Waktu Horology Honours Mothers and Mdm Halimah Yacob at the 32nd EMA

In a city that cherishes its heritage while racing toward the future, some traditions stand as timeless testaments to the human spirit. The Exemplary Mother Award (EMA), an initiative by the Muslim missionary organisation Jamiyah Singapore, is one such tradition. On Saturday, August 30, 2025, the 32nd EMA ceremony, themed "Luminary of Mothers," not only honoured this noble tradition but also created a unique opportunity for local watch brand Waktu Horology to make a truly special presentation.

The Fairmont ballroom of Swissôtel The Stamford was filled with a sense of reverence as the event celebrated mothers from all walks of life. The ceremony was particularly significant as it marked the passing of the third Presidential Shield from Former President Dr. Tony Tan Keng Yam to our current Former President, Mdm Halimah Yacob. This year also introduced a new Fan Favourite Mother Award, decided by public vote on Instagram.



The evening's top honour, the Exemplary Mother Award, was presented to Ms. Zarina Binte Jaafar, who received the Presidential Shield. Ms. Zarina’s strength was forged through tragic loss after her husband’s death, as she single-handedly raised her three children. Beyond her family, she founded the '3R Recycle, Sharing is Caring' group, a community effort that provides care and support to over 30,000 members.



The winner of the Fan Favourite Mother Award was Mdm Azidah Kamis. She was recognised for her extraordinary resilience, having overcome immense personal challenges while raising her five children and caring for her ailing parents. Her unwavering dedication bore fruit, as her children have gone on to achieve remarkable successes, including one daughter who received the prestigious Mdm Halimah Yacob Award. To honour Azidah's win as the community's choice, Jamiyah Singapore collaborated with Waktu Horology, which sponsored a striking Klasik: Hitam timepiece that was presented to her on stage.

A Serendipitous Encounter with Mdm Halimah Yacob
While the sponsored timepiece was a highlight of the evening, Waktu Horology's founder, Dahliah, had a second, deeply personal mission. She had come prepared with an additional Klasik: Hitam timepiece, just in case an opportunity arose to present it to Mdm Halimah Yacob. Knowing the tight security, she left the outcome to chance.

As fate would have it, the perfect moment arose. Dahliah, seeing her opportunity, gathered her courage and approached one of Mdm Halimah Yacob’s staff members. The kind gentleman, sensing the sincerity of her request, encouraged her to approach the former president directly. With her heart pounding, Dahliah walked towards Mdm Halimah Yacob, introducing herself as the founder of Waktu Horology, Singapore's first watch brand dedicated to honouring Malay heritage. She expressed her desire to present her with a Klasik: Hitam timepiece. The watch, bearing the special serial number WHK1060, was chosen as a heartfelt tribute to SG60, Singapore's upcoming 60th independence day.

The brief but meaningful exchange, which lasted just a minute, was a cherished moment. Mdm Halimah Yacob graciously accepted the timepiece and a personalised card from Dahliah, offering a humble "thank you." The two then took a photo together, capturing a truly special occasion for the young brand.

The 32nd Exemplary Mother Award ceremony was a powerful reminder of the extraordinary strength found in ordinary mothers. It was a celebration of sacrifice, resilience, and the quiet dignity that shapes generations. For Waktu Horology, it was a moment where a local brand paid a personal tribute, presenting a timepiece that will forever mark a special occasion and a cherished encounter.