Local actor and content creator Eden Ang has transitioned into the trade of plumbing, obtaining a Builder Certificate in Plumbing and Pipelifting from the Building and Construction Authority in September 2023. This shift follows his hiatus from the entertainment industry after facing sexual harassment accusations in 2018 and a subsequent period of professional reflection.
Professional Pivot: From Entertainment to Essential Trades
Eden Ang, formerly known for his work on the comedy channel Wah!Banana and television series like Tanglin and Yes Mdm, began his transition by utilizing Singapore’s SkillsFuture Credits. According to his July 11 Instagram post, the 38-year-old sought out essential skills after realizing that his previous roles in content creation held little utility during the Covid-19 pandemic.
His journey into the trades was not immediate. Ang reported attempting to enter the physiotherapy field through various university courses but faced rejection without provided reasons. He eventually pivoted to electrical and plumbing work, noting that he viewed these as “basic elements of survival.” While he still maintains a marketing and production company, Ang emphasized that his focus has shifted toward building a foundation on blue-collar expertise.
Did you know?
Eden Ang is not abandoning storytelling. He stated that while his passion for entertainment remains, it now functions as a secondary pursuit supported by the stability and humility he found while training as a plumber.
The Role of Vocational Training in Career Resilience
During his plumbing course, Ang noted he was the only student without a prior background in the trade. He described the environment as a “safe space” where his past public persona in the entertainment industry was irrelevant to his peers.
In his reflection on the experience, Ang observed that the workshop environment allowed him to focus on tangible results rather than the “likes and shares” typical of social media metrics.
Addressing Past Controversies and Public Return
The transition to plumbing follows a multi-year period of public absence. Ang went on hiatus in January 2018 following public allegations of sexual harassment. In May 2024, he released a YouTube video titled “Begin,” in which he apologized for his past behavior, acknowledging that he had failed to treat women with sufficient respect and communication.
Ang confirmed he cooperated with authorities regarding these past events, stating that while he was not legally reprimanded, the authorities made it clear his behavior was inappropriate. He has since returned to the public eye, launching a TikTok account in January 2024 to share content criticizing modern social media consumption habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eden Ang still working in the entertainment industry?
Yes, Ang continues to operate a marketing and production company, though he has integrated vocational plumbing skills into his professional life.
What certification did Eden Ang receive?
He attained a Builder Certificate in Plumbing and Pipelifting from the Building and Construction Authority in September 2023.
Why did Ang choose plumbing?
Ang cited a desire to contribute essential services, particularly after experiencing the lack of demand for content creators during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Are you considering a career pivot into the trades? Share your thoughts on the value of vocational skills in the comments section below.