It’s a warm and humid Friday afternoon, as we enter Evergreen Group’s Auto Dealership. As we enter, we are greeted by a demure gentleman, with an intense look. “Hi, I’m David, pleased to meet you.” He says. Dressed casually in his Les (Art)ists Oversized Kanye Tee, and Bricktown Mushroom sweatpants, he invites us to join us for a drink over at the bar.
David Yong embodies the Singapore fighting spirit of punching above his weight. Born in Singapore, educated all over the world, this man is a serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and lawyer, with a penchant for the fine things in life.
CEO of Evergreen Asset Management, he’s a busy young man, with several investments and active interests across various industries all over the region, spanning timber to lifestyle, present in Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, and South Korea. To top it off, he is a trained lawyer from the UK, and the Managing Partner of YSL Legal.
With so many hats, we begin to understand the seriousness in his demeanor. As he pours a round of Martell VSOP Cognac, proceeds to take a sip, and instantly one can see the intensity give way to a more relaxed David Yong, as he allows himself to wind down at the end of a long week. “Due to travel restrictions, I am able to spend more time pursuing my interests in music, golf and tennis”.
One can instantly notice that David loves to accessorize. “Fashion is very important to me, it’s what you feel most comfortable and confident in – the best expression of yourself. At home, and when going out in small groups, I prefer being comfortable while being stylish.” He pairs his streetwear attire with a pair of Limited-Edition Nike Air Force 1 G-Dragon’s and a serious dose of Bling.
An Avid collector of watches and whiskies, he says as checks the time on his Gold Rolex GMT Master II Saru. “Watches and whiskies are direct representations of the maker’s passion and creativity. The intricacies that go into making these fine products have an irresistible attraction to me.” This watch, a limited-edition piece, set with diamonds, rubies and sapphires, was designed to show two time zones at once, was originally designed in 1955 for professionals criss-crossing the globe.
During the present COVID situation, he has been spending quality time with family and close friends that matter, over dinners and light drinks after. As the banter continues, we begin to see a more relaxed style emerge. He is clearly someone who knows how to reward himself for all his hard work.
As he shows us around his dealership, his black Mercedes Benz G-Wagon cannot be missed. With a 4L V8 engine, this mean machine packs a punch, with an unmistakable presence on the roads, while offering supreme comfort.
As we near the end of conversation, we see a different side of David, smiling ear to ear, ready to bring on the weekend!
