Despite the prosperity and wealth that Singapore is experiencing, the city-state is never immune when it comes to putting urban poverty in the spotlight. The sad reality is that some of these citizens don't have enough wages or income to meet their most basic needs and the opportunity to make enough living. Some only cling to the aid from governments and the generosity of others.
Some may criticise the agencies and the working government bodies for the lack of long-term actions to meet their needs while some go in their way to help the poor. Singapore is not a perfect example of near-utopia with its lack of poverty line and the social inequality in Singapore, there is still more work that needs to be done.
Without further ado, here are four examples of solutions to help decrease urban poverty:
Create minimum wage law
The problem with Singapore today is its lack of minimum wage laws - which is receiving criticism. Lack of minimum wage laws leads to the absence of any mandatory pay rate for employees and may require it to be agreed upon by both parties through negotiation. Having a minimum wage law is seen by critics as essential in reducing urban poverty concerns.
Increasing the demand for workforce.
While today's overall unemployment dipped from 2.6% to 2.5%, according to Channel News Asia, such unemployment contributes to poverty growth. This problem may not be the most alarming despite the absence of the Singapore poverty line, but 2.5% is still a figure that should not be overlooked.
Enhancing the retirement plan for seniors
With Singapore among the countries with the highest cost of living, most seniors that are taking retirement may require more financial support and savings. While many retirees may receive funding from the local government, the high cost of living and low-interest rates are making it more difficult for our seniors to retire.
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