Should working adults give their parents monthly allowances?

50-dollar notes

A very sensitive topic, huh?

But one that should be discussed.

After all, the journey into adulthood is not a walk in the park.

As you make your way into the working world and start earning your keep, it makes you wonder if you should provide financially for those who brought you into the world.

In our little red dot, there’s an unspoken expectation that working adults must provide monthly allowances for their parents.

But really must meh? Is there a right or wrong answer? Let’s see.

Cultural expectations around filial piety

In Singapore, there’s a deep-rooted expectation of filial piety.

It’s almost an incontestable social value here—especially in the older generations where they think their children must provide for them.

However, we’re now seeing new expectations among younger generations when it comes to filial piety. And IMO, there’s really nothing wrong with it.

At the end of the day, whether you prefer buying gifts, taking your parents out for weekly meals, or giving them monthly allowances, you do what’s best for you.

The financial realities of many young working adults today

Do you know that a study done by the Citi Foundation-SMU Financial Literacy Programme for Young Adults 2 years ago has shown that 1 in 3 young adults in Singapore are not confident in managing debt?

Many people in their 20s don’t think about budgeting and managing their finances, let alone helping out their parents with an allowance.

This lack of financial understanding can be attributed to a few factors.

For one, education hasn’t provided sufficient preparation for handling money.

Another is that these young adults have not taken the time to research and understand the complexities of budgeting and money management when heading out into the workforce.

It’s easy to assume that if you’ve got your first full-time job, you should be able to start helping out your parents immediately.

But it’s important to remember just how difficult that can be if you don’t know a thing about money management.

Have an open conversation about expectations

That said, knowing what your parents expect from you and understanding what you can afford are important aspects to consider. It’s difficult, no doubt, but it’s essential to reach a compromise.

If your parents’ expectations are out of line with what you can afford, there are options for bridging their expectations and the reality of your financial situation.

For instance, maybe you could suggest splitting costs like utility bills and groceries?

woman shopping at NTUC

Image Credits: straitstimes.com.sg

Or you could explore other solutions, like sending money once every 2 months or providing help in other ways such as running errands or helping with chores around the house.

The idea is to meet halfway, somewhere.

Set a budget you can afford for monthly allowances

If you can afford a monthly allowance for your parents, good.

But first things first, allocate budget percentages based on your expenses, savings, and debt (I hope it’s just a student’s debt ya).

This will help you determine the limit of how much you can spend each month by calculating your “take-home” after CPF deductions.

If your expenses are greater than your income, start by cutting down unnecessary spending or look for ways to make extra money.

You can also let your parents know that you will increase their allowance as your income grows.

Make compromises to find a solution that works for your family

Every family’s budget is different so I can’t tell you what you should or should not do.

And while you may feel obligated to give your parents a monthly allowance, sometimes it’s just not practical based on your current financial status.

But don’t worry—you can still come to an agreement that satisfies both sides.

Here are some tips:

  • If you have siblings, discuss among yourselves to share the responsibility of monthly allowances for your parents.
  • If you’re all working adults, talk about how much each one of you can contribute towards the financial welfare of the family.
  • For only-child cases, see if there are any items or bills that you can chip in and take away from the burden of your parents first.
Alternative ways to show gratitude to your parents

It doesn’t always have to be about money.

More so if your parents are still in the workforce, have a hand in investing, and earning more than you do.

There are other ways to show them you’re thankful to them for bringing you up. For instance, spending time together.

Make time to chat with them regularly or visit them in person if you’ve already moved out.

Taking the initiative to remember important dates like birthdays and anniversaries can be a way to express your love too.

Or you can organize bi-weekly dine-out dates with the old folks. Zi-char style; anything goes!

zi char dishes

Image Credits: asiaone.com

The decision to give a monthly allowance to your parents is a personal one. No “outsider” has the right to tell you what’s “right or “wrong”. So take time to decide if you can afford to give your parents a monthly allowance, and if it’s something you feel comfortable doing in the long run. If you can, it’s worth considering, but if you can’t, speak to your parents about it and find alternative ways to “make up” for it.

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Latest WFH internships posted from 22 to 25 May 2023

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Are you ready to jumpstart your career from the comfort of your home?

Welcome to our latest WFH internship series, where we explore work-from-home internship opportunities posted from 22 to 25 May 2023.

As remote/hybrid work becomes the new norm, companies are adapting and offering incredible opportunities for aspiring professionals to gain valuable experience without stepping (much) foot into an office.

So if you’re ready to roll, let’s go.

#1: Singapore International Film Festival – Partnerships & Development Intern

Website: sgiff.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $600 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • At least a final year student or a Diploma in Arts Management, Media, Mass Communications, Marketing, Business, or equivalent.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Fluency in other languages is a plus.
  • Comfortable with social media, and managing company guidelines on the use of social media.
  • Driven, proactive, able to work independently, and yet a good team player.
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines.
  • Confidence in interacting with all levels of people.
  • Able to work independently. 
  • Proficiency in graphic design (Photoshop/Illustrator) and/or basic video editing skills are an advantage.
  • Some events experience will be an advantage. 
  • Interest in film and/or the arts is preferred.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist the Partnerships & Development Manager and Executive in research for the Festival’s sponsorship and partnership strategy 
  • Assist in the communication and fulfillment of sponsorship entitlements and deliverables promptly.
  • Support the team in the smooth running and execution of all sponsor-related and fundraising-related activities and events. 
  • Provide administrative support for the individual donor and sponsorship database.
  • Provide administrative support for invitations and RSVPs for events with sponsor invitations or tickets.
  • Providing administrative support in tracking all entitlements and benefits for sponsors, partners, fundraising, and individual donors. 
  • Support in creating visual communication and social media posts for SGIFF’s individual donor program and sponsor fulfillment.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your CV, a picture of yourself, and two references, to [email protected] by 9 June 2023.

#2: Vintedge Pte Ltd – Data Analyst Intern

 

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Website: vintedge.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Familiar with analytic and reporting tools (eg. Power BI)
  • Advanced usage of Microsoft Excel and/or Google Sheet
  • Analytical with strong ability trends from raw data
  • Strong interest in user behavior analytics
  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Analytics, Data Science, Mathematics, or equivalent
Key Responsibilities
  • Prepare data from scratch to unfold the untold relationships
  • Extract value worth its weight in gold from logic and rules in operating analytics and reporting software
  • Craft and design marketing and business ROI dashboards
  • Dip your hands into user behavior analytics

View the job post in full here and write to Katrina via this link.

#3: Pixl Solutions Pte Ltd – Software Testing Intern

www.pixl.world

Website: pixl.world

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Understand test requirements, test methodologies, and test strategies.
  • Good communication skills and strong pressure resistance.
  • Attentive, conscientious, responsible, collaborative, and diligent work ethic.
Key Responsibilities
  • Responsible for Cross-platform software testing.
  • Responsible for system function testing, compatibility testing, UI testing, product documentation testing, etc.
  • Write test cases and execute tests according to the requirements documents, and output test reports.

View the job post in full here and write to Zhien via this link.

#4: Talula Hill Farmer’s Box – Business Development Intern

 

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Website: talulafarm.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $500 monthly

Job Qualifications

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Key Responsibilities
  • Launch their Shopify store! (they’ve grown out of WordPress)
  • Product Development to improve product market fit with existing customers
  • Social Media Marketing to improve storytelling of farmers to their customer base

View the job post in full here and write to Nicky via this link.

#5: Klook Travel Technology – Intern, Partnership And Affiliates, Influencer Marketing (6 Months)

 

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Website: klook.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Outgoing and enthusiastic personality – Love talking to people!
  • Comfortable working with numbers and Excel sheets
Key Responsibilities
  • Play an active role in collecting insights for Klook’s Kreator Program targeted at influencers via user research and survey groups
  • Invite influencers to be a part of Klook’s Kreator Program
  • Participate in account management and acquisition initiatives targeted at content writers
  • Data tracking and analysis to measure the success of influencers and content writers

View the job post in full here and apply via this link.

Note: We’ve selected these internships based on the “remote” tag, but some positions may still require some face-to-face time. Please contact the employer directly for more deets.

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5 Must-Experience Thai Fashion Brands, from GENTLEWOMAN to ASAVA

One of the most vibrant and trendy cities in Asia that captures the hearts of fashion-savvy Singaporeans is none other than Bangkok, Thailand. With its bustling streets and countless clothing stalls that remain open day and night, Bangkok has rightfully earned its reputation as a haven for fashion lovers. In fact, renowned personalities like Michelle Obama and Katy Perry have joined the chorus in praising Bangkok’s talented designers. It’s safe to say that Thailand truly embodies a paradise for fashion enthusiasts!

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok or simply want to explore the country’s fashion scene, here are five Thai fashion brands that deserve your attention:

#1: GENTLEWOMAN

Shop: gentlewomanonline.com

Have you noticed the ubiquitous black and white totes adorning the streets of Singapore, proudly displaying the words “GENTLE WOMAN” in a striking giant Serif font? The GENTLEWOMAN tote bag has become a symbol of contemporary fashion, featuring a sleek black and white design with the bold “GENTLE WOMAN” inscription. Its appeal lies in its blend of style and substance, appealing to individuals seeking confidence and minimalism.

In Singapore, these striking tote bags have become a pervasive trend, reflecting the city’s fast-spreading fashion culture. Originating from Thailand in 2018, GENTLEWOMAN is a vibrant brand with 15 stores in Bangkok. Apart from tote bags, their collection includes stylish pants, trendy tops, fashionable hats, and more. As Thailand remains a popular destination for Singaporean tourists, many have visited GENTLEWOMAN stores, bringing back coveted souvenirs like the iconic tote bags for their friends back home.

Image Credits: facebook.com/gentlewomanstore

#2: ASAVA

Shop:asavagroup.com

If you are in search of sleek and timeless pieces, look no further than ASAVA. With a strong emphasis on elegance and sophistication, ASAVA perfectly encapsulates the essence of modern Thai luxury. Their designs boast clean lines, impeccable tailoring, and the use of luxurious fabrics, all contributing to a refined aesthetic that resonates with fashion connoisseurs.

ASAVA is renowned for their notable works, including the creation of uniforms for Bangkok Airways and BTS, as well as a range of high-end retail and hotel staff uniforms. Another interesting aspect of ASAVA is their long-standing role as a prominent manufacturer, having designed clothes for Miss Thailand Universe finalists for many years.

#3: BOYY

Shop: boyy.com

Have you heard of BOYY? BOYY, the world-renowned Thai handbag brand, was co-founded by designers Wannasiri “Boy” Kongman and Jesse Dorsey. Initially introduced in New York and Copenhagen, BOYY eventually returned to its roots and established its presence in Thailand. Fashionistas from Tokyo to Paris have been spotted flaunting BOYY’s signature leather buckle bags. Launched in New York by Canadian designer Jesse Dorsey and Bangkok native Wannasiri Kongman, the brand’s aesthetic strikes a perfect balance between femininity and masculinity.

Fashion-forward individuals in Singapore can indulge in the allure of BOYY’s powdery pastel colors, where sand-colored marble provides a backdrop for a captivating range of leather bags, loafers, and sunglasses in a multiple hue.

#4: KLOSET

Shop:lazada.co.th/shop/kloset

Since its establishment in 2001, Kloset has held a special place in the hearts of countless women, evident from the long queues that form outside their shops during sales. Under the management of Mollika “Kam” Ruangkritya, Kloset has earned a reputation as a celebrated designer brand that embraces and exalts femininity. Customers of all ages can discover collections tailored to suit their specific occasions.

Beyond offering fashionable and feminine clothing, the brand goes the extra mile by providing accessories, stationery, shoes, and other items under the name Kloset & Etcetera. Kloset shops can be conveniently found in prominent locations such as Siam Center, Siam Paragon, and more, ensuring easy access to their offerings.

#5: GREYHOUND

Shop: greyhound.co.th

Attention, fashion-forward Singaporean trendsetters! Prepare to be captivated by Greyhound.

Would you believe that Greyhound started back in 1980? The name itself was chosen to evoke an image of elegance, drawing inspiration from the graceful and loyal Greyhound dog, known as man’s best friend. As a renowned Thai brand, Greyhound has gained international recognition for its minimalist and edgy designs. Even their website exudes an undeniable coolness!

Image Credits: facebook.com/greyhound.original

Greyhound’s sophisticated apparel predominantly embraces blacks, whites, and greys. With the use of creative fabrics, daring cuts, and a refined color palette, Greyhound’s contemporary collections showcase sleek silhouettes and experimental designs, making a bold statement in the fashion world.

Sources: 1,2, 3, & 4

 

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Why Did I Develop Allergies as an Adult?

Imagine the nostalgia of taking a bite of your favorite childhood snack, the very one your mother lovingly packed in your school lunchbox every single day. You eagerly anticipate the familiar crunchiness, but instead, your mouth betrays you with an irritating itch, and your throat feels uncomfortably scratchy. It’s a disheartening moment, realizing that you’ve developed oral allergies, a phenomenon that haunts adults more frequently, especially those with a history of seasonal allergies.

Allergies, my friend, are the handiwork of our body’s immune system, a complex dance of defense mechanisms. They stand apart from food intolerance or sensitivity, which arise when our bodies struggle to digest certain foods or food chemicals. In the intricate realm of allergies, our immune system kicks into action, producing a special warrior called Immunoglobulin E, or IgE, to combat the allergy symptoms. IgE is a messenger, a chemical emissary that travels to our cells, urgently conveying the message that we need a chemical defense against these foreign invaders. It’s a fascinating process, really. Allergic individuals tend to have elevated IgE levels in response to seemingly harmless environmental exposures, like innocent pollen particles drifting on the breeze.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Now, let’s embark on a journey to understand how allergies come to life within us, mere mortals. Allergies can sprout forth at any stage of our existence. One factor that magnifies the likelihood of their emergence is the specter of family history. If even one parent carries the burden of allergies, their offspring face a 30-50% chance of walking the same thorny path. But wait, the stakes rise to a staggering 60-80% if both parents bear this burden.

Allergies can also develop later in life due to exposure to new allergens in the environment and changes in the immune system. This can happen anywhere from early adulthood, such as a person’s 20s, to their senior years, when they are in their 70s or 80s. The most common food allergies in adults include peanuts, fish, shellfish (e.g., shrimp and lobster), and tree nuts. Recently, sesame seeds have also emerged as a new allergen in some cases.

The most peculiar aspect of adult-onset allergies is that you can suddenly become irritated by an allergen that didn’t bother you yesterday. You may have been in contact with that allergen every day for years without experiencing any adverse effects. But now, you find yourself with a runny nose, itchy eyes, and uncontrollable sneezing whenever exposed to that allergen.

Some potential triggers for adult-onset allergies include:

1. Allergen exposure when your immune system is weakened, such as during illness, pregnancy, or a condition that compromises your immune function.

2. Limited exposure to an allergen during childhood. You may not have been exposed to high enough levels to trigger a reaction until adulthood.

3. Switching to a new home or workplace with different allergens. This could involve exposure to new plants and trees.

4. Owning a pet for the first time. Research suggests that allergies can develop after an extended period of not having any pets.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The good news is that allergies can diminish over time. Even if you develop allergies as an adult, you may find that they start to fade away as you reach your 50s and beyond. This is because immune function tends to decline with age, resulting in less severe immune responses to allergens.

Sources: 1 & 2

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