C Kunalan taught six years in Tiong Bahru Primary School and thirteen years in Dunearn Secondary Technical School before joining the National Institute of Education in 1980.

[12] He specialized in functional anatomy and exercise physiology, and conducted practical classes in fitness and conditioning.

[10] He also serves as Vice Principal (Training and Selection) with the Singapore Athletic Association.

[14][15] Kunalan was one of the 23 members of the Singapore Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (SYOGOC).

[16] Kunalan is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.