They didn't say that the person earning 13k is working in singapore mah. If you convert it to other currencies (USD, pound, euro), it is a realistic pre-tax salary for IB FO/MO positions in other countries.

And it is entirely possible that the person is not Singaporean, or in some cases holds two passports. (Yes, illegal I know, but many do get away with it)

Hence, finding a job overseas where starting salary is higher is possible.

Would like to see ST do a feature on this individual earning 13k