Dato’ Yong Yoon Li

As Managing Director of Royal Selangor, Dato’ Yong Yoon Li represents the fourth generation of leadership at the world’s largest pewter company, founded by his great-grandfather in 1885. A steward of both family heritage and Malaysian craftsmanship, Yong has guided the century-old brand through an era of global change, blending time-honoured tradition with modern innovation.

Before joining the family business in 2005, Yong built a career in motorsports and automotive engineering. He spent a decade in the UK as a design engineer with Team Lotus International and Nissan Motorsports before launching TVR Sports Malaysia Sdn Bhd, his own boutique sports-car venture. His technical background and entrepreneurial drive later informed Royal Selangor’s design-driven approach and expansion into contemporary lifestyle and collectible markets.

Under his leadership, Royal Selangor has continued to grow internationally while remaining true to its heritage of pewtersmithing excellence. In 2025, Yong was awarded the Freedom of the City of London, recognising his contributions to craftsmanship and heritage preservation. Despite economic headwinds and challenges in the UK retail sector, he has maintained key relationships with major retailers including John Lewis and Harrods.

Beyond business, Yong champions Royal Selangor’s civic mission to sustain and modernise pewtersmithing traditions, ensuring the craft remains relevant for future generations.