Devinder Singh

Devinder Singh – Founder of Dion Harper Deco

Devinder Singh

In this interview, Devinder Singh, founder of Dion Harper Deco, tells of how the social enterprise began and what future plans the brand has.

What do you do?

I am the founder of Dion Harper Deco- a bespoke provider of premium home decor items.

How did you get into the industry?

I decided to pair my 25 years in marketing with social entrepreneurship to provide a social platform to market selected output from the local cottage industry.

Share with us a story from behind the scenes.

Marketing has taken me to places out of the radar. Semi-urban areas have connected me with many local talents, such as single mothers whose products are not really seen in the marketplace on a large scale. After a few trials, we patted down to starting with our flagship product – Decoupage Tiffins. Art paper with various patterns is glued onto stainless steel tiffins in a careful manner. The result is a premium, exclusive product for discerning clientele across Malaysia and the region. There will be more to come.

What’s a travel memory that stands out for you?

I love the beach; hence every beach trip is a memory – from local beaches in Thailand, Kamala and Patong beaches to the sun-kissed shores in Brisbane and even lovely getaway places in islands on the East coast of Malaysia. The general memory is the solace one finds when either snorkeling or just soaking up the peaceful vibes. This allows one to reset their internal system and undertake the necessary reflection to chill out.

What’s the best/ worst part of your job?

It’s not really a job but more of a passion that drives me – the pleasant feeling of selling a piece and then giving back to the person who made it. Their smiles are satisfaction enough

What’s your favourite food and beverage pairing?

A Blend of Riesling & Gewurztraminer wine with a spicy chicken dish.

What’s one of the craziest things you’ve seen behind the scenes?

I have been in events too – hence it became like a daily job to be dressed as a clown and perform hour-long activities with kids, including donning Batman costumes and parading on a field under a hot sun. Another would be the numerous cabaret shows done while I was employed in Club Med Cherating – be it a scene out of Moulin Rouge or as a raggedy dressed character.

The perfect day off would be…

…on the beach with a beer and a burger, knowing all my loved ones are just 100metres away doing their own things.

A day in the life of Devinder Singh is…

WhatsApp and emails for six hours, two great meals with rice, two gin tonics and a good movie at 9 pm.

What do you do for fun?

Sleep, entertain, survey hardware shops and practice my massaging skills.

What’s something you’d like guests to know about Dion Harper Deco?

You should tickle your home with a lovely exclusive piece of a decoupage tiffin from Dion Harper Deco for daily use or as a conversation piece.

How has the pandemic changed you, your perspective or the way you operate?

Everything now being virtual is hard for me. I am more of an outdoor person.

What’s something you’d like people to know about being a marketer as a profession?

Borrowing the line from someone – Begin with the end in mind.. but remember the end is always reviewed and adjusted… after every milestone.

What’s your view on the food/drink scene in KL?

Just plain awesome and creative.

How has the pandemic changed you as a person?

I’m stronger, more human and more relaxed.

How has the pandemic changed you as a marketer?

I’m seeking more online networking opportunities

What’s in store for you in the upcoming months?

We’re developing a selection of other pieces that complement the current range of decoupage tiffins.

Find more interviews similar to this one with Devinder Singh here. And, stay up to date with the latest food and beverage happenings in KL here.

One Comment

  1. I would love “the lovely getaway places in islands on the East coast of Malaysia” too but I prefer the nice and cool weather of the highlands more.

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