Raybe Oh, 32, a former flight attendant, is set to perform on the getai stage for the first time in five years following a devastating car crash in Tanjong Pagar in 2021. The incident left her with burns covering over 80% of her body, but after years of recovery and treatment, she is preparing to take the stage at an event organized by the Zhenghua Community Club on Friday, February 27.

Recovery and Return to the Stage

Oh’s return to the getai stage is a testament to her resilience. After being hospitalised for four months following the accident, she required intubation to breathe and faced significant challenges in regaining her ability to sing.

According to Shin Min Daily News, the accident left Oh with hardened skin at her chin and neck, making it difficult for her to sing basic tunes. Additionally, her lung capacity was severely limited, but years of practice and physical training have helped her overcome these obstacles.

Oh began running about a year ago and now runs three times a week for 30 minutes before singing in the bathroom for 20 minutes to practice. Her friend and event organiser, Qian Weijie, has been a constant source of encouragement throughout her recovery.

Medical Challenges and Ongoing Treatment

Despite her progress, Oh still requires treatment for her scars every six weeks. The severe burns left her with skin graft scars that cause her skin to tighten and affect her mobility. She receives steroid injections and laser therapy during treatment sessions to soften the hardened scars.

Oh has also joined a support group for burn victims and acts as a guide for patients’ families, sharing her experiences and providing emotional support. She hopes to inspire others by saying, “If I can do it, so can you.”

Details of the 2021 Crash

The fatal accident occurred at around 5:40 am on February 13, 2021, at 37 Tanjong Pagar Road. Oh’s fiancé, Johnathan Long, had been driving at speeds between 148 km/h and 182 km/h when the car crashed into a shophouse and erupted in flames.

There were five men in the car at the time, and all five died on the spot from severe burns and injuries after being trapped in the car. Investigations found that Long’s blood alcohol content had exceeded the legal limit, and he had lost control of the car before the crash.

At the time of the crash, Oh ran to the burning car and tried to open the door to save her fiancé, but she sustained severe burns in the process. The incident has had a lasting impact on her life, but she remains determined to share her story and encourage others.

Oh’s return to the getai stage marks a significant milestone in her recovery journey. Her performance will take place at the community space next to Bukit Panjang’s Greenridge Shopping Centre. This event highlights her resilience and the importance of support systems in overcoming life-changing injuries.