She started Waktu Horology, Singapore’s first watch brand dedicated to Malay heritage
A Singapore-based entrepreneur, Dahliah, launched Waktu Horology, a watch brand focused on sharing Malay heritage, after a personal turning point and with significant support from her family. The venture represents not just a business opportunity, but a deeply felt obligation to preserve and promote her cultural identity.
A Personal Catalyst
Dahliah’s decision to start her own company was bolstered by a past experience she described as strengthening. She stated, “It kind of made me stronger, because I felt that I survived an accident and can push through anything. So I shouldn’t be afraid [of starting a new business].” This resilience became a key factor in overcoming the inherent risks of entrepreneurship.
Navigating Initial Challenges
Upon launching Waktu Horology on social media, Dahliah encountered negative comments from some Malay viewers who perpetuated stereotypes. However, she remained undeterred, stating simply, “I’m not discouraged.” This response highlights her commitment to her vision despite potential criticism.
Family as a Foundation
Dahliah’s transition from employment to entrepreneurship was met with immediate and practical support from her family. Her husband, an Armed Auxiliary Police Officer, offered to cover family expenses, while her mother, a clinic manager, volunteered to manage the company’s finances. Beyond financial assistance, family and friends provided moral support, purchasing watches as gifts and sharing her brand’s social media content.
A Collaborative Effort
Dahliah also enlisted the help of her sister, a former art gallery assistant, to staff her booth at the Spring Sprang Sprung event. This demonstrates a reliance on existing skills within her network to overcome the challenges of a one-person operation.
The Realities of a Small Business
Waktu Horology currently offers two watch models, with Dahliah aiming for a production pace of two releases per year. The design process, handled entirely by Dahliah, can take several months, followed by additional time for manufacturing. The most significant hurdle, she identified, is “Definitely [managing] the cash flow.” Her mother, acting as finance manager, projects the business will achieve profitability in 2026.
Dahliah views her investment as more than financial risk; it’s a necessary step to ensure the preservation of Malay heritage through a new storytelling medium. She questioned, “I feel that if I don’t spend this amount of money to build this brand, and create a new medium [of storytelling] for Malay heritage, is anyone going to do it in future?”
Looking Ahead
If Waktu Horology continues to gain traction, Dahliah may need to consider expanding her production capacity or seeking additional assistance with design and manufacturing. A possible next step could involve exploring collaborations with artisans or designers to broaden the brand’s offerings. However, maintaining the brand’s focus on Malay heritage will likely remain central to its identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What motivated Dahliah to start Waktu Horology?
Dahliah was motivated by a desire to share Malay heritage and a feeling of obligation to create a new medium for storytelling around her culture, following a personal experience that strengthened her resolve.
What challenges is Dahliah currently facing?
Dahliah identified managing cash flow as the most difficult aspect of running her small business. Her mother estimates the business will begin to turn a profit in 2026.
How has Dahliah’s family supported her venture?
Dahliah’s husband offered to cover family expenses, her mother is managing the company’s finances, and other family members and friends have provided moral support and purchased her watches.
What does it mean to you to see entrepreneurs driven by a sense of cultural preservation and personal responsibility?