Budget hope and wishes

Business Times, Monday, 30th Jan 2012

What does Singapore’s 2012 Budget need to focus on, in the light of current economic and social developments? What is your Budget Wish List for your industry, and for Singapore as a whole?

Unlike in 2011 when the economy was still relatively buoyant, there is now a lot of talk about the economy hitting roadbumps this year. Thus, households will need more help than last year. The 2012 Budget should therefore focus on providing more support for lower-income households, families with children, and senior citizens in the form of additional funds, grants and rebates. I would also like to see more healthcare funding for the aged and needy.

Training initiatives must be ongoing even during the good times and not emphasised only in a downturn. The Jobs Credit Scheme that was introduced in 2008 is testimony of how companies and people can be helped collectively. However, I believe that the scheme may be moderated somewhat because what some industries deem a ‘bad’ time may actually be good for others.

Ronald Lee
Managing Director
PrimeStaff Management Services Pte Ltd