Zahir Kelvin Ong Abdullah’s professional life is one of diversity, flexibility, and drive, from his initial days as a household name on TV3 as a newsreader, to host of Money Matters, and as an executive director of Ital Auto Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. Kelvin has shown a remarkable capacity to excel in hugely diversified fields.
Whether it is hosting Money Matters on TV3 or leading Ferrari’s operations in Malaysia, his journey is a testament to embracing change while staying grounded.
In the beginning with TV3
It was in 1992 that Kelvin began his crossover to the world of broadcasting after being recruited by TV3, Malaysian-owned by Sistem Television Malaysia Sdn Bhd as a broadcast journalist.
He eventually became not only a newscaster but also a presenter of Money Matters, a programme covering mainly issues on economics and finance.
Kelvin enjoyed the programme but also found it challenging as someone who had always had a passion for international markets and industries.
“Information is key and the takeaway I get from interviewing guests on Money Matters is gaining knowledge on the industry or policies they have formulated,” he said.
Kelvin left TV3 in 2000 and explored options outside of broadcasting but returned as a regular host to a media environment transformed by technology in 2020.
Despite initial hesitation, he adjusted to the new experience of working with new producers, and familiarising himself with innovation in television production.
“When I left TV3 in 2000, I told myself that I was done with TV.
“And initially, I was reluctant to rejoin TV3, albeit part-time because I didn’t think the audience will identify with me.
“But when I rejoined as a part-timer in 2020, it was an interesting experience like learning new technology as the media industry is constantly evolving.
“Alhamdulillah, the experience has been nothing but positive, especially working with the new young producers.
“So, it is a case of ‘never say never’ because it turns out, I enjoy being back with TV3!” he said, expressing the reconnection he felt with the audiences and being able to share insights.
From TV to cars
But in 2023, Kelvin moved into a whole new field: the high-end automobile sector.
As the executive director of Ital Auto Malaysia, the official Ferrari dealership in the country, Kelvin now represents one of the most prestigious car brands in the world.
While he humbly clarifies that he is not on Ferrari’s global board, Kelvin’s role is pivotal in ensuring the brand’s success in Malaysia.
“Ferrari is iconic. The transition from TV to Ferrari was unique, but both roles require adaptability and a focus on delivering the best experience whether to viewers or Ferrari owners.”
Kelvin’s responsibilities include overseeing the dealership’s operations, ensuring customers receive world-class service, and maintaining Ferrari’s esteemed reputation.
Despite the vast difference between luxury car management and broadcasting, Kelvin states that his experience as a newscaster served him well in terms of preparation and precision.
“As Ferrari is the most prestigious luxury car brand in the world and is well known in its own right.
“While being a newscaster or host requires a lot of preparation before going ‘on-air’,” he noted.
One of the perks of Kelvin’s role is experiencing Ferrari’s legendary vehicles firsthand, and having test driven a Ferrari himself, Kelvin emphasises the responsibility that comes with handling such powerful machines.
“The experience is out of this world, but with the power of the car comes great responsibility.
“Ferrari does classes for owners to improve their driving skills. It’s not just about speed; it’s about mastering the art of driving,” he shared.
When asked to name his dream Ferrari, Kelvin finds it difficult to choose just one while describing the distinction between the classic and contemporary models.
“The 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Coupé has a mechanical charm that’s hard to replicate, but the modern Ferrari F80 is a marvel of engineering.
“Both offer unique and unforgettable driving experiences,” he said.
Humble beginnings
Kelvin’s tale begins during his childhood years in Kuching, Sarawak.
His father passed away when he was still a boy, and Kelvin was then raised by his mother and his grandmother where Kelvin learned values of discipline, humility, and grit at a very young age.
His late mother, Elsie Mowe, a St Thomas’ school teacher, encouraged his reading habit so that he could explore comics and classical reading too.
“Mum was a school teacher, so she was very strict in her own way, but the one thing she instilled in me was the reading habit.
“She didn’t mind me reading comics either as she said that would inculcate the reading habit,” he said.
Kelvin liked to make model airplanes and play with Lego sets as a child, pastimes that cultivated his creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Later, though, his interest turned to sports where Kelvin shone at hockey, football, and softball.
“As a young boy, to me, Legos were very important and Airfix, which is a UK-based company renowned for producing injection-molded plastic scale model kits.
“But as I grew older I found my love for sports and represented my school in hockey, football and softball.
Despite being an executive director of a prestigious car brand, Kelvin wasn’t particularly interested in cars during his younger years, as his focus was more on sports like football.
“I was never really into cars but as I got older; F1 became something that I was into. I was more into sports like football,” he admitted.
Life lessons and role models
Kelvin attributes his personality to his mother and aunt, the late Datuk Seri Feona Sim, where he was inspired by qualities such as strength, humility, and steadfastness in individuals around him.
“I don’t have just one role model, but Mum was one of them because of her determination and strength and my Aunty Feona for her steadfastness.
“They always made sure I always knew my roots and to stay humble while my career choices were always my own, which Mum supported in whatever I wanted to do and always to remember my roots as a Sarawakian,” he said.
Added to this, one of Kelvin’s favourite fictional role models is Batman.
“He has no superpowers, yet still manages greatness through determination and intellect. And that is something which I respect,” he clarified.
Balancing personal and work life
Despite his busy schedule, Kelvin manages to have time for hobbies and personal interests.
He begins his day with Subuh prayers at the mosque followed by a simple breakfast of toast and coffee.
Music, particularly 1980s music, is another relaxation outlet for Kelvin, particularly for long drives on the road.
“Somehow, 80s music feels more authentic as there was no auto-tune back then!” he muses.
Kelvin’s interest in British comedies, including Fawlty Towers and Monty Python, adds humour to his life.
“I like British comedies. Perhaps as a child, I liked the Cosby Show (though not British), Fawlty Towers and anything from Monty Python. Lately, I enjoyed watching Ted Lasso and The Inbetweeners,” he added.
A legacy of adaptability and growth
From bringing people the news to bringing people world-class car experiences, Zahir Kelvin Ong Abdullah is the personification of the spirit of growth and adaptability.
His ability to switch between industries, coupled with his humility and passion, is a source of inspiration for prospective professionals.
Behind the camera or at the wheel of a Ferrari, Kelvin’s story is a reminder that success comes from seizing change, being curious, and keeping your feet firmly on the ground.
As he continues to make his own impact in the business and media world, Kelvin’s life serves as an inspiration to anyone who dreams to be great.
Kelvin also wishes to inspire other individuals with his own life, proving to them that one can be an expert in so many things without sacrificing his or her values.
