SINGAPORE: A recent post on social media has ignited a lively discussion among residents regarding the stark price differences between local and foreign handymen. The controversy arose when a resident shared his experience of getting quotes for a simple handyman job, revealing that he was quoted S$130 by a local handyman but found a foreign handyman willing to do the same job for just S$80.

In his post, the resident expressed his initial desire to support local businesses. He wrote, “Needed a quick handyman job done—nothing major, just a 45-minute fix. Wanted to support local, so I reached out to a local guy.” However, he found the local handyman's response slow and the quote steep for what he perceived as a minor task.

Encouraged by the price and responsiveness, he decided to hire a foreign handyman who not only quoted him S$80 but also completed the job on time, earning a generous tip of S$10. “A total of S$90 versus S$130,” he noted, ultimately questioning the rationale behind paying more for what he viewed as lesser service.

This conversation reflects a broader issue in Singapore about the value of local versus foreign labor, with many commentators weighing in on the cultural and economic implications. One user pointed out that locals often charge higher prices simply because they can get away with it given that not every potential customer compares costs. Others speculated that local handymen might be in higher demand or have more experience, which could justify the extra expense.

However, some voices criticized the premise of 'supporting local,' arguing that if cost is the determining factor, the desire may not be as altruistic as it seems. 'Do you really have the mindset of “supporting local” if price matters more?' asked one commenter, prompting others to reflect.

Additionally, the conversation touched on Singapore’s higher cost of living, with one user mentioning that S$130 for a 45-minute job, considering transport and other expenses, might not be unreasonable. Singapore is known for its high standard of living, which includes higher service rates.

This public debate raises important questions about perceptions of value, support for local businesses, and the implications of globalization on the labor market in Singapore. As the country navigates these dynamics, residents are left to wonder: at what cost do we support local enterprises, and how do we balance affordability with the ethical implications of labor?

Stay tuned as we continue to explore this evolving conversation about service quality, pricing, and the complex interplay between local and foreign labor in Singapore.