Singapore has accepted an independent committee’s recommendations for a sharp increase in ministerial salaries, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong told parliament. A junior minister’s annual pay will rise to as much as S$1.8 million ($1.42 million), while Wong’s salary will increase to S$3.6 million ($2.85 million), based on an exchange rate of $1 to S$1.2649. Singapore already pays its political leaders the highest salaries in the world, arguing that the compensation helps attract talent, support good governance and deter corruption. The salaries had been unchanged since a 36% reduction in 2012; a 2017 review did not produce an increase, and a review due in 2023 was delayed by economic uncertainty. The decision comes as the issue remains politically sensitive amid median income of S$5,775 in 2025 and inflation of 2% in July. Lawmakers are due to debate the matter later in the week.