Higher political salaries give 'better chance' of persuading capable Singaporeans to step forward: PM Wong

Singapore's political salary framework must be updated to maintain the spirit of service while attracting a wider range of capable individuals, said Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing on September 8. Speaking in parliament, Chan responded to the 2026 Review Committee's report on reviewing salaries for political appointment holders and Members of Parliament.

The committee's review was aimed at building a "first-rate team" for Singapore. Younger Singaporeans may be building careers and taking on major financial commitments in their 30s and 40s, while those who are more established in their careers can earn millions of dollars a year. Chan acknowledged that the government cannot match the pay of all potential recruits, but emphasized that money should not be the primary motivation for anyone entering political service.

The government understands that political service involves sacrifices, but it wants to ensure that capable Singaporeans can consider serving without being deterred by the costs, he said. The review was conducted over a 15-year gap since the last update in 2012, and the current framework risks losing its relevance if Singapore continues to hold off on updating it.

The government wants to ensure that capable Singaporeans are not discouraged from stepping forward to address the country's challenges, and that the contributions of political appointment holders and MPs go beyond pay.