In 2012, after a pay cut of some 30-50%, Singapore political leaders are earning around S$1million annual incomes. Some justify paying for the talent from the private sector, while others say this can help keep corruption at bay.
As logical as the reasons sound, many Singaporeans feel the sum is too high. I have no strong opinion on this. However, I agree with the government's statement that once given (payouts), it is hard to take back. Giving is always easier than taking away, because humans are inherently loss-aversion. That is why we do not have unemployment handouts. I believe the same situation applies for our ministerial pays. It reach this stage where Singaporeans are not happy about, and taking away makes those that entered for the money sick.
This the nation as it is. We value quality, talent, achievements, material gains. Like many things in Singapore, money is used, as like baby bonuses and military scholarships. Everything must be fast, efficient, now, and world-class. Our changing education system is suppose to place more emphasis on virtues and morals. This is the story we tell our kids. Yet, parents of some of our kids are split between money and their nations.
As logical as the reasons sound, many Singaporeans feel the sum is too high. I have no strong opinion on this. However, I agree with the government's statement that once given (payouts), it is hard to take back. Giving is always easier than taking away, because humans are inherently loss-aversion. That is why we do not have unemployment handouts. I believe the same situation applies for our ministerial pays. It reach this stage where Singaporeans are not happy about, and taking away makes those that entered for the money sick.
This the nation as it is. We value quality, talent, achievements, material gains. Like many things in Singapore, money is used, as like baby bonuses and military scholarships. Everything must be fast, efficient, now, and world-class. Our changing education system is suppose to place more emphasis on virtues and morals. This is the story we tell our kids. Yet, parents of some of our kids are split between money and their nations.
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