An anonymous graduate wrote in to SGWhispers to share that they have been offered $3k for an office executive job. This means a $2.4k take home pay after deducting CPF. The contributor asked if it is reasonable for them to ask for a higher starting salary.
![](https://kuanyewism.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/SGWhispers.jpg)
Unfortunately, this starting salary is not considered low.
Many commenters responded by saying that the salary is decent, and that the author should be more realistic.
![](https://kuanyewism.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Starting-Salary-FB-comments.jpg)
The author’s questions are valid!
Even if this is the average starting salary of a graduate, instead of asking the author to be more realistic, we should start reflecting on how our society treats our people. A fresh graduate with a take-home salary of $2400 will not be able to raise a family.
The monthly cost of living in Singapore is roughly S$1100-1400 per person excluding rent. If the graduate is the sole breadwinner with a family to feed, $2400 is definitely insufficient.
This salary is also unlikely to rise that quickly. Together with inflation, a $2400 take home pay will soon be unlivable!
Instead of slamming the author, the commenters should perhaps think about possible considerations the author might have for asking such a question.