Calvin Cheng Criticized for Calling Out Cash-Only Businesses in Singapore

SINGAPORE: Former Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) Calvin Cheng has faced backlash for his ongoing criticism of Singapore’s cash-only businesses. His outspoken stance, particularly against food stalls that have opted to stick with cash payments, has angered many Singaporeans, including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s wife, Ho Ching.

Mr. Cheng’s long-standing criticism of businesses that haven’t adopted cashless payment methods is well-documented on his Facebook page. He has gone as far as calling for boycotts of these businesses, labeling them as “backward” and “shameful.” Cheng claims that refusing to go cashless hinders Singapore’s progress toward a digital economy.

However, small businesses argue that cash is often safer and free from the service fees associated with online payment platforms. Despite this, Cheng has suggested that some food stall owners avoid going cashless to hide transactions from tax authorities, further stirring controversy.

His harsh language—calling Singaporeans who prefer cash “primitive” and warning that they risk turning the country into a land of “peasants”—has sparked outrage. Even Ho Ching stepped in, taking to Facebook to express her displeasure. She shared a story highlighting the kindness of a cash-only business that allowed a customer to pay later, commenting that there’s no need to shame others for using cash.

Ho Ching followed up with another post, emphasizing that while encouraging digital payment is important, “scolding folks for sticking with cash is not the way to bring society forward together.”

Despite the public rebuke, Mr. Cheng has remained firm in his views, stating, “You can disagree, you can be angry… but I will NOT BACK DOWN.” This ongoing debate highlights the tensions surrounding Singapore’s shift towards a cashless society.