I REFER to the letter "S'pore not that pricey" (my paper, July 28).

I don't think it is fair to compare Singapore to Sydney.

First of all, Australia has a minimum-wage policy. At McDonald's restaurants there, for example, one can, depending on one's age, earn up to $12 an hour, compared to $5 or less in Singapore. My point is that the Australian standard of living corresponds to the income its people earn.

Singapore may seem less pricey because, in general, people here earn less, compared to Australians.

Regarding the comparisons of food prices, I must point out that food portions there are so huge that a serving can easily be shared by two people who are not used to the generous helpings.

Similarly, a loaf of bread there may be more expensive, but it is "supersized".

Furthermore, rice is not a staple of the Australian diet, so it is pricier there. Likewise, pasta is more expensive in Singapore as it is not a staple here.

On the other hand, dairy products in Australia are so much cheaper, with chocolates and ice cream costing at least 30 per cent less.

The letter-writer said that many foreigners want to settle in Singapore. Likewise, it is also a known fact that there are many Singaporeans who want to settle in Australia, although not necessarily in Sydney, because of its high rentals.

Mr Alvin Aw

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