Singapore is set to significantly increase salaries for its political leaders, with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s benchmark annual pay rising by 64% to S$3.6 million, or around ₹27 crore. The revised framework will take effect from October 15, 2026.
Wong’s current benchmark pay of S$2.2 million will rise to S$3.6 million. The benchmark for the Deputy Prime Minister will increase from S$1.87 million to S$3.06 million, while Cabinet ministers will have benchmark salaries ranging from S$1.8 million to S$2.88 million depending on their seniority and responsibilities.
The hike is the first major increase in political salaries in 15 years. The Singapore government says competitive pay is necessary to attract capable people to politics and maintain strong governance.
However, political office holders will not immediately receive the full new benchmark salaries. Existing ministers will receive a one-time adjustment of up to 9% from October 15, with subsequent changes linked to performance and responsibilities.
Members of Parliament will also receive higher allowances. Their monthly allowance will increase from S$13,750 to S$18,500.
Wong has said he will donate the entire increase in his own salary to charitable causes during his term. The revised pay structure follows recommendations from an independent committee and is aimed at strengthening Singapore’s future leadership pipeline.
Singapore has long defended its high political salaries as a way to attract talent and reduce incentives for corruption. The latest increase, however, has renewed public debate over the gap between political pay and ordinary incomes.
