SINGAPORE / INDIA ,GTNS/September, 09/26 : Singapore is preparing to revise the salaries of its top political leaders, with ministers set to receive their first major pay increase in 15 years under a new compensation framework.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has defended the proposed revision, arguing that competitive remuneration is important for attracting capable and experienced professionals into public service and politics.
Under the revised structure, the benchmark annual remuneration for a minister at the entry grade is expected to rise to around S$1.8 million, compared with the earlier benchmark of about S$1.1 million. In Indian currency, the revised figure is roughly ₹13.5 crore, based on the conversion cited in the report.
The benchmark for Singapore’s prime minister is also set for a substantial increase. It would move to approximately S$3.6 million, or around ₹27 crore, from the previous benchmark of about S$2.2 million.
The proposed changes have renewed attention on Singapore’s distinctive approach to paying political leaders. The country has long maintained that high salaries can help reduce the incentive for corruption and allow the government to compete with the private sector for highly qualified talent.
The government’s argument centres on the need to ensure that public office remains attractive to people with strong professional backgrounds, particularly as Singapore faces increasingly complex economic and geopolitical challenges.
The salary revision comes after a long period without an increase, making it a significant change in the country’s political compensation system. The move is likely to fuel further public discussion over the balance between attracting talent to government and maintaining accountability over public spending.
Singapore’s latest decision therefore puts the spotlight on a broader question faced by governments worldwide: how much should a country pay to attract and retain the people responsible for making its most important decisions?