What Malaysians in Singapore talk about besides the

Getting fewer ringgit for our dollar is a hot topic now. But there are so many other things to discuss.

- Lim Ai Leen

About a month ago, on Nov 12, the Malaysian ringgit strengthened to 3.17 against the Singapore dollar, and the exchange rate became all anyone could talk about.

Will Malaysians find it less attractive to work in Singapore? Will Singaporeans find it less worthwhile to shop in Johor? Will the ringgit blow our minds by pushing past the psychological level of 3.0 in 2026?

The short answer to all these questions: It's too soon to tell.

Meanwhile, the response from us Malaysians in Singapore has been mixed. Some friends had no words to share, just crying emojis. Others sent a drawing from meme site MGAG showing Malaysians at home celebrating, and those working in Singapore looking glum.

"My niece is feeling the pinch," a friend said. "She needs to send some money back to Malaysia in the coming weeks."

Some were philosophical.

"Guess we knew 3.5 would not last forever," said a friend of a friend, referring to the Singapore dollar's surge in late 2023.

Others with ringgit accounts from a decade ago, when $1 got them only RM2.50, were more sanguine. "Malaysians working in Singapore have benefited for a long time, earning good money and being able to splash out at home. An exchange rate of 3.0 is still very good," one of them said.