Billionaire Profile
K
Global Rank
#1924

Image: William T. Morrison | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Koh Wee Meng

CEO, Real estate
SINGAPORE
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.147B
Estimated based on Real estate stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.01% (24h)
Age
62
Source
Real estate, hotels
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
SINGAPORE

Biography

Koh Wee Meng, a prominent Singaporean billionaire, is a leading figure in the real estate and hospitality sectors. Born in the 1950s, he is the founder and CEO of the Fragrance Group Limited, a major property developer in Singapore, known for its focus on residential, commercial, and industrial properties, as well as budget hotels under the Fragrance and Parc Sovereign brands. Koh's career began in the jewelry business but pivoted to real estate in the 1990s. His strategic investments and cost-effective construction methods have significantly contributed to his success. As of late 2025, his net worth is estimated at $2.2 Billion, according to Forbes. Koh took Fragrance Group private in 2021.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Koh Wee Meng, born in the 1950s, initially worked in the family's jewelry business. However, he found his true calling in the real estate sector. In the early 1990s, he identified a gap in the market for budget hotels, particularly in Singapore's Geylang district.

Rise to Success

Koh's first venture in real estate was in 1992, buying a plot of land. He built his first Fragrance Hotel in Geylang in 1996, naming it Ruby. He expanded rapidly, building more hotels, and was soon recognized as the "Geylang King". He then began developing affordable residential properties. Koh's vision expanded beyond Singapore to Australia and the United Kingdom, acquiring various properties.

Key Business Strategies

A key strategy has been efficient and cost-effective construction, allowing the Fragrance Group to offer affordable housing and competitive hotel rates. In July 2021, Koh took Fragrance Group private, indicating a shift in strategy. Recent acquisitions include the Holiday Inn London Kensington Forum hotel in December 2021.

Philanthropy

Koh Wee Meng is known for his contributions to various charitable causes, particularly in education and healthcare.

Career Milestones

1992

Entered Real Estate

Purchased land for property development.

1995

Founded Fragrance Group

Established Fragrance Group Limited, a property development company.

1996

Launched First Fragrance Hotel

Built the first Fragrance Hotel in Geylang, Singapore.

2021

Took Fragrance Group Private

Privatized Fragrance Group.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

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