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Billionaire Profile
Kwek Leng Beng
Global Rank
#877

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Kwek Leng Beng

CEO, City Developments Limited
SG
Real-Time Net Worth
$14.3B
As of December 2025
Age
84
Source
Diversified
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
SG

Biography

Kwek Leng Beng is a prominent Singaporean billionaire businessman, currently serving as the Executive Chairman of Hong Leong Group Singapore and the Chairman of City Developments Limited (CDL). Born in 1941, Kwek's career began in the family business, Hong Leong Group, founded by his father. With a diversified source of wealth, Kwek has overseen the growth of the Hong Leong Group into a vast conglomerate with operations in real estate, hospitality, and financial services. His leadership has been instrumental in CDL's success as a leading property developer with a global presence and in Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, a major international hotel group. Kwek is also known for his contributions to education in Singapore.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Kwek Leng Beng was born in Singapore in 1941. His father, Kwek Hong Png, founded the Hong Leong Group in 1941. Kwek received his education in the United Kingdom, where he studied law at the University of London.

Rise to Success

Kwek joined the family business in the early 1960s after training as a lawyer. He became the chairman of Hong Leong Group in 1990, leading the group's expansion into a conglomerate with over 300 companies. Kwek's leadership also extends to City Developments Limited (CDL), where he serves as chairman, and Millennium & Copthorne Hotels.

Key Business Strategies

Kwek's business strategies involve strategic vision, innovation, and identifying market opportunities. His focus on sustainable growth and operational efficiency, as well as his ability to adapt to economic cycles have contributed to the success of Hong Leong Group and its subsidiaries. He is known for acquiring properties in prime locations to maintain a competitive edge in the hotel industry.

Philanthropy

Kwek Leng Beng and the Hong Leong Group are involved in various philanthropic activities, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and community development in Singapore.

Career Milestones

1941

Birth

Born in Singapore.

Early 1960s

Joined Hong Leong Group

Joined his family's business after training as a lawyer.

1990

Chairman of Hong Leong Group

Became Chairman, leading the group's expansion.

2018

Group CEO of City Developments

Sherman, Kwek's son, took charge as group CEO of City Developments.

2024

The Singapore Edition and Hilton Paris Opera Hotel Acquired

Opened The Singapore Edition and acquired the Hilton Paris Opera Hotel.

2023

Biography Launch & Donation

Launched his biography and donated S$24 million to Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT).

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Kwek Leng Beng University Tower

$24M

Donation to Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to name its new University Tower.

Education

Academic Initiatives

$0.72M

Donated to start six new academic initiatives, including bursaries and scholarships for SIT Hospitality Business undergraduates.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I exercise and keep my mind active. I still have the zest to do a lot of things, even if I don't walk or run as fast as before. When you grow old, there are limitations.""

Leadership Principles

Strategic Vision

Ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.

Adaptability

Navigating the group through various economic cycles, demonstrating resilience.

Innovation

Emphasizing innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth.

Controversies & Challenges

2025

CDL Boardroom Dispute

Dispute involving his son, Sherman Kwek, and his advisor, Catherine Wu, regarding corporate governance within CDL.