Weekly Blog for a family man in Singapore

How to go from $0 to $100k in 1 year. Create a 12 months plan in a table form

Month	Action	Goal	Notes
1	Identify a high-demand skill (e.g., digital marketing, programming, graphic design). Take free/affordable courses to learn. Start a side hustle like freelancing.	Learn a high-income skill and earn first $500.	Focus on quick learning through platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or YouTube.
2	Continue skill development. Begin building a portfolio. Secure first paying client.	Earn $1,000 total.	Utilize platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find clients.
3	Expand client base. Increase rates as you gain experience. Start networking.	Earn $2,500 total.	Build relationships and get referrals for more work.
4	Create a website/online presence to showcase your services. Start investing small amounts into marketing (e.g., Facebook Ads, Google Ads).	Earn $5,000 total.	Reinforce brand identity and credibility online.
5	Automate parts of your work using tools (e.g., scheduling, invoicing). Scale up marketing efforts. Begin offering packages or retainers.	Earn $10,000 total.	Consider hiring a virtual assistant if workload increases.
6	Begin exploring passive income opportunities (e.g., creating digital products, courses, or affiliate marketing).	Earn $15,000 total.	Diversify income streams to reduce dependency on freelancing alone.
7	Focus on scaling by taking on higher-paying clients, or increase the volume of work. Consider outsourcing or collaborating with others.	Earn $25,000 total.	Evaluate which income streams are most profitable and focus on those.
8	Develop more advanced strategies, like upselling existing clients or expanding into related services.	Earn $35,000 total.	Always ask for referrals from satisfied clients.
9	Increase rates again and start focusing on high-ticket clients. Begin selling passive income products created earlier.	Earn $50,000 total.	Target clients with bigger budgets for higher returns.
10	Expand into new markets or niches. Start building a personal brand via social media, guest posting, etc.	Earn $65,000 total.	Establish yourself as an expert in your field.
11	Evaluate progress and optimize operations. Consider partnerships or investments in other business opportunities.	Earn $85,000 total.	Use analytics to understand what's working best and double down.
12	Reflect on the year's success. Identify long-term opportunities for growth. Aim to close the year with high-value projects or launches.	Earn $100,000 total.	Plan for the next phase of growth and sustainability.

5Cs in 1980s to 5Cs in 2024

The "5Cs of Singapore" is a colloquial term used to describe the aspirations of many Singaporeans. These five items represent what is commonly considered to be the markers of success and status. The 5Cs are:

Cash: Having a substantial amount of money or wealth.
Car: Owning a car, which is considered a luxury in Singapore due to high taxes and costs associated with vehicle ownership.
Credit Card: Possessing credit cards, often associated with financial stability and purchasing power.
Condominium: Owning a condominium, which is seen as a desirable form of housing compared to public housing.
Country Club Membership: Being a member of an exclusive country club, representing social status and a certain lifestyle.

These aspirations reflect the materialistic values that were prominent during Singapore's rapid economic growth in the late 20th century.

I remember when i was young, there are even TV series talking about the 5Cs and how to achieve them and by achieving them, you have reach a certain status in life. It is still not uncommon for people in Singapore still striving for the traditional 5Cs. However times have certainly changed. Nowadays the new 5Cs are as follows.

Career: Achieving job satisfaction, work-life balance, and personal growth in one's professional life.
Comfort: Ensuring a comfortable lifestyle, which includes having a cozy home environment and modern amenities.
Convenience: Valuing accessibility and convenience in daily life, such as proximity to amenities, efficient public transport, and smart technology.
Connectivity: Emphasizing strong social connections and networks, including family, friends, and community ties, as well as digital connectivity.
Community: Focusing on contributing to and being part of a supportive and inclusive community, and engaging in activities that foster social cohesion and environmental sustainability.

These new 5Cs highlight a shift from purely materialistic goals to a more holistic approach to living a fulfilling and meaningful life.

How to Grow Wealth from $100,000 to $1,000,000 in Singapore / Malaysia / Indonesia

Growing wealth from $100,000 to $1,000,000 involves a more sophisticated investment strategy, higher-risk opportunities, and continuous financial education. Here are some tailored strategies for Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia:

1. Diversified Investment Portfolio:

Singapore:

Stock Market: Invest in a diversified portfolio of blue-chip stocks, growth stocks, and ETFs.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Continue investing in REITs for steady dividends and capital appreciation.
Bonds: Allocate a portion to government and corporate bonds for stability.

Malaysia:

Stock Market: Diversify investments across blue-chip stocks, small-cap growth stocks, and sector-specific ETFs.
REITs: Invest in Malaysian REITs for regular income and diversification.
Bonds: Include government and corporate bonds in the portfolio.

Indonesia:

Stock Market: Invest in leading companies and high-growth potential stocks listed on the IDX.
Real Estate: Consider direct property investments or REITs for long-term appreciation and rental income.
Bonds: Invest in Indonesian government and corporate bonds.

2. Real Estate Investments:

All Countries:

Residential Properties: Invest in rental properties in high-demand areas.
Commercial Properties: Explore opportunities in commercial real estate for higher returns.
Property Development: Consider investing in property development projects.

3. Business Ventures:

All Countries:

Entrepreneurship: Start or invest in a scalable business with growth potential.
Franchising: Consider investing in a franchise with a proven business model.
Private Equity: Invest in private companies or startups with high growth potential.

4. Advanced Investment Vehicles:

Singapore:

Private Equity Funds: Invest in private equity funds for exposure to high-growth private companies.
Hedge Funds: Allocate a portion to hedge funds for diversified and potentially higher returns.

Malaysia:

Venture Capital: Invest in venture capital funds or directly in startups.
Unit Trusts: Consider unit trusts with a focus on regional and global growth sectors.

Indonesia:

Private Equity: Participate in private equity opportunities in high-growth industries.
Hedge Funds: Explore hedge fund investments for diversified growth.

5. Passive Income Streams:

All Countries:

Dividend Stocks: Invest in a portfolio of high-dividend-yield stocks for regular income.
Rental Income: Generate rental income from residential or commercial properties.
Peer-to-Peer Lending: Continue using P2P lending platforms for higher interest returns.

6. Education and Networking:

All Countries:

Financial Education: Continuously educate yourself on advanced investment strategies, market trends, and economic indicators.
Networking: Join investment clubs, attend industry conferences, and engage with successful investors and financial advisors.

7. Tax Optimization:

All Countries:

Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Utilize accounts that offer tax benefits, such as retirement accounts.
Tax Planning: Engage in strategic tax planning to minimize liabilities and maximize returns.

Sample Plan to Grow from $100,000 to $1,000,000:

Stock Market Investments:
- Invest $40,000 in a diversified portfolio with an average annual return of 7%. Over 10 years, this could grow to approximately $78,000.
Real Estate:
- Invest $30,000 in real estate or REITs with an average annual return of 6%. Over 10 years, this could grow to approximately $53,730.
Business Ventures/Private Equity:
- Invest $20,000 in a business or private equity with an average annual return of 10%. Over 10 years, this could grow to approximately $51,875.
Passive Income:
- Generate $10,000 annually from dividend stocks, rental income, or P2P lending, reinvested with an average return of 5%. Over 10 years, this could add up to approximately $125,778.

By combining these strategies, after 10 years, you could potentially accumulate:

Stock Market Investments: $78,000
Real Estate Investments: $53,730
Business Ventures/Private Equity: $51,875
Reinvested Passive Income: $125,778

Total: $309,383

How to Grow Wealth from $10,000 to $100,000 in Singapore / Malaysia / Indonesia

Growing wealth from $10,000 to $100,000 requires a more strategic approach involving diversified investments, disciplined saving, and leveraging opportunities for higher returns. Here’s a guide tailored to Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia:

1. Maximize Savings and Income:

Singapore:

High-Interest Savings Accounts: Utilize high-interest accounts like DBS Multiplier, OCBC 360, or UOB One.
Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS): Contribute to SRS for tax relief and invest the funds.

Malaysia:

High-Interest Savings Accounts: Use accounts from Maybank, CIMB, or Public Bank.
Employee Provident Fund (EPF): Contribute more to EPF and consider EPF-approved investments.

Indonesia:

High-Interest Savings Accounts: Use accounts from banks like BCA, BRI, or Mandiri.
Dana Pensiun Lembaga Keuangan (DPLK): Contribute to retirement savings plans for tax benefits and growth.

2. Invest in the Stock Market:

Singapore:

Blue-Chip Stocks: Invest in well-established companies listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Diversify with ETFs like the STI ETF or those offered by Vanguard.

Malaysia:

Blue-Chip Stocks: Invest in reputable companies listed on Bursa Malaysia.
ETFs: Consider ETFs like MyETF Dow Jones Islamic Market Malaysia Titans 25 or global ETFs.

Indonesia:

Blue-Chip Stocks: Invest in leading companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX).
ETFs: Diversify with ETFs like the IDX30 ETF.

3. Explore Real Estate:

Singapore:

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Invest in REITs listed on SGX for exposure to real estate without large capital requirements.

Malaysia:

REITs: Invest in Malaysian REITs for exposure to commercial and residential properties.

Indonesia:

Property Investments: Consider investing in residential or commercial properties in growing areas.

4. Invest in Mutual Funds and Unit Trusts:

All Countries:

Mutual Funds/Unit Trusts: Invest in mutual funds or unit trusts for diversified exposure to various asset classes.

5. Leverage Technology and Fintech:

All Countries:

Robo-Advisors: Use platforms like StashAway, Syfe (Singapore), Wahed Invest (Malaysia), and Ajaib (Indonesia) for automated, low-cost investment portfolios.
Peer-to-Peer Lending: Consider P2P lending platforms like Funding Societies, Fundaztic, or Investree for higher returns with manageable risks.

6. Generate Passive Income:

Dividend Stocks:

Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia: Invest in dividend-paying stocks to generate a steady income stream.

Rental Income:

Real Estate: Buy properties and rent them out for consistent rental income.

7. Start or Invest in a Business:

All Countries:

Entrepreneurship: Start a small business or invest in promising startups.
Franchises: Consider investing in franchise opportunities with proven business models.

8. Education and Networking:

All Countries:

Continuous Learning: Stay updated with financial markets, investment strategies, and personal finance.
Networking: Join investment clubs, attend seminars, and engage with financial advisors.

Sample Plan to Grow from $10,000 to $100,000:

Savings: Continue saving a portion of your income. Aim for $500 per month over five years, totaling $30,000.
Stock Market Investments: Invest $10,000 in a diversified stock portfolio with an average annual return of 7%. In five years, this could grow to approximately $14,025.
Real Estate or REITs: Invest $10,000 in REITs or property. Assuming an annual return of 6%, this could grow to approximately $13,382 in five years.
Side Business/Passive Income: Start a side business or invest in P2P lending, aiming for an additional income of $500 per month. Over five years, this adds up to $30,000.

By combining these strategies, after five years, you could potentially accumulate:

Savings: $30,000
Stock Market Investments: $14,025
Real Estate/REITs: $13,382
Side Business/Passive Income: $30,000

Total: $87,407

With disciplined saving, strategic investments, and continuous learning, reaching $100,000 is achievable. Adjust strategies based on market conditions and personal circumstances for optimal results.

How to Grow wealth from $0 to $10,000 in Singapore / Malaysia / Indoneisa

1. Start with Savings:

Singapore:

Set a savings goal: Aim to save a certain amount each month.
High-interest savings accounts: Use accounts like DBS Multiplier, OCBC 360, or UOB One which offer higher interest rates for meeting certain criteria.

Malaysia:

Create a budget: Track expenses and set aside a portion of your income for savings.
High-interest savings accounts: Consider accounts from Maybank, CIMB, or Public Bank.

Indonesia:

Save consistently: Allocate a fixed percentage of your income to savings.
High-interest savings accounts: Use accounts from banks like BCA, BRI, or Mandiri which offer competitive interest rates.

2. Invest Wisely:

Singapore:

Stock Market: Invest in the Singapore Exchange (SGX) through stocks or ETFs.
Robo-Advisors: Consider platforms like StashAway, Syfe, or Endowus for low-cost investment portfolios.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Provide exposure to real estate with lower capital requirements.

Malaysia:

Stock Market: Invest in the Bursa Malaysia through stocks or ETFs.
Robo-Advisors: Use platforms like StashAway Malaysia or Wahed Invest for diversified portfolios.
Unit Trusts: Consider mutual funds for diversified investments.

Indonesia:

Stock Market: Invest in the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) through stocks or ETFs.
Robo-Advisors: Use platforms like Ajaib or Bareksa for diversified investments.
Mutual Funds: Consider investing in mutual funds for diversification.

3. Generate Passive Income:

Singapore:

Dividend Stocks: Invest in blue-chip stocks with a history of paying dividends.
Peer-to-Peer Lending: Platforms like Funding Societies offer opportunities for earning interest on loans.

Malaysia:

Dividend Stocks: Invest in stocks listed on Bursa Malaysia that pay dividends.
Peer-to-Peer Lending: Use platforms like Funding Societies or Fundaztic for lending opportunities.

Indonesia:

Dividend Stocks: Invest in dividend-paying stocks on the IDX.
Peer-to-Peer Lending: Platforms like Investree or KoinWorks offer P2P lending opportunities.

4. Start a Side Hustle:

All Countries:

Freelancing: Utilize skills in writing, graphic design, programming, or other services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.
Online Business: Start an e-commerce store on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, or Tokopedia.
Tutoring or Coaching: Offer services in subjects you are proficient in, either online or in-person.

5. Educate Yourself:

All Countries:

Financial Literacy: Invest time in learning about personal finance, investing, and wealth-building strategies through books, online courses, and seminars.
Networking: Connect with financial advisors, join investment groups, and participate in forums to gain insights and advice.

6. Monitor and Adjust:

All Countries:

Review Finances Regularly: Monitor your income, expenses, and investments regularly to ensure you’re on track.
Adjust Strategy: Be flexible and ready to adjust your strategies based on market conditions and personal circumstances.

Example Plan to Reach $10,000:

Savings: Save $200 per month. In two years, this would accumulate to $4,800 (excluding interest).
Investments: Invest $5,000 in a diversified portfolio with an annual return of 5%. After two years, this could grow to approximately $5,500.
Side Hustle Income: Earn an additional $200 per month from a side hustle. Over two years, this adds up to $4,800.

Combining these strategies, after two years, you would have:

Savings: $4,800
Investment Growth: $5,500
Side Hustle Income: $4,800

Total: $15,100

By setting clear goals, saving consistently, investing wisely, generating passive income, and continuously educating yourself, you can grow your wealth from $0 to $10,000 and beyond.

How should a family of 4 budget for a trip to South-East asia countries in Singapore , Malaysia, Indonesia?

Budgeting for a trip to Southeast Asia for a family of four, including visits to Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, requires considering several factors such as flights, accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and other miscellaneous expenses. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan:

1. **Flights:**

- **Research and book in advance:** Look for deals and book early to get the best prices.

- **Budget airlines:** Consider budget airlines within Southeast Asia (e.g., AirAsia, Scoot).

**Estimated Cost:**

- **International flights:** $400 - $800 per person round trip.

- **Intra-region flights:** $50 - $150 per person per flight.

2. **Accommodation:**

- **Singapore:** Hotels can be expensive; consider budget hotels.

- **Malaysia and Indonesia:** More affordable options, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb.

**Estimated Cost:**

- **Singapore:** $100 - $250 per night.

- **Malaysia and Indonesia:** $30 - $100 per night.

3. **Food:**

- **Singapore:** $10 - $20 per meal per person.

- **Malaysia and Indonesia:** $5 - $15 per meal per person.

- Street food and local eateries can help save money while providing authentic culinary experiences.

4. **Transportation:**

- **Public transport:** Efficient and affordable in all three countries.

- **Taxis and ride-hailing services (Grab):** Convenient for family travel.

- **Car rentals:** Consider for longer distances, especially in Malaysia and Indonesia.

**Estimated Cost:**

- **Singapore:** $10 - $20 per day.

- **Malaysia and Indonesia:** $5 - $15 per day.

5. **Activities:**

- Research and plan activities in advance. Entry fees for attractions, tours, and experiences vary.

- Some attractions, like beaches and parks, are free or have minimal fees.

**Estimated Cost:**

- **Singapore:** $20 - $50 per person per day.

- **Malaysia and Indonesia:** $10 - $30 per person per day.

6. **Miscellaneous Expenses:**

- **Shopping:** Souvenirs, gifts, etc.

- **Travel insurance:** Essential for international travel.

- **Visas and travel documents:** Ensure all necessary documents are in order.

**Estimated Cost:**

- **Miscellaneous:** $100 - $200 for the entire trip.

Sample Budget for a 10-day Trip:

1. **Flights:**

- International: $2,000 - $3,200

- Intra-region: $400 - $1,200

2. **Accommodation:**

- Singapore: (3 nights) $300 - $750

- Malaysia: (3 nights) $90 - $300

- Indonesia: (4 nights) $120 - $400

3. **Food:**

- $1,200 - $2,000

4. **Transportation:**

- $100 - $250

5. **Activities:**

- $800 - $1,600

6. **Miscellaneous:**

- $100 - $200

**Total Estimated Cost:** $5,110 - $9,900

This is a rough estimate, and actual costs can vary based on travel preferences, the time of year, and specific destinations within each country. Make sure to plan and book in advance to secure the best deals.

Tanjung Uban 2023

We went to Tanjung Uban in 2023. Here are the photos that we went.

Genting Dec 2023 with family

We went to Genting Dec 2023 with family.