Malaysian worker saves to buy three properties after 14 years working in Singapore

SINGAPORE: For the past 14 years, 36-year-old Malaysian Mohd Aminurashid Ali Akbar has been waking up early every workday to travel from Johor Bahru to Singapore.

Speaking to Berita Harian, he shared the challenges and triumphs of his daily commute.

Every day, Mr Aminurashid wakes up at 4:30 am and leaves his house around 5:00 am.

“I leave early because, at that time, the situation at customs is still okay, not very crowded,” he explained.

He arrives at work around 6:00 am, performs his morning prayers, has breakfast, and takes a nap before starting his job as a commissioning supervisor in the shipping and marine sector at 8:00 am.

Mr Aminurashid typically works overtime until 6:45 pm before returning home to Gelang Patah, Johor Bahru, around 8:00 pm.

Reflecting on his journey, he revealed that he initially worked in an oil palm factory in Malaysia.

Switching jobs to Singapore led to a significant increase in his income, starting with a basic salary of S$950 (US$707), which was considerably higher due to the stronger Malaysian currency at the time.

To further his career, Mr Aminurashid took a course at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) in Singapore, gaining new skills and qualifications.

His dedication paid off as he climbed the career ladder and received salary increases.

Offering advice to those new to working in Singapore, he said, “Do not give up easily. When we are young, this is the time to collect and save money.”

“It is also important to always remember that we Malaysians don’t have CPF (Workers’ Provident Fund), so we need to be diligent and disciplined in saving for old age.”

Thanks to his hard work and sacrifices, Mr Aminurashid now owns three properties in Malaysia, a testament to his efforts working in Singapore.

However, he confessed that his work commitments have taken a toll on his family life, lamenting the lost time with his 38-year-old wife and three daughters, one of whom has autism.

With early retirement on the horizon and passive income from two of his rental properties, Mr Aminurashid looks forward to making up for lost time with his family.

Netizens praise Mr Aminurashid’s dedication and sacrifices

Many netizens expressed respect for Mr Aminurashid’s hard work in the comments on Mothership.sg‘s Facebook post, with some comparing the situation between Malaysia and Singapore.

One user found his story very inspiring, hoping more people could learn from his enterprising and creative spirit.

Another user wished him greater success, acknowledging that his sacrifices had paid off.

Comments also highlighted the personal sacrifices Mr Aminurashid has made.

One user noted that while nobody wants to be separated from their families, respect is due to those who endure such challenges to provide for their loved ones.

Another user commented that Mr Aminurashid has sacrificed not only his time but also his health.

The user noted that often when one finally has the time and wealth, illness can begin to emerge.

The user also praised Mr Aminurashid’s wife, highlighting the difficulty and challenges she faces in managing the household, particularly with autistic children.

Netizens compare living conditions in Malaysia and Singapore

Comparisons between living conditions in Malaysia and Singapore also emerged in the discussion.

Some netizens pointed out the affordability of Malaysian property.

One user commented that Malaysian property is more affordable compared to Singapore and mentioned that the Malaysian government provides subsidies.

Malaysia has a system called Bumi Lot for Bumiputeras, where these properties are cheaper than non-Bumi Lots by at least 5% to 15%.

On the other hand, users reflected on the challenges faced by Singaporeans.

One user commented that Singaporeans work hard too but cannot achieve similar success due to the high cost of living.

The user pointed out that the increased Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 7% to 9% has led to a significant jump in household expenses, making it difficult for Singaporeans to save and invest in property.

Another user echoed this sentiment, stating that despite their hard work, Singaporeans struggle to buy even one property with a S$2000 (US$1,490) monthly pay.

They have to work for life and cannot retire, unlike their foreign colleagues who can start enjoying life once they retire.