A Singapore man’s claim that his struggling business is collapsing due to family members “stealing money” has drawn scepticism from those familiar with the situation, who argue that the real issue lies in his own lack of involvement and accountability.
According to people close to the family, the man has repeatedly told friends and acquaintances that internal sabotage is the reason his once-promising family business is now barely staying afloat. He has portrayed himself as a victim of betrayal, suggesting that profits have mysteriously disappeared and that he is being unfairly undermined from within.
However, others paint a very different picture. They allege that the man is rarely present at the business premises, shows little interest in daily operations and avoids even the most basic responsibilities required to keep the enterprise running. In their view, the narrative of “stolen money” is a convenient excuse to deflect blame from his own inertia.
BLAME SHIFTING INSTEAD OF MANAGEMENT
Sources say the business, which relies heavily on hands-on oversight, has suffered from poor inventory control, inconsistent customer service and missed opportunities. These problems, critics argue, cannot be pinned on alleged theft alone, but rather on the absence of leadership.
Instead of tightening processes or reviewing accounts properly, the man is said to have spent more time complaining than correcting mistakes. Family members involved in the operations reportedly feel demoralised, as they are accused of wrongdoing without clear evidence, while being left to manage the workload largely on their own.
Observers note that in Singapore’s competitive business environment, especially for small and family-run enterprises, success often depends on discipline, long hours and personal sacrifice. Simply owning a business does not guarantee income, a reality many aspiring entrepreneurs underestimate.
EXPECTING RETURNS WITHOUT EFFORT
Those familiar with the man’s mindset say he appears to believe that money should “come automatically”, without sustained effort or presence. He allegedly expects profits to continue flowing even when he is disengaged, absent or unwilling to resolve operational issues.
This attitude has drawn criticism from fellow business owners, who describe it as unrealistic and entitled. In a city where rising costs, manpower shortages and stiff competition are constant challenges, businesses require active stewardship to survive, let alone grow.
A LESSON FOR ASPIRING BUSINESS OWNERS
While the man continues to insist that external factors are to blame, some see the situation as a cautionary tale. Blaming family members or circumstances may offer temporary emotional relief, but it does little to fix structural problems or restore trust.
Financial consultants and small business advisers often stress the importance of transparency, regular audits and clear role definitions in family businesses. More importantly, they highlight that leadership cannot be outsourced or avoided.
As the business struggles on, those watching from the sidelines say the outcome will ultimately depend not on who is accused, but on whether the man is willing to confront his own shortcomings. In Singapore’s unforgiving business landscape, effort, not excuses, remains the true currency of survival.