Dear Editor,
I read the report “A timeline of Singapore’s public housing policy for singles” (TODAY, March 13) with some concerns.
It is commendable that the Government has identified and acknowledged the swiftly declining birth rates and prolonged life expectancy. The aim of Government population policies seeks to monitor the population trends closely and regularly review its population policies along with infrastructure and social development needs.
I am also glad that the HDB has periodically reviewed its public housing policy for singles, as the last review was taken place in 2021. However, I really find that HDB’s public housing policy is not entirely impeccable. Instead, its policies should catch up with the pace of time for those singles who are below the age of 35.
Nevertheless, there is an upward trend that more Singaporeans at the age of 30 plus still prefer to remain single. Of course, there are many possibilities that why they resort to such decisions.
There are no right and wrong answers when it comes to such subjective or argumentative decision-making. In fact, many people perceive it as an option or freedom in perception and choice.
In due course, HDB should timely and boldly review its current housing policies for singles. For example, it should reduce the present regulated minimum age from 35 to 30 for all single Singaporeans who wish to apply for their first-timer new flat or buy a resale flat.
Furthermore, all first-timer single Singaporeans should be allowed to buy 2-room Flexi flats in the mature estates of their choice depending on their financial capabilities.
No matter what, many single Singaporeans perceive that they are part of the big family of taxpayers too. So, they strongly feel that they should not be marginalised or neglected. And instead, they should be treated fairly and equitably.
Teo Kueh Liang
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