In this final feature of Breguet’s three-part series, the executive chairman and managing director of OEM Autoseats Malaysia delves into the notion of time and happiness.
Tatler Asia
Above Dato' Seri Jeffrey Raymond is wearing the Breguet Classique Grande Complication 3795 in platinum. (Photo: Shaffiq Farhan)

Road Map To Success

Success means different things to different people. For the most part, it is defined by wealth, fame, respect and accomplishments but for Dato' Sri Jeffrey Raymond – the executive chairman and managing director of OEM Autoseats Malaysia – on numerous occasions, he also found success in the many challenges life throws at him.

In celebrating life's little victories, he has also tasted great rewards. From having children and seeing them grow (and to have the cycle repeat itself as his grandchildren were born) to experiencing the many highs in his career; these important milestones are his surest path to happiness.

Also read: Lee Jim Leng's motivation for success, adapting to change and how time is her most precious commodity

Dato’ Sri Jeffrey made a pivotal entry into adulthood by embarking on the most adventurous journey to Europe over land from India in 1970 at the mere age of 20. Also during this time, love between him and Datin Sri Joyce Raymond began to make headway over the distance, all in graceful strides.

Upon his return to Malaysia, he landed a job in sales. "Some might say, I made a good sales rep. I then moved on to a large Biritsh company, managing their telecom spares department with Telekom Malaysia," he recalls. In 1981, he made a bold move to venture out and start Tele Dynamics which went on to become the largest office automation company in Malaysia.

He then sold the company and started OEM in 1994. Initially, they made leather covers for many car brands in Malaysia but a decade later, the company became the official seat assembler for one of the largest car brands in the world. The man is passionately committed to anything he puts his mind to and is relentless in his pursuit of excellence.

Here, Dato’ Sri Jeffrey delves into the notion of time and articulates his theory of happiness.

Tatler Asia
Above The avid watch collector has a deep appreciation for all complications and independent watchmakers. (Photo: Shaffiq Farhan)

What does time means to you?

To many, it means working and doing day-to-day chores but to me, time is so much more than that. Time is a journey and when it’s gone, you can look back at memories, achievements and happy times. As a watch enthusiast, these are some of the reasons why I love buying timepieces because whenever you use a watch you love, time takes on a new meaning. Every time I look at my watches, I see the joy of its creations and the way the watchmaker created it to tell time can be simply magical.

How do you make the most out of your time?

Besides dedicating most of my time to work, my biggest passion has always been sports, especially European soccer. I also love watching movies and series, mostly political serials and action dramas. The four main news channels are also my favourites, as I get firsthand knowledge of world events while staying up-to-date with economic news and trends.

What motivates you to get out of bed everyday?

As you age, very little motivates you to get out of bed but for me waking up is another day the good Lord has given me, and as such I will try to make it as productive as possible. I love spending time with my family and I make it a point to be there for my staff, guiding them and talking up their achievements.

What’s your greatest strength?

I would say that I have a God-given ability of making friends and that has became the strongest part of my character, and it is also very instrumental in my “ success” in life.

When did you consider yourself a success?

What I finally got to know after “ achieving success “ was that success was actually related to happiness. Every time I was happy, I felt “successful”. So for those out there who are coming out in life, I can safely tell you that the challenges of achieving success does not ultimately equate to happiness, there are many achievements you will successfully achieve along the way that will bring you great happiness.

Share with us your favorite quote.

If it ain’t broke , don’t fix it.

What are you reading right now?

Before the advent of the digital world, I loved reading books and magazines. I think I must have subscribed to almost 6-8 magazines, as my favourite subjects were politics, economy and also world events. My habits have changed now. I still love reading, but now I do it on my computer for as long as 4 to 5 hours a day. Of course my interests have widen as the internet allows you to go to all corners of the world, but my main interests remains - world politics, economy and sports. It's truly fascinating.

In the previous article in this series, Datuk Kelvin Tan shares some nuggets of wisdom about time management and his motivations for success.

For more timepieces, jewellery and latest news, visit the Breguet website here

Photos: Shaffiq Farhan

Special thanks: The Astor Bar, The St Regis Kuala Lumpur

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