When we speak of individuals who embody resilience, innovation, and the spirit of giving back, Mohamed Salleh s/o Kadir Mohideen Saibu Maricar — known widely as Salleh Marican — stands as a shining beacon. Born on 15 September 1949 in the modest neighborhood of Joo Chiat, Singapore, Mohamed Salleh Marican’s journey from a humble upbringing to becoming a historic figure in Singapore’s corporate landscape is nothing short of extraordinary.
Today, Salleh Marican is celebrated as the Founder and CEO of Second Chance Properties Ltd, the first Malay-Muslim owned company ever listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange. His story is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and the unwavering belief that success is within reach for those who dare to chase it.
Humble Beginnings of Mohamed Salleh Marican: Strength Forged in Adversity
Born the third of six children, Mohamed Salleh Marican’s early life was marked by hardship. His father, Kadir Marican, an immigrant from Nagore, Pondicherry in India, and his mother, Salmah Mar’ie from Indonesia, instilled in him the values of perseverance and integrity. Tragedy struck when Salleh was just 15 years old — the untimely death of his father placed a heavy burden on young shoulders.
Despite financial struggles, Mohamed Salleh Marican remained determined to make something extraordinary of his life. He attended Victoria School from 1962 to 1967, a prestigious institution known for producing leaders. But fate had a different lesson in store. Recognizing that he might fail the A-Level examinations — and unwilling to waste precious resources — he made the pragmatic decision to drop out of school before the exams, saving 70% of the examination fees.
While some might have viewed this as a failure, for Mohamed Salleh Marican, it was the beginning of a different, self-forged path — one rooted in self-belief, strategic thinking, and audacity.
Building a Business Empire: From Tailoring Dreams to Corporate Triumph
Mohamed Salleh Marican entered the world of business in 1974, venturing into menswear tailoring. In an era when few believed that a young Malay entrepreneur could make waves in retail, he launched the brand 2nd Chance — a fitting name for someone who believed life always offered new beginnings.
With relentless energy and an eye for opportunity, he grew 2nd Chance into a household name, boasting 25 outlets across Singapore and Malaysia by 1988. But Salleh’s ambitions could not be contained within the limits of fashion retail alone.
Mohamed Salleh Marican boldly diversified — establishing First Lady, a popular Malay women’s fashion brand, and Golden Chance, a jewelry business that delighted customers with its quality and elegance. By the late 1990s, he had also ventured into property investment, recognizing the immense potential in real estate.
Each step was marked by innovation, risk-taking, and a refusal to accept barriers traditionally placed on members of the Malay-Muslim community. Salleh Marican was not merely building businesses — he was quietly reshaping societal expectations.
Making History: Second Chance Properties Ltd
In 1997, Mohamed Salleh Marican achieved a historic milestone that would forever cement his legacy. Second Chance Properties Ltd — the corporate arm of his real estate ventures — was listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). It was a monumental first: no Malay-Muslim owned company had ever been listed in Singapore before.
This achievement was far greater than a personal triumph. It sent a powerful message to the Malay-Muslim community and beyond: success knows no racial, religious, or cultural boundaries.
Second Chance Properties would go on to thrive under Salleh’s leadership, distinguished by sound financial management, ethical business practices, and strategic investments. Salleh proved that it was possible to grow a company without sacrificing principles — a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
A Heart for Service: A Presidential Dream
In 2017, driven by a profound desire to give back to the nation that nurtured him, Salleh Marican announced his intention to run for the Presidency of Singapore. It was an election reserved for Malay candidates, and Salleh stepped forward with characteristic courage and clarity.
“I believe I have done well for myself in business and would like to step up and give back to society in a much larger way,” he declared. His aspiration was not rooted in ambition for power, but in service. He envisioned a truly independent Elected President — “one who is untainted by party politics,” he emphasized.
Though his company’s shareholder equity fell short of the $500 million threshold required for automatic qualification, his candidacy itself was inspirational. It underscored his enduring commitment to leadership, representation, and the greater good.
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