The Business Times (BT) has introduced a new podcast channel called “Lens On,” aimed at exploring significant issues affecting Singapore and the surrounding region. The inaugural series, “Lens on Singapore,” hosted by podcast editor Claressa Monteiro and podcast correspondent Howie Lim, promises to deliver monthly episodes that delve into the implications of global developments, societal shifts, and government policies on the city-state.

In its first episode, launched on July 17, 2023, Monteiro engaged with several experts to discuss the ongoing comparison between Singapore and Hong Kong, a topic that remains a point of contention.

In an interview, Monteiro provided insights into the motivation behind the series and the production efforts involved. She explained that the need for a current affairs podcast arose from BT’s existing strong foundation in business, investment, and market content. The goal is to complement this with broader current affairs discussions.

Monteiro highlighted that substantial effort went into producing the first episode and emphasized the connection between business and current events. She noted, “Business and investment decisions are intrinsically tied to geopolitical, societal, and policy issues,” indicating the series’ intention to present a comprehensive overview for listeners.

When selecting topics, the focus will be on issues relevant to Singaporeans while also being relatable to the broader ASEAN community. Topics such as climate change and food security, which transcend national boundaries, will also be covered.

The “Lens on Singapore” podcast aims to fill a gap in BT’s podcast offerings by shifting the focus from finance and investment to broader societal issues. Monteiro and Lim’s background as seasoned broadcast journalists will contribute to the depth of discussion in this new format.

Acknowledging the growing popularity of “audio news story” podcasts, Monteiro expressed optimism about the potential audience for “Lens on Singapore.” She aims for the podcast to become a go-to source for thought-provoking content that resonates with a wide audience.