BUDGET 2008 is a balanced one and many people benefited, from the rich to the poor. I am happy that, in particular, a lot of attention was paid to the poor. The increase in Public Assistance was a pleasant surprise, considering the intense debate on whether it was enough during last year's Budget debate. I hope that the poor will continue to receive government attention.

The middle class was finally given some recognition. I am happy about the 20 per cent income tax rebate. The savings will go towards paying some bills or as a rainy day reserve for my daughter.

Could I have asked for more? The Budget does not address health care needs for the general population except for those aged 51 and above with the top-up grant for their Medisave account.

Also, more could have been done to reduce the levy for domestic helpers who are essential to help care for our children and parents. The growth dividend is probably something which very few governments can be proud of, that is, by sharing surpluses from a very good year with the citizens. It is also right that education remains a key focus in this Budget.

My main reservation is that once again, there are no incentives for the disabled and single mothers. They should get some form of government relief.

That notwithstanding, the best point about this year's Budget is that it addresses the main worry among many Singaporeans today: the rising cost of living and how to cope with it.

Jason Chiam Chiah Sern

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