By LM — The Ministry of Communication and Information recently conducted an online poll to gauge public reaction to the quality of life post-COVID. According to the results, “69% of S’pore residents rate the quality of life post-pandemic as ‘Good’ or ‘Very good.'”
Considering the current economic challenges and rising costs of living, one may question the results of this poll.
The cost of living in Singapore has been steadily increasing, with inflation at an all-time high and living costs soaring. The pandemic has only exacerbated these issues, leaving many struggling to make ends meet.
Lower-income struggling to make ends meet
According to Bloomberg’s survey conducted by the National University of Singapore, rising prices are a top concern for Singaporeans. The survey also found that lower-income households were more likely to report difficulties in making ends meet.
Furthermore, BBC reported that high inflation in Singapore is driving up the cost of living and pushing those living in poverty even deeper into poverty. CNBC also published an article featuring quotes from Singaporeans discussing the challenges they face due to high living costs and stagnant wages. These concerns are negatively impacting their quality of life.
Income and job security
In October 2022, the Straits Times reported that more Singaporeans were concerned about job security and income loss due to the pandemic. Similarly, the IPS survey conducted in October 2020 also found that COVID-19 had affected the quality of life for most Singaporeans.
Considering these findings, it seems strange that the recent poll reflected an improvement post-pandemic. With record inflation, GST hike, and increased prices of daily necessities, it is not convincing that Singaporeans are actually satisfied with our lives. Do you think the poll is representative of what we are experiencing? Would you say that you enjoy a “good” quality of life? It seems like there is more than meets the eye.
