We refer to the article “Seek help early unsecured credit borrowers urged” (Sunday Times, Nov 2).
22% of debtors due to medical costs?
It states that “medical expenses and gambling were cited by 22 per cent each (as the main cause of their debts)”. Isn’t this a clear indicator that healthcare is not affordable in Singapore? Earn $3,000 owe 28 months? As to “The Sunday Times estimates there to be 43,000 people who had debts of more than a year’s salary. Last year, the average debtor who turned to CCS for help owed $84,447 to seven creditors” – about 28 times their average disposable monthly income of about S$3,000 – isn’t this another indicator that many middle income Singaporeans may be struggling financially? More can’t afford tuition? With regard to the article “More to benefit from CDAC’s subsidised tuition programme” (Sunday Times, Nov 2), which said ” But next year, households which bring in up to $4,000 per month, or have a per capita income of up to $1,000, can qualify. About 500 more students are expected to benefit, CDAC said” – Isn’t this another indicator of how unaffordable education is in Singapore? Education spending? In respect to the article “It’s a struggle, saying No to tuition for the kids” (Sunday Times, Nov 2) – “Parents spent $820 million on tuition in 2008” – isn’t this another indicator that the Government may not be spending enough on education. In contrast, developed countries like the Nordic ones, do not generally need tuition because the education system’s spending is adequate. S Y Lee and Leong Sze Hian P.S. Come with your family and friends to the 5th Return Our CPF protest on 29 November 4 pm at Speakers’ Cornerhttps://www.facebook.com/events/796694730417598/