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Singapore PM, Cabinet Get Up to 9% Salary Hike

9/9/2026

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Singapore Ministers Salary Hike

Singapore ministers will receive a one-time salary increase of up to 9% nationwide beginning 15 October 2026.
The raise follows recommendations from an eight-member independent committee and will be paid by the government based on performance.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s salary will rise from S$2.2 million to S$3.6 million, a significant 64% increase.
The government estimates the adjustments could cost up to S$11.6 million per year overall.

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Ministers Salary Hike

Singapore’s prime minister and cabinet will receive a salary increase of up to 9% from 15 October 2026.
The raise intensifies concerns about income inequality, as median workers earn about S$5,775 monthly.
Reddit users called the adjustment tone-deaf, showing unease over the gap between ministers and ordinary earners.
National University of Singapore political scientist Chong Ja Ian warned the hike could make ministers identify more with the rich than with Singaporeans.

History

Historical Context

In 2011, a committee chaired by Gerard Ee reduced Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s pay by 36% to S$2.2 million after public outcry. Building on that precedent, the Ministry of Finance, endorsed by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, announced on 8 September 2026 a new salary framework that lifts cabinet ministers to at least S$1.8 million and caps the prime minister’s salary at S$3.6 million.

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Singapore Ministers Salary Hike

Singapore ministers will receive a one-time salary increase of up to 9% nationwide beginning 15 October 2026.
The raise follows recommendations from an eight-member independent committee and will be paid by the government based on performance.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s salary will rise from S$2.2 million to S$3.6 million, a significant 64% increase.
The government estimates the adjustments could cost up to S$11.6 million per year overall.

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