Even though he knew from the outset he wanted to start a business, Chia didn't take a business degree, instead choosing economics and political science, decisions he said he made after careful thought.
"It was a very practical thing, because I've always felt that business is something that is very real — you learn it on the streets and through practical experience," he said.
"What business schools teach are case studies, but these are past examples, and what happens in the business world is things are evolving so fast. Yesterday's business model might not work today, and future business models might not be what you are seeing today," he added.
He explained that he believed more importantly in learning the theories and foundations of businesses and organisations instead, hence opting to study economics and political science, disciplines he says teach the basics of what a good business should be.
"For me, it's just getting the right foundation. A lot of business theories are economic by nature, and for me it's best to just spend my time wisely and learn a bit of the basics," he said.