We rarely give much thought to shoplots. Perhaps that’s because they’ve become a staple of urban life—rows of uninspired buildings, indistinguishable from one another except for a change in facade or signage. For most, that’s enough. But for Datuk Matthew Tan, Managing Director of TBMC Development, it is not.

“Shoplots don’t have to conform to the monotonous model we’ve become accustomed to,” Tan explains. In fact, he mulls over how people move through shoplots and use them, how air circulates and how light falls across spaces. Cleanliness, spatial efficiency and functionality are all part of his design calculus.

Tan’s approach earned him the Gold Award for Excellence in Value Innovation for Consumer-Centric Commercial Development at the SHAREDA Excellence Awards 2024. On top of that, he was recognised as the Most Valuable Developer of the Year—a prestigious accolade that celebrates his contributions to property development and his role as a mentor to the next generation of real estate professionals.

At the centre of Tan’s success is T2@Apas in Tawau, Sabah. Located along Tawau’s main thoroughfares, T2 comprises 44 four-storey shop offices spread across 7.8 acres of prime land. T2 deviates from the conventional shoplot typology. Where most shoplots are packed side-by-side, T2 offers space. Every two lots is punctuated with a drive-through area that doubles as a wind tunnel to allow better ventilation and natural sunlight to filter and flow through the structures. This means that each shoplot essentially becomes a corner unit—a prime piece of real estate in any development.

Taking a closer look, patrons would also notice that T2 is designed without back alleys, which are often plagued by poor maintenance and unsightly exhaust systems. Tan’s solution to this drawback was to install a concealed duct system, which channels exhaust fumes and kitchen odours along a central spine, sending them discreetly up to the rooftops. It’s a detail that many might overlook, but for Tan, these smaller elements are crucial to creating a development that functions sustainably in the long term. “Attention to detail is paramount at T2@Apas,” he says. “Every material has been carefully selected and each design element thoughtfully considered.”

Property development was not always part of Tan’s plan. TBMC, which stands for Tan Brothers Machinery Company, originally made its mark through a network of car dealerships across East Malaysia in the 1980s. For 30 years, Tan grew the business, amassing land banks from his dealerships and showrooms. But as the automotive market became saturated, he saw a new path forward. Rather than selling cars, he would develop properties.

“I believe adaptability is crucial,” Tan says. “A leader needs to remain flexible, open-minded and willing to evolve strategies in response to changing market conditions, while staying committed to the core values of the business.”

That adaptability has defined TBMC’s shift into real estate, culminating in its flagship project, T1@Bundusan, followed shortly by T2@Apas. But Tan’s vision extends beyond building shoplots. He sees his real work as contributing to the social and economic fabric of the regions where his projects are located. “Our developments have brought modern facilities, created job opportunities and uplifted the surrounding areas,” he reflects. “Seeing that transformation in the community—that’s my proudest achievement.”

Tan leads a demanding life, being managing director of a business empire across various industries. Hence, it’s important to strike a fine balance. For Tan, that means starting the day with a simple, grounding, work-free routine—breakfast with his family. “I believe how you start your day sets the tone for everything that follows,” he says. “Having breakfast with my family is a small but meaningful ritual that allows us to connect before the day gets hectic.

“These moments are important to me,” Tan adds. “They remind me of what truly matters, and that grounding helps me approach the day’s work with a clear mind and a positive attitude.”

Datuk Matthew Tan is the Managing Director of TBMC Development. He is this year’s winner of the Most Valuable Developer of the Year. His latest project, T2@Apas, in Tawau, Sabah, also won the Gold Award for Excellence in Value Innovation for Consumer-Centric Commercial Development at the SHAREDA Excellence Awards 2024.

Stay tuned to read more stories about other SHAREDA members:  Datuk Chua Soon Ping, Datuk Susan Wong, Gilbert Ee, Wilson Loke, Datuk Quek Siew Hau, Tan King Hong, Datuk Seri Panglima Tang and Soh Wai Fong.