At the end of my rope and feel like ending it today
September 7th, 2010 | 
Author: Dear TR,
Today I feel like ending it.
I was jobless since I was let go by my previous company last November. I was surviving on the last of my savings and when that ran out, I had to apply for a temporary loan on my credit card.
I have a lot of financial burdens as my mother was diagnosed with cancer and it was a painful 2 year period of expensive treatments and surgeries till she passed away in 2008. But my problems did not end there as my father too was retrenched and my younger brother was still studying in university. The bills and debts kept mounting up.
But finally I had some ray of light in mid August when I was finally hired. I got a half month’s salary just last week and a lot of it was already earmarked to pay off some outstanding bills and loans.
I made a call to UOB, my current biggest creditor. As my credit cards were discontinued when I had no choice but to default on my payments, I asked to speak to someone in the credit card division with regards to arranging for a payment plan on Monday.
The credit officer who spoke to me said that she would look into arranging for a repayment scheme, but asked if I could make a lump sum payment first. I said that amount was not possible and asked for another arrangement. She said that she would get back to me.
Today when I went to the ATM to draw on my funds to begin paying off the bills, to my shock my entire bank account was emptied, leaving less than $50.00 behind. I rushed home to discover what happened, only to find that UOB had deducted everything on its own accord.
Right now it is only month beginning and I am already broke, with no funds and no resources to even travel to work. How am I supposed to survive and work to pay off my debts if the bank can do this to me?
I have no where to turn.
Nic LY
Mobile: (65) 8492-2677
Editor’s note: Contact information published with writer’s consent. Those who wish to contact the writer can do so directly.
As with all online pleas, readers please excercise due care and diligence.
Posted in Letters
How long have you been working for your company before you were let off?
Is there any other family members or friends who can assist you for now?
What are your qualifications? Consider other part-time jobs? Like giving tuition?
You can ask for jobfare, I think.
Good luck, may things be better for you.
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Today’s banks are no difference from days of the old anymore. When you have a good job, every banks start offering you this and that loans, and when you are out of job, they just come in and take everything that you have regadless whether you need to survive or not. Take one very good example where these banks learned this from, if one owes any money or tax to our garment, they are the one that started all these policies from the start. Our society has already turned into a total uncaring one which started right from the top down.
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Always remember, the success will keep quiet and normally the suffer will cry.
I hear yours. But I also believe when there is 1 cries, there may be 10 out there success and enjoy quietly.
Don’t be hopeless. Under our excellent leaders and govt, there is always hope.
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Nic, I was out of job for 1.5 year too. Thanks to our gahment’s liberal policy in opening the gate to welcome foreign talents.
I reluctantly sold my flat and downsized it for cash to tide through. Recently, just gotten a job, pay slashed by 50% and I humbly accept it for my survival.
Come GE, I will surely vote them ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..OUT!
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Hi Bro,
I can help you a little bro (if you are Singaporean). TR can you help to provide Nic email address to me so that I can email him and work things out with him?
Don’t worry bro, I’m no tai-long, just a plain singaporean helping another singaporean.
Mod’s note: Please send an email to us with our contact form and we will forward your email to him.
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I had bad experience with this bank too. I threaten to sue and they backed off.
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Life id tough. Very Tough. Why is it made more tough? What is it that the people wh supposed to help us after making it more tough. Really cannot understand. Whose side are they really are. Maybe my grandfather step on their toe.
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I can help too. Sent requested info via contact form.
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Dear Nic,
Press on, dont give up hopes. I am not any much better than you in fancial terms, but i do believe that GOD will make a way. Stay calm, I understand how vexed you are, such are vivacios thoughts happening to us when crises happen.
My suggestion :-
Beg and borrow from a few friends, but tell them the truth.
Trust me, when i was down, more than 200 friends in my phone list turned me down, even when i was just seeking for S$50 from each person. However, i do belive you would still be able to find some bucks.
You life is much more valuable than the debts you have (I am sure its lesser than my at the moment)
What ever happen, DONT give UP!!!!!
Look here, after you have passed through this very difficult time, remember to count your blessing…and also pay more attentions to political policies which are affecting all of us in the negative ways.
Perhaps, in the past when we were lack of these financial difficulties, we didnt notice the danger behind (Government policies)
I didnt trust the national leaders the moment i entered into the army, and subsequently NTU.
I tried very much to save some money and started my own businesses….I succeded and failed as many times. BUT, I wont give up my enterpreneurship……….OUR ENCOURAGEMENT goes up to all the (Government in Waiting) parties….”KEEP IT UP!”
If everyone only cares about accumulating more wealth for their own, there wont be GREAT risk takers like you (Government in waiting) to sacrifice you equivalent opportunities for PEACE and DEMOCRAY of this little country we regard as HOME.
To many PRS, Singapore may just be a temporary lodge/inn.
Nic, DONT GIVE UP HOPES.
GOVERNMENT IN WAITING===I SALUTE YOU. SUre vote you if no walk over
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First thing first. What do you mean by I feel like ending it Nic?
Do you mean tucking into two values meals in KFC and then snoozing off like the way I end it? Or are we talking about ending it all like in lying down horizontally in a citrus smelling pine box dressed up in a tuxedo?
Secondly you already have a job right now? (please write to confirm this) So you idiot what you have is really a cash flow problem.
The question now is how much do you need to sort out your cash flow problems before things stabilize? Can you share with us precisely how much you need? (pls come back to me on this in dollar and cents terms and do it fast)
After that then we can get down to the pesky details of how are you going to pay back etc.
I think it is stupid to end it all before you have fully explored your options dont you think so Nic?
I am asking you now point blank. HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU NEED NIC!
Singaporedaddy (Internet Liaison Officer of the Brotherhood)
Mod’s note: Please send an email to us with our contact form and we will forward your email to him.
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Amran, thumbs up to you. It is still not that cold out there isn’t it? There is still warm in our little red dot. I hope all turn out well for both you and Nic.
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Always remember this: don’t use credit cards from the same bank that keeps your savings account… the contract does provide for the bank to wipe out your savings for the credit card debt.
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I think you can approach MCYS / CDC / WDA for help
Think they’re rather strict on their criteria though. And their assistance is only interim.
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Ya, before I landed on this 1 year contract job (half way thru already), I was jobless for 8 months.
I have an IT degree + MBA
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Hang in there, it’s your time to be tough and rough. You will get over this unlucky patch in your life.
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I also jobless not because of FTs. I don’t know mandarin mah. I also not chinese mah. Now chinese no job mah. HeHeHe. Deserve for marginalizing local minorities mah. Long live Lee Kuan Yew mah
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Dear sir,
Please do not give up your life just like that. While there is not much I can do for you as I am residing oversea, the following link contains a list of places that offer free meals in Singapore:
http://hubpages.com/hub/Who-says-theres-no-free-lunch-in-Singapore
Hopefully, it will at least help solve one of your basic survival needs for the moment.
南摩阿弥陀佛,
Chew
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Bro,
I can help you in the interim.
Please contact me. TR please forward my email address.
Thanks.
Keith
Mod’s note: Please send an email to us with our contact form and we will forward your email to him.
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talk to your MP. he will help.
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Hi TR already email through the contact form. Please tell me if you guys have not received it. Have not received any email yet
Mod’s note: If TR editors have received your email, they will reply with an acknowledgement.
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Use another bank to receive your salary. UOB has probably used their “right to set-off” to empty your account.
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bro, should declare bankrupt then the bank cannot anyhow touch your account.
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“approach MCYS / CDC / WDA for help”
“talk to your MP. he will help”
Pls la! Offer better advice leh!
Don’t let another vote goes to the lightning.
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so glad to see such warmth existing here…good thing you came here..if you go to your MP…sure no hope one
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Don’t be foolish. You still got a job and therefore future income rolling in. Try to borrow some money from friends to tie you over until your pay comes in. You can approach Credit Counselling Singapore for advice and help in restructuring your credit card debts (www.CCS.org.sg). They are a charity and have an on-going program with the banks for debt distressed people like you.
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8/9/10
Don’t be sad and there are better things outside Singapore and just gather all your guts and move forward and there is still life outside and I am still struggling with no regrets and those who have read my backgrround and story, I have gone much worse and what keeps me going is “faith in God, love God and fear God”. God bless. Take care.
Ps: I am sure you can show those new citizens from China and India that we are far better than them (they came and robbed us our jobs and broke our rice bowls, but we still can survive like our fathers and grandfathers and we just pray that we have a new Opposition Leader to lead and unite all the Opposition Parties in Singapore and give the PAP a good run for their money and this leader must come from the local born Chinese Singaporean who must have what our Lee Kuan Yew as when he was young and Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim and always seek the the true facts and equal or better than the PAP and take them on without fear or favour)
Regards
Andrew Chuah
Ordinary Singaporean
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Hi Nic,
Been through same route before, understand fully the feeling and desperation you are under going right now.
Hang in there …
I have already requested your contact through TR editor via their contact form! Don’t give up … let’s work out something, OK?
Note to TR,
Please delete earlier post, too many typo errors!
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By posting this letter, just goes to shows that TR has played such a big role in community building and it really is the way to go for a more compassionate and caring society.
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Dear Nic
We are going through a rough patch ourselves now. Please be strong Nic, please Nic.
TR, please email to me, my husband will help a little.
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Try credit counsellors to negotiate your repayment terms with your creditors http://www.ccs.org.sg and keep your head cool. You already have a job, hold on to it, it’s only a matter of rearranging your cashflow.
Cheer up!
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### Its time for jobless benefits #####
Its the govt’s responsibilities to provide jobs.
If citizens cant find jobs…they should receive jobless benefits.
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wake up your bloody idea and stop looking for taking the easy way out.
FIGHT!
this is just another test, PRIDE is an issue here, survival is out of the question.
FIGHT!
this Life, and nobody owes you a living. our government is crap, but we must still survive.
FIGHT!
is dying even an option? would you stop your Mother if she is the one sitting by the window edge and wanting to commit suicide? what makes you think she won’t stop you for the same reason?
FIGHT!
we are born to suffer, but we must know how to FIGHT! FIGHT your way out! Bankruptcy is the most you can face, so what?! FIGHT!
(and hello singapore police i’m trying to perk up this demoralized man on suicidal thoughts so i’m not inciting violence here ok?)
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How the HELL can the bank make deductions without your consent?
This happen in Singapore right?
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From reading the messages here, one can see how caring and understanding the Malays are without looking at the skin colour or what language one can speak inspite of being discriminated by the very own people who are facing the same problems the Malays were facing not too long ago and still facing. This is God’s karma.
Hopefully, these Singaporeans will not discriminate the Malay Singaporeans and other minorities anymore when the time is better for them. Imagine when you go for interview, they tell you that you need Mandarin even when the job does not need Mandarin….
Another thing, if the writer was a Malay, I don’t think he/she would get the same compassion and warmth from Chinese Singaporeans. I can bet the person would get nasty or sarcastic remarks……..This is not a sweeping statement but through my observations …..
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To Nic,
Don’t lose hope. Try to get help from friends, family etc ….
Take care and God bless.
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Hang in there, mate. Not worth it. ‘They’ will just laugh and say you die your own business. ‘They’ will have one less champion grumbler to ‘fix’. We need you around to fight on together for the good of all True blue Sgporeans.
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Banks are simply PAP-approved AH Long!
IRAS has the power to debit $$ from our bank account and payroll if we don’t pay up income tax on time
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Hi Nic
Can understand your predicament. You should go to the press – they will want to publish your story.
Banks are such – they are actually loan shars but cloak in offical clothings.
Same thing almost happened to me when UOB wanted to take legal action against me for not paying for two months of my bill only.
I have to negotiate with the lawyer/banking officer to pay a large amount first before any instalment plan can be implemented. I also managed to negotiate for my account to be regularised if I paid up that amount. I have being a holder of that credit card for 22 years.
Worse thing is they always reassured me before that my account will be regularised if I paid up a large amount first.
After doing that, I was shocked to receive a legal letter demanding payment through the instalment plan and that my account won’t be regularise anymore as promised!
Banks you see are big liars and they use lawyers to push their way through. Sounds familiar?
I going to the press are you?
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start your own cleaning business. there are many households that dont want to employ maids due to privacy matter and u can offer your services; ranging from cleaning, to painting, to tuition and gardening.
we singaporeans are too spoilt and myopic. cant think out of the box and if we encounter abit of difficulty, we think of death.
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Look, banks operate to earn profit, that’s why when you have money, they look for you, hope you use their credit cards or their credit lines etc. when you don’t have any money, they prefer you to stay away from them and worst if you owe them money, they will make you even more jialat.
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Nic,pse visit “The Online Citizen” website. They are also the alternative site carry Sgreans views ,jus like TR.
However, they do have a “dedicated person call Gilbert Goh” that specialises in helping Jobless Singaporeans.
Try contacting him. Think his email address is shown on the site.
Anyway, TR is also doing a Good job!
Thks to all True Blues coming together ! God bless us all !
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Nik – don’t give up. Remember it is darkess just before daybreak.
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Nic! You have PAP to thank for this
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Yo Nic,
don’t give up dude. i have been jobless for many months too. I have also tried asking MP for help and going to CDC. They can’t help me.
i also owe people money. I have a degree in IT but i can’t speak Mandarin, a super serious handicap here in Chinapore. no money to go for Mandarin classes even.
In any case i agree with Alex Tan. Don’t give up your Life, Fight On!
One thing i realize about being jobless is that we need to stop feeling shameful and just “get on with it”. What i mean is this;
you need money right? try this out;
* go through your house and see if you can sell anything away. Books, playstation, old handphones, clothes, TV, anything that you can do without that won’t be a life or death issue if you don’t have it. trust me, u can do with very little actually. But don’t sell your computer or laptop! u need it to find job or upgrade your skills!
* Don’t sell to karung guni man or Cash Converter, bec they need to resell it and thus will pay u very little. Instead call your friends, sell on facebook, go door to door at your HDB estate, lay out your stuff at sungei road…anything and everything that you can think of to get that sale ethically, this is where your creative juices will start to ooze out! And be honest and tell people that you’re selling those stuff bec u lost your job and need the money. Don’t be shy! Be honest! People will appreciate your effort in trying to do everything you can than just asking for donation. Donation must be a last resort.
* whatever money u get, even if its just $50, TOP UP YOUR FARECARD FIRST! u need money to move around. if you’re healthy, walk or jog to save money on that feeder service bus.
* The most important step, FEED your mind. go library and borrow popular motivational books like “Think And Grow Rich” and stuff like that. Or watch videos on Youtube, i recommend Rocky Balboa’s inspirational speech to his son. I cried every time i watch this video (alone of course, men don’t cry in front of others), and it NEVER failed to perk me up. I reproduce some of it here for you:
“…Let me tell you something you already know.
The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place and I don’t care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard ya hit. It’s about how hard you can get it and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done! Now if you know what you’re worth then go out and get what you’re worth. But ya gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain’t where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain’t you! You’re better than that!”
Now re-read that and change the word “Life” to “PAPydogs” and you will still get the same effect:D
C’mon Nick, don’t give up on yourself….bec God will never give up on you.
Sincerely,
Ideal
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Bro Nic , 2005 i was retrench from a Japanese MNC .
Tried looking for job for 8 month , found non .
Friend introduce me a job in BATAM INDONESIA , took the job and never look
back .
Dont be down , what “ALEX TAN” say FIGHT ! is correct , Fight it .
Bro you got a job , it just cash flow issue . Stay calm make repayment
term with your bank . Slowly but surely you will make it .
Coming GE , this heartless garment is going to get voted out .
RF , WP , SDA party are you running in Choa Chu kang ? Please up
date us .
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I have been without a full-time job since my laid-off during the crisis… I got a oversea MBA now but no GOV agency want to employ me…. sad.
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Hang on bro. don’t give up so easily/ Life is precious!
Can’t help you financely, but will keep praying for you.
REMEMNER, PRAY AMD LEAVE YOUR SORROWS IN THE HANDS OF THE LORD!
HAVE FAITH!
PAP SURE LOSE
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Yes I do agree with Alex Tan. We should treasure our lives and our loved ones beyond just material things.
I have been down that road before with just $1 left in my pocket ten years ago; I did not give up and I have many things to be thankful for today. Most of it I am thankful to my God and my family that came after that. I will like to help you and will send a request form.
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you over spend by even owning a credit card… You have no clue of money management and when you became jobless, you didn’t cancel your credit card.
But, its not your fault because sg people are retrenched due to foreigners influx….
I never been on overseas vacation once in my entire life because I know nobody would ever help me financially…I never buy new year clothes for years already…Because I wanted to save more money…
I sincerely hope there are still good and kind people out there who would help you….
Do not let money run you down,
Face your problem,
Over come your problem,
and Live better than me or anyone else..
God Bless you and take care..
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@ Alex, Nic
I agree with Alex! I have a similar experience with UOB in 2004 they use all kinds of underhand methods to undermine me and i stand firm at the most i declare bankruptcy. They will use all tactics to get their money back. Nic there is still life ahead PLS DO NOT GIVE UP! I am facing a bad patch myself, still jobless and mounting bills and GUESS WHAT, yee true blue yesterday went for an Accounts Payable position by CDC and was offered $950 for the job. Haiz what have we Sinkaporeans gotten ourselves into. NIC PLEASE WAKE UP YOUR IDEA! LIFE HAVE TO GO ON NO MATTER HW TOUGH IT IS.
SO
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Please email me and I’ll give you something. Nothing big, what I can.
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Hey guys, thank you VERY MUCH for all the encouraging comments. I was really feeling down last night.
I spoke to someone from the credit management department again this morning. It was the same bank officer who took my call on Monday. She claimed that she could not help me and she was not interested that I would have no funds or means to maintain my new employment whatsoever.
It is a deep hole that I find myself in but I feel much better to fight it and hopefully resolve this.
Thank you once again.
Mod’s note:
How about leaving your email address or contact numbers here? There are many Singaporeans out there who will be keen to assist you.
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Nic LY,
There’s nothing wrong with being late on bills. Everyone, everyone gets behind on their bills one pt or another. That’s life. Let’s not talk about those people who have gazillion of money because family is rich. But an average Singaporean WILL get behind on bills. Heck, I owe my credit card (two companies) a nearly maxed out limit for 4 years continuous – plus my car loan (before anyone jump – its simple car for my SALES job) and reno loan. Being a sole-bread winner in the family, with two ageing parents and a younger sibling still living with me that was the only way out.
I’ve always though about selling my 4rm HDB so that I can make some money and pay off the debts with the downsize of my hse. But my parents whom never see the “struggle” that i hv, keep thinking that my place is “WANG WANG” and refuse to sell.
Just a couple of months ago, I was jobless for 5 months and bills STACKED UP without mercy. But i’ve never thought of ending it all – meaning to think about death. Death is nothing but an escape bro.
U die, then u family how? U die means u don’t even give ur younger sibling a chance to complete his studies. U die means u don’t even give ur parents a chance for u to show them the thanks for bringing u up.
Trust me, 天无绝人之路，船到桥头自然直。 There are a lot of other ways and options that u can consider. What we can do as fellow Singapore who are in the same or used to be in the same predicament as you is to help you out short-term. But truthfully, you’ll need to help urself – start with picking urself up. And trust me, once u pick urself up, heaven will also help u one.
Ah-Beng.
ps. that’s what i did. i went all out and found a new job – pay was slightly better than my last job.
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I have strong understanding about Nic’s situation. I left the civil service in 2008 after 10 odd years (I do not want my brain to be degenerated by spending my entire working life in civil service).
2008 was pre-financial crisis and job market was booming where banks were on hiring frenzy to sell us all the toxic products such Lehmen’s Minibond etc. I quickly realised that being in civil service for so long, I can’t really find a job that was in demand. Prior to leaving my “iron rice bowl” job, I took up courses in Real estate, hopefully can earn a living from it if I cannot find a paid job.
However 2008 was the peaking of housing marking and many agents were in the market. I only managed to closed a few deal and the financial crisis struck….. I left the property market after “eating grass” for a many months.
I send out hundreds of resume to many companies but so far only received only 2 call up for interviews and non of these 2 companies selected me.
This situation last for 1 year since 2008. And in 2009, a relative knew of my plight and asked me to worked for him and I gladly accepted.
I did not think of “ending it today” mainly I did not have the stress of having sick parent etc. I do have a wife who is still working and had a higher income which was able to “support” an unemployed husband.
My daily routine was were standard, morning read news paper or internet job portals and write resumes and mail them out. Noon, sitting around or clean the house. Since I was a house husband, the 1 year I had been doing marketing and cooking dinner for my supportive wife. That was the least I can do for her.
To me, the worst part was to ask my wife for pocket money when my money ran out. I dare not sign for advance from credit cards as the interest was really high and they are “ah Long” in disguise. In these period, I dare not or avoid answer about my jobless state. My cover story was that I was working as a property agent.
I am still working for my relative and still been sending my resumes constantly. I considered myself technically “unemployed” even though I am working for my relative because its out of compassion, not based on my skills. But if not for my relative’s kind gesture I am still sitting at home. And for my pay, it was less than $2k, a far cry from my previous pay in civil service. But still better than non and I do not have to ask my wife for pocket money.
This 2 years had shaped my political view and realised that PAP’s policies are Anti-Singaporeans and in their view (especially MM Lee) that we need a prick constantly on out backs to keep us moving. I think that is a very wrong thinking!
In my time of unemployment, I also started my anti-PAP blog to vent my frustrations especially when PAP keep saying the unemployment data show very low unemployment rate……
I am very sure which party to vote for in the coming election (if there is not walk over)!
I hoped all the best to Nic!
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To Nic LY, postings from bro Toby on 3in1kopitiam telling his story. Perhaps it can help to give you some encouragement too…
http://forums.delphiforums.com/3in1kopitiam/messages?msg=38537.2
From: Toby Kuntakinte (PouletGeorge) 11:49 am
To: kojakbt_89 (2 of 12)
38537.2 in reply to 38537.1
I was in that situation before, way back in 1994. That was during the good time, all my credit cards were busted !!! And, I still owe 6 banks of personal loans. All the banks threatened to sue me bankrupt and only pretend to help by restructuring the loan. Only Citibank is sincere in restructuring my loans – Ready Credit, personal loans, and credit card.
Local banks are the worst !! I paid every single debt in year 2000.
Through it all, I learnt. A very important lesson. If this poor chap could emerge and survive, he would definitely be a much better man in latter part of his life. If he chooses to end his life, he is definitely a BIG LOSER. I wun say I am a BIG WINNER, but I am a winner. Now, I am building up all over again albeit in small steps. Along the way, I encounter arseholes too. But, what the heck, arseholes are everywhere, you just have to sniff them out that’s all.
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http://forums.delphiforums.com/3in1kopitiam/messages?msg=38537.11
From: Toby Kuntakinte (PouletGeorge) 8:13 pm
To: kojakbt_89 (11 of 12)
38537.11 in reply to 38537.3
No problem. If it is going to help him, by all means.
Through it all, I also learnt various lessons. The first lesson is to plan and budgeting.
On a Excel Spreadsheet, I listed all the loans to consolidate my outstanding amount and worked out how much will I need to pay within 4 years. However, that is not possible, so I stretch 5 years, 6 years, and 7 years based on presumed interests. With that worksheet, I negotiate a restructuring plans with the banks. Of course, they wun buy your ideas, they have other ideas to screw you and your plans. But, dun forget, you, the debtor is at upper hand. If they screw you by making you bankrupt, they dun get a single cent back. But, you must be sincere that you will pay unlike some scumbags that use such tricks to cheat the bank.
Of course, the banks also dun believe you. I also repeat, sue me bankrupt then, you wun get a single back. The banks are also trying to recover their debts soonest. So, they offer you stupid and unrealistic payment scheme but you have every right to reject and re-negotiate to a term that fits you or probably meet somewhere in between. What stupid scheme ? Wants you to settle 50% of the debt before talking about restructuring. I told them, if I could pay 50%, would I be talking to them ? Fucking morons, but this is how they try and waste your time.
Im any case, I have to pay several thousands to the banks first for the restructuring schemes could commence. I also expected this to be one of the conditions. Luckily for me, I bought lots of insurance which I did not make any loans. I loan from GE, AIA, NTUC, and Prudential to pay these banks. The interests from these insurance companies are lower than the banks and I have not much banks to approach to begin with.
Then I began to pay the banks first – high interests and of course, the insurance companies in the end. However, I was lucky during that time. The Gulf War 1 helped me to make some gains from share speculation using my CPF. The government allowed the withdrawal of profits during that time but not today. My colleagues who were speculating together with me bought Rolex Gold while I used my money to pay my debts. In 1994 and mid 1996, I went into “hiding” in my friend’s company, he paid me $2500 and after CPF deduction, I only had $2000. Paying the banks and expenses, I only had about $400 or less a month. Later, I moved on to various regional posts, made more money and I pay more than the required sum to get out of debt faster.
So, I get out of my situation earlier. Obviously, life is hard but face it and learn from it. I could escape all these by killing myself or declare bankrupt voluntarily. But, I didn’t, I grit my teeth, fought my battle, and finish the war !! I am a fighter, not a quitter.
Of course, I went to fight other courses – CANCER !! That’s another story. Unlike George Yeo or LHL, they have abundant of cash to have treatment overseas. I dun and I fought it the HARD way and I DID IT MY WAY !!
Life is a struggle ? NOPE !! You just grow taller and worldly through all these. Of course, have a good understanding of a religion/faith also helps, I found Buddhism and certain Buddhism practise allow you to control and calm your mind. Because, you have to stay focus. The understanding of the teachings and practise also helps to balance your mind or else, you will go MAD.
There are scumbags that leech on others because of their conditions and there are also scumbags that try to take advantage of your situation.
Not me !! I dun wallow in sorrow and self pity.
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Dear Nic,
I am very sorry to hear about your situation.
Please don’t give up hope, because there is God and He loves us.
If it is any comfort to you, I had been in far worse position than you before; and actually, I am now in a situation that is definitely far worse than yours.
I have had situations where I was in tough work environment and when I walked out, I was unable to find job for years.
I am in my mid 30s, with no job, with no girlfriend, no car, no place of my own, no nothing — except some cash in the bank and lots of disappointment in myself and lost dreams. I am utterly alone, and I do not have friends or family around me to fall back on.
Yet, despite all this, I know God is there watching out for me. I know this for a fact because I can feel his presence. I know this bad situation will come to pass for you and me, so worry not.
Whatever you do, please don’t give up. You have a job and it sounds like your situation is merely cash flow difficulties. All you need to do is hang on and try to be creative and sell some personal possessions to free up some cash until your salaries start to accumulate.
Longer term, once you got back up on your feet, I would suggest that you think about leaving Singapore all behind you and migrate to a place that is better for your body and mind.
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This column really brings out the human side of Singaporeans. I am touched by the help and advice from fellow forumers to help Nic.
Nic, chin up, be strong, you will overcome.
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alot of paper chasing but no soft skill
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@ Order Of The Beng
Agree! I may be JOBLESS now and mounting bills but i CANT GIVE UP. Lucily i have a supportive partner and my mum understands but truly dont know how long more can i ENDURE. I am slightly disavantaged due to limp in the legs and interviewers will normally 打折扣 when they see me but life has to go on. The envronment is getting harsher and harsher especially those aged 35 and above. Sad!
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I agree with Alex Tan – “WE MUST FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! back to gain back our grounds”.
To hell with the “Puppies”…kick them out !
If thes “Old and expensive,arrogant “employees” of ours are getting “cocky”..there is always “Newer,Cheaper,Better and faster” group of “similar” calibre type employee avaliable.
Why be “Held Ransom” by them ???/
“Fight Back”..teach them a lesson …teach Foreigners and PRs ,exploiting on us..a lesson !!!!
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Nic LY,
When it comes to the end of the rope, tie a knot and hang on. There are a lot of people out there who had been to the shit hole and came out ok. I too had been through it too. Gone through bankruptcy, with only $10 in my bank account, a very young child to feed, “ah long” banging at your door at 3am in the morning asking for money, etc. Hey look, they are all behind me now. I survived because I didn’t want to say DIE. Be brave and hang on.
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I will give something too, even tho I have no income. TR pls contact me.
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I suggest thread starter do some part time job in evening to add income. Many insurance companies hiring tele sales in evening . The rate is low at $6/hr but at least you have money for meals and transport which can be costly.
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Did you go see VB, he said Singapore is best place for poor… he would have food delivered to your door step.
All the banks will murder you, there is no feeling or whatsoever, even government agencies or banks… if you default, they send you lawyer’s letter and penalty.
Maybe you can file as bankrupt at least you are protected.
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the comment from the ‘LIONS ROAR’ AT 10..53 PM ON SEP 7 sounds like
an idiot here is trying going around to messing at TR.
it’s a shameful act from a shameless man.
may he face his karma.
only really stupid people do such things.
or else they are just cheap PAPAYAs’ dogs running around barking nosense.
;et’s ignore h this mad dog and let him bark at himself.
we know the real LIONS ROAR comments are different from this mad dog comments.
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Please don’t your end life, please.
Life is precious.
Treasure it.
Remember your family members will have suffer a greater blow if you die.
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Hi Nic,
How old are you? And May I know your true intention of writing this letter? Are you asking for help or just looking for a place to let out your emotion?
I seriously hope you are not a Con artist and that you WILL NOT MAKE USE OF TRUE BLUE SINGAPOREAN KINDNESS.
After reading your letter , I had lots of mixed feeling and questions circling in my mind. Before I am to give you any advise or comments, I will just like to share with you the situation I am in now so that you will know that just maybe your situation are not that bad after all…at least you are not alone.
I came from a poor, broken family. My dad pass away on 12/10 2005 suffering from abdominal cancel after 1.5 yrs of cancer treatment. Well, you should know how much that will cost.
A year after my dad decease, I decide to venture into business ,which later in 2008 it ran into cash flow and partnership issues. At the point of time, I already owe 9 months of hdb loan instilment and conservancy fees. Thus was receiving lots of RED LETTERS AND FINAL WRANING LETTERS FROM ALL AUTHORITIES BOARD. My mum suffering from diabetes which needed $250 per month to buy medication (beside her daily expenses)kept asking me for money everyday. Of course, there are still many other bills and banks bugging me. After much thoughts, instead of letting (worry) HDB confiscate my house, I sold it off for cash in Dec 2008. After repaying my loans, bills and gave my mum a lump sum to stop her from bugging me , I left with 50K cash and 60K in CPF.
I tried looking for a smaller flats to buy but unfortunately was not possible for me to get a home loan from any banks. Thus been renting a small room for the past 2 years hoping to make more money from my business for a come back.
It was then this year early April, my mother in law was detected with breast cancer (Malignant) and requires immediate operation. I send her to Penang for treatment as it is much cheaper there. ( Singapore cost ard $60k , Malaysia cost ard 16K ; Operations only, not include subsequent chemo which cost $3K per 21 days. Doctor now say she needs another year of Chemo to be safe). So all my saving is gone and I have no more money/capital to carry on my business.
Just when I thought that no more things could possibly happen or goes wrong, my wife told me she was already over three months pregnant in June. But I was happy, cause I believe God had finally send me a GIFT after so many years.
Now not only I have no money, no house, I am also shoulder with my mother in law medical bill, my wife monthly medical checkup and room rental…not forgetting food on the table.
Soon I will have no place to stay as I am not able to find a Landlord that permits to rent a room knowing there will be child bearing and a baby soon.
I went to HDB 4 times and MP 3 times for help but all in vain. They wrote letter to HDB; HDB reply ” Sorry, cannot”
The very day I make payment for my mother in law treatment , I started looking for a job. All kind of jobs..delivery , sales despatch… but not sucessful at all.
And when my wife told me she is pregnant, the very next day afternnon I was queuing at a MRT station waiting for my turn … interview for factory worker mid night shift at $44 per day. I grab the job without hestitating. I been working since June til now.. taking home barely $600 (with OT on wkend) for every half a month.
I will only keep $50 for myself to use every half month and remaining to my wife which barely enough for anything.
I will top up my ezylink card $30 ( $2.02/day to & fro work)
Buy 1 loaf of Ntuc white bread to last me every 2-3 days.
I am still struggling very hard each day not knowing how am I going to get a place for my wife to stay and give birth or what tomorrow will brings….but I know 1 thing for sure…..I CANNOT QUIT NOW !
Thats about to summrise my situation now which I find to a certain extent is quite similiar to yours. The only difference is…OUR MIND.
Ask yourself these few questions before you send your letters and post up the net.
1) ARE YOU THE WORST PERSON IN SINGAPORE NOW?
2) ARE YOUR PROBLEM THAT HUGE THAT CANNOT BE SOLVE AT ALL?
3) WHAT HAVE YOU TRUELY DONE TO SALVAGE THE PROBLEMS?
4) HAVE YOU REALLY TRY OUT ALL MEANS?
The only problem I see you having now is only a short transition period with some cashflow to sustain you to your next pay and you already want end your life?? If you in my shoes now, how many times you want to die then?
I think you are a Quitter and a DREAMER.
Remember ! When you quit once, you will forever be quiting.
In fact, I don’t even know what were you doing for the past 8 months when you lose your job til you found 1. You didn’t even think how you going to repay the bank credit loan when you apply for it. Don’t tell me there are no temporary jobs for you while you looking for other jobs.
Tution? Factory Job? –Pay too low OR Pai Seh? Job too tiring? At least its money IN and not out doing nothing.
Many nice TR readers here already given you lots of advise, though I not sure if you read them all OR JUST SELECTIVE READING.
Lastly, if you still wanting to die …please put a handsome price tag to it. Go get your dad to sell away the house and temporary rent a flat then spent the money for a year to go enjoy yourself stress free BUT PLEASE REMEMBER go buy at least 1 million Pure Life Insurance Policy and then die on the 366th day after it in force to leave behind for your father.
YOU OWE YOUR LIFE TO YOUR FATHER SO DON’T THROW ALL PROBLEMS TO HIM AND “WALK AWAY”….at least return his investments on you over the years.
P/S: Pls hor any1 that read this reply..I just tying to tell him, he is not the worst and still got hope ..also TELLING HIM DUN BE FOOLISH TO END HIS LIFE. k? PEACE TO ALL
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THIS IS THE REAL PICKNOSE
it is times like this that i am proud to be a singaporean
there are so many singaporeans who are willing to step forward to help
give yourself a pat on the back
good work
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S’porean 1st:
September 8, 2010 at 11:47 am
I am ispired by you
singapore really is a stressful place to live
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@Picknose
Agreed HANDS and FEET!!!!!! Unless you are the “CREAM OF THE CROP” or else its STRESS STRESS STRESS.
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and i tot life in Malaysia is stressful. Selamat Hari Raya everyone. dont la be so stress stress. free food & drinks for Raya open house!
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S’porean 1st: September 8, 2010 at 11:47 am
if u r so a deep shit. i find it hard to grasp that you are chiding another one fellow who is in equally deep shit (if not deeper) as you with the followings : – .
1) mother diagnosed with cancer and it was a painful 2 year period of expensive treatments and surgeries till she passed away in 2008.
2) father too was retrenched.
3) younger brother was still studying in university.
since your case presents a benchmark (the worst of the worst situations), r u suggesting that anyone’s situation which is not worst than yours is peanuts and deserve to be swept aside.
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too many pappy dogs running lose these dya at TR.
imposters,hypocrites,vipers and snake oil man’s snakes crawling around the places disrupting other posters.
cheap copycats whould not be allowed to use nicknames that have already been used by others to provide clearer and fairer forums here.
it is disgraceful of bloggers here who made themselves look so cheap and low class like pappy dogs licking their masters’ feet and barking madly.
it is pure nonsense to see TR infested with such lousy bugs who go around character assinating others.
i do enjoy TR on the whole but allowing all these pappy dogs to cause disruptions to other genuine posters is not going to help TR’S to be a credible alternative to msm in the longer run.
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So sad to hear that so many of our fellow citizens are suffering in silence when our PAP leaders are spurging on wasteful and unnecessary spending. I wonder whether LKY & GCT ever feels shameful that our standards are nowhere near the ‘Swiss’ standard of living where maybe S$600K a year is really peanuts.
By the way can anyone please advise Nic on how to approach our howlian Minister for the free meals delivered to him as promised by our Minister ? I am sure Nic should qualify for the promised free meals and it can tide him over for the difficult period that he is facing now.
Or is the free meals a joke in the first place when they can’t even afford to provide a solid meal for our YOG volunteers ?
Vivian, do you have anything to say ?
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@S’porean 1st:
September 8, 2010 at 11:47 am
And our MM call Singaporeans lazy and daft??
We sure have fighters amongst us and we are proud of all of them who are fighting against all odds.
Loan money from a credit card is almost as bad as borrowing from loan sharks, credit card companies are legalised loan sharks their rates are just as killing, never never touch them.
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@Alamak – but its the only choice when there’s no choice. UOB, DBS, OCBC all have killer-interest … it a situation of only they win no others win. That’s a Singapore bank.
@Nic LY – before most of us would help you, you gotta start to help yourself. plan out how u want to get out of this situation – timeline and also work on a monthly expenses budgetting. Sometimes taking on two jobs might also help. perhaps like distributing newspapers in the early mornings, or work on weekends. It might be tough, but for that first few weeks, when you feel like giving up, think of the light at the end of the tunnel – and everything will be much better.
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@just wondering whether your own story is real
Hi dude,
thats is also the 1st qn I ask myself when I saw Nic’s Letter and I can totally understand why any1 would ask that.
The only way to verify true or not is to meet up and I welcome you anytime to meet up for verification BUT PROVIDED YOU ARE CAPABLE & WANTING TO HELP. Otherwise I don’t see any need at all for me to waste time justifying the truth of my situation to the whole world.
I don’t think mine is the worst and in fact I saw and know of others who are worst. I am not trying to chill nor benchmark myself to compare with Nic. I am telling him my situation so that HE WILL KNOWS THAT HUNDREDS,THOUSANDS OR MAYBE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING IN SILENCE AND THAT HE IS NOT THE ONLY “POOR SOUL” TO FACE SUCH AN UNFORTUNATE & CRUELITY OF LIFE.
I felt sorry for him and I can understand how he is feeling but I cannot agree to anyone who is giving up his life so easily without even really fight against the odds.
As for the problems you mentioned his is facing is it truely so devasating to need him kill himself?
1) mother diagnosed with cancer and it was a painful 2 year period of expensive treatments and surgeries till she passed away in 2008.
–His Mother (Just like my dad) had alreay rested YEARS AGO so thats the past. IT SHOULD NOT BE OF ANY PROBLEM TO HIM NOW.
2) father too was retrenched.
– This is a problem. And the only solution is that he too go find a job (ANY JOY) unless he is too old now. If he is too old and retired , he should be able to withdraw bit n miserable of is CPF money to get food and rest at home.
If the old muslim aunties (presently fasting and still working) can work in the factory like me now I don’t see how can any man not take the same job as them unless for medical reasons. Try going to Defu lane every morning and see these Big Size aunties crossing the bridge after they finish their night shift work. Bear in mind as well that behind each and every of them lies a story that you could hardly believes wait til you hear some of their stories.
I salute them with great respect !!
( CPF–1 of the govt policies that I think should change. It should alter to allow Singaporeans have wider access options to their own fund especialy in times of emergency and needs. Maybe just like an insurance policy loan option could be applied — Will share my view pont on these other times in relevant topics)
3) younger brother was still studying in university.
I have to agree this is also a problem. He should not drop out from his studies and needs to press on.
I believes his brother is in local U. There must certainly have some assistance availiable to help his brother finance the school fees if not delay for short period of time. For a start , has he try talking to the HOD ? MOE? or even the MP? I believes when it comes to education matters, lots of support are given by the govt. The brother should also takes up a part time job to ease the burden. Giving tution should no be too much to ask. Lots of people had aleady did that. There are many others “half work, half study” to complete their U.
(Education- I have to applause to govt for emphasis highly in education.The only flaws and unhappiness abt it is that local grads are often seem and treated 2nd to oversea grads also… Again, lets discuss tis in relevant topics other time)
As a matter of fact, many TR readers already recognise the only 1 and true real problem that he is facing now which is CASHFLOW PROBLEM. Sell away the TV ,other electronic appliance and unused items at home to liquidate into cash for daily basic needs til next pay day. Change his bank account for salary crediting. Thats about all he needs to do. And if he is of a stronger group, go holds another part time job.
Nic, stay strong and remember these words ” Yesterday is known as the past, Tomorrow is known as future, TODAY is known as PRESENT. EACH DAY IS A GIFT SO TREASURE IT”
Bless all
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Brother, to die is easy, it is a cowardly way to end your misery and pass it to your family, don’t you even think about it, and the reason is because of cash flow? That’s even more silly.
Many gave advise and offered financial help to you, now plan your way out, people can only do so much, this is the life line you need, the rest you have to fight you way out.
And when you recovered, which I know you will, please remember those who help you before and either pay them back since some of them are also in as bad a situation as you or return their kindness by helping another person in distress.
And one more very important thing, if you have the chance to vote, you should know what to do by now.
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Hang in there brother…I see the light at the tunnel…Soon we will be liberated from the pro-foreigner PAP regime…we will have our jobs back after chasing away the foreign trash…don’t gave up and die because those PAP goons will only laugh….God bless you and Singaporeans….God bless Singapore
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Nic,
this is the best time for you to see what your MP can do for you. Don’t let your many years of tax contribution go to waste. I have been a tax payer for donkey years, but not a single time have I seen my MP appearing in the estate talking to residents. Looks like the only time MPs make appearance is as invited VIP for some community events or cutting ribbons, or sitting sleepy in parliament passing time. I am refering to Khoo Tsai Kee, am in his ward for more than 10 years and not seen him even once in public before.
So, now that you are in trouble, I expect your MP to offer tangible advise and get the right assistance schemes to help you out.
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You are not alone, i am jobless for 3 months. Sending out resume becomes my routine but to no avail. I have lost count how many i sent out,few hundreds at least. So what i finally earn a degree through working day and studying inthe evening. It all comes to nothing but study loan debt. This world is getting sick and very soon, i will join you in that category too as my cash advance is at it limit.
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Sad… I realise there are more and more well-educated singaporeans getting jobless as the day goes by. I don’t see the 15% GDP that’s continuously boasted by PAP benefitting anyone of us on the street.
My 33 year old friend was recently retrenched and replaced by a Msian. She has to borrow some money from me to survive while she looks for new job.
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I believe now many true blue singaporeans are in deep problems in terms of jobs and also financial standing too. Me also, nic. Im a local born native singaporean. I alone rent a room outside for almost few years already. I have a sad story behind. But do not wish to say it here.
I can tell you in my bad times, no one came to my aid. I have no place, no family. Im in my mid 30s. Govt policy cannot allowed single to purchase directly from HDB. And i earn very little. I hold 3 jobs, working like dead shit. But what to do, i need to survive. I have no one to fall on. Dont tell me about families or relatives for help. I can tell you that sometimes friends are even better than families and relatives…
And i still keep myself work very hard. Recently lost one of the jobs, need to quickly find another 1 to replace it. Life is so tough, but dont give up. If im all alone by myself and still survive till date. That means you can also. It just take a strong will and determination to fight through. Only those who fight are called the Great Survivors, be it good times or bad times.
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S’porean 1st: September 8, 2010 at 3:54 pm
while the the story of the author may sound doubtful to you, your response to it & subsequent reply to mine made yours even more doubtful.
& you know why, yours sounded more like a story (not real life of course). don’t forget, u had some business experience and failed right ?
“HUNDREDS,THOUSANDS OR MAYBE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING IN SILENCE”
if all of this really happens in our country, then definitely something is really really wrong. I guess u know what i mean right ?
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Dude,
I can relate to the predicament you are in. But WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT IT? Wtf are you doing here crying about it when you should be busy FINDING THE SOLUTION? Cmon, there are many many out there who are much worse off than you who are struggling on (BUT with a smile on their faces). I’m sorry I simply cannot accept the fact that you can’t find gainful employment. Have you tried your best?
Sht happens, stand up to it. Or be a fairy and give up.
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My mum’s pay at a coffeeshop went from 1.1k years ago to 800+ now, with LESS off days!
I’m lucky to have started work a few years earlier and earning enough to survive now.
But what if my mum and I were born 10 years later?
Would my mum, based on the current circumstances, be able to bring up my sis and I, pay for HDB installments all on her own?
Looking at the wages for the lowly educated now, looking at the cost of HDB now, looking at the cost of living now, can someone who earns $800+ (~$700 after CPF) send her kids to poly, pay for a 3 room flat, and cope with all other necessities of life?
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weiz: September 9, 2010 at 11:48 am
@@@@I’m sorry I simply cannot accept the fact that you can’t find gainful employment. Have you tried your best?@@@@
bcos, you still haven’t kena it yourself OR your knowledge on job market & economic is shallow lah.
did u read his article or not.
///ut finally I had some ray of light in mid August when I was finally hired. I got a half month’s salary just last week and a lot of it was already earmarked to pay off some outstanding bills and loans.///
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@Nic,
Fight on… The sun will still shine one day, after a huge storm blows over. And when that day comes when sun shines bright and high, remember to reflect on the root cause of the plead Singapore is in.
From a person who has attempted to end it before, with marks to remind of.
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Japan’s suicide rates are the highest in the world. In 2009 more than 32,000 people took their lives. Among them were 26,500 individuals between the ages of 15 and 69.
Most important point
“If these individuals continued to work until retirement, the total income would have been close to 1.9 trillion yen, the ministry said, according to the Japan Times article.”
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