6-10-2023 (HONG KONG) Robert Kuok, often hailed as the “Asian Sugar King,” marked a momentous milestone as he celebrated his 100th birthday on Friday, October 6th. This remarkable occasion drew warm wishes from some of Asia’s most prominent business figures.
Among those extending their heartfelt congratulations were Hong Kong billionaires Li Ka-shing and Lee Shau Kee. They lauded Kuok’s visionary leadership and his remarkable contributions to the industry. In a joint statement, Lee Shau-kee, aged 95, and his sons Peter Lee Ka-kit, 60, and Martin Lee Ka-shing, 52, expressed their admiration for the centenarian, saying, “Here’s to a century of achievements, good health, and continued happiness!”
Kuok’s enduring legacy extends far beyond his centenary celebration. Earlier this year, on June 1st, Forbes released its 2023 Malaysian Rich List, reaffirming Kuok’s status as the preeminent figure in Malaysia’s wealth landscape. With a net worth of USD 11.8 billion (approximately RM 544 billion), he retained his title as Malaysia’s wealthiest individual for over a quarter of a century.
Notably, Kuok’s wealth has continued to ascend, with an increase of USD 800 million (approximately RM 37 billion) compared to the previous year when he held a net worth of USD 11 billion (approximately RM 507 billion). This remarkable financial trajectory underscores the enduring strength of his business empire.
Born on October 6th, 1923, in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, Kuok’s roots trace back to Fujian Province in China. He embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the sugar industry, a venture that would earn him the moniker “Asian Sugar King.” Moreover, he is the visionary behind the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel brand.
In 1971, Kuok made history by establishing the first luxury hotel under the Shangri-La Group in Singapore, setting a new benchmark for Asian hospitality. As the years rolled on, his business ventures expanded across Asia and globally, adding another accolade to his name as the “Hotel King.”
Kuok’s empire, known as the Kuok Group, was founded in 1949. Over seven decades, the companies under his stewardship have flourished across Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Notably, his business portfolio includes the world’s largest palm oil refiner and one of the largest multinational grain and oil corporations, Wilmar International.
