Who We Are

The Online Citizen (TOC) is an independent media platform committed to critical journalism, investigative reporting, and commentary on power, policy, and society—anchored in Singapore’s civic experience and expanded to a broader Asia-Pacific lens.

Founded in Singapore in December 2006, TOC was the country’s longest-running independent news site, known for challenging mainstream narratives and prioritising public accountability. In 2021, regulatory pressure from Singapore’s authorities forced TOC to cease operations in the country.

Now based in Taiwan, TOC continues publishing from a new vantage point. While Singapore remains a key reference point in our work, our editorial scope has broadened to cover regional issues that transcend borders, including civil liberties, labour rights, disinformation, and geopolitical shifts across the Asia-Pacific.

Our Mission

At TOC, we believe independent journalism plays a vital role in any society striving for transparency, justice, and accountability.

We aim to:

  • Examine critical issues that impact democratic societies and civic life

  • Reflect diverse ideas, perspectives, and underrepresented voices

  • Challenge censorship and promote open, inclusive discourse

  • Provide investigative reporting on matters of public interest

  • Connect regional developments to the everyday realities of people across Asia

Our History

  • 2006 — TOC is founded in Singapore to provide alternative perspectives and challenge mainstream media narratives.

  • 2020 — TOC broadens its coverage under The Online Citizen Asia.

  • 2021 — Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) suspends TOC’s class licence, forcing its closure in Singapore.

  • 2022 — TOC’s operations move to Taiwan under Miaoyi Infotech Ltd, restoring the ability to publish independently.

  • July 2023 — TOC is designated a Declared Online Location (DOL) under Singapore’s POFMA, restricting funding through key platforms.

  • June 2024 — Gutzy Asia, a spinoff launched by TOC’s editorial team, is also declared a DOL. TOC subsequently discontinues the “Asia” branding and focuses on rebuilding under its original name—while maintaining a wider regional lens from Taiwan.

  • September 2025 — Heidoh, a multilingual, AI-assisted news site, was launched on a CMS designed to leverage technology to scale reporting across Asia and beyond.

The Present and Future

TOC is led by Terry Xu, supported by a small editorial team and a group of committed volunteers.

While we continue to report on Singapore where relevant, our focus has expanded to include broader Asia-wide issues—particularly those involving freedom of expression, regional governance, cross-border trade, social justice, and the consequences of global power dynamics.

TOC is no longer limited by Singapore’s operational constraints. While some of our legacy channels remain designated as DOLs, readers can still follow and support our work on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, which are not restricted.

We remain committed to independent journalism—without fear or favour, and without borders.