Jom presents: The Neighbourhood Boy
This podcast investigates the rise of Lawrence Wong, Singapore's fourth prime minister, exploring his background as a leader from a so-called “neighbourhood school” and the challenges he faces. Host Jean Hew interviews schoolmates, colleagues, political competitors, and ordinary Singaporeans to piece together his story. The series consists of four episodes, premiering on 7 August 2026 and releasing weekly every Friday. It is presented by Jom, a weekly magazine about Singapore.
Episodes
4. Akan datang
What does the General Election 2025 tell us about Lawrence the politician, and Lawrence, the leader? And what do the results mean for the future of the PAP, and Singapore?---Annotated transcript available here.If you enjoyed the show, read “Lawrence’s stunning success”, our GE2025 analysis. And please support our work. It’s the only way we can stay independent and keep making podcasts. You’ll also
3. Growth at what cost?
Singapore’s remarkable economic success masks deep inequalities in what’s sometimes called a “first-world country with a third-world wage structure”. Related issues that Lawrence Wong will have to contend with are the public housing conundrum, as well as low fertility and high immigration.---Annotated transcript available here.If you enjoyed the show, read “Lawrence’s stunning success”, our GE2025
2. Party games
Ten years ago, many other men were ahead of Lawrence Wong in the race to become Singapore’s fourth prime minister. How did he pip them?---Annotated transcript available here.If you enjoyed the show, read “Lawrence’s stunning success”, our GE2025 analysis. And please support our work. It’s the only way we can stay independent and keep making podcasts. You’ll also get access to our full library of c
1. Ah boy to man
Who exactly is Lawrence Wong? A schoolmate, grad school friend, colleague, political opponent, and subordinate help give us a sense of the man. Their stories depict his progress from “neighbourhood” school to ministerial office.---Annotated transcript available here.If you enjoyed the show, read “Lawrence’s stunning success”, our GE2025 analysis. And please support our work. It’s the only way we c
Jom presents: The Neighbourhood Boy — Trailer
Who exactly is Lawrence Wong, Singapore’s fourth prime minister? How did he rise to become the city-state’s first leader from a so-called “neighbourhood school” (rather than an elite one)? And what are the challenges Singapore and he will face in the coming years? Host Jean Hew seeks answers to these questions through interviews with his schoolmates, colleagues, and political competitors, as well
