Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.
A growing number of employees are turning down higher salaries in favour of something less tangible, emotional and mental recovery. This trend, often described as “healing culture”, (18)__________ feeling burned out after years in high pressure environments. Instead of negotiating for a pay rise, many are asking for flexible working hours, mental health days, or simply a quieter, less demanding role.
(19) __________. Respondents frequently cited poor work–life balance, toxic management, and (20) __________. Salary ranked only fourth on the list of factors influencing job satisfaction, falling behind psychological safety, meaningful work, and a supportive team culture. Having surveyed the participants, (21)__________, and that salary therefore came only fourth in respondents’ priorities.
Critics argue that “healing” has become a buzzword that helps people avoid difficult conversations about systemic labour issues, including low wages and job insecurity. (22) __________. When basic financial needs are met, they say, workers naturally begin to prioritise wellbeing over accumulation. For employers, the question is no longer only how much to pay. It is also what kind of workplace they are willing to build.
Question 18:
A. is gaining momentum particularly among workplaces in Southeast Asia B. which is gaining momentum particularly among millennials and Gen Z workers
C. has gained momentum particularly among millennials and Gen Z workers D. has been gaining momentum particularly among millennials and Gen Z workers
