say hi, hello, and welcome to new subscribers! headspace is my newsletter segment that is still in its infancy, but if you want to get a gist of what this is, feel free to read the past two editions here:
As always, I’m trying my best to keep this concise. Here’s the round-up of what I’ve consumed, been obsessed with, and am thinking about lately. Enjoy!
LINKS
I’m keeping tabs on Singapore’s General Election (2025)
Last week (or was it the week before? Time flies), by the Singapore constitution, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong instructed President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to dissolve the nation’s 14th Parliament, setting the lead up to national elections to be held on May 3rd. With opposition parties gaining more traction in recent years, as evidenced by the rise of groups such as the Workers’ Party (WP), the incumbent People’s Action Party’s (PAP) majority share has shrunk slightly. I expect this election to yield results that follow this trend even more. Some publications and media sources I have been routinely checking are as follows:
Jom Media: I’ve mentioned this in my last letter, but I want to plug it again. Incredible academic-based writing and commentary, and a champion of slow journalism. Quality over quantity!
The Daily Ketchup Podcast: This is a new consumption! I discovered their episodes, where they frequently invite local politicians from all parties, and you can really get a view of their personalities, platforms, experiences, and aspirations. My favourites I’ve watched so far are The HARSH Reality of Being an Opposition MP in Singapore, and PM Wong Reveals His MBTI/New Life as PM and More!!
Channel News Asia (CNA): The regular news coverage of the campaign trail(s) leading up to election day.
Foreign Affairs Magazine (in print):
I picked up a print copy of F.A. ‘s March/April edition, titled “The Center Will Not Hold / How an Order Ends” at the airport flying out of Paris two weeks ago. I’ve still been making my way through it and have been an avid supporter of this publication since high school. If there’s any gift I could wish for, it would be a yearly subscription to their print editions.
Other articles I’ve consumed:
The United States State Department (yes, you read that right) is on Substack now? ~ it’s interesting to read what Sec. Rubio wrote about overhauling the entire government, especially how he views foreign affairs engagement. Personally, I vehemently disagree with the administration’s plans, however, found the comment section to generally be a place of political dialogue that has brought up important points.
Young Hollywood wants to be great. It’s why they’re saying no to franchises ~ By The Culture Stop. ~ a favourite piece of this week. I didn’t realize it before until this article pointed this trend out.
Self-Talk in Sports — Lando Norris versus Oscar Piastri ~ By pitstop with dish ~ I’ve been religiously watching Formula 1 this season so far, and just through media interviews, the differences between these two drivers' and their self-talk has impacted their driving. Looking forward to the next race!
THINGS
Substack Notes is where it’s at. I shared a trench coat on my wishlist that I tried on in Paris, and my morning ritual of making whatever funky flavoured matcha I’m craving to start my day.
Music: Addison Rae’s headphones on is on repeat. So is JENNIE’s new RUBY album (did not know until today she is a member of the famous kpop girl group Blackpink. I had to call my dad to hear the lore and learn who is who)
Movies: with Pope Francis’s sad passing yesterday, I kind of really really want to watch Conclave just for the vibes. I watched Game Night the other day and have since been making my way through…Phineas and Ferb…as I make dinner every night. I will die on the rock that this show is the best cartoon ever. Did you know there’s a new season coming to Disney this summer?!
LOOKING AHEAD
In the near future after I press publish on this post, I have to go grab my laundry (lol), and write 2500 words for my Religious Violence course.
Lastly, some personal exciting news may be coming soon, but nothing is confirmed yet. Until I know for sure, I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed.
Thanks for reading, and until next time!
I love that your dad was the one to tell you about BLACKPINK - that made me smile. I’m also completely in love with JENNIE’s album <3 I hope the cherry blossoms at the Meadows hold out a little longer… I haven’t managed to see them yet!