FTs are no longer cheap, especially where the once-2nd rate FTs like Indians and Pinoys are coming in on salaries that locals will not mind.

we need to compare with similar countries with high amount of foreign labour, ie middle east countries (esp GCC). while it is possible to hire foreigners there but they make you jump through hoops. companies have to give localization plans on how many % to localize by X years and are held accountable by it.

while i agree that singaporeans should not be complacent and should always strive to improve ourselves, but we still need that little help from our govt to offer a degree of protection to locals too..