Yesterday’s Hard Work, Today’s Quiet Routine

Mr Tay Koh Liong is 71 this year. For decades, he worked as a housekeeper in Singapore’s hotel industry, and later as a cleaner. The jobs were not glamorous, and the pay was modest, but he speaks about those years with surprising warmth.

“I met good employers,” he shared with a smile. “They treated me well. I just did my work properly.”

With limited formal education, Mr Tay started working young. He never picked up smoking or drinking, even when it was common among his co-workers. “No need,” he said. Instead, he saved what he could and built friendships that have lasted decades.

Now retired, Mr Tay lives alone in a rental flat. He divorced many years ago and is no longer in contact with his children. His days are quiet. In the mornings, he often makes his way to a nearby coffee shop to meet old friends. They talk about the past, about small neighbourhood happenings, and check in on one another.

It is a routine he has kept for years.

When Fixed Income Meets Rising Prices

Mr Tay’s only income comes from his monthly CPF payouts and the Silver Support Scheme. In the past, this was assessed to be sufficient, and he did not qualify for additional financial assistance.

But prices have changed.

Food at the hawker centre costs more than it did just a few years ago. A basic meal that once cost $3 or $4 can now be $5 or more. Groceries and transport cost more too. Each increase chips away at what little flexibility he has.

For working adults, rising prices may mean cutting back on small luxuries. For a senior living on a fixed income, it can mean worrying about whether the money will last until the end of the month.

Mr Tay is careful with every dollar. He keeps track of his spending and avoids unnecessary purchases. Even so, the numbers no longer stretch as far as they used to. He has begun reaching out again to social service agencies to explore longer-term support options.

“I will take it one step at a time,” he said.

What We Are Raising Funds For

Ray of Hope hopes to raise $1,018* ($250 per month) for four months, to cover Mr Tay’s essential living expenses while he works with social services to secure longer-term support.

This support will help him afford regular, proper meals, cover daily necessities and household items, and ease the short-term pressure caused by rising living costs.

It is not a permanent solution. It will help him get through the next few months while he waits to hear back from social services.

How This Will Help Mr Tay

At 71, Mr Tay is not asking for much. He does not speak about big plans or distant dreams. He wants to continue living simply, independently, and with dignity.

Temporary support will help him continue meeting his basic needs, afford regular meals, and maintain the social connections that bring meaning and companionship to his daily life. It will also give him the peace of mind to focus on securing longer-term assistance without the constant worry of whether he can afford his next meal.

When we asked how he manages, he repeated, “One step at a time.”

For now, we hope to help him get through the months ahead.

*The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.