Datin Ong May Wah
I left the corporate world as a bank trainer 30 years ago, but I never retired from connecting with people and doing what I love," says Datin Ong May Wah. Now in her 60s, she fills her days with baking, cooking, line dancing, and staying active.
"Baking has been my passion, and it brings me joy to see others enjoy my homemade bread—especially my line dancing students, who even place orders for it!
I call it 'omakase' style—people get what I feel like baking that day," she laughs.
Teaching remains close to her heart.
"Whether it’s baking or dancing, I love sharing skills that help others stay active and happy. I’m thrilled to be starting baking workshops with SITI Network to share this joy with other seniors."
Datin Ong also participates in the Glamma Project, promoting active style for women over 60.
Her advice?
"Just do what you enjoy, meet new people, stay active, and keep learning. It’s what keeps me young at heart.
The Glamma Project
Elegance and Style Through the Glamma Project
Recently, Datin Ong joined the Glamma Project, an initiative by Mdm Baby Goh that promotes active style for women over 60.
This project, she says, has helped her explore a new side of herself, one filled with confidence and camaraderie. Glamma has empowered her and her peers, proving that age is no limit to style or self-expression.
Her Story.
Datin Ong May Wah: A Passion for Baking, Dancing, and Lifelong Learning
From Corporate Trainer to Community Connector
Thirty years ago, Datin Ong stepped away from her career as a bank trainer. While she left the corporate world behind, her passion for teaching and connecting with people remained strong. Now in her 60s, she is enjoying a fulfilling retirement centered around her love for baking, cooking, dancing, and engaging with her community.
The Joy of Baking and Sharing
Datin Ong has passion for baking since school days. She bakes fresh bread for her family and friends, and her homemade treats have become famous among her circle. “I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they enjoy my baking,” she says. Her line dancing students, impressed with her bread, even started placing regular orders.
With a playful twist, she calls her orders style “omakase” — customers get whatever she feels inspired to bake that day. This spontaneity, combined with the quality of her bread, keeps everyone excited for more.
Staying Active with Line Dancing
Besides baking, Datin Ong is a committed line dance instructor. She leads weekly classes at the Chinese Recreation Club (CRC), where she finds joy in teaching others to dance while keeping herself active. “Teaching line dancing is a way to stay fit and help others stay fit too,” she shares. Her classes offer more than just exercise; they create a supportive space for people to connect, laugh, and enjoy music together.
Elegance and Style Through the Glamma Project
Recently, Datin Ong joined the Glamma Project, an initiative by Mdm Baby Goh that promotes active lifestyle for women over 60. This project, she says, has helped her explore a new side of herself, one filled with confidence and camaraderie.
Giving Back with Baking Workshops for Seniors
Datin Ong is now collaborating with the SITI Network to offer baking workshops for seniors, where she’ll teach others the joy and skills of baking healthy, homemade bread. “If people are interested in my baking, I love teaching them,” she says.
“It’s rewarding to see others learn a new skill and create healthy food for their loved ones.” Her workshops provide a platform for connection, allowing seniors to learn, bond, and engage with others who share similar interests.
Words of Wisdom for Fellow Retirees
Her advice to others?
“Just do what you love. Get to know people, try new things, stay active, and walk daily—even 3,000 steps a day can make a difference.”
Datin Ong’s approach to life is a testament to the power of passion and community. Through baking, dancing, and mentoring, she continues to enrich her own life and the lives of those around her, proving that retirement is just the beginning of new adventures.
This article has been reviewed and approved for publication by SITI 08.11.2024.
Bake with Love
She bakes fresh bread for her family and friends, and her homemade treats have become famous among her circle.
“I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they enjoy my baking,” she says.
Keeping Herself Active & Lively
“Just do what you love. Get to know people, try new things, stay active, and walk daily—even 3,000 steps a day can make a difference.”
Datin Ong’s approach to life is a testament to the power of passion and community.
