What's Considered Poor In Singapore? | Street Interview

*The views expressed in this video do not represent that of Asian Boss or the general Singaporean public.*

While people in that video highlighted the city's expensive lifestyle, this time we were curious about what’s actually considered poor in Singapore.
To find out, we visited an area that is less well off to get some different perspectives.

0:00 - Intro
1:43 - What do you for a living and how much do you make per month?
5:42 - What makes the cost of living so expensive?
8:19 - Is the government doing enough to support people with low income?
11:45 - What do you say to foreigners who think all Singaporeans are rich?

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[Ruriko.Y]

my biggest culture shock during my first trip to Singapore was seeing old men and women, probably in their 70s, doing menial jobs like collecting garbage etc. coming from a country where I don't always see old people work, it was such an eye opener. I was under the impression that everyone in SG is rich or live a comfortable life, so I never would have thought some Singaporeans are struggling.

[leekc]

The lady in the video is definitely an inspiration, optimism at its best, though she is in that 'bottom' tier, her spirit and attitude towards life is something we can ponder

[drjennyli]

Love the tattoo artist feedback, “every city is tough “ 1000% true

[turboman]

The older man with the concealed identity appears to be the most accurate assessor of current living conditions in Singapore, bravo to him for not sugar coating any of it.

[MightyKingYoung]

The old lady has such a beautiful aura and energy to her. I can't explain it, but she is seriously just a beautiful woman.

[Tomo-hisp]

This video encapsulates very well what 'affordability' or 'comfort' can mean to different people. The financial advisor bro was definitely very privileged- 10k a month allows one to live in a large home/condo in a good location, dine out often, and probably travel twice a year, and with extra savings too. Nothing wrong with that, it's just what 'a comfortable life' means to him- which are 'luxuries' to many others.

It was also heartwarming to see the old lady with such a positive attitude. For one to believe that $300 is enough to lead a comfortable life in Singapore, it reflects how much is being done to take care of those in need. From my understanding, for the poor, basic necessities like housing and healthcare are heavily subsidized, and there are various support networks for these households to receive donations in the form of clothing, food and daily necessities.

Many Singaporeans don't even see this side of Singapore, much less foreigners, so kudos to the Asian Boss team for this video. It helped me to appreciate what I have and not take things for granted.

[nutsbutdum]

5:12 "200 to 300" to live comfortably... I almost cried. Everybody else answered above SGD 9000. You realized that we really have different perspective on life.

[hata]

I like how you arrange the flow and narratives to show the diverse experiences of the interviewees. And ending on encouraging words.

[caffeineted]

I worked my way up from getting a $1600/month salary in 2004 to a comfortable salary today. I really understand the struggle. Back then I even defaulted on my mortgage. Today I'm very comfortable but I still feel the pain of the low income. That's why when I lend money to my friends or relatives, I rather just give them the money. I know they need it more than I do.
Here's the thing. I've been supporting charities financially for a while now and that's the best I can do since my job requires a lot of my time and energy. So I accept that is my role in society. To use my talent, get paid and I use some of the money I earned to help others.

[keithhh]

Such a good variety of interview participants. Shows the different perspectives people have. Good job!

[sleepandrelaxation]

This is a much more meaningful street interview where most interviewees are locals living HDB estate, they would better represent the majority of Singaporeans.
From the interview, it is clear that things such as "enough", "comfortable, rich vs poor are very subjective matters. People who are contented can live a decent life with very little, while people with high expectations can't even get by with very high salaries.

[Alan-civy]

Hope this message can reach the lady and help her out in a tiny way.

There's actually an organisation with branches around Singapore called Sian Chay that offers TCM services at little to no cost. For acupuncture, its $8 and I believe they do consider waiving such charges on a case by case basis.

Alternatively, she can also look out for mobile TCM services by charitable organisations within her community as well.

[r.chiwon]

Big Thanks to Asian boss for including perspectives from the common folks here too! Just chipping in as a fellow Singaporean, I do agree with the rest in the video that about 3 to 4k SGD per month (Before Tax) is considered the average to survive ALONE. Personally, the financial advisor dude saying “9-11k per month is enough” to be honest is considered way more than enough at least for an individual (of course at the same time, who doesn’t want those kind of wages). Last but not least, glad that all the interviewees responses have all been relational (of course again this is based on the opinions of a few individuals but nevertheless I think majority of us locals can reciprocate their thoughts as well) 👍🏻

[Hans-skll]

I feel that the views here are very well balance and captured. And what the NY shirt guy said it the best "...this is not only a Singapore's problem, it's a whole world all country problem" on helping low-income people survive.

[jean-jacqueslavigne]

Useful video so people really don’t get the wrong image of the country. It is certainly not a bed of roses for most actually, but the attitude is more often than not remarkable. There is great wisdom, compassion and courage throughout. The “one Singapore” resonates at many levels.

[starcarter]

The first uncle is the type that will never flaunt his wealth, despite all tell tale signs that he is living a comfortable life.

[edd]

Yess!!! So true! Love how asian boss manages to get a wide range of interviewees, it's not easy! Also. Yes there is assistance, BUT there's always a but. It's usually short term assistance and only the bare minimum amount. As long as you aren't sick n dying, you're expected to work even a minimum job and earn for yourself even if you're old. :(

[tomylim]

Very good and honest reporting...and it showed different perspectives from different classes of people too. WELL DONE!!

[GreenWaifu]

Understanding what's considered "poor" in Singapore is essential, especially in a city known for its high costs of living. It's intriguing to explore diverse perspectives on this matter. Often, those who are less well-off can provide valuable insights that challenge preconceived notions.

[ksicrsvsjs]

Love the interview with the tattoo artist. He has some interesting perspectives on cooking at home versus eating out that I think not many people consider.