Sorry, Grimm - I personally do not think/feel that I am underpaid. I am happy with what I currently earn and I live comfortably with what I earn (maybe I am lucky or rather it is by choice that I live simply).

First of all, your question is NOT silly.

As a fresh graduate, your gross pay in M'sia will not be much: probably around RM2500-3000 (btw, financial controllers are EXPERIENCED position, not for fresh grad.) If your degree is from LSE (is it an external programme?), getting a decent job in the finance sector is not too difficult, subject to the economic/sector situation. First few years, do not expect to earn too much. The JUMP comes after you get a few years (3 to 5) of experience and effective networking. Some guys who are more "gung-ho"and capable can earn more than 10k after that (but that's minority). Generally, more than 5k after 5 years.

Pay in Singapore is definitely MUCH better than M'sia but the competition is stiffer as well. There are plenty of M'sians in Singapore finance sector.

To get an indication of pay:
http://hubpages.com/hub/singapore-salary-guide
http://www.kellyservices.com.my/web/my/ser...alaryguide.html

Please bear in mind some of the survey data may be skewed and some are on the high side (Michael Page and Robert Walters are executive "head-hunters"). Generally, the pay in Singapore is much better than M'sia (1S$:2.4 ringgit and much lower personal tax rate). Wondering how come I know? - I have worked more than 15 years in the financial industry in S'pore, Msia and etc...now semi-retired - relatively free enough to offer some help in LYN.

Sorry for being naggy (that's the problem of growing old). Do get experience, LEARN, have a GOOD attitude to work. Find something you really like and $$$ will come along (interest + hard work are impt factors for success).

Since you need to take care of your younger siblings, $$$ is impt but pls do not overlook your long-term development plans and interest as well. Cheers...

This post has been edited by chabalang: Jan 8 2010, 10:31 PM

To: 4evernelson:

My apologies if I hit your "sore spot". I was merely trying my best to provide some information to help ZeroWings. Remember a Chinese quote - "Ren bi ren, chi si ren" (If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter). I can empathize with you because once in a blue moon, I do compare with my good friends who are earning 7-figure annually - I do feel slightly inferior but my high-income buddies envy me instead (because I am currently doing something I enjoy and have financial freedom). With higher pay comes more RESPONSIBILITY and pressure. I do believe everyone has an equilibrium or "comfort zone" for work/life - for me, even if I have skills/brains for a 7-figure job, I CANNOT "tahan" the pressure for long.

You are still YOUNG, bitterness and jealousy can be a stumbling block in life. If you pay is slightly below par, ask and motivate yourself to earn more. Remember to gain relevant experience and network. The -+2.5k quote is a common pay range for M'sian banks/FIs. As zydoce correctly pointed out, many factors are in play. As I grow older, I realize some things in life can be explained but a lot of things CANNOT be. I am not a HR specialist but I do know the employment market is NOT a perfect market.

You may wish to read the following article:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.p...n-hiring-spree-
(even for entry-level banking jobs can range from S$2,600 to S$8,000. I personally know young graduates can earn more than S$10,000 in bulge-bracket IBs. Remember the high-paying ones are only a handful, thousands are earning around S$2,500 and thousands are STILL looking for a JOB!).

Pls cheer up...