Name: Imran Ahmad
Home country: UK
Designation: Director for Khazanah Nasional (National Treasury); Writer (www.perfect-gent.com)
Marital status: Single
Other countries you have lived in: United States (Minneapolis)
What brought you to Malaysia and how long have you been here?
I came to KL originally on business for a few weeks, and really enjoyed it. Then I was referred to Khazanah, the Malaysian Government’s strategic investment arm, they interviewed me and in a very short time, I moved to Malaysia and I’ve been here nearly two years now.
What do you like most about living in Malaysia?
I love the stunning landscape of KL: 23rd century buildings interspersed with traditional Malay and Chinese architecture, lush greenery everywhere, and the beautiful rainforest hills in the background. On a blue-sky day in particular, it all looks fabulous.
What three things do you wish you could change about Malaysia?
Escalator discipline: stand on the left, walk on the right – how hard it that? I also wish it was a few degrees cooler.
How long do you think you will stay?
As long as they will let me!
Name three typical weekend activities that you enjoy.
I write my books mainly at weekends; I have a fabulous view from my apartment, so it’s quite conducive to staying in and writing. If anyone invites me to lunch or dinner at their home, I always love that; it gets me out and I like to meet new people. I enjoy walking long distances – sometimes outdoors, sometimes in shopping malls – and obviously, this always entails eating somewhere!
Do you frequent any restaurants offering food of your homeland?
I eat fish and chips in the Temana Brasserie of the Malaysian Petroleum Club, in the Petronas Towers. I don’t think it’s greasy enough to be authentic, though.
What do you miss most about your home country?
I love walking and climbing hills in Scotland – the gentle caress of the wind and the rain. I especially miss the sensation of cool air on my skin – not coming from an air conditioner! I miss hot and cold showers, too. Here the hot showers are lukewarm, and the cold showers are tepid. Could just be my apartment, I suppose.
What one memory will you always treasure when/if you come to leave Malaysia?
It was in Kuala Lumpur that I truly fell in love for the first time in my life – an authentic romantic relationship. It was completely unexpected and I will always treasure it. It made me feel authentically human, so alive for the first time ever.
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