Latest news with #ERASingapore
New Paper
4 hours ago
- Business
- New Paper
Ageing condos in Singapore hit by failing infrastructure, inadequate sinking funds
In 2024, when two out of three lifts in his block at Fernwood Towers broke down, Mr Haider Manasawala had to carry his suitcase down 21 storeys to catch a flight. "Only one lift was operating and it was taking forever to come. I didn't have a choice," said Mr Haider, a regional chief financial officer with a US multinational firm. On other occasions, all three ageing lifts failed, forcing Mr Haider to climb the stairs to get home. Fernwood Towers, a 31-year-old freehold development near Siglap, has 11 lifts across four residential blocks. But despite frequent lift breakdowns, which started in 2021, the management corporation strata title (MCST) found it hard to get owners' support to raise funds and replace them. Fernwood Towers is among a growing number of condominium developments grappling with deteriorating infrastructure and insufficient sinking funds to carry out major repair and replacement works. This problem could worsen as more developments cross the 30-year mark, said industry experts. Real estate agency ERA Singapore estimated that there are 2,703 condo developments in Singapore today, of which 836 or 31 per cent are at least 30 years old. In 10 years, this number is expected to climb to 1,160, assuming none is sold en bloc, said Ms Wong Shanting, ERA Singapore's head of research and market intelligence. Industry experts told The Straits Times that common problems in ageing condos include lift breakdowns, waterproofing failures and outdated electrical systems - often due to key infrastructure being past its intended lifespan. As condominiums get older, it becomes harder and more expensive to keep their systems and structures safe, working well and meeting regulations. Regular repairs, replacements or upgrades are often needed, and the condo must have enough funds to carry out these works, said Ms Winnie Wong, senior managing director of property management at Savills Singapore. When there is not enough money in the sinking fund, the MCST may ask owners to pay special levies. But these requests often face resistance from owners who cannot or do not want to pay large lump sums. This can lead to a deadlock at the annual or extraordinary general meetings, delaying necessary repairs or upgrades, added Ms Wong. In recent months, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has conducted multiple rounds of discussions with MCSTs and managing agents to better understand the challenges facing ageing strata-titled properties. When contacted for comment, a BCA spokesman said the authority "regularly engages MCSTs and managing agents to promote good practices in the management and maintenance of their estates". BCA did not directly respond to questions on whether the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act, which sets out laws for the management and maintenance of strata-titled properties, would be reviewed or if new policy measures are being considered for older developments. Experts agree that the core issue lies in the longstanding practice of under-collecting sinking and maintenance funds, both of which are essential for long-term capital works. Many MCSTs were established decades ago with sinking fund contributions that were set too low and have not kept up with inflation or rising repair costs, said Ms Wong of Savills. "Many (residents) feel that the sinking fund is a levy for the future use of the development," added a spokesman from the Association of Strata Managers (ASM), a national association that represents MCST managing agents in Singapore. "This shortfall makes it difficult for councils to prioritise major life-cycle costs, especially for critical infrastructure such as lifts. In the absence of sufficient reserves, MCSTs often resort to imposing large special levies, which may impose financial hardship on some subsidiary proprietors and strain community relations." The spokesman added that smaller developments face disproportionate financial pressures, as costs are spread across fewer units. In addition, some owners prioritise long-term upkeep while others are more focused on investment yields from their properties, further complicating decision-making. Ms Wong Shanting from ERA noted that some owners, especially those who hope for a collective sale, prefer to defer maintenance to avoid spending more. But the reality is that only a minority of developments successfully go en bloc, she said. Ms Wong of Savills also noted how some MCST councils postpone non-urgent work to avoid burdening owners, especially retirees, creating a reactive maintenance culture instead of a preventive one. A spokesman from real estate services firm Chambers International said MCST councils are often made up of residents, and not all of them would have the financial and technical knowledge needed to manage a development over its lifespan. In the Fernwood Towers case, Mr Haider was voted in as chairman of the MCST council in 2023. He managed to secure a mandate to raise a special levy of $1.7 million from 216 units for a full lift overhaul, on top of the regular management and sinking fund contributions. Owners had the option to pay the levy in instalments over 24 months, with each household paying an average of $320 per month. The amount charged to each household depended on the size of their units. At Sanctuary Green, a 522-unit, 21-year-old leasehold condominium in Tanjong Rhu, council chairman Ashoketaru Sengupta recently led a successful push to raise both the sinking and management funds at the annual general meeting in July. To build support, he and his team presented data to residents and explained the estate's current and future needs, including upcoming capital works. "Whatever we do must be data-driven... it has to be a combination of logical arguments based on data," said Mr Ashoketaru. The ASM and some managing agents suggested that the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act should be amended to set minimum recommended sinking fund contributions or mandatory technical audits when buildings reach certain ages, to guide MCSTs in their long-term planning. Mr Haider said: "Older estates could benefit from policies that promote robust sinking fund reserves and encourage owners to proactively maintain and upgrade their properties. This would enhance liveability and preserve asset value." The ASM also urges conducting public education so property owners better understand the need for sinking fund top-ups and long-term capital planning as their estates age. "Many of the HDB estates are far older than the condos. It will be helpful for the Government to share how they have managed those estates. There are lessons we can learn from them," said Mr Ashoketaru.
Straits Times
13 hours ago
- Business
- Straits Times
ERA helps generations of Singaporean
As the first real estate agency to be listed on SGX, launch ESG initiatives, and represent the industry at the National Day Parade, ERA Singapore has been a pioneer since 1982. It empowers people and transforms lives through trusted service and innovation ERA'S journey has consistently focused on advancing the real estate industry, from revolutionising property viewings in the '80s to providing agents today with cutting-edge proprietary technology tools. 'Our lasting legacy is rooted not only in our accomplishments but also in how we support the growth of our people. At ERA, we rise by raising others,' explains Marcus Chu, CEO of ERA Singapore, ERA Asia Pacific, and APAC Realty. Marcus Chu, CEO of ERA Singapore, ERA Asia Pacific and APAC Realty. In March 2025, over 1,500 ERA teammates and participants made history at the 'More than Words – Walk with a Difference' event, a heartfelt charity walk organised by the Singapore Association for the Deaf (SADeaf), with ERA Singapore as the main sponsor. This event vividly demonstrated ERA's strong belief that real estate is about more than just property; it's fundamentally about people, and walking alongside them on their journey, quite literally. For 43 years, ERA has been driven by a spirit of care and dedication. Starting modestly with just a few agents in 1982, it has grown into a significant force with nearly 25,000 agents across 13 countries in the Asia Pacific region. In Singapore alone, there are almost 9,000 real estate salespersons today. ERA is a trusted advisor to multiple generations of Singaporeans, shaping both their homes and their lives. ERA's commitment to our nation and its people is profound. In 2008, ERA took pride in bring the first ever agency to march as a contingent in the Singapore's National Day Parade to represent the real estate sector on a national stage. ERA's journey mirrors Singapore's own transformation – adapting to change, embracing innovation, and consistently prioritising people. In 1998, ERA achieved a major milestone by becoming the first real estate agency to be listed on the SGX SESDAQ. In 2000, it was upgraded on the SGX Mainboard, reaffirming its commitment to trust, transparency, and leadership. And in 2017, ERA achieved a major milestone by once again becoming the first real estate agency to be listed on the SGX Mainboard, reinforcing its commitment to trust, transparency, and leadership. Long before that, ERA had already established the foundation for transforming the industry. It pioneered professionalism and structured training via the ERA Sales System, adapted from the U.S., which set new benchmarks in agent development. The company also launched the Exclusive Marketing Method, providing sellers with a more targeted and results-oriented strategy. As early as 1983, ERA introduced the Open Home concept in Singapore, transforming property viewings with a more immersive and accessible approach, allowing buyers to explore homes. A legacy of service excellence At the core of ERA is a fundamental belief: to serve every client with dedication, integrity, and care. This is more than a motto; it is embedded in the systems, culture, and support that ERA provides to both clients and agents. ERA's agents are trained to uphold the highest levels of professionalism and prioritise customer service. An award-winning legal and compliance team supports each transaction, ensuring accuracy, adherence to ethical standards, and peace of mind for clients. ERA agents earned an exceptional 99.8% Professional Excellence Rating, as rated by clients. This is supported by Edelman, a well-known global brand consultancy, which named ERA the industry leader on its Trust Barometer. This achievement underpins ERA's strong brand promise: Trusted by Gen-ERAtions. 99.8% Professional Excellence Rating by ERA customers for ERA Trusted Advisors. Some agents go above and beyond, like Ahmad Ibrahim, who remains dedicated to his clients even during cancer treatment. 'My strength comes from my clients. As long as I can still help someone find a home, I will,' he says. This unwavering dedication exemplifies the ERA culture. Many of ERA's top leaders initially started their careers within the company, advancing through various levels over the years. For instance, CEO Marcus Chu began as an ERA agent in 1996, highlighting the company's strong culture of promoting from within. Other key leaders have followed similar paths, such as Deputy CEO Doris Ong and Key Executive Officer Eugene Lim, who both joined in 1991, and Chief Agency Officer Kevin Lim, who came onboard in 2003. Each of these individuals exemplifies ERA's commitment to developing talent internally. Kevin Lim shares, 'I started my journey with ERA as a marketing executive right after national service. Over time, I've been fortunate to develop alongside the company, progressing from the ground up to my current position as a C-suite executive. My story is one among many at ERA Singapore, a place dedicated to nurturing talent and providing clear career advancement paths. At ERA, we focus not only on building careers but also on cultivating leaders.' Agent leaders like Mark Teo, Gary Lau, and Angeline Lim have each spent over 30 years with ERA. They have not only reached remarkable heights themselves but also dedicated time to mentoring the next generation of achievers and promoting the OneERA culture focused on collaboration and growth. Angeline Lim explains, 'I have been with ERA for over 35 years because it feels more like a family than just a company. ERA is a community that trusts in you, encourages your development with various tools and training, and treats everyone like family. I have never seen anything like it in my entire career.' ERA agents' efforts are supported by a dedicated corporate team, and the company was named one of the 'Best Employers in Asia-Pacific' by the Financial Times and Statista in 2025, and that it also received The Straits Times Best Customer Service award for three straight years. Walking with Singapore home buyers through the years Throughout the decades, ERA has been a constant presence for Singaporeans at every milestone – whether it's moving from HDB flats to luxury condominiums, growing assets, or planning for retirement. To date, ERA has: Facilitated over 1.1 million resale property transactions since 1982 Contributed to the successful sale of over 62,000 new homes across 545 new launch projects since 2007 ERA's wide agent network, strong leadership, and deep understanding of Singaporean homebuyers have driven these successes. Homeownership continues to be a top priority for Singaporeans, and ERA understands the importance of staying responsive to changing buyer needs and desires, while also empowering its partners to create homes that appeal to the next generation. To better understand these evolving preferences, ERA introduced its first 'My Dream Home' survey in 2024, in collaboration with Ngee Ann Polytechnic. The results revealed strong aspirations across generations. In 2025, ERA strengthens its collaboration with Ngee Ann Polytechnic by incorporating the 2025 My Dream Home survey into their students' coursework. 2024 ERA My Dream Home Survey Findings Innovation for a changing market Although it has a rich history, ERA has continuously evolved. In recent years, the agency has adopted advanced tech tools to better support agents and provide more value to clients. Launched in 2023, SALES+ is ERA's exclusive super app, created by agents for agents. It aims to meet the practical needs of today's property professionals and has quickly transformed the industry. The app offers advanced features like market trend analysis, AI-powered property reports, and realtime transaction data, customised for buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants. 'SALES+ has revolutionised my workflow,' states Senior Marketing Director Leon Lim. 'Using tools like Presentify and AgentX 2.0, I can visualise data better, handle leads more effectively, and dedicate more time to advising clients.' Empowering through education: For consumers & agents Education has always been central to ERA's mission, serving not only its agents but also the broader public. Whether it's preparing real estate professionals with future-proof skills or guiding consumers to make informed property choices, ERA holds that knowledge is the key to lasting success. ERA connects with the public through initiatives like its Ultimate Consumer Seminar series, Property Megashow, and Millionaire Investor Masterclass. These events give everyday Singaporeans expert insights into market trends, asset growth, property investment, and financial planning. Its flagship campaigns, such as My Dream Vacation with ERA VIPs, foster deep engagement by rewarding members with exclusive travel and lifestyle privileges. These efforts offer consumers not only property guidance but also aspirational experiences beyond mere transactions. In 2024, ERA hosted 421 training sessions for agents, with almost half emphasising technology and the remaining sessions covering specialised skills like project sales, negotiation, and client service. Key programmes such as the Ultimate Agent Seminars and Investor Realtor Masterclass continue to develop the next generation of top producers. ERA Singapore's education impact in 2024: For Consumers 67 Ultimate Consumer Seminars held 7,992 total attendees 136 hours of consumer education delivered Average of 5.5 UCS sessions per month For Agents 421 training sessions conducted 48% focused on technology and digital tools 52 Ultimate Agent Seminars held Through ongoing education, ERA enables both consumers and agents to confidently and clearly navigate the changing real estate environment. More than homes: Building hearts and communities ERA's mission goes beyond property deals. The company actively supports communities via initiatives like Gift-A-Family with ComLink+, North West Service Week, Green Homes Door Knock Programme, and its longstanding partnership with the Singapore Association for the Deaf. Events such as the 'Silent Night' dinner, which is conducted entirely in sign language, and the SADeaf 'Walk with a Difference' exemplify ERA's commitment to empathy and inclusivity as essential elements of nation-building. 'This partnership demonstrates ERA's dedication to communities. It's about truly embodying our values – both literally and figuratively – in building a more inclusive and compassionate Singapore,' says Doris Ong, Deputy CEO at ERA, who leads the company's Environment and Sustainability Governance (ESG) initiatives. ERA is Singapore's pioneering real estate agency to implement an ESG initiative, aimed at creating a greener, more sustainable future and strengthening communities. Since its inception in 2021, the initiative has emphasised eco-friendly living, championed social causes, and provided aid to those in need. So far, ERA has raised more than $1 million to support these impactful efforts. The road ahead: Trusted by generations As ERA nears its 45th anniversary, its dedication persists. Chu states, 'By investing in people, technology, and sustainability, ERA is following the example set by Singapore's pioneers and current leaders. The goal is to establish a robust foundation for a high-performing, future-ready salesforce that is well-positioned to lead the industry over the next decade and beyond. We move forward together as One People, One Nation, One Singapore – One ERA!'
AsiaOne
5 days ago
- Business
- AsiaOne
Some ageing condos in Singapore struggle with failing infrastructure, inadequate sinking funds, Singapore News
SINGAPORE — In 2024, when two out of three lifts in his block at Fernwood Towers broke down, Haider Manasawala had to carry his suitcase down 21 storeys to catch a flight. "Only one lift was operating and it was taking forever to come. I didn't have a choice," said Haider, a regional chief financial officer with a US multinational firm. On other occasions, all three ageing lifts failed, forcing Haider to climb the stairs to get home. Fernwood Towers, a 31-year-old freehold development near Siglap, has 11 lifts across four residential blocks. But despite frequent lift breakdowns, which started in 2021, the management corporation strata title (MCST) found it hard to get owners' support to raise funds and replace them. Fernwood Towers is among a growing number of condominium developments grappling with deteriorating infrastructure and insufficient sinking funds to carry out major repair and replacement works. This problem could worsen as more developments cross the 30-year mark, said industry experts. Real estate agency ERA Singapore estimated that there are 2,703 condo developments in Singapore today, of which 836 or 31 per cent are at least 30 years old. In 10 years, this number is expected to climb to 1,160, assuming none is sold en bloc, said Ms Wong Shanting, ERA Singapore's head of research and market intelligence. Industry experts told The Straits Times that common problems in ageing condos include lift breakdowns, waterproofing failures and outdated electrical systems — often due to key infrastructure being past its intended lifespan. As condominiums get older, it becomes harder and more expensive to keep their systems and structures safe, working well and meeting regulations. Regular repairs, replacements or upgrades are often needed, and the condo must have enough funds to carry out these works, said Ms Winnie Wong, senior managing director of property management at Savills Singapore. When there is not enough money in the sinking fund, the MCST may ask owners to pay special levies. But these requests often face resistance from owners who cannot or do not want to pay large lump sums. This can lead to a deadlock at the annual or extraordinary general meetings, delaying necessary repairs or upgrades, added Ms Wong. In recent months, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has conducted multiple rounds of discussions with MCSTs and managing agents to better understand the challenges facing ageing strata-titled properties. When contacted for comment, a BCA spokesman said the authority "regularly engages MCSTs and managing agents to promote good practices in the management and maintenance of their estates". BCA did not directly respond to questions on whether the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act, which sets out laws for the management and maintenance of strata-titled properties, would be reviewed or if new policy measures are being considered for older developments. Experts agree that the core issue lies in the longstanding practice of under-collecting sinking and maintenance funds, both of which are essential for long-term capital works. Many MCSTs were established decades ago with sinking fund contributions that were set too low and have not kept up with inflation or rising repair costs, said Ms Wong of Savills. "Many (residents) feel that the sinking fund is a levy for the future use of the development," added a spokesman from the Association of Strata Managers (ASM), a national association that represents MCST managing agents in Singapore. "This shortfall makes it difficult for councils to prioritise major life-cycle costs, especially for critical infrastructure such as lifts. In the absence of sufficient reserves, MCSTs often resort to imposing large special levies, which may impose financial hardship on some subsidiary proprietors and strain community relations." The spokesman added that smaller developments face disproportionate financial pressures, as costs are spread across fewer units. In addition, some owners prioritise long-term upkeep while others are more focused on investment yields from their properties, further complicating decision-making. Ms Wong Shanting from ERA noted that some owners, especially those who hope for a collective sale, prefer to defer maintenance to avoid spending more. But the reality is that only a minority of developments successfully go en bloc, she said. Ms Wong of Savills also noted how some MCST councils postpone non-urgent work to avoid burdening owners, especially retirees, creating a reactive maintenance culture instead of a preventive one. A spokesman from real estate services firm Chambers International said MCST councils are often made up of residents, and not all of them would have the financial and technical knowledge needed to manage a development over its lifespan. In the Fernwood Towers case, Haider was voted in as chairman of the MCST council in 2023. It managed to secure a mandate to raise a special levy of $1.7 million from 216 units for a full lift overhaul, on top of the regular management and sinking fund contributions. Owners had the option to pay the levy in instalments over 24 months, with each household paying an average of $320 per month. The amount charged to each household depended on the size of their units. "With the new lifts and other enhancements, our estate is now better maintained, and our financial reserves have significantly improved, although this is work in progress," said Haider. At Sanctuary Green, a 522-unit, 21-year-old leasehold condominium in Tanjong Rhu, council chairman Ashoketaru Sengupta recently led a successful push to raise both the sinking and management funds at the annual general meeting in July. To build support, he and his team presented data to residents and explained the estate's current and future needs, including upcoming capital works. "Whatever we do must be data-driven... it has to be a combination of logical arguments based on data," said Ashoketaru. The ASM and some managing agents suggested that the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act should be amended to set minimum recommended sinking fund contributions or mandatory technical audits when buildings reach certain ages, to guide MCSTs in their long-term planning. Haider said: "Older estates could benefit from policies that promote robust sinking fund reserves and encourage owners to proactively maintain and upgrade their properties. This would enhance liveability and preserve asset value." The ASM also urges conducting public education so property owners better understand the need for sinking fund top-ups and long-term capital planning as their estates age. "Many of the HDB estates are far older than the condos. It will be helpful for the Government to share how they have managed those estates. There are lessons we can learn from them," said Ashoketaru. [[nid:720798]] This article was first published in The Straits Times . Permission required for reproduction.
New Paper
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New Paper
Singapore Idol winner Hady Mirza is now a property agent
Since winning the second season of local reality singing competition Singapore Idol in 2006, home-grown singer-songwriter Hady Mirza has juggled many side hustles. On June 27, the 45-year-old announced his latest venture on Instagram: He is now a licenced property agent. It took him two years and four tries before he finally passed his Real Estate Salesperson examination on April 17. The licence was issued on June 19. "It's a big achievement for me," Hady, who is with real estate company ERA Singapore, tells The Straits Times in an interview on July 7. "It marks another chapter in my life. I'm already 45, and I believe that I must always challenge myself, even though I had a lot of doubts about whether I could study again," he says, adding that he used all his SkillsFuture credits to finance part of his real estate courses and examination fees. And while his predecessor Taufik Batisah, winner of the inaugural Singapore Idol in 2004, made a similar move to real estate back in 2019 and is now a top agent at PropNex Singapore, Hady says he was inspired by his other friends who are long-time property agents. Still, when Hady announced his entry into real estate on Instagram, one of the most-liked comments was a congratulatory note from Taufik, who suggested they "co-broke", a term used when property agents work together to facilitate a transaction. "We are friends, and we always support each other," says Hady, who performed with Taufik and Sezairi, winner of Singapore Idol 3 in 2009, at Malay-language television awards show Pesta Perdana in May. The trio were also judges on Suria's reality singing competition Kaki Nyanyi (2024 to 2025). Hady has not sold any homes yet, but has been receiving calls from potential clients and has done several home viewings with the senior agents mentoring him. He admits that being a public figure can be an advantage in his new line of work, but insists that being a celebrity can get him only so far when it comes to sealing deals. "It's still early days, and there are still a lot of things that my mentors need to show and teach me." Being an agent also means his personal phone number is public, but he has no issues receiving calls and texts from strangers. "Because of my other businesses, it has been public knowledge for about 10 years," says the entrepreneur, whose previous ventures include food and beverage, as well as motor vehicle sales. In recent months, he has also taken on several other roles, including an ambassadorship for cancer support charity Ain Society, and started his own talent management company, NHM Entertainment. He has not turned his back on his music career, though. In May, he released his first new single in three years, Jika Masih Ada (If It's Still There), a duet with popular Malaysian actress-singer Erra Fazira. It is also the theme song for Nikmat Hanya Sesaat (Just A Moment Of Pleasure), a Malay-language drama series on Malaysian broadcaster TV3 that premiered in May. While he also won region-wide reality singing show Asian Idol in 2007, it was only in 2019 that Hady made a major mark in Malaysia after being crowned co-winner of Season 6 of Malaysian television singing show Gegar Vaganza, sharing the prize with Malaysian singer Naqiu. It was his artiste management agency in Malaysia that offered him Jika Masih Ada in late 2024. When he recorded his vocal parts, he had no idea who his duet partner would be. "I was shocked when I found out that they later got Erra to record the female vocals, someone who is so well-known and has been in the entertainment industry much longer than me," says Hady, who has been married to Malaysian homemaker Nurjannah Nur Wahid, 33, for the past 11 years. The couple have no children but are hoping to start a family. Hady, who staged a solo gig at The Theatre at Mediacorp in 2024, has several performances lined up in coming months, including an Ain Society concert at the same venue on Aug 23 that features regional acts like Indonesian veteran Hetty Koes Endang. He will also perform at the 2025 edition of the annual Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert at The Meadow on Aug 3. He composed and will sing the show's theme song, Ties That Bloom. Hady has also set the next challenge for himself: to get a diploma in music and teach singing. Despite having decades of experience as a professional performer, he is also working on improving his vocal abilities and has been taking lessons at local music school Academy Of Rock. "I'm always thinking: What other things can I do to better myself? In Singapore, there are always avenues for you to improve yourself. It's such a waste if you don't make use of the opportunities that are out there."
Straits Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
‘I must always challenge myself': Singapore Idol winner Hady Mirza is now a property agent
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox SINGAPORE – Since winning the second season of local reality singing competition Singapore Idol in 2006, home-grown singer-songwriter Hady Mirza has juggled many side hustles. On June 27, the 45-year-old announced his latest venture on Instagram: He is now a licenced property agent. It took him two years and four tries before he finally passed his Real Estate Salesperson examination on April 17. The licence was issued on June 19. 'It's a big achievement for me,' Hady, who is with real estate company ERA Singapore, tells The Straits Times in an interview on July 7. 'It marks another chapter in my life. I'm already 45, and I believe that I must always challenge myself, even though I had a lot of doubts about whether I could study again,' he says, adding that he used all his SkillsFuture credits to finance part of his real estate courses and examination fees. And while his predecessor Taufik Batisah, winner of the inaugural Singapore Idol in 2004, made a similar move to real estate back in 2019 and is now a top agent at PropNex Singapore, Hady says he was inspired by his other friends who are long-time property agents. Still, when Hady announced his entry into real estate on Instagram, one of the most-liked comments was a congratulatory note from Taufik, who suggested they 'co-broke', a term used when property agents work together to facilitate a transaction. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore NDP celebrations to be held at 5 heartland sites, including Bishan and Punggol, on Aug 10 Singapore NDP 2025: Tank that bumped into traffic light lost steering and braking power due to faulty part World 25% on Japan and Malaysia, 40% on Laos: Trump's tariff letters to Asia add pressure for deals by Aug 1 Asia China warns Trump on tariffs, threatens retaliation on supply chain deals Singapore Grab to trial driverless shuttle for staff between Media Circle office and one-north MRT station Singapore Ong Beng Seng's new pre-trial conference date set for July 23 Multimedia 'I suspect he's cheating': She finds proof when spouses stray Asia Thai authorities vow crackdown on cannabis-infused products after toddler hospitalised 'We are friends, and we always support each other,' says Hady, who performed with Taufik and Sezairi, winner of Singapore Idol 3 in 2009, at Malay-language television awards show Pesta Perdana in May. The trio were also judges on Suria's reality singing competition Kaki Nyanyi (2024 to 2025). Hady has not sold any homes yet, but has been receiving calls from potential clients and has done several home viewings with the senior agents mentoring him. He admits that being a public figure can be an advantage in his new line of work, but insists that being a celebrity can get him only so far when it comes to sealing deals. 'It's still early days, and there are still a lot of things that my mentors need to show and teach me.' Being an agent also means his personal phone number is public, but he has no issues receiving calls and texts from strangers. 'Because of my other businesses, it has been public knowledge for about 10 years,' says the entrepreneur, whose previous ventures include food and beverage, as well as motor vehicle sales. In recent months, he has also taken on several other roles, including an ambassadorship for cancer support charity Ain Society, and started his own talent management company, NHM Entertainment. He has not turned his back on his music career, though. In May, he released his first new single in three years, Jika Masih Ada (If It's Still There), a duet with popular Malaysian actress-singer Erra Fazira. It is also the theme song for Nikmat Hanya Sesaat (Just A Moment Of Pleasure), a Malay-language drama series on Malaysian broadcaster TV3 that premiered in May. While he also won region-wide reality singing show Asian Idol in 2007, it was only in 2019 that Hady made a major mark in Malaysia after being crowned co-winner of Season 6 of Malaysian television singing show Gegar Vaganza, sharing the prize with Malaysian singer Naqiu. It was his artiste management agency in Malaysia that offered him Jika Masih Ada in late 2024. When he recorded his vocal parts, he had no idea who his duet partner would be. 'I was shocked when I found out that they later got Erra to record the female vocals, someone who is so well-known and has been in the entertainment industry much longer than me,' says Hady, who has been married to Malaysian homemaker Nurjannah Nur Wahid, 33, for the past 11 years. The couple have no children but are hoping to start a family. Hady, who staged a solo gig at The Theatre at Mediacorp in 2024, has several performances lined up in coming months, including an Ain Society concert at the same venue on Aug 23 that features regional acts like Indonesian veteran Hetty Koes Endang. He will also perform at the 2025 edition of the annual Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert at The Meadow on Aug 3. He composed and will sing the show's theme song, Ties That Bloom. Hady has also set the next challenge for himself: to get a diploma in music and teach singing. Despite having decades of experience as a professional performer, he is also working on improving his vocal abilities and has been taking lessons at local music school Academy Of Rock. 'I'm always thinking: What other things can I do to better myself? In Singapore, there are always avenues for you to improve yourself. It's such a waste if you don't make use of the opportunities that are out there.'
