Yes, it is. I don’t know why everyone always assumes people on this subreddit posting about wanting to go into medicine is just doing it for the money and prestige. Yeah, it’s extremely common in Singapore, but we shouldn’t beat a dead horse and actually look at what the different OPs of each post are saying. Some have genuine interest in the career, but are worried about other factors such as not matching, time and commitment, money invested and burnout. I’m not accusing anyone, it’s just a general observation of this sub.
OP, peds isn’t as competitive as the surgical sub-specialties or derm. But of course, it still isn’t super easy to get in. Neither is any specialty for that matter. You’re gonna have to work hard to break into the higher paying positions - just like any other field. It’s just that medicine has SO much more on the table and takes a huge toll on your body, but it isn’t impossible.
OP, it’s great you have an interest in medicine and peds specifically - you definitely seem super passionate and it’s good that you’re considering this now. It’s never to late to consider medicine, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Though Singapore is pushing for GPs and community health, I think you still have a shot for pediatrics if you plan your time well in medical school. Balance research and volunteering/other ECs related to pediatrics. Perform well during rotations. Build connections with pediatricians. It’s not easy, but you have to start early if you’re set to go into that speciality.
That being said, do see if you’re interested in other areas in medicine - just in case the pediatrics plan doesn’t work out. I think you might find family medicine interesting too - you still see kids (in addition to adults), and you can operate your own clinic like some pediatricians do. Pediatrics is a huge field and allows for many subspecialisations - but if you’re just interested in a role as a pediatrician similar to a GP or IM hospitality, then family medicine is a decent choice.
Be realistic through and do expect things to change along the way in medical school. Have plans A, B and C for your residency. But as long as you’re interested in the core aspects of being a physician - then you’re good to go.
Also, someone mentioned the match rates in the US and UK. Not exactly similar to Singapore’s context. One reason Singapore is pushing for GPs because we were pushing for specialists a few years back. Now that we have an abundance of specialists, of course GPs are being prioritised. I can’t speak for the UK, but the US’ issues with the match are extremely complicated and has to do with more than just “too many specialists, too few GPs, therefore we gatekeep the specialist positions”. Socioeconomic factors, folks with poor Step scores applying to competitive spots, IMGs/FMGs, MD/DO stigma still existing and rural/urban health distribution issues are just some of them.