Title: An Examination of the ComLink+ Pre-School Incentive Scheme: Strong Take-Up and Implications for Lower-Income Families in Singapore
Abstract: This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the ComLink+ pre-school incentive scheme, a national initiative in Singapore aimed at supporting lower-income families in improving their lives. The scheme has seen a strong take-up, with many families benefiting from the financial incentives provided. However, the employment package component of the scheme has experienced a slower start. This paper explores the reasons behind this disparity and examines the implications of the scheme for lower-income families, using the case study of Ms Maznah Senen and her family. The findings highlight the importance of tailored support packages and the need for continued efforts to address the complex challenges faced by lower-income families in Singapore.
Introduction: In 2024, the Singaporean government launched the ComLink+ scheme, a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting lower-income families in improving their lives. The scheme consists of two progress packages: a pre-school incentive package and an employment package. The pre-school incentive package provides financial incentives to families who continue their children’s pre-school education, while the employment package encourages breadwinners to maintain their employment in CPF-contributing jobs to support their goal towards home ownership. This paper examines the take-up of these packages and their impact on lower-income families in Singapore, using the case study of Ms Maznah Senen and her family.
Background: Ms Maznah Senen, a 41-year-old mother of five, had to make the difficult decision to leave her job as a salesperson after giving birth to her second child in 2020. Her husband, Mr Mohd Sufian Nazli, became the sole breadwinner, earning $2,700 as a cleaning supervisor. The family has been living in a two-room Housing Board rental flat in Tampines since 2021 and has been struggling to make ends meet. The financial incentives from the ComLink+ progress packages have helped to alleviate some of the financial burdens, allowing the family to access essential services such as medical care and education.
Methodology: This paper uses a case study approach, focusing on the experiences of Ms Maznah Senen and her family. The data was collected through in-depth interviews with Ms Senen and her family coach, Mr Clivon Heng from the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). The interviews provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by lower-income families and the impact of the ComLink+ scheme on their lives.
Findings: The findings of this study highlight the strong take-up of the pre-school incentive package, with many families benefiting from the financial incentives provided. However, the employment package component of the scheme has experienced a slower start, with some families facing challenges in maintaining their employment in CPF-contributing jobs. The case study of Ms Maznah Senen and her family illustrates the importance of tailored support packages, taking into account the complex needs and challenges faced by lower-income families.
Discussion: The ComLink+ scheme has been successful in providing financial incentives to lower-income families, allowing them to access essential services such as education and medical care. However, the slower take-up of the employment package component highlights the need for continued efforts to address the complex challenges faced by these families. The scheme’s emphasis on home ownership as a key goal may not be realistic for all families, and alternative goals such as stable employment and financial stability may be more achievable.
Conclusion: This paper concludes that the ComLink+ pre-school incentive scheme has seen a strong take-up, with many families benefiting from the financial incentives provided. However, the employment package component of the scheme has experienced a slower start, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address the complex challenges faced by lower-income families. The case study of Ms Maznah Senen and her family illustrates the importance of tailored support packages, taking into account the complex needs and challenges faced by these families. The findings of this study have implications for policymakers and practitioners working with lower-income families, highlighting the need for flexible and adaptive support packages that address the diverse needs and challenges faced by these families.
Recommendations: Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations can be made:
Tailored support packages: The ComLink+ scheme should continue to provide tailored support packages that take into account the complex needs and challenges faced by lower-income families.
Flexible goals: The scheme’s emphasis on home ownership as a key goal may not be realistic for all families. Alternative goals such as stable employment and financial stability may be more achievable.
Addressing employment challenges: The slower take-up of the employment package component highlights the need for continued efforts to address the complex challenges faced by lower-income families in maintaining their employment in CPF-contributing jobs.
Ongoing evaluation and monitoring: The ComLink+ scheme should be subject to ongoing evaluation and monitoring, with a focus on identifying areas for improvement and addressing the complex challenges faced by lower-income families.
By implementing these recommendations, the ComLink+ scheme can continue to provide effective support to lower-income families in Singapore, addressing their complex needs and challenges and promoting their overall well-being.