A stronger Ringgit is usually seen as a positive development for most Malaysians.
But for some working across the Causeway in Singapore, the rising value of their home currency is proving to be a challenge.
Some say a stronger Ringgit hurts their income
Several Malaysian workers in Singapore have shared on Xiaohongshu (XHS) that the recent exchange rate feels like a salary cut.
The SGD/MYR rate hovered around 1 SGD = RM3.17, down from RM3.40–RM3.50 earlier this year.
This means Malaysians now get fewer Ringgit notes when converting their Singapore earnings.
One user said their usual SGD exchange used to give them RM6,000, but now returns are only RM5,900.
That RM100 may be small, but it covers one week’s groceries,” the post stated.
Users shared that a large portion of their income goes back to Malaysia for home and car loans, children’s education, or supporting parents.
After spending on rent, transport and food in Singapore, many said the remaining amount has dropped significantly once converted to Ringgit.
Some described this loss as losing their exchange-rate advantage, a major reason they chose to work abroad in the first place.
‘We still have family to support back home’
Others voiced concern that the shrinking remittance value could impact their families in Malaysia.
People think working in Singapore is easy and pays well,” said one user. “But after rent and bills, we don’t save much. Now with the stronger Ringgit, it’s even lesser.”
Some also said they are reducing the amount sent home or trying to save more aggressively to manage the difference.
Netizens divided over complaints
However, many Malaysians disagreed with the workers’ views and criticised the idea of wishing for a weak national currency.
One user commented, ‘Try living in Malaysia with a local salary before complaining.’
Another added: ‘If the Malaysian ringgit appreciates, wouldn’t it be better for everyone to return to their home countries to work? Why must people insist that a depreciation of the Ringgit is a good thing?‘
Some argued that a stronger currency could help more Malaysians come home to work and be closer to family, instead of relying on overseas income.
‘As a Malaysian earning Singapore dollars in Singapore, I can understand that you are forced to leave your hometown for a living. However, when the Malaysian Ringgit recovers to its rightful position, don’t hope for it to depreciate just to get more Ringgit in exchange. Your loved ones are still here, diligently guarding this land.’
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