Addy Lee’s Farewell to Singapore: From Celebrity Hairstylist to Retired Rabbit Farmer
So, here’s some news that caught my eye recently: former celeb hairstylist Addy Lee has officially given up his Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) status and withdrawn his Central Provident Fund (CPF) monies. If you didn’t know, Addy Lee is a pretty well-known figure—he built his reputation in Singapore before moving on to split time between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.
In a heartfelt Facebook post dated August 27, Addy Lee thanked Singapore and bade farewell. Then he confirmed everything in a chat with Chinese daily Lianhe Zaobao the very next day. The 54-year-old Malaysian explained he’d wrestled with this decision for months before finally making the leap last week.
Here’s a quick backstory: Addy’s from Penang and first got his Singapore PR when he was 23. Over the years, he founded the Monsoon chain of hair salons and truly made Singapore his second home. But after years of hustle, the pandemic pushed back his retirement plans, which he originally aimed for at 50. So, he decided it was finally time to retire and withdrew his CPF savings for this next chapter.
“This money will allow me to live quite comfortably, so I’m really grateful to Singapore,” Addy said. “The entire policy is well-designed—not just for locals, but also for those of us who have come here to make a living. I still have something to fall back on now that I’m leaving this second home.”
While he didn’t disclose the exact CPF amount, Addy shared mixed feelings when he received the funds. On one hand, he was happy because this sum means he can kick back and tangping (a popular Chinese slang for ‘lying flat’ or taking it easy) for the next 30 years or so. Of course, he’s not planning any wild splurges—he mentions Thailand’s slower pace and cheaper cost of living as ideal for his retirement lifestyle.
On the other hand, there’s a bit of bittersweet nostalgia. “I built everything I have in Singapore from scratch. Besides the fame and gains, this place has taught me so much. From a teenager who couldn’t speak a word of English to where I am now, I think I’m doing fine. Singapore has given me countless opportunities and I have met many benefactors,” he reflected.
Looking ahead, Addy said he might visit Singapore occasionally—for medical consultations or similar reasons—but not for holidaying. The cost difference would be significant; he pointed out that three or four days in Singapore could easily equal a whole month’s living expenses in Thailand.
Speaking of Thailand, Addy has already set up a rabbit farm about 30 minutes from downtown Bangkok. Quite the change of pace from hair salons and live-streaming!
On that note, Addy also started a live-streaming company called Mdada back in 2020 with some celeb pals, Pornsak and Michelle Chia. However, he mentioned he’s done with the whole live-selling scene. He’s okay with live-streaming just for chatting, but not for selling products anymore.
“Live-streaming has really made me money and taught me a lot, but it has also hurt me deeply,” he admitted.
Apparently, drama played a part in his decision. Addy fell out with TV host Quan Yifeng, who was once a close friend, over some disagreements tied to their live-stream sales in 2020. And, after Pornsak abruptly left Mdada in January 2023, Addy started feuding with Pornsak and Chia as well.
It gets messy—Addy accused Pornsak of bullying and defaming one of his staff members, while alleging that Michelle Chia withheld his salary and ignored his messages. Clearly, things weren’t smooth behind the scenes.
Despite all the conflict, Addy seems determined to close this chapter gracefully:
“It’s time to draw the line. Whatever grudges there are, let them begin and end here,” he said.
All in all, Addy Lee’s journey feels like a full circle moment: from a young Malaysian guy venturing into a foreign country, to becoming a celebrated hairstylist and entrepreneur, and now stepping into a relaxed retirement phase. It’s inspiring to see someone take stock of their life, handle the ups and downs, and find peace on their own terms.
Whether it’s the hustle in Singapore, the whirlwind of live-streaming, or his new life in Thailand with rabbits, Addy’s story reminds us that life’s about evolution and embracing change—even when it means letting go of what once felt like home.
