Drake,
I don't know whether that is a genuine question or whether there is a hint of sarcasm in that comment.

But the answer to that question is not that simple indeed, I must admit.

The answer is yes and no.
Most Asian countries are made up of people living below the poverty line.
However, there is a bustling middle class in most of these countries and it is this middle class that makes up a larg part of the expat 'professionals'.

The same is not true for labourers from these countries.
However, there are exceptions. I am aware of a number of individuals who are working in the semi-skilled category but are living on a piece of heaven in a fantastic abode back home.

In any case, it does not justify discrimination on living standards. At least not in my books.