Episodit
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What happens when the world throws you a crisis — or three — and you’re one of the people in charge of keeping the ship steady? In this episode, we sit down with Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong to unpack how Singapore responds to global turbulence, from pandemics to the most recent Geopolitical news.
DPM Gan co-chaired Singapore’s Multi-Ministry Taskforce during the COVID-19 pandemic — a defining period that tested not just our public health system, but our entire governance model. We dig into what it was like behind the scenes during those critical months: how decisions were made, what trade-offs had to be balanced, and what leadership under pressure really looks like.
But we don’t stop at COVID-19. We zoom out to the big picture — how does Singapore govern in an increasingly unstable world? This conversation explores how Singapore’s crisis management DNA is evolving — and why the choices our leaders make today will shape our place in the world tomorrow.
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This podcast is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or want to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
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Joel Lim – @limxjoel
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Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsg
Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GANKIMYONGPAGE
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gankimyong/
PMO: https://www.pmo.gov.sg/The-Cabinet/Mr-GAN-Kim-Yong
Chapters:
00:00 Opening
03:13 Welcoming DPM Gan Kim Yong
04:01 How Singapore Leaders Handle Crises
06:43 Learning from SARS
08:19 The Multi-Ministry Task Force "War Room"
09:59 Framework for Decision-Making
11:28 Biggest Challenges: Lack of Information & Communication
13:42 New Challenge: Navigating Social Media & Misinformation
16:19 Making Decisions with Trade-offs
20:16 COVID Response: Looking Back at What Went Right
24:17 COVID Response: Looking Back at What Could Be Better
26:12 Convincing the Private Sector to Work with the Government
27:58 Experience Working Under Four Prime Ministers
34:32 Personal Leadership Style
38:16 Listening to Two Sides During Crises
41:22 Managing Differences Within the Team
43:47 International Playing Field During COVID
46:30 Risk Assessment During Crises
50:28 Key Lessons Learned: Expect the Unexpected
53:10 Can AI Aid In Crisis Response in the Future?
55:41 How to Approach Crisis Preparedness?
58:37 Are the Next Leaders Ready to Handle Any Crisis?
01:00:36 Gan Kim Yong Takeaways as a Leader
01:04:21 End of Episode
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How does a small country like Singapore navigate its international relations at home and abroad? When global conflicts erupt, does a diverse country like Singapore have a say? To give us a broader perspective of what really goes into these decisions, we’re speaking with our very own Minister for Law and Home Affairs, K. Shamugam. Previously serving as Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister Shanmugam was instrumental in shaping Singapore’s foreign policies, engaging with global counterparts to address regional and international issues.
To enlighten us more about Singapore’s Geopolitical relations, we discussed the inner workings of Singapore’s political stance on global topics, the trade-offs being made, and how the government approaches various public sentiments at home. What is the significance of our voice as citizens? Well, Minister Shanmugam extends his candid thoughts on what it means to engage responsibly in a complex geopolitical climate.
Hit the 👍 button and make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes!
This podcast is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or want to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
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Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsg
Minister K. Shanmugam
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/k.shanmugam.page
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kshanmugam_/
PMO: https://www.pmo.gov.sg/The-Cabinet/Mr-K-Shanmugam
Chapters:
00:00 Opening
02:35 Welcoming Minister K. Shanmugam
03:25 The Current Geopolitical Climate & Why It Matters
05:19 Historical Context: The Post-WWII World Order
09:10 Examining The Shift In US Administration And The Potential Impacts
13:35 How Does Singapore Navigate Survival in Geopolitics
18:01 Clarifying Singapore's Stance On International Issues
22:33 Addressing The Risks Of Taking A Stand
24:41 The Principles Behind Diplomatic Relations
27:34 Online Discourse And Youth Expression
33:10 Managing Domestic Sentiments
34:07 Foreign Interference and Singapore’s Countermeasures
38:30 Why Foreign Policy Can Be Misunderstood
41:51 Final Takeaway: Navigating An Uncertain World
43:17 End of Episode
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Puuttuva jakso?
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In this episode, we explore a fundamental question: How do problems in Singapore evolve into policy?
Minister of State Sun Xueling joins us this episode to take us behind the scenes of policymaking in Singapore. From identifying complex challenges to formulating responses and adapting strategies over time, this episode charts the journey of policymaking, from big-picture thinking to real-world case studies. But it’s not just about the processes and frameworks. We also delve into her headspace as a policymaker, exploring her personal approach to leadership and decision-making, and how she balances trade-offs in a system that demands both speed and sensitivity.
This episode is designed to give listeners a fresh perspective on how Singapore works, offering a rare peek into the mindset of a policymaker and the human considerations behind national strategies.
Hit the 👍 button and make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes!
This podcast is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or want to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsg
Chapters:(00:00) Opening
(01:46) Welcoming Ms. Sun Xueling
(05:20) Where Does Policymaking Begin?
(08:22) How Does the Government Identify Urgent Needs?
(10:33) How Are Urgent vs. Long-Term Issues Addressed?
(19:29) Who Is Involved in Policymaking?
(22:15) Key Metrics to Assess Policy Effectivity
(30:00) Balancing Policy Implementation and Inclusivity
(35:32) Channels for Policy Feedback
(37:45) How Feedback Drives Changes or Policy Implementation
(44:18) How Are Policies Effectively Operationalised?
(49:46) Criteria of Legislating Policies
(52:42) How Policymaking Evolved Over the Years
(56:17) Key Principle that Guides Sun Xueling's Decision-Making
(56:50) Closing
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Singapore has a new British High Commissioner – but what exactly does the High Commissioner do? Sitting in the hot seat this episode is His Excellency Nik Mehta, who has taken over the role in July 2024. He has had a distinguished diplomatic career, including roles such as Political Counsellor in Malaysia, Deputy Ambassador at the British Embassy in South Korea, and Co-Champion for Race in the UK’s National Security Community. Among his notable achievements is his role in orchestrating the iconic meeting between Blackpink and the King.
In our conversation, we’ll explore how Singapore is navigating its colonial legacy today and the evolving discourse around colonialism. We’ll also delve into the role of the British High Commission and Mr. Mehta’s approach to his position. And, given the British High Commission’s links to the royals, we’ll see if he can share any behind-the-scenes stories about the British Royal Family.
Hit the 👍 button and make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes!
This podcast is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or want to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:Joel Lim – @limxjoelZYRUP Media – @zyrupmediaZodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgNik Mehta – @nikmehtafcdoBritish High Commission Singapore – @ukinsingapore
Chapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(02:33) Welcoming Nik Mehta(02:40) Working with Blackpink to Tackle Climate Change(08:15) What a British High Commissioner Does(11:50) How UK-SG Partnerships Benefit Singaporeans(13:43) Transitioning from One Government to Another(16:01) British Soft Power Today(17:35) The Concept of Soft Power(20:15) Becoming the British High Commissioner(24:00) Rubbing Shoulders with the Royals(25:59) Planning the Royal Family's Itinerary(28:33) Stories from Past Royal Visits to Singapore(31:19) Managing Media Speculation(34:31) Navigating Singapore’s Colonial History(41:33) Upcoming UK-Singapore Initiatives(43:00) Leveraging Celebrity Platforms for Greater Reach(47:29) Unexpected Career Turns and Diplomatic Challenges(52:10) Importance of Diversity Advocacy(55:19) Lessons from 20 Years of Diplomatic Experience(56:34) Nik’s Closing Words(57:59) Closing
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In a youth survey conducted recently, the rising cost of living is a significant issue for many young people in Singapore, with more than eight in 10 youths identifying it as a major concern. How should we understand and manage the rising cost of living, and what measures are Singapore taking?
Earlier this year, the annual Budget was announced by Minister for Finance (and now Prime Minister) Lawrence Wong. Does Budget 2024 address the pressures of the rising cost of living? How can it help? What is the Budget, beyond the vouchers and cash payouts that we get excited about?
We delve into these topics and more with esteemed economist Selena Ling, the Chief Economist and Head of Global Markets Research & Strategy at OCBC. Known for her insightful articles on policies and the economy, she offers logical, practical, and honest commentary.
For more information on Budget 2024, visit go.gov.sg/budget-2024-4.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or want to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(02:31) Welcoming Selena Ling(02:46) Discussion on the Rising Cost Of Living(04:57) Measures in Budget 2024(11:17) Delaying Life Milestones(17:44) Optimism in a High-Cost Environment(22:02) What the Annual Budget Is(25:49) The Budgeting Process(30:26) Youth Participation In Budget Discussions(33:23) Selena’s Take on Budget 2024(37:43) Finance Tips for Young Adults(40:36) Selena Ling’s Final Words(42:26) Closing
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We are capping this PE2023 series with a post-results analysis episode with someone we never expected to have on the show but are deeply honoured to host: Professor Tommy Koh. He is a Special Adviser at the Institute of Policy Studies at the National University of Singapore. He is also a diplomat, lawyer, professor and author who served as Singapore's Permanent Representative to the United Nations between 1968 and 1971.
In this episode, we pick Prof Koh’s brain on Mr. Tharman’s landslide victory, including the various reasons that led to the unexpectedly wide victory margin. We will also discuss what the future of Singapore with Mr. Tharman as President can look like.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or want to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(01:30) Welcoming Prof. Tommy Koh(01:44) Discussion on Tharman's Surprise Landslide Victory(05:48) Discussion on Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian(08:27) Discussion on Politicisation of the Presidential Election(10:40) Discussion on Whether The Results Show Support for PAP(12:00) Discussion on the Relevance of Race in Elections(14:37) Final Reflections on Results(15:25) Discussion on Tharman's Capabilities to Fulfil President Role(23:33) Discussion on Mrs. Tharman, Ms. Jane Ittogi(25:48) Discussion on Social Media and Election Campaigning(29:35) Discussion on Having an Optimistic Leader(31:33) Discussion on Future Challenges and Opportunities(35:00) Discussion on the President-Prime Minister Relationship(38:11) Prof Koh's Final Words(39:22) Closing
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As the campaign period draws to a close, let us recap and discuss the respective campaigns and happenings this Presidential Election. Joining us in this episode is Associate Professor of Law at Singapore Management University and renowned political analyst Mr Eugene Tan.
We will discuss the intricacies of their campaign strategies, the respective issues they prioritise, and the underlying ideologies that shape their campaigns. Eugene will also use his deep understanding of the political sphere to navigate the nuances of the campaigns of the Presidential hopefuls.
This episode is intended to be the second of a two-part review. For the first part that was released concurrently. Watch "Ep 6: Winning the Youth Vote With Nicholas Teo, Megan Chia and Zalelo".
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(01:15) Welcoming Assoc. Prof. Eugene Tan(03:50) Discussion on Campaign Slogans and Messages(08:16) Discussion on Symbols(14:53) Key Takeaways from the CNA Forum(19:35) Social Media and Campaigning(32:38) Discussion on Tan Kin Lian’s Declining ST Interview(35:18) “Independence” as a Key Election Issue(43:15) Discussion on “TriTans” and Ng Kok Song’s Response(53:15) Discussion on Tharman as the Front-runner(01:02:40) Key Considerations for Voters(01:07:41) Closing
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As we approach the end of the campaigning period of the 2023 Presidential Election, we reflect on everything that has transpired since Nomination Day to the present. In the first of a two-part review of the campaigns, we have invited three first-time voters (and listeners of this podcast!), Megan Chia, Nicholas Teo, and Zalelo, to share their views on the respective campaigns and candidates.
While the previous episodes are more structured, this no-holds-barred episode is meant to be more candid and open-ended; it is intended to mirror the intimate (and raw!) dinner conversations among friend groups that take place on the ground.
For the second part, watch "Ep 7: Campaign Recap: A Closer Look with Assoc. Prof. Eugene Tan".
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsg
Megan Chia – @meggychiaaaa
Nicholas Teo – @hargaohunk
Zalelo – @iamzaleloMegan’s Back of the Party episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mBy4SiZCKvF6XymGDtyCO?si=2c1a6622da6946e5
Chapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(01:20) Welcoming Guests(03:15) Discussion on Tharman(18:03) Discussion on Ng Kok Song(37:52) Discussion on Tan Kin Lian(49:25) Discussion on Tan Cheng Bock’s Endorsement(55:01) Is There Still a Clear Front-runner?(58:25) Final Thoughts: What They’re Basing Their Votes On(1:01:52) Closing
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The final presidential hopeful joining us is Mr. Ng Kok Song, best known as the former Chief Investment Officer of GIC between 2007 and 2013. GIC manages Singapore's foreign reserves. He was also director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore between 1985 and 1986, and the founder of asset management company Avanda Investment Management. Mr. Ng announced his intention to run for the presidency in July alongside his campaign slogan, “United for our Future”.
As the CIO of GIC, his insights and decisions have been instrumental in managing a key part of the nation's financial assets. Yet, with a relatively low public profile until now, Mr. Ng’s biggest challenge this election is to allow Singaporeans to get to know him better, especially since he is going up against a highly-popular politician with years of experience under his belt, and a former presidential candidate with a sizable social media presence.
Over the next hour, we will get to know more about Mr. Ng's experience and character, his friendship with the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, as well as his life beyond finance. Lastly, we will ask him why young voters should vote for him.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(02:28) Welcoming Mr. Ng Kok Song(09:58) His Role and Experience in GIC(14:55) What His Presidency Can Look Like(19:03) Discussion on Meditation(24:39) Teaching Mr. Lee Kuan Yew How to Meditate(29:07) Discussion on Mr. Lee Kuan Yew(31:45) Growing Up Poor(34:44) Discussion on Mental Health & Happiness(37:05) His Relationship with His Fiancée, Sybil Lau(44:23) On George Yeo Becoming His Character Reference(47:55) His Campaign Slogan, "United for our Future" (51:22) Why Should Young Adults Vote For Him(52:30) Closing
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The next prospective presidential candidate joining us for a sit-down interview is a familiar name: Mr. Tan Kin Lian. He had contested in the 2011 Presidential Election and lost to Mr. Tony Tan. Now, 12 years later, he's putting on his boxing gloves and preparing for another round in the ring. This time, he's bringing a renewed sense of purpose and a surprising endorsement from a former competition, Mr. Tan Jee Say. For the 2023 Election, his campaign slogan is “Bring Back Trust, Give Us Hope”.
Mr. Tan was the former CEO of NTUC Income, a position he held for three decades from 1977 to 2007, and a one-time member of the PAP, leaving the party in 2008. His distinctive voice on Facebook has garnered widespread attention over the years, sometimes sparking controversy.
In this candid conversation, we discuss his attitude towards posting on Facebook, delve into the motivations behind his decision to re-enter the political arena and explore the reasons why he believes will secure his victory this time. Lastly, we ask him why he should get the votes of young voters.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(02:31) Welcoming Mr. Tan Kin Lian(02:54) Why Run For President Again?(03:44) Former Competitor Turned Proposer: Mr. Tan Jee Say(05:20) Timeline Of When He Decided To Run(08:01) Avoiding Splitting the "Non-Establishment Votes"(10:40) Revisiting the 2011 Presidential Election(12:52) Going Up Against Mr. Tharman(15:32) His Key Contributions Achievements(22:51) What He's Like As a Family Man(23:40) His Family Discouraging Him to Run(27:19) Working Relationship with Ong Teng Cheong(30:04) On Using Facebook (33:33) His Controversial Facebook Posts(37:00) His Campaign Slogan(38:38) Reaching Out To Young Voters(46:56) Why Should Young Adults Vote For Him(48:36) Closing
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Note: This episode was recorded before 18 Aug 2023, when it was announced by the Elections Department that Mr. George Goh was not issued the Certificate of Eligibility and therefore will not be able to contest in the upcoming presidential election.
In this episode, we’re joined by Mr. George Goh. He is an individual that wears many hats, most notably that of the founder of Harvey Norman Ossia, Singapore’s Non-Resident Ambassador to Morocco, and co-founder of Border Mission Limited, a self-funded charity. On 12 June 2023, the 63-year-old stepped forward to announce that he will be contesting the upcoming Presidential Election. He has also since launched his campaign with the slogan “One Chance for Change”, emphasising that his nomination will represent the opportunity for Singapore to welcome a president originating from the private sector.
Here, we will get to know Mr. Goh on a more intimate level. We’ll understand his philosophies and thought processes in various capacities: as a successful self-made entrepreneur responsible for businesses that have a total market valuation worth billions, a diplomat representing Singapore on a global level, and a family man. We’ll also ask him why he believes he should get the votes of young adults.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(03:10) Welcoming Mr. George Goh(03:27) Sizing Up the Competition(06:15) Strategy Behind Announcing Intention Early (10:14) Mr. Goh the Successful Entrepreneur(22:26) Mr. Goh the Non-Resident Ambassador to Morocco(23:53) His Personal Life(29:43) Tough Experiences Growing Up(33:55) What His Presidency Can Look Like(42:09) His English Proficiency(45:56) Addressing TikTok Controversies About His Businesses(47:46) His Election Campaign(56:48) Reaching Out To First-Time Voters(59:03) Why Should Young Adults Vote For Him(01:00:14) Closing
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The first Presidential hopeful joining us for a sit-down interview is former Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
He was the Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) before making his political debut in November 2001, after being elected to represent Jurong GRC as a Member of Parliament. Since then, Mr. Tharman has taken on various government roles, like Education Minister, Finance Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and finally Senior Minister.
On 8 June 2023, he announced that he intended to run in the 2023 Presidential Election, and would resign a month later from all his positions in government and as a member of the PAP. He has since announced his campaign slogan as well: “Respect For All”.
In today’s episode, we will find out more about his motivation behind running for Presidency, get to know him on a personal level outside of politics, find out the reasons why he believes he’s suited for the role, and lastly, ask him why he should get your vote.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(02:12) Welcoming Mr. Tharman(03:41) Turning Down Calls to Be Prime Minister(08:14) What His Presidency Can Look Like(16:01) Mr. Tharman’s Level of Confidence This Election(20:18) What He’s Like Outside of Politics(22:35) Mr. Tharman Curates a Music Playlist(29:07) His Past Key Contributions & Future Plans(33:10) His Campaign Slogan, “Respect For All”(36:54) On Migrant Workers and Transportation on Lorries(38:52) Elections and Campaigning(40:23) Reaching Out To First-Time Voters(44:55) Why Should Young Adults Vote For Him(46:16) Closing
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We kickstart this podcast with the first in a series of episodes dedicated to the 2023 Presidential Election.
Today, we delve into the role of the President in Singapore with guest, Dr. Gillian Koh, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, National University of Singapore.
Dr. Gillian sheds light on the multifaceted responsibilities of the President and we also explore the Singaporean government structure, the electoral system, and the significance of presidential elections and their impact on the nation's future. From revisiting past elections to providing tips for first-time voters, this episode also equips young voters with essential insights for understanding and participating in the 2023 Presidential Election.
If you're interested in partnerships, have general enquiries, or are looking to launch a podcast, reach out to us at [email protected]!
Follow on Instagram:
Joel Lim – @limxjoel
ZYRUP Media – @zyrupmedia
Zodapop by ZYRUP Media – @zodapopsgChapter Markers:(00:00) Opening(02:21) Welcoming Dr Gillian Koh(03:58) The Role of the President(09:04) Why We Vote for the President(12:05) Eligibility Rules for Presidential Candidates(16:40) Who’s Part of the Establishment?(21:31) The First Past the Post Electoral System(23:30) The Presidential Election Process(25:50) Revisiting Past Elections (2011 and 2017)(38:00) Tips for First-time Voters(44:39) Closing
