Correspondence: Housing subsidies are for whose good, exactly?

Housing subsidies, though they are targeted at the less wealthy, are just “another camouflaged expenditure tool”, claims 29-year-old Tan Peiying from Singapore.

Is it right for a government to decide on behalf of its people the kind of housing they should have?

While it seem like a pro-poor policy, to ensure reasonably priced housing, I wonder if the flip side is to max out household spending?

It effects local families with dwindling income – left with no choice but to stretch their earnings so as to meet monthly loan servicing and living expenses.

They may have little or no savings for a rainy day. Income used does not take into account dispensable income in relation to actual living conditions.

Recently, it was announced that subsidies will be provided to aid households in the purchase of public housing. Subsidies are differentiated by income group as well. Is subsidy really the point here, or is it yet another camouflaged expenditure tool?

And what happened to human rights? Do we not have the right to choose what we are comfortable with?

It is unsettling to think of the consequences of such policies – how we, as the next generation, are viewed by our own country. Citizens, or mere commodities for exploitation?

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Note: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the Commonwealth Youth Programme. All articles are published in a spirit of improving dialogue, respect and understanding. If you disagree, why not submit a response?