Born in Hyderabad, Sindh, India, in 1939, it was Moti’s diligence and self-professed “pragmatism, a lot of luck and lots of hard work” that turned the then-textile business into today’s multi-million dollar empire.

Moti’s business acumen and foresight are renowned in the retail circles, and the late fashion retailing pioneer was aptly tagged “Jeans King” of Singapore. His affable personality – prompting even direct competitors to lavish him with praises and respect for his sense of integrity and humility – that had Singapore’s national newspaper, The Straits Times, dub him as “Retailing’s Mr Nice Guy”. He was also nominated as Singapore’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 1996.

Though semi-retired, Moti still served as an advisor to the Jay Gee Melwani Group since 1999 until his demise in February 2003.

He had served as council member of Singapore Retailer’s Association for more than 10 years and was also a member of the Rotary Club.

Being a member of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he had completed his six years as Vice Chairman in 2001.