I applaud the labour movement in its challenge to Workers' Party leader and MP Low Thia Khiang. Singaporeans must accept the reality that foreigners are willing to work for less pay.

We cannot deny the fact that companies will hire someone who is cheaper and equally skilled. Nowadays, more skilled workers are emerging from neighbouring countries with higher qualifications. India, for example, has many candidates with master's degrees and doctorates.

Companies will want to hire them because they are highly skilled and demand less pay.

Which company will want to hire a more expensive Singaporean with similar credentials?

We are sometimes too choosy when looking for a job.

After my polytechnic graduation, when I started to look for temporary jobs before my national service enlistment, I turned down jobs which offered me $6 an hour. I realise I had thrown away $1,000 a month by not taking up these jobs and spending 11/2 months looking for a better-paying one.

Let's not deny the fact that foreigners are our competitors. To compete with them, we need to constantly improve ourselves and learn new skills. We cannot afford to be too choosy or we'll suffer in the end.

Eric Yeow