Kuching-born Yu Ji first started his career by spending 11 formative years in the newsrooms of The Borneo Post and The Star. He even earned himself the Kenyalang Journalism Award, presented to outstanding journalists in Sarawak, for a multi-part exposé on illegal logging and timber-licence loopholes. However, he underwent an unusual professional transition—becoming a developer. As the son of Dato Paul Yu Chee Hoe, one of the founding members and managing director of Hock Seng Lee Berhad (HSL), it’s more than a business. It was something woven into his DNA, influencing how he thinks, leads, and innovates. “One afternoon, I looked at my dad and felt touched that he was working tirelessly for the family,” Yu remembers. “I finally thought that I should give up my career as a journalist to help him out in any way that I can.”
From a humble start in sand dredging and landfill operations, HSL went on to expand significantly by developing expertise in land reclamation, shore protection, drainage, rural water supply, and wastewater management systems. Yu currently serves as director of HSL Realty, which oversees property development, as well as Next Phase, a boutique development studio—both subsidiaries of the group. “We bring in younger architects and we tell them to give us their best ideas rather than telling them what to do,” he says. “Next Phase supplies the creative push, while HSL’s 51-year track record provides the steady pull. Most projects end up as incremental improvements but, every now and then, we aim for something genuinely fresh.
Citadines Kuching
“Through Next Phase, we ran Sarawak’s first architectural competition in 2020 with Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), which was fully merit-based and professionally managed,” he added. The third-place winner of the competition resulted in Citadines Langit Kuching, a high-rise project set to transform the city’s skyline that broke ground in April this year.
While managing that, Yu is also closely overseeing Jigsaw, HSL’s first condominium project, where every apartment is a corner unit.
What is your involvement in HSL, and how do you hope to carry on the family legacy?
It’s not about carrying a legacy; it’s about doing the work well. I report to my cousin, with my dad and uncle still around. We keep ambitions simple: assemble good people, focus on the project, and get things done. The word ‘legacy’ never comes up in meetings—I just hope my contribution is useful.
What was the greatest challenge during your career, and how did you overcome it?
Property development never stops. From the first sketch to the handover, you’re juggling design, approvals, construction, finance, and sales—often all at once. I cope by accepting that the workload is part of the deal, then grabbing short breaks whenever I can.
What generational wisdom has your father shared with you?
My father taught me to think for myself and to stay curious. He also told me not to take shortcuts, as input equals output.
How do you infuse your roots as a Sarawakian into your work?
Working in Sarawak means embracing multiculturalism. I have huge respect for the Dayak community because their gentleness and resilience shape the best of the state. To understand Sarawak, you need to leave the city, visit longhouses, and celebrate the Gawai Dayak. The hinterland still holds the soul of the place.
What are some of your favourite childhood memories?
I remember my mum hosting dance parties for my cousin and me when we were around five or six years old to the music of Roxette, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones.
What was your ambition growing up?
My dream was to become an astronaut, which my mum supported.
What is one of your favourite songs?
Jumpin’ Jack Flash by The Rolling Stones. To me, this is the greatest rock and roll riff ever. It’s so propulsive and hypnotic—like a car’s engine revving every time Keith Richards plays the riff. Also, the lyrics by Mick Jagger are sheer attitude.
What’s your favourite movie?
A Space Odyssey (2001). In my mind, it’s the greatest sci-fi ever produced, be it in film or literature. This is a movie that spans time and the universe. It is a staggering piece of work.
Name a book you couldn’t put down.
Watchmen by Alan Moore. Big questions aside, this graphic novel utilises its medium to the fullest—there are parts where it’s properly cinematic, news articles that you read in the comic, and beautiful panels to look at. It transcends the medium.
You’ve co-organised the annual HSL Samarahan Marathon. What’s your personal workout routine like?
My personal fitness routine is a mixed bag. I run a lot, but I have no discipline with my diet. I run at least one to two half marathons (21km) monthly.
