I guess your work performance plays a big part in climbing up the ladder in civil service. I worked in a stat board for 10 years (started 2005). Starting pay was $2.5k as a fresh graduate (SIM). Constantly being rated as above average performer. Promoted 3 times (Executive --> Senior Executive-->Manager ---> Senior Manager) in 10 years. Now drawing $6.2k (bonus excluded). 34 years of age.

I still feel i am underpaid compared to the corporate world.

I guess there's never enough.