Country Manager Series: Simon Theseira, Malaysia Country Manager

In the latest of our new blog series, we have been talking to some of our regional Country Managers and Sales Managers, who oversee Simpson Marine’s operations in our hubs throughout Asia. Each brings extensive yachting experience, inspirations and aspirations to their role, helping to grow their local boating scenes with passion and dedication.

Today we meet Simon Theseira, Malaysia Country Manager, for 15 quick fire questions and an e-coffee. Enjoy meeting Simon and getting to knowing the Simpson Marine team better. If you would like to hear more from Simon, please send us any questions you would like him to answer for you.

Q: How long have you been with Simpson Marine?
A: I joined Simpson Marine in 1998, so this year will be my 22^nd with the company.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in yachting? 
A: My love for fishing, boats and the great outdoors – why not carve a career out of your passion and interest?

Q: What was your first memory when it comes to yachting?
A: I have always been on yachts, first working as a crew member in the early days which gave me plenty of hands-on experience. After a while, I was somehow connected to the galley. Cooking became my number one duty on board.

Q: In your opinion, what are the key essentials that potential buyers should consider before purchasing a yacht?
A: First impressions count, and hence this is one very important factor. It allows you to gauge the general condition of the yacht. It is also essential to always make sure servicing and parts are available.

Q: What are some of your favourite islands around your country (Malaysia) that you personally like boating to?
A: The East Coast of Malaysia is very special. Islands like Pulau Rawa, Pulau Aur and Tioman are all spectacular.

Q: What is your favourite spot on board a yacht?
A: The flybridge. This is where it all the action happens.

Q: What are some of your favourite boating activities? 
A: Sailing out on a fishing trip and having freshly caught fish cooked on board. The feeling of tasting the freshness of the sea is an experience unlike any other.

Q: Can you share with us your favourite yachting photo and explain the story behind it?
A: The photo below was the very first boat I sold in Penang when I first set foot in the industry. Certainly a notable milestone in my career.

Q: What are your top three ‘must-haves’ for a boat trip?
A: A fishing rod, beer, and great people

Q: What has been your most memorable sailing regatta? 
A: That would be the Raja Muda Regatta 1999. I was racing for part of the race and was absconded to the Committee Boat as Head Chef for the journey from Lumut to Langkawi. We caught plenty of fish by trolling and had fish curry for every meal.

Q: What is your dream yacht and why?
A: I would not call myself an active sailor, however I have owned a few yachts before. My first real boat was a 60ft Trawler I built in 2000 with a close friend on the island of Java. It was a copy of a Grand Banks that we sailed to many places, including Burma.

Q: Given a chance to sail anywhere. where would you go?
A: I started cruising around Asia at an early age and I still love it.  Cruising in cold weather and on bumpy seas is not my cup of tea, so Asia is always the best for me. There are so many places around Asia to explore by boat.

Q: How does Malaysia yachting lifestyle differs from where you come from?
A: I am born and bred in Malaysia and there is not much of a yachting lifestyle except for amongst the elite. However, this is now changing as many new and younger people are emerging and getting excited about yachting.

Q: What do you envision for Malaysia’s yachting scene in the next 5 years?
A: I think that Malaysia will thrive in the next five years and so will boating. More marinas will be built and the yachting scene in Malaysia will only get better and better and more vibrant.

Q: Which yacht model are you most looking forward to hopping on board of, and why?
A: Definitely the Lagoon Seventy 8 Motoryacht and the Aquila 70 Power Catamaran. I love big catamarans, it is like a floating luxury bungalow for me.