PETALING JAYA – Asian “Sugar King” Tan Sri Robert Kuok, who was born in Johor in 1923, turned 100 years old today.
Among those who extended birthday wishes include Hong Kong billionaires Li Ka-shing and Lee Shau Kee.
Ka-shing’s son, Victor Li, 59, also praised Kuok’s friendship, saying Kuok’s visionary leadership and remarkable contributions have left an incredible mark in the industry.
Kuok has successfully maintained his title as the wealthiest man in Malaysia and Forbes currently estimates his wealth, spanning various industries, at US$10.3 billion (RM48.7 billion), making him also the world’s 155th richest person.
Kuok’s journey to becoming a business magnate and investor began after his father’s death in 1948 when he and his two brothers inherited the family’s rice distribution business.
However, it was not until the 1960s that he diversified his business and earned the title of “Sugar King of the East”.
His Shangri-La Group, established in 1971, now owns, operates, and manages over 100 hotels and resorts in 78 destinations.
Kuok’s significant political connections include his close relationships with leaders like the late former Singapore prime minister Lee Kuan Yew and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
In China, Kuok’s vast commercial interests have thrived due to his longstanding ties with Beijing.
In 1993, China appointed him as an adviser ahead of the 1997 sovereignty handover.
Kuok’s empire has now spread to include interests in commodities trading, mining, shipping, logistics, publishing and property development.
He also acquired the South China Morning Post, a Hong Kong newspaper, advocating for freedom of the press in that country.
Despite his steady rise in wealth and status as a result of his hard work, Robert remains humble as he was before. – The Vibes, October 6, 2023
