Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#1860

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Koh Wee Meng

CEO, Fragrance Group

Real-Time Net Worth

$2.1B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Real estate, hotels

Industry

real-estate

Citizenship

Biography

Koh Wee Meng, a prominent figure in Singapore's real estate and hospitality sectors, is the founder and Executive Chairman of Fragrance Group Limited. His estimated net worth is $2.1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Singapore. He built his fortune from his ventures in real estate and hotels. Koh's career began after he moved away from his family's jewelry business, Aspial, and initiated his property development journey in the 1990s. He has a keen interest in budget hotels, and developed the Fragrance chain, which helped in the expansion of the hotel and property sector. The Fragrance Group, under his leadership, has expanded its reach to Australia and the United Kingdom, showcasing his global vision.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

Fragrance Group

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Koh Wee Meng was born in the 1950s. He is the son of a jeweler and schoolteacher. Koh's early exposure to construction sites sparked his interest in real estate, diverging from his family's jewelry business.

Rise to Success

Koh Wee Meng began his real estate ventures in 1992. He initially acquired a plot of land and, despite facing skepticism, secured a loan to develop a bungalow. This successful venture laid the foundation for his entry into the hotel industry. Koh then built Fragrance Hotels in Geylang and was nicknamed the "Geylang King" for his success. The Fragrance Group was established in 1995. The business expanded rapidly, with several hotels built in the Geylang area.

Key Business Strategies

Koh's strategy involved focusing on affordable housing and efficient construction methods. This strategy helped him provide budget-friendly accommodations in a competitive market. His hotel chain has expanded to include residential, commercial, and industrial properties. His expansion strategy included acquisitions in the UK and Australia. In 2021, he took the Fragrance Group private.

Philanthropy

While specific amounts are unavailable, Koh Wee Meng is known for philanthropic efforts.

Career Milestones

1992

Entered Real Estate

Started his first real estate venture, purchasing a plot of land.

1995

Founded Fragrance Group

Established Fragrance Group Limited, a property development company.

2004

Honorary Doctorate

Received an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy in Entrepreneurship.

2021

Took Fragrance Group Private

Initiated the process of taking Fragrance Group private.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Philanthropy

Philanthropic efforts

Undisclosed

Koh Wee Meng is known for his philanthropic efforts

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Only buy and hold what you are able to afford."

Leadership Principles

Strategic Vision

Koh Wee Meng is known for his strategic investments and innovative business ventures, which contributed to his success in real estate and hospitality.

Efficient Construction Methods

Koh focused on efficient, cost-effective construction to offer affordable housing options in the competitive real estate market.