What factors led the couple to return to Malaysia after years in Singapore?

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Decision to Relocate to Malaysia

The couple, Ong Ai Li and Josh Chua, decided to return to Malaysia after nearly two decades working in Singapore primarily due to financial considerations and a desire to be nearer to their families. Furthermore, Chua felt he had reached a career plateau in Singapore and sought new growth opportunities for both himself and Ong. This move was also driven by their ambition to establish their own business, setting a two-year timeframe to achieve this goal.
Financial and Familial Motivations

Upon their return to Malaysia, Ong Ai Li and Josh Chua found themselves adjusting to a new environment after being away for almost twenty years. Initially, they spent money as if they were tourists, still accustomed to Singapore dollar prices while paying in Malaysian ringgit. Despite receiving interest from potential investors both in Singapore and Malaysia, Ong was hesitant to accept funding until they had a clearer understanding of how the Malaysian business landscape operated.
Career Growth and Entrepreneurial Ambitions

Josh Chua, having achieved a senior position in Singapore's food and beverage industry, recognised a lack of further advancement opportunities within the established corporate structure. This prompted him to propose to Ong Ai Li that they take a calculated risk to become their own employers, with a defined two-year period to test the viability of their venture. This entrepreneurial drive was a significant factor in their decision to leave their established careers behind.
Operational Challenges in Malaysia

The couple encountered considerable complexities when navigating the administrative and operational aspects of setting up a business in Malaysia. Ong Ai Li described the licensing processes as significantly more intricate and time-consuming than what they had experienced in Singapore, involving numerous steps that were often delayed by public holidays. A more substantial hurdle identified was the quality of manpower available in Malaysia's food and beverage sector, which they found to be a considerable challenge.
Strategic Outlook on Manpower

Chua and Ong view the current state of the food and beverage industry in Singapore as potentially beneficial for their Malaysian venture. They are banking on a possible downturn in Singapore's F&B scene to attract skilled and passionate individuals, who may be seeking new opportunities, to return to Malaysia. Their aim is to build a relaxed, unpretentious establishment that appeals to both customers and potential employees looking for a more congenial work environment.

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What factors led the couple to return to Malaysia after years in Singapore?

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