Singapore’s Continues Reign as Most Liveable City in Asia for Expats
A new survey has revealed that for the 14th year in a row, Singapore once again holds onto its title as the most liveable city in Asia for expats. There were several factors listed as the reason for this.
Among them was how Singapore had great access to facilities and a low rate of crime. The large existing expat community here, along with top quality healthcare and education were also behind the reasons for its success.
ECA International, the human resources consultancy responsible for compiling the annual league table, pointed out that although there were many cities in Asia offering similar benefits to foreign workers, Singapore still remained the top choice and this was unlikely to change anytime soon.
Other Country Liveability Rankings
However, Singapore’s biggest rival – Hong Kong – is experiencing a decline. The country fell 12 places to the 41st position after the Typhoon Mangkhut disruption last September. It caused the country an estimated US$1 billion (SGD1.35 billion) in damages, and the country has been sliding down the ranks since. It’s peak position was in 2013, when it held the 11th spot, before air pollution sent it sliding down to 29th place in 2017 and 28th place in 2016.
Beijing, Xiamen and Nanjing on the other hand, have been on the rise in liveability rankings. This increase is based on rapid improvements to its infrastructure, even though the country does experience excessive levels of air pollution. Chinese authorities have, in recent years, introduced measures to help combat the air pollution problem. This has helped to improve their rankings over the years.
Most of the Thai and Malaysian cities have also risen in their ranks, with Bangkok being the highest-rated in the 89th position. Georgetown, Malaysia moved to the 97th spot while capital city Kuala Lumpur climbed up to the 98th.
Beyond Asia, it was Australia and New Zealand which offered the best quality of living for Asian workers who ventured overseas. Brisbane and Sydney shared the second spot together in the rankings.
