Billionaire Kwek Leng Kee: A Biography

Overview

Kwek Leng Kee is a Singaporean billionaire businessman and philanthropist. He is the chairman of the Hong Leong Group, which has interests in real estate, finance, manufacturing, hospitality and trade businesses. According to Forbes, he is one of the richest people in Singapore, with a net worth of US$9.1 billion as of October 2021.

Early Life and Education

Kwek Leng Kee was born in 1931 in Singapore, into a family of businessmen. His father, Kwek Hong Png, was a co-founder of the Hong Leong Group. Kwek Leng Kee graduated from Raffles College in Singapore in 1952, and later studied law at the Inner Temple in London.

Career and Achievements

Upon his return to Singapore in 1955, Kwek Leng Kee joined the family business, Hong Leong Group, as a director. He quickly rose up the ranks, and became the chairman of the group in 1990, succeeding his father. Under his leadership, the group grew rapidly and expanded its operations to various countries, including Malaysia, China, Vietnam and Europe.

Apart from his business achievements, Kwek Leng Kee is also known for his philanthropic work. He has donated millions of dollars to various charities and causes over the years, including the Singapore University of Technology and Design, the National University of Singapore and the National University Hospital.

Personal Life

Kwek Leng Kee is married and has four children. Two of his sons, Kwek Leng Beng and Kwek Leng Joo, are also prominent businessmen in Singapore, and serve as directors in the Hong Leong Group.

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