“I was expecting $2k” – Budget 2025 sparks debate over vouchers vs cash payouts
SINGAPORE: All eyes were on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong as he delivered his first Budget statement since becoming head of government on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 18). The budget included enhanced support for worker upskilling and training programmes, more financial benefits for families who have more children, as well as heavy investments in research and development, infrastructure and incentivizing the stock market.
However, with a general election looming this year, much of the pre-Budget speculation online revolved around whether the Budget would include “election goodies” in the form of direct cash payouts.
Those looking for a larger cash sum were perhaps left disappointed as the majority of the measures aimed at alleviating the cost of living squeeze took the form of credits and vouchers this year.
Mr Wong announced a slew of credits under the ActiveSG, LifeSG, SG Culture Pass and Climate Voucher schemes, alongside Edusave and Medisave top-ups, utilities rebates, and personal income tax rebates.
He also revealed that Singaporeans would receive $600 in SG60 Vouchers, with seniors getting an additional $200. These vouchers can be used wherever Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers are welcome. On top of the SG60 vouchers, all households will receive $800 in CDC vouchers.
The only cash payout component of the budget comes under the GST Voucher scheme. Eligible Singaporeans will receive S$450 or S$850 in cash in August 2025 as part of this year’s budget.
While the range of vouchers aims to address various needs, some Singaporeans online have expressed disappointment online, asserting that they would prefer more direct cash assistance to cope with rising living costs. A number of netizens argued that cash would be more flexible and practical for coping with rising living costs compared to vouchers, which are limited to specific uses and merchants.
One Facebook user, Sky Tan, asked, “Just give cash can anot, why so much pattern…” while Facebook user Kamen Augustine Tan said, “Give money better than more vouchers.”
Another Facebook user added, “For CDC vouchers have to look for the businesses that accept CDC. Why not just give cash? Can use it everywhere.” Yet another netizen, Terrence Mark Pereira, complained, “Why all monies in form of vouchers? No more cash outlay!”
Some also said that they expected a larger sum since this is an election year. Facebook user Ismail Ismael lamented, “I’m expecting 2k…like this amount is peanut n butter… sigh.”
Another netizen, Edward Sim, wrote in a comment: “Election year 就是 election year. No worries, we get the chicken drumsticks this year compared to last time chicken wings, but they will take back the whole chicken farm from us after election.”
The phrase “give chicken drumsticks and take back the whole chicken” is a Singaporean colloquialism that describes situations where a small concession is offered, only for something more valuable to be taken away later. The netizen’s comment reflects his belief that generous pre-election benefits may be followed by post-election increases in taxes or other costs of living.
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