Imagine being wrongly blamed for something that happened almost a decade ago. That's the reality for Daniel Ong, the former co-owner of the now-defunct Twelve Cupcakes. Despite selling the business in 2016, he's still facing the wrath of strangers who hold him responsible for its recent closure.
Ong, a well-known Singaporean personality, is eager to clear the air. He emphasizes that he hasn't been involved with Twelve Cupcakes since its sale, and the sudden closure in late October caught him off guard, just like everyone else. He expressed his sympathy for those affected by the company's downfall, which led to the retrenchment of approximately 80 employees. The Ministry of Manpower is currently investigating the business for potential breaches, including non-payment of salaries.
In a Zoom interview, Ong, who will turn 50 in December, shared his frustration. He receives messages on social media accusing him of wrongdoing, despite his decade-long absence from the company. He hopes the public will understand his lack of involvement and stop the unwarranted criticism.
Twelve Cupcakes, founded in 2011 by Ong and his then-wife, Jaime Teo, was sold to The Dhunseri Group in 2016. In 2021, the former couple was fined $65,000 each for their failure to prevent the underpayment of foreign employees during their management of the company.
Ong, who rose to fame as a radio DJ in the late 1990s, stated he had no prior knowledge of the closure plans. He has since moved on to other ventures, including several food and beverage businesses. However, his current focus is on his steak restaurant, Dan's Steaks, where he serves as founder and director, but is no longer involved in the daily operations. The business runs “on autopilot”.
But here's where it gets controversial... Ong's career has taken a turn. For the past year, he has been working as a full-time personal wellness coach, alongside his wife, Fay Tan, 40. They help people improve their health through a holistic, nutritional approach, focusing on conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol.
Ong's personal experience inspired this career change, as he himself lost weight, going from 85.5kg to 73.3kg after undergoing a similar program. He finds this job incredibly fulfilling, as it allows him to make a positive impact on people's lives.
Being a wellness coach also provides him with the flexibility to spend quality time with his four children: 15-year-old Renee (from his previous marriage to Teo), 10-year-old Gretel (Tan's daughter), and their two sons, Andre, four, and Alexander, two. Ong and Teo have a successful co-parenting arrangement, prioritizing the children's well-being.
Ong credits Teo for their harmonious co-parenting relationship, emphasizing their shared commitment to raising their child in a supportive environment.
Ong, who last worked as a DJ on One 91.3 in 2011, continues to listen to local radio stations regularly. He reflects fondly on his 17-18 years in radio, hosting live shows and events. He still hosts private events and weddings, cherishing those experiences.
What do you think? Do you believe it's fair for Ong to be held accountable for the actions of a company he hasn't been involved with for so long? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
