From Taipei 101 to Merdeka 118: Exploring Urban Liveability with CJ Chen

Meet CJ Chen, the country manager of Turner International Malaysia, whose extensive international experience spans previous roles in Dubai and Doha.

Turner International Malaysia

Since relocating to Greater Kuala Lumpur (Greater KL) in 2014, CJ and his family have immersed themselves in the vibrant culture, diverse culinary scene, and welcoming community of this dynamic city. With a career that began as a concrete superintendent at Taipei 101 and progressed to working on the iconic Burj Khalifa, CJ's deep understanding of high-rise construction challenges is exceptional.

In this article, CJ shares his insights and experiences, highlighting what makes Greater KL a uniquely liveable city for expats. From cultural diversity to modern amenities and strategic business advantages, discover why CJ believes Greater KL is an exceptional place to live and work.

Q1: Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

"My name is CJ Chen, and I am the country manager of Turner International Malaysia, Before I moved to Malaysia in 2014, I worked in Dubai and Doha for more than 9 years."

Q2: How long have you been living in Greater KL? What aspects of life in Greater KL have surprised and delighted you the most? How has this experience enriched your family life?

"My family and I have been residing in Greater KL for about 10 years now. Overall, we have found it to be a great place to live. The vibrant culture, diverse culinary scene, modern amenities and most importantly, the friendly people, have all contributed to our positive experience here."

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A man grills satay, one of the vibrant local favourites in Malaysia, made of skewered beef and chicken, at his roadside stall with tables and chairs for diners. Satay stalls like this are common throughout Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. (iStock)

Q3: Can you share your overall experience living in Greater KL as an expat? Which aspects of life in this region have made it unique or different from your home country?

"Living in Greater KL as an expat has been an enriching experience. One aspect that stands out is the cultural diversity. It's fascinating to witness the blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western cultures, which creates a unique atmosphere unlike anything we experienced back home in Taiwan."

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A group of children proudly wearing traditional costumes representing Malaysia's diverse ethnicities raise the national flag during Independence Day celebrations. (iStock)

Q4: What obstacles did you encounter while transitioning to life in Greater KL? How has your perception of the city evolved? Have there been specific cultural or lifestyle aspects that you've come to appreciate or embrace during your tenure here?

"Our perception of Greater Kuala Lumpur has evolved positively since our arrival. We've come to appreciate the warmth and friendliness of the locals, as well as the abundance of outdoor activities and cultural events. We felt like and were treated like the locals in a very short period."

Q5: What factors come into play for a company to launch an overseas office, and what advantages do you think Greater KL offers over other regional cities?

"When considering launching an overseas office, several factors come into play, including market potential, infrastructure, and business-friendly policies. Greater KL offers several advantages over other regional cities, such as its strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive government initiatives for foreign businesses."

Q6: Living in a new place often comes with memorable experiences. Could you share some anecdote or unforgettable moment that encapsulates your time in Greater KL?

"One memorable experience that encapsulates our time in Greater KL was attending the annual Thaipusam festival at the Batu Caves. It was a visually stunning and culturally immersive event that left a lasting impression on us."

Pilgrims journey to Batu Caves during Thaipusam, a Hindu festival celebrating goddess Parvati giving Murugan a spear to defeat the demon Soorapadman. Devotees perform acts of devotion, including carrying a Kavadi, piercing their skin, and offering pots of milk. Around one million people visit the caves annually during the festival. (iStock)

Q7: Describe a typical weekend in Greater KL for you and your family.

"A typical weekend in Greater KL for my family usually involves exploring the city's vibrant neighbourhoods, trying out new restaurants, and visiting local markets or shopping malls. We also enjoy taking day trips to nearby attractions such as the Genting Highlands or the historic city of Malacca."

The Malacca River, winding through the heart of Malacca City, offers a picturesque scene with historic bridges, vibrant street art, and charming riverside cafes. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 7, 2008. (Stock)

Q8: For fellow expats considering a move to Greater KL, what advice or insights would you offer to help them make a smooth transition and fully enjoy their experience living in this diverse and vibrant region?

"For fellow expats considering a move to Greater KL, my advice would be to approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the local culture. Take the time to learn about the customs and traditions of Malaysia, and don't hesitate to immerse yourself in new experiences. Building connections with both locals and fellow expats can also greatly enhance your experience and help you feel more at home in this diverse and vibrant region."

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