Singapore is rarely seen in a different light apart from being recognised as one of the prestigious city-states. Singapore is considered one of the richest and well-progressive countries in Asia and the world. However, many are unaware of the urban poverty not seen in the usual light.
Like any other country in the world, there's a side of reality that many don't see in Singapore's bustling and vibrant city. Here are a few facts about Singapore's poverty:
Some local citizens have no healthy income.
One might mistakenly think that food security in Singapore is stable along with its high standard of living. The truth is, not all local citizens of this country have enough income to access food. When there's poverty, there's a decline in food security for the marginalised individual or unit of society. According to the government, at least one in ten homes in Singapore are currently living in poverty.
There is a lack of a poverty line.
Another least known fact is that there's no current poverty line in Singapore. The poverty line differs from other countries, and it is widely used to determine the eligibility of an individual or family for local aid from the government or state. Despite the lack of Singapore in the poverty line, there are certain efforts that the local government are performing to alleviate poverty.
Singapore is an expensive place to live.
According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (or EIU for short), Singapore is considered the world's most expensive city to live in 2017. The incredible scarcity in the land, the upward trend for services and rent, and costly healthcare makes it more difficult for marginalised units to afford all the basics they need for their living - which is one of the most vulnerable groups in the community.
To learn more about urban poverty in Singapore or want to share an empowering story, visit The Best Of You website.
