NUSS has long been committed to fostering thought leadership and civic engagement, most recently through its General Election Dialogue Series held in the lead-up to GE2025. With the elections concluding on 3 May, the series—organised in collaboration with Mothership—began on 8 April and featured representatives from the NMPs, PSP, and WP. It offered members timely opportunities to engage with key political voices and explore issues shaping Singapore’s future, and wrapped up with a post-election dialogue examining the results and their implications.
Revisiting the Role of NMPs in Shaping Singapore’s Future | 8 April 2025
Ms Anthea Ong (third from left) and Associate Professor Walter Theseira (fourth from left) on stage
NUSS welcomed Ms Anthea Ong and Associate Professor Walter Theseira, both former Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs), as panellists for the opening dialogue. Drawing from their time in Parliament, they shared insights on the origins, evolution, and continued relevance of the NMP scheme—introduced in 1990 to broaden representation and bring non-partisan perspectives into Parliament.
The session highlighted the role of independent voices in advocating for under-represented communities and enriching national discourse. Both speakers had previously participated in the 2023 dialogue, “What is the Parliament that Singaporeans Deserve in the Next 50 Years?” The discussion prompted active participation from members, who raised thoughtful questions on civic responsibility, inclusivity, and Singapore’s democratic development.
Dialogue with the Workers’ Party: Vision, Strategy, and Political Realities | 25 April 2025
Workers’ Party (WP) representatives Mr Yee Jenn Jong (L) and Mr Jasper Kuan (R)
At the second NUSS X The Mothership Podcast session, Workers’ Party (WP) representatives Mr Yee Jenn Jong and Mr Jasper Kuan outlined their vision for a more balanced and representative Parliament, addressing key issues such as the cost of living, healthcare, and the need for greater policy transparency. They stressed the importance of a constructive opposition in strengthening Singapore’s democratic institutions and fostering accountability.
The dialogue also covered WP’s strategic choice to withdraw from Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC due to boundary changes and limited resources, resulting in a walkover for the PAP. Instead, WP will contest Tampines GRC, highlighting the tactical considerations smaller parties must navigate in Singapore’s evolving political landscape.
Dialogue with the Progress Singapore Party: Fresh Perspectives from the Progress Singapore Party | 28 April 2025
Representatives from the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), Mr Jeffrey Khoo (L) and Ms Stephanie Tan (R)
The third session featured representatives from the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), Mr Jeffrey Khoo and Ms Stephanie Tan, who spoke on empowering citizens and enhancing policy transparency. Discussions focused on CPF reform, job security, housing affordability, and recalibrating public institutions for future generations. PSP advocated bold, forward-looking approaches and open dialogue on social equity and national planning, resonating with members seeking fresh policy ideas and people-first governance.
Ms Stephanie Tan, a former legal counsel at the Ministry of Defence who paused her career in 2016 to care for her two children, shared insights from Singapore Votes 2025: The Roundtable on balancing local and foreign hires and the value of diverse life experiences in politics.
In a lighter moment, Mr Jeffrey Khoo, a Xinyao Champion in 1987, shared his passion for music and recent participation in the 2025 edition of 黄金年华之斗ćŚç«žč‰ş (Golden Age Talentime).
Post-GE2025 Dialogue: Reflections and the Road Ahead | 20 May 2025
Political observers Dr Gillian Koh (L) and Associate Professor Walid Jumblatt Abdullah (R)
NUSS, in collaboration with Mothership, hosted a timely post-election dialogue featuring political observers Dr Gillian Koh and Associate Professor Walid Jumblatt Abdullah. The final session explored the GE2025 results, their implications, and Singapore’s future under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
Dr Koh, also the editor of Commentary on Singapore, a publication by NUSS, and Assoc Prof Walid shared sharp insights on voter sentiment, political shifts, and evolving national priorities.
As Singapore enters a new political chapter, NUSS extends its appreciation to all speakers and participants for their insights and engagement. The Society remains dedicated to providing a platform for thoughtful, balanced conversations that contribute to shaping the nation’s future.
For those who missed the sessions, the NUSS X Mothership Podcast episodes are available for viewing on NUSS’ YouTube channel and social media platforms. Do check them out!
