A 67-year-old Singaporean man has lost his bid to stop paying S$5,150 monthly spousal maintenance to his ex-wife, despite claiming retrenchment and advanced age.
Mr Moey Park Moon, a former managing director at Marsh (Singapore), argued he could no longer afford the payments after retiring in late 2024. He cited declining health and employer concerns over liability as reasons for non-rehire.
Justice Pang Khang Chau dismissed the application, noting retirement alone does not constitute a material change in circumstances. The judge emphasized that spousal maintenance obligations continue beyond retirement unless financial incapacity is proven.
Despite Mr Moey’s claims of limited income, court records showed five Malaysian properties, insurance policies totaling S$121,500, investment accounts worth S$92,300, and nearly S$378,750 in savings. He also withdrew S$327,380 from his Central Provident Fund upon renouncing permanent residency.
The court converted ongoing payments into a lump-sum order of S$364,800. Justice Pang also ruled against Mr Moey's obligation to cover 95% of his ex-wife’s hospital bills after finding she withheld asset details.
Ms Leong Yim Ling, 65, claimed deteriorating health and sole responsibility for their son with Asperger’s Syndrome. She stated she had no retirement savings and could not re-enter the workforce.
Mr Moey is appealing the decision.