Born in Segamat, Johor to loving and supportive parents, Tan Chin Siang (better known as Chris) led a comfortable life until his father met with an unfortunate car accident. After graduating from high school, Chris worked in retail positions, ranging from sales for a book company to developing photo prints. Later, he left for Singapore to become a full-time music teacher. Now a member of Kechara InMotion and Kechara’s in-house photographer, Chris can be found at every Kechara event.

Tell us about yourself Chris, what were you doing before you came to Kechara?

After I gained three years’ experience as a music teacher in Singapore, I decided to major in Music at a college because I realised that my music knowledge was still shallow. I abandoned the high-paying job in Singapore and came back to Kuala Lumpur to further my studies.

So how did you come to know about Kechara? Were you looking for a Dharma centre, or did someone you know introduce you to Kechara?

Through a friend, and it was May Woo who received us in Kechara House. She explained to us how to do Lama Tsongkhapa’s prayers and not long after that, my friend brought me to Kechara Paradise 1Utama. That was the first time I saw H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche, albeit on a DVD.

Did you have any spiritual inclinations before you came to Kechara?

No, I didn’t. Even though I worshipped at temples with my elders since I was young, I wasn’t interested in understanding religion or the meaning behind the rituals. In my daily life, all I did was work, shop, go to karaoke lounges or go clubbing. Nowadays, I think twice if I’m invited to go clubbing – I feel it is meaningless activity because you are only “happy” in that moment.

And when did you join Dharma work? What were you doing when you started? What role do you see yourself playing in the manifestation of Kechara World Peace Centre (KWPC)?

I began volunteering in 2006, when I was studying and working as a part-time music teacher. I would visit Kechara Paradise SS2 to roll mantras, paint statues or take photos for the e-shop. As a result of my volunteering, my Dharma knowledge gradually increased. Now I’m with Kechara InMotion full-time as an editor, spreading Dharma through videos to attract people who can help KWPC to manifest.

So are you happy to be involved with the manifestation of KWPC?

Because of technological progress, there has been a negative influence in our lives where everyone is becoming more mechanical and focused on making money. To make matters worse, in order to achieve their own interests, people can abandon their kind nature. Stress is also on the increase. I think Buddhism brings balance to our lives so yes, I’m happy to be involved in a project that will bring more balance to people’s lives.