If I would like to leave my notice period earlier, will there be a case where I wouldn’t have to buy out and it could be mutually agreed with my employer that I can leave earlier?

Typically if the company you’re joining wants you earlier, they would offer a buyout but you typically have less negotiating power for salary after. Else if they’re willing to wait, I don’t see any issue?

If the new company isn’t willing to wait, and you really want to join them. You prob have no choice but to pay off the notice period yourself.

As mentioned it’s legally binding, even CEOs have to undergo 3-6 months of garden leave before joining a new company.

You would have to get your employer to agree to release you from your employment contract. Maybe if you have an especially understanding/easy-going superior, you might be able to convince them that it wouldn't be productive to keep someone around for 3 months, if that person's heart isn't in the job. Depending on your company and management, this can be a long shot. Most companies will simply insist that you either i) honour your employment contract and stay for the duration of the notice period, or ii) pay up if you want to get released early.

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Remember that notice periods are legally binding. If you don't serve your notice or pay compensation in lieu, it's a breach of contract. Your former employer can file a civil suit against you (though such a scenario in your case would be highly unlikely. This usually only happens if the owed compensation is very large - e.g. for senior executives).

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Here's a guide on how to defend lawsuits in Singapore: https://www.providecover.com/how-to-fight-a-law...