In his May Day message today (Apr 30), Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong openly lied that more and higher-paying jobs are being created. The claim contradicts with the recent employment report that shows a 2,100 loss in total employment and unemployment rate for Singaporeans continue to stick at 3%. In recent months, a government survey also found that some 4% of the local graduates are drawing less than S$2,000 a month on full-time employment while fresh graduates see a 21.6% unemployment rate.
The Singapore dictator continued his speech pouring empty praises for workers, businesses and Minister Chan Chun Sing:
“Our workers are hardworking and agile, and our businesses are resourceful and adaptable. More and higher-paying jobs were also created… This was the result of a collective effort that has paid off… The Labour Movement under the leadership of Minister Chan Chun Sing have grown in strength. It has also extended its outreach to freelancers, the self-employed, migrant workers and professionals.”
Lee Hsien Loong also ignored the growing resentment on the ground against his government, claiming that his government cronies and the people are a “team”:
“Regardless of international developments, we must remember the importance of always working together domestically as Team Singapore.”
Income gap in Singapore is currently one of the world’s highest, with a GINI coefficient of 0.458. Elderly poor are also commonly seen picking cardboard, or working in hard labour jobs like cleaners and security guards.