CNA Explains: How Singapore reviews and benchmarks political salaries

Singapore's top ministers are set to deliberate on ministerial salaries during a parliamentary session on Tuesday, a topic of significant public interest. This discussion comes amid concerns over the high pay scales, which are among the world's highest, drawing scrutiny from the general populace. The median income of an average Singaporean in 2025 was approximately US$4,500, starkly contrasting with the hefty salaries of the nation's political leaders.

The prime minister of Singapore commands a yearly salary of US$1.74 million, while a junior minister earns US$868,055 annually. These figures have remained unchanged since 2012, when a 36% pay cut was implemented to alleviate public discontent regarding the exorbitant compensation. The current salaries are benchmarked against the earnings of the top 1,000 earners in Singapore, aiming to attract high-caliber talent and deter corruption.

Inflation has been a concern, with the central bank predicting elevated rates to last until the second half of 2027. This economic backdrop adds complexity to the ongoing debate. The salaries of Singapore's top politicians are notably higher compared to international counterparts. For instance, the Hong Kong chief executive earns US$719,000 annually, and the Swiss president commands US$606,000.

The British Prime Minister earns US$230,000, and the US President Donald Trump receives US$400,000. The government's decision to maintain these high salaries is premised on the belief that they reflect the desired caliber of individuals essential for good governance. While the intent is to attract top talent and curb corruption, instances of graft among senior officials remain rare.

The most recent case involved former transport minister S. Iswaran, who was sentenced to jail in 2024 for obstructing justice and accepting gifts worth over US$300,000.