‘Stop gaslighting people and stop saying $500K HDB flats are affordable’ — Writer Robin Low weighs in on housing affordability in Singapore

SINGAPORE — Author and social innovator Robin Low recently shared his thoughts on the growing concerns about housing affordability in Singapore, urging a more empathetic approach to discussing the issue. In a social media post on Feb 9, Low called for an end to what he describes as “gaslighting” the public by claiming that $500,000 HDB flats are affordable.

In his post, Low referenced an often-quoted narrative about overcoming hardship and achieving success, saying, “When people say that HDB and housing are very affordable and brag about their ‘poor’ past, please exercise more empathy and stop gaslighting people.” He then challenged the notion that hard work alone could lead to property ownership in today’s market, contrasting it with previous generations’ experiences.

Low’s post resonated with many Singaporeans, especially those concerned about the future affordability of housing. One commenter expressed fears for their children’s ability to own a flat, pointing out the challenges posed by skyrocketing property prices. Another user highlighted the stark difference between the housing market of the past and the present, noting that the cost of living and property prices have far outpaced average wages.

Low’s comments have sparked a broader conversation on whether current HDB flat prices truly reflect affordability for the average Singaporean, especially in a vastly different economic landscape compared to previous generations.