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Programme that can pay up to 70% of salary of Singaporeans working overseas launched

Anna Maria Romero
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Programme that can pay up to 70% of salary of Singaporeans working overseas launched

SINGAPORE: A new programme launched last week by Workforce Singapore (WSG) is aimed at helping local companies to expand into markets in other countries.

Manpower Minister Tan See Leng explained that the Overseas Markets Immersion Programme (OMIP) will not only give Singaporeans who have little or no experience of working overseas the opportunity to do so but will also help firms attract and retain talent.

He announced OMIP’s launch at the “Scale Internationally: Developing Singapore’s Global Leaders, Conquering Global Markets” event on Nov 15.

The programme is part of the government’s thrust to build a workforce that is globally competitive as it enables more Singaporeans to have work experience overseas.

OMIP’s first programme partner is the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), which will work with firms to explore internationalisation opportunities.

At the Nov 15 event, which was organized by WSG and SBF, agreements in support of the programme were signed by 17 trade associations and chambers, such as the Singapore Manufacturing Federation and the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce.

This will allow over 100 firms with plans for internationalisation to benefit from OMIP.

Through the programme, 70 per cent of the employee’s salary, as well as 70 per cent of their overseas allowance, will be provided, up to a maximum of $5,000 and $3,000 each month, respectively.

A company may receive as much as $72,000 for each qualified employee sent for a posting in another country.

Eligibility for OMIP is as follows: Firms should provide a fixed monthly salary of at least $4,000 for employees taking on a posting overseas. They also need to submit a detailed career development plan showing progression over 24 months, together with quantifiable short-term KPIs after training.

SBF will partner with companies to develop training plans for overseas posting.

An amount of $16 million has been allocated for the programme’s initial run, allowing firms to send as many as 250 local employees to participate in OMIP for two years, with an overseas posting for at least six months.

Dr Tan called OMIP part of a broader suite of government programmes to widen career development opportunities for Singaporean professionals, managers, executives, and technicians.

“Together, we can develop a globally competitive workforce and continue providing good jobs for Singaporeans. Take the bold step to venture beyond our shores!” he wrote in a Facebook post earlier this month.

Firms interested in participating in OMIP may contact SBF at 6827 6828 or email [email protected]. /TISG

Read also: ‘Well, it’s about time!’ — Singaporeans cheer MOM’s new dormitory design for migrant workers in SG

Singapore property rental scams have cost victims over $2.7 million in 2024

Gemma Iso
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Singapore property rental scams have cost victims over $2.7 million in 2024

SINGAPORE: A surge in e-commerce rental scams has resulted in more than $2.7 million in losses since January, with scammers posing as legitimate property agents.

According to The Straits Times, from January to October 2024, there were over 430 reported cases of fraud where scammers impersonated agents registered with the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA).

How scammers operate

Victims often came across rental listings on social media or property advertisement websites, where scammers posted contact details.

Pretending to be authorized agents, the fraudsters would back up their claims with photos of agent passes, business cards, or even videos of rental properties.

The deceptive tactics

In some instances, these scammers went a step further by recruiting accomplices to pose as colleagues or assistants during property viewings, claiming the agent was unavailable.

After building trust, they would collect personal information for tenancy agreements and demand payments for deposits or rent via bank transfers or PayNow.

The discovery

It was only after the scammers disappeared, often ceasing all communication, that victims realized they had been duped. Many were left in the dark until they contacted a real estate professional, who revealed the fraud.

Common rental scams

According to Rently, common rental scams in Singapore include:

  • Fake listings: Scammers promote high-end properties at shockingly low rents to attract potential tenants. These listings often use stolen or generic images and provide little to no information about the property’s location or landlord.
  • Overpayment scams: Fraudsters may pose as landlords or agents, requesting a security deposit or advance rent before a viewing. They often claim urgency or offer discounts for quick payments.
  • Impersonation: Scammers frequently impersonate licensed property agents registered with the Council of Estate Agencies (CEA), using stolen credentials, business cards, or even photos/videos of the property.
  • Pressure for deposits: In this scam, fake agents pressure potential renters to make advance payments to “reserve” the property or secure a viewing.
  • Phantom rentals: Scammers copy legitimate property listings by stealing details and photos, altering the contact information. They then push prospective tenants to send money for a booking fee to “secure” the rental.

Police advice for the public

The police are urging the public to exercise caution when dealing with rental transactions. They advise verifying the identity and registered contact details of property agents through the CEA Public Register before proceeding.

For added safety, payments for deposits and rent should be made directly to the landlord via bank transfer or cheque rather than to agents.

Tech innovations are the secret weapon to boosting investor loyalty in Singapore

Gemma Iso
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Tech innovations are the secret weapon to boosting investor loyalty in Singapore

SINGAPORE: A recent report by Fenergo featured in a Singapore Business Review article has revealed that a significant 74% of asset management firms in Singapore have lost investors due to delayed and inefficient onboarding processes.

The primary culprit behind this investor churn is the breakdown in Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, which are critical for regulatory compliance but have proven cumbersome and slow.

The challenges faced by asset managers in Singapore are part of a broader global trend. With growing regulatory requirements and the need for meticulous investor checks, many firms are struggling to balance compliance with client satisfaction.

The Fenergo report emphasizes that outdated systems and manual processes often delay onboarding, frustrating investors and causing them to seek alternatives.

High costs of KYC compliance and evolving regulations

One of the key factors contributing to inefficiency in Singapore’s asset management sector is the rising cost of KYC compliance.

According to Fenergo, conducting KYC reviews in Singapore costs firms an average of $2,159 per investor. This considerable expense is eating into the compliance budgets of asset managers, creating further financial strain.

Moreover, 82% of Singaporean asset managers say their systems are unable to adapt swiftly to shifting regulatory demands, leaving them vulnerable to inefficiencies and potential regulatory fines.

The failure to keep up with changing regulations adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging environment, making it harder for firms to maintain investor confidence and avoid costly missteps.

Tech investments as a solution to rising risks

In response to these mounting challenges, asset managers in Singapore are making strategic investments in technology.

Fenergo’s survey indicates that asset managers are focusing on technology solutions to address a variety of risks, with operational risk (36%) and information and cyber risk (35%) topping the list.

Conduct risk (34%), reputational risk (31%), and financial crime risk (27%) are also key areas of concern, prompting firms to prioritize tech investments to streamline compliance processes and mitigate risks.

This push towards technology adoption reflects a growing recognition of the need for modernized systems to stay competitive in an increasingly regulated environment.

By improving KYC processes and enhancing flexibility, asset managers hope to regain investor trust and protect their bottom line.

The findings are based on a survey conducted by Fenergo in September, which polled 450 executives and client services teams from top-tier asset management firms in Singapore, the UK, and the US. These firms manage over $51 billion in assets under management (AUM) and face similar regulatory hurdles worldwide.

As Singapore’s asset managers look to navigate these complex challenges, the emphasis on tech-driven solutions and more efficient compliance procedures may be the key to retaining investors and ensuring long-term growth in a competitive market.

Man, who works two jobs and spends just $700 a month, says he feels left behind by more successful friends

Yoko Nicole
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Man, who works two jobs and spends just $700 a month, says he feels left behind by more successful friends

SINGAPORE: A man juggling two jobs and living on just $700 a month opened up on social media about feeling left behind as he watches his peers achieve milestones he can only dream of.

He shared his story on r/askSingapore, a Reddit forum, on Thursday (Nov 21), saying that despite being in his mid-30s, he still feels like he hasn’t made much progress in life.

His friends, on the other hand, are going on vacations, saving six figures, investing, building businesses, putting down huge deposits for their flats, and enjoying the best food.

Some are also spending on luxury items like Labubu dolls, Rolex watches, Bearbrick figurines, nice cars, and even starting families or travelling the world.

“Everyone around me seems to be making it in life and I barely have any savings at the end of the month. Plus, I lost a ton of friends because I can’t afford to hang out with them repeatedly, and slowly, they stopped asking me out,” he lamented.

“I work hard, I do 2 jobs long hours, and yet I can barely provide for my parents (they can’t work) to cover their never ending bills to pay, from medical, bills, food, loans. Household income just nice to not qualify for any aid, at the same time I feel not enough to survive.”

The man said that he’s been living a pretty frugal life, as he only spends his money on necessities like transport, food, phone, internet, and electricity—all of which amount to just $550–$700 per month.

He also hasn’t replaced his laptop or phone in eight years and constantly worries about what will happen if either breaks, as it would “wipe out what little savings” he has set aside for emergencies.

While he has tried to improve his situation by completing some SkillsFuture courses, he claimed that nothing changed, as his boss didn’t acknowledge it, let alone give him a raise.

He also attended some free courses on how to make money, but later found out there was a fee of several thousand dollars for the next sessions. The course providers claimed they wanted to help everyone succeed, so he shared his situation, thinking they would offer some support. He even promised to repay them later once he earned from their course.

However, he was shocked when they responded with the quote, “If you are born poor, it’s not your fault. But if you die poor, it’s your fault.”

“This [quote] really hit me hard, like I am not even trying. I feel trapped in this cycle where I want to grow but can’t, and I don’t know how. While I see everyone else around me achieving everything I dream of,” he said.

The man said that he never imagined his life would turn out this way. “I had hope and dreams once… you know. But I am really trying, like really hard. Anyone else feels the same?” he asked.

“Try not to compare yourself to others who have it all in their lives.”

Many Singaporeans chimed in on the discussion and offered words of comfort to the struggling man in the comments section.

One individual said, “My friend, take a deep breath and forgive yourself. Kudos to you for providing for your ageing parents. This tells me you have good character and a sense of independence.

“Also working 2 jobs is no goddam slouch, that is some hard resilience you got there. Those in itself are not milestones but I personally think make you a decent person.”

Another commented, “Hey there – just to let you know that it’s really admirable that you are trying your best these past years, and supporting your parents through their journey.

“Caregiving is hard enough and if you add other social worries they can all add up. Just wanted you to know that your presence and support have been invaluable for your parents and loved ones.”

Some also encouraged the man to focus on his own growth and progress rather than comparing himself to others. They pointed out that everyone has different circumstances, and it’s unfair to measure his journey against someone else’s highlights.

One Redditor said, “Try not to compare yourself to others who have it all in their lives, since it’s just gonna make you feel more miserable.

“We will always want more and envy, that’s where we gotta step back and appreciate what we have now and focus on that than what we ‘could have.’ I believe opportunities will come when the time is right and it’s on us to seize it.”

Constantly comparing yourself to others can harm your well-being

For some, constantly comparing themselves to more successful peers or role models can help boost their confidence or motivate them to improve. However, for others, this kind of comparison can end up being toxic.

Experts say that this constant comparison can lead to persistent negative thoughts (known as rumination), anxiety, depression, and even overspending in an effort to keep up with others.

Breaking the cycle

To break this harmful cycle, Rachel Cruze, an American author, financial expert, and writer for Ramsey Solutions, suggests the following steps:

Practise gratitude: By focusing on the positive aspects of your life and being grateful for what you have, you can shift your attention away from what others have and feel more content with your own life.

Recognize that social media does not reflect reality: Social media often presents an idealized version of people’s lives, highlighting their successes while leaving out the struggles.

Compete with yourself: Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your personal growth and self-improvement.

Celebrate others’ wins: Be genuinely happy for your friends who just bought a new house or got a promotion. Celebrate their achievements and use their success as motivation for your own growth.

Social media detox: Unfollow accounts that make you feel bad about yourself, switch off your phone during family dinners, and set limits on how much time you spend on social media.

Read more: ‘I’m tired of not having anything in my bank account,’ 32 yo Singaporean feels discouraged because he still has no substantial savings

Featured image by Depositphotos (for illustration purposes only)

Man in China abandons wife after late-stage cancer diagnosis, sparks outrage online

JARA CARBALLO
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Man in China abandons wife after late-stage cancer diagnosis, sparks outrage online

CHINA: A man’s abandonment of his wife after her late-stage cancer diagnosis ignited widespread outrage on social media in China, following his court sentencing for abandonment.

The case has drawn sharp criticism for his callous behaviour, with many condemning him for abandoning his wife when she needed him most.

Abandoned

According to NDTV, the man, identified only by his surname Feng, married his wife, Wang, in 2022. However, just two months after their wedding, Wang was diagnosed with terminal intestinal cancer.

Initially, Feng took on the role of caretaker, but as the months passed, he distanced himself, citing work obligations in another city.

Despite repeated attempts by Wang and her family to reach him, Feng refused to answer calls or messages, leaving his wife to face her illness alone.

As Wang’s health deteriorated, she was forced to borrow money to cover her medical bills. Tragically, after spending over 200 days in the hospital, she passed away without her husband’s support.

Unjust court ruling?

In response to his abandonment, Wang’s family filed a lawsuit against Feng, demanding justice for his failure to provide care and contribute to her medical expenses.

Feng had even proposed divorce on two occasions while Wang was seriously ill, further angering her family. Wang’s father condemned Feng’s actions as “vicious,” noting the numerous failed attempts to contact him, including involving the police and other authorities.

Feng was eventually summoned to court, where he reached a settlement with Wang’s family and secured their forgiveness.

This disturbing case has sparked a wave of anger online. Many commentators have expressed their disbelief, with one remarking, “He is not a human being. He abandoned his wife when she needed him the most.”

Others called his behaviour “cold-blooded” and “morally reprehensible.” Some, however, suggested that prospective couples should ensure good health before marriage.

Feng was sentenced to a one-year suspended prison sentence on charges of abandonment, a ruling that has further fuelled the debate over responsibility and ethics in marital relationships.

This case echoes a similar one from 2018 in Hunan province, where a man abandoned his wife during her illness. That man was sentenced to one year in prison, also suspended for two years, after refusing to return home to care for his wife, who had been diagnosed with uremia, and failing to pay for her medical expenses.

Confused woman pays US$8,300 for one night at South Korean Airbnb which should have been US$37 only

JARA CARBALLO
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0
Confused woman pays US$8,300 for one night at South Korean Airbnb which should have been US$37 only

SOUTH KOREA: A woman from Jiangsu province in eastern China found herself in a shocking situation after mistaking the Chinese yuan (CNY) symbol for the Korean won (KRW) while booking a hotel apartment on Airbnb.

What was meant to be a budget-friendly one-night stay on Jeju Island turned into an unexpectedly expensive ordeal, with her bank account charged a staggering 60,904 yuan (US$8,300) for a single night.

Vacation turned nightmare

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the woman surnamed Xiao made the booking on October 13 for herself and a friend. After returning to China, Xiao was stunned to discover the hefty charge, especially since she had assumed the price was listed in Korean won, not yuan.

According to Airbnb’s breakdown, the hotel’s one-night rate was listed as 51,944 yuan. In addition, Xiao was hit with extra fees, including an 8,000 yuan service charge, 800 yuan tax, and 160 yuan cleaning fee.

“I thought it was priced in Korean won,” Xiao explained, adding that the property didn’t seem like a luxury hotel to justify such a high price. Had the rate been won, it would have cost only about US$37 for the night.

Realizing the mistake, Xiao reached out to the hotel, which agreed to issue a refund if Airbnb approved it. However, Airbnb initially rejected her request, stating that the hotel had not refunded the full amount.

After multiple complaints, the platform finally offered Xiao a partial refund of 44,000 yuan, followed by an additional 6,700 yuan, and eventually agreed to refund the entire amount as a “gesture of goodwill.”

Careless or fell into a trap?

The incident has sparked debate online.

Some commenters criticized Xiao for not noticing the pricing error before finalizing the booking, while others accused the property of setting a trap with such an illogical pricing structure. “Such pricing is a trap waiting for careless people to fall into,” one Weibo user remarked.

Airbnb’s refund policies allow guests to request a refund before the specified date set by the host, with refunds after check-in often left to the host’s discretion.

This incident has also reignited frustrations over Airbnb’s cancellation policies, which many believe are overly strict and unreasonable, given how often travel plans change.

Legal experts suggest that while consumers bear responsibility for misunderstandings related to currency, they also have the right to request a cancellation if the merchant has made a pricing mistake.

Chen Zhen, a lawyer from Henan Zejin Law Firm, explained to Xiaoxiang Morning Herald that in cases of incorrect pricing by the seller, consumers are entitled to cancel the contract.

In the end, Xiao received her full refund, but her experience serves as a cautionary tale for travellers navigating the complexities of online booking platforms.

Asia Pacific office market set for strong growth in 2025, driven by surge in demand

Gemma Iso
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Asia Pacific office market set for strong growth in 2025, driven by surge in demand

SINGAPORE: The Asia Pacific office market is poised for significant growth in 2025, with new data from Colliers highlighting a strong surge in demand across key markets.

Robust growth

According to Colliers’ Asia Pacific Office Market Insights Q3 2024 report featured in Real Estate Asia, office demand in the region surged by 10.7% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2024, reaching 2.2 million sqm.

This robust growth signals a promising outlook for the coming year.

The demand spike was particularly notable in countries such as India, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, where office leasing activity saw an annual increase of over 30%.

These markets are emerging as key drivers of the Asia Pacific office sector’s recovery, as companies look to expand and upgrade their office spaces.

Overall, the vacancy rate for offices across major APAC markets stood at 14.3% in Q3 2024, with 212.2 million sqm of office space available.

Supply is expected to rise further in the next quarter, with large-scale project completions across the region’s biggest markets.

Rental rates to remain stable

Mike Davis, Managing Director of Occupier Services at Colliers APAC, shared a cautiously optimistic forecast for the short term, despite ongoing market uncertainties.

He emphasized that office demand in the region would likely continue to grow modestly, with rental rates expected to remain relatively stable.

“The APAC office market is on track for sustained growth as we head into 2025 and beyond,” Davis said. “The evolving understanding of what makes a workplace valuable will drive this growth. Companies are increasingly focusing on productivity, sustainability, and innovation when selecting office spaces.”

The Q3 2024 surge in office demand reflects a broader shift in the market, with businesses seeking not just larger spaces, but environments that support both productivity and sustainability.

Developers are responding by emphasizing green certifications and sustainable upgrades, indicating that the APAC office market is evolving towards a more resilient and robust future.

As companies continue to prioritize high-quality, adaptable, and eco-friendly workspaces, the Asia Pacific office market is set for an exciting and transformative year ahead in 2025.

Malaysia’s record foreign investment reflects growing ASEAN influence

Gemma Iso
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Malaysia’s record foreign investment reflects growing ASEAN influence

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s record-breaking foreign direct investment (FDI) achievement marks a new chapter in its growing stature as a key economic powerhouse in the ASEAN region.

According to The Star, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently underscored ASEAN’s significance as a “vital trade platform” offering streamlined access to ten Southeast Asian markets, a statement highlighted in a Forbes article published recently.

As both Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Anwar shared insights with Forbes on how Malaysia‘s strategic resources and regional ties present compelling advantages for businesses aiming to establish themselves in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia solidifying role in ASEAN

During the interview, Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s central role in the ASEAN bloc, revealing efforts to ease trade flows and reduce bureaucratic red tape to further boost foreign investment.

He also highlighted Malaysia’s strategic geographic location, which not only strengthens its ties within ASEAN but also facilitates broader trade opportunities with key non-ASEAN markets like Australia and India.

The Prime Minister also discussed the importance of trade facilitation and expanding economic partnerships, reinforcing Malaysia’s growing relevance in regional and global commerce.

The Forbes article suggested that businesses looking to capitalize on Southeast Asia’s booming market should view Malaysia as a gateway, navigating the complexities of an interconnected global economy while tapping into the nation’s strategic advantages.

Despite the growing appeal, the article advised companies to thoroughly assess Malaysia’s policies and market conditions, rather than relying solely on government measures, to ensure sustainable long-term growth.

In 2023, Malaysia set a historic record by attracting US$74 billion in approved FDI, the highest ever in the country’s history.

By mid-2024, the nation had already secured an additional US$36 billion in investments, further solidifying its critical role in ASEAN and underscoring the region’s increasing attractiveness to global investors.

Malaysia’s robust performance in foreign investment highlights its strategic position within ASEAN and sets the stage for continued economic prominence in the years to come.

In the hood: Singaporeans share their most underrated hawker stall dishes

Beatrice Del Rosario
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In the hood: Singaporeans share their most underrated hawker stall dishes

SINGAPORE: Singaporeans bonded together in an online forum, sharing their most underrated hawker stalls and dishes after an online user created a thread appreciating the hidden gems in hawker stalls around the country. As a result of the thread, which many Singaporeans added to, a list of food stalls and dishes was created, giving food lovers new things to try.

“There are so many good gems in Singapore that are disappearing or unheard of,” the online user wrote on Wednesday (Nov 20). “When I was young, my parents brought me to Taman Jurong Market/Hawker Centre every Saturday and Sunday morning for breakfast, where there was a hawker stall that sold the best economical beehon and kway teow that I ever had. It may sound simple, but it was so delicious with the sambal and crispy chicken wings. Sadly I don’t know where they moved to after the renovations.”

Read also: MPs unite in support of measures to strengthen Singapore’s hawker culture

The post created by the writer was titled, “What’s an underrated hawker stall or dish you swear by, but most people don’t know about?”

From secret food stalls to recommended dishes and well-priced food with good quality, all about food was shared by Singaporean foodies or food lovers who responded to the call and took to the comments section to drop their favourites. “Royal Dum Biriyani at Tekka Market,” said one. “No queues or crowds at this shop. But their biriyani is amazing. It’s the only shop I know where they use olive oil for their biriyani. Highly recommended.”

Another shared, “Tau kwa pau at Dunman Food Ctr. It’s not S$2 per piece, but it’s still authentic and original. You probably won’t find a similar version in any other hawker centre.  The only trouble is, their opening hours depend highly on the orders for that day. Some days, they close early because many people order. Some days, they have to throw away unsold tau kwa because business is slow…and you cannot keep tau kwa because it goes stale.”

Read also: S$2.50 for all dishes on her menu: “The S$2.50 Shop” hawker wins hearts and stomachs of Singaporeans with the eatery’s inexpensive meals

“There used to be this noodle stall inside Telok Blangah Crescent FC that sold dry chicken noodles, and I would willingly queue for at least 30 minutes for this as a primary school kid in the 90s,” said a third. “It was just egg noodles, some chye sim plus hand-shredded poached chicken all coated in a light brown, slightly gooey sauce full of chickeny goodness. Sadly, they moved away and I never did find out where they went. I also never found any place that served a similar dish.”

According to the National Environment Agency, hawker culture is considered a central part of Singaporean life, as it gathers people from all cultures and backgrounds, and allows them to enjoy hawker food together. As such, hawker centres have become symbolic of a sense of community. Furthermore, hawker culture celebrates a diversity of cuisines of different cultures that ended up settling in Singapore.

“I feel that I would deserve at the very least a basic of S$5k. Is it too big of a jump from S$3k?” Employee in engineering sector shares salary concern

Beatrice Del Rosario
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“I feel that I would deserve at the very least a basic of S$5k. Is it too big of a jump from S$3k?” Employee in engineering sector shares salary concern

SINGAPORE: “How much of an increment am I deserving after graduating with a degree?” This was the question an employee in the engineering sector asked in an online forum on Thursday (Nov 21). He shared his situation, working for a company that has been sponsoring his degree.

“I’ve been having thoughts about this for weeks,” he shared. “I am currently in the engineering sector as a local diploma holder. My basic salary is S$3k and with allowances (due to my shift work and OT), I can earn a gross of about S$4 to4.5k per month consistently.”

He then gave readers an idea of how his employer has been investing in his education. “I have been working for this company for coming to six years. This company is very well established and big in Singapore. Currently, they are sponsoring my degree and upon getting my degree, I would have served about eight years. I will be expected to be promoted to a Senior Engineer position and above.

Read also: Fresh grad who got 3 job offers says he’s unsure which salary package to accept: “Squarepoint Capital $7.6K, Amazon $7.3K or Shopee $6.5K?”

“Considering my current salary, degree, and years of experience, how much would be a reasonable amount for me to negotiate? Personally, I feel that I would deserve at the very least a basic of S$5k. Is it too big of a jump from S$3k? Or could I actually ask for even more? Also, I have to serve a few years bond after graduating from uni.

“I’m not very certain about these things so I would really appreciate it if I could get some feedback from anyone who knows anything about this or even better whoever has been in this situation. Thanks in advance!”

Singaporeans respond to salary concern

Commenters responded to the worker’s query, sharing their insights on the matter. “Are you bonded to the company after finishing the degree?” wrote one. “Because you have less leverage if so. S$3k to S$5k is very possible. But you will be lowballed by experience standards. Best case if you use your experience and your degree, and are not bonded, is to ask for more than S5k.”

“It’s not about the amount you jump,” shared another. “It’s about how much senior engineers in your company are paid. If you’re on really good terms with the current senior engineers, you can ask them what they are paid or check Glassdoor, salary.sg or the employment guides put out by agencies like Michael Page for the median salary for a senior engineer. You may have to ‘discount’ it a bit since they did pay for your degree but it should be offset by your experience with them.”

A third, however, wrote, “There’s no reason to pay you more just because you have a degree. But given your additional training, you can ask for more responsibility which will justify a pay raise.”

Factors to keep in mind when asking for a pay rise

According to Indeed, there are some things one should keep in mind when asking for a pay raise. While choosing the proper timing is key, it is also advisable to research market trends in order to know the salary range of your position. From there, you will have a range to base the amount you negotiate for.

Read also: Singapore’s 2025 salary growth projected to be slowest in Southeast Asia, study reveals

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