In this timely episode of Singapore Unpacked, host Liang Kaixin explores the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence (AI) on the integrity of Singapore’s electoral process. As advanced AI tools generate increasingly realistic deepfakes and AI-driven disinformation, concerns grow not only in global contexts — as seen in recent US elections — but also here at home. With the introduction of Singapore’s Elections (Integrity of Online Advertising) (Amendment) Bill, which bans deepfakes targeting election candidates, this episode asks whether regulatory measures alone will be enough to safeguard the democratic process and prevent digital manipulation from undermining public trust.

The episode is joined by Carol Soon, Associate Professor at the Department of Communications and New Media in the National University of Singapore, and Joel Lim, media entrepreneur and content creator at Zyrup Media. The discussion delves into the myriad ways AI influences politics — from generating misleading content that blurs the line between fact and fabrication, to the challenges posed by rapidly circulating misinformation on social platforms. Their conversation touches on recent examples such as the deepfake audio and video incidents from the US elections, highlighting how even low-cost AI tools can produce content that, unless carefully scrutinised, might sway voter opinions.

About our Guests:
Dr Carol Soon  
Associate Professor at the Department of Communications and New Media
National University of Singapore (NUS)
Dr Carol Soon is Associate Professor (Practice) at the Department of Communications and New Media in the National University of Singapore and Vice Chair of the Media Literacy Council. She is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Information Integrity and Adjunct Principal Scientist at the Centre for Advanced Technologies in Online Safety (CATOS). Her research interests are in media regulation and digital policy, social media governance, digital literacy and policy communication. 

Joel Lim 
Media entrepreneur and content creator at Zyrup Media
Experienced in media strategy and business development, Joel Lim specialise in building successful IP portfolios in the media and entertainment industry, and bring expertise in podcasting, video production, media strategy, business development, and team leadership.

As Managing Director (Business Development & Strategy) at ZYRUP Media, he leads growth initiatives and shape strategies across three key divisions: Zodapop (podcast network), ZYRUPMAG (digital magazine), and ZYRUP Studios (creative production). Joel Lim works with brands, influencers, and organisations to create impactful content and meaningful partnerships. He also hosts Political Prude: The Podcast, which reached #1 on the podcast chart on Spotify in Singapore.

Find Out More:
For those who wish to delve deeper into the conversation or share their perspectives on the evolving landscape of AI and elections, visit IPScommons.sg or follow IPS on Instagram @IPSsg. Stay tuned for more conversations that transform research into real-world policy stories.