S$1M for each SG baby born next year is better than spending S$200M on Founders Memorial, Singaporean suggests

SINGAPORE: A recent suggestion on social media has sparked a debate about Singapore’s allocation of funds towards the Founders Memorial.

Instead of the projected S$235.66 million for the memorial, a Singaporean online proposed an alternative: giving S$1 million to each Singaporean baby born next year.

According to him, this should “solve the question whether throwing money at Singapore’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) works or not.”

The debate has drawn varied responses from commenters, with some questioning whether the proposed S$200 million for baby bonuses would adequately address the issue.

One pointed out problems with this approach, stating;

“Everyone will try to conceive around a certain time. There will be a maternity ward shortage of space. And the rest of the year, nothing happens.

Second, when you give it all away at once, it only solves the problem for one year, and there’ll be a lack of space for hospitals and education for children born in that year.”

Another suggested, “I rather they give S$100 for each Singapore citizen NRIC. Simple and easy.”

In contrast, another commenter highlighted that the Founders Memorial, which is planned as a large complex akin to the iconic Sydney Opera House in Australia, will remain intact as a cultural icon, unlike babies who have the freedom to relocate as adults.

The Founders Memorial project has been a focal point of scrutiny among Singaporeans online, with many questioning whether such an opulent structure is a wise use of taxpayer funds.

With a budget exceeding S$235 million, the memorial aims to honour Singapore’s founding leaders and chronicle the nation’s history post-World War II.

Planned for Gardens by the Bay’s Bay East Garden, the memorial will include exhibition spaces, a viewing gallery, an amphitheatre, and multipurpose rooms. Its completion is scheduled for 2028, following a recent groundbreaking ceremony.

Meanwhile, Singaporeans online continue to debate where taxpayer funds should be allocated to best shape Singapore’s future trajectory. /TISG

Read also: Hefty $235M cost of Founders Memorial and $599M cost of NS Square raises concerns on use of taxpayer dollars

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