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Find out more about Keng Hien

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I speak Mandarin fluently because of my origins - it's my mother tongue and an essential part of my cultural heritage as a Malaysian Chinese. Growing up, I spoke Mandarin at home and learned to read and write in school. Over time, I developed a deep appreciation for the language, especially its poetic nature and rich history. While my roots introduced me to the language, it was my love for teaching and communication that inspired me to keep improving and sharing it with others.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  I would choose Confucius (孔子) as an emblematic historical figure of Mandarin-speaking culture. His philosophies on respect, education, and human relationships are still deeply embedded in Chinese culture today. His teachings have influenced not only how Mandarin is spoken - with a focus on politeness and clarity - but also how people live and learn in Chinese-speaking societies.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  One phrase I truly love is "加油" (jiā yóu), which literally means "add oil." It's similar to "がんばってね" (ganbatte ne) in Japanese culture - both are phrases used to encourage someone to keep going, whether in sports, studies, or daily life. I often use "加油" with my students when they feel stuck or overwhelmed, as it reflects the supportive and optimistic spirit of Chinese-speaking communities. I also remind them that learning a new language is not just about memorising words-it's a journey of exploring new cultures and ways of thinking. It's okay to take time and enjoy the process of learning.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking Mandarin allows me to connect deeply with my roots, family, and culture. It also gives me the opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and help others explore Chinese traditions, values, and thinking through the language. Teaching Mandarin is meaningful because it enables me to open doors for students - whether for travel, career, or cross-cultural understanding.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language, and what can help the process of learning?

  The biggest challenge in learning Mandarin is mastering the tones and remembering the characters. Mandarin is a tonal language, so a change in tone can completely change the meaning of a word. Chinese characters also require regular practice to recognise and write. However, with consistent speaking, listening, and reading practice - combined with engaging methods like songs, storytelling, or visual aids - students can overcome these challenges and build confidence.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  When I was in school, I often helped classmates who found Mandarin difficult, especially those from non-Chinese backgrounds. I remember one friend who struggled a lot with tones and pronunciation. I patiently repeated the same words with her over and over, encouraging her not to give up. Slowly but surely, her confidence grew, and she eventually did very well in her Mandarin exams. That experience made me realise how much I enjoy teaching and supporting others - it was the spark that led me to become a language tutor.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  A short-term study trip to East China Normal University in Shanghai significantly enhanced my Mandarin skills and cultural awareness. Immersed in a Mandarin-speaking environment, I attended workshops and interacted with locals daily. I gained firsthand experience in understanding different dialects, cultural expressions, and modern vocabulary that textbooks don't always cover. That trip deepened my love for the language and broadened my teaching approach.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  What makes me a Superprof is my passion for making Mandarin learning approachable, enjoyable, and meaningful. I tailor my lessons to suit each learner's background - whether they are children, working adults, or expatriates - using creative materials, cultural stories, and practical dialogues. My students appreciate my patience, encouragement, and ability to simplify complex concepts. Teaching is not just a job to me - it's a way to inspire and empower others through language.