Growing a business from a single outlet to a thriving empire across borders takes immense perseverance, and Nazeer Ahmed Mohamed Zakariah, the founder and Managing Director of Nazmi Textile Mall, embodies this spirit. His journey from a humble salesman to a successful entrepreneur with a global footprint stretching from Brunei to Dubai is a testament to hard work, vision, and resilience.
Building a Business from the Ground Up
Nazeer began his career in 1978 as a salesman at a textile shop, where he spent 14 years mastering the trade. Armed with valuable experience and a deep understanding of the industry, he took a bold step in 1992 by opening his first textile shop in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei’s capital. His store specialized in high-quality fabrics sourced from Italy, Japan, Indonesia, India, and the Middle East, catering to the local market’s preference for reasonably priced yet premium textiles.
Despite facing capital constraints, Nazeer adhered to key principles that became the foundation of his success: loyalty to customers, excellent service, and competitive pricing. His long-term vision prioritized sustainability over short-term gains, allowing him to carve out a niche in Brunei’s competitive textile industry.
Expansion and Innovation
Nazeer’s strategic approach led to the opening of his flagship outlet in 2000 at the Delima Jaya Complex, a high-end mall dedicated to textiles and fabrics. His business acumen was shaped by continuous learning from customers, suppliers, and employees, reinforcing his belief that entrepreneurial success is driven by the ability to meet evolving market needs with determination and adaptability.
In 2011, he expanded further by launching the Nazeemah Department Store at Medan Tanjong Bunut, marking nearly two decades of perseverance and growth. Today, Nazmi Textile Mall boasts ten outlets—nine in Brunei and one in Dubai—employing close to 100 staff and generating a remarkable revenue of 15 million Brunei dollars. Nazeer ensures that each outlet operates with a customer-centric approach, embracing innovation and evolving marketing strategies to align with changing consumer behaviors.
Diversification and Leadership
Beyond textiles and fabrics, Nazeer has expanded his business into home décor and fashion, demonstrating his ability to diversify and adapt to industry trends. His leadership extends beyond his company, as he was elected President of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Brunei Darussalam in 2004 and later served as Vice President III of the Brunei-India Friendship Association in 2011.
A Legacy of Philanthropy
Nazeer’s success is complemented by his commitment to giving back. A well-known philanthropist, he actively supports charitable organizations and provides aid to the underprivileged. His generosity reflects his belief in using business success to uplift communities and make a meaningful impact.
From a single textile shop to an international retail empire, Nazeer’s story is one of determination, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His journey continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that success is built on strong values and an enduring drive to achieve greatness.
