18k as a big 4 junior partner really isn't high leh. I am about there already with 8 YOE and I certainly didn't slog as much as in big 4 nor hv to fight tooth n nail to make it to partnership.

I know some public sector DDs about the same amount in some of the more top tier govt bodies and they r super eng man. I know some lawyers making tt amount as senior associate few yrs YOE only

Ok la I suppose their eventual upside is higher as they get more senior so good for them lor