Billionaire Profile
Lau Cho Kun
Global Rank
#2325

Image: AnonymousUnknown author | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Lau Cho Kun

CEO, Palm oil
MALAYSIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.677B
Estimated based on Palm oil stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.26% (24h)
Age
90
Source
Palm oil, property
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
MALAYSIA

Biography

Tan Sri Lau Cho Kun, a Malaysian business magnate, is a prominent figure in the diversified industries of palm oil, property, and automotive dealerships. His estimated net worth is $1.6 billion USD as of February 2, 2026. His wealth stems primarily from his substantial shareholdings in Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad (HSCB). Lau, now 90 years old, transformed Hap Seng from its roots in the timber industry to a diversified conglomerate with interests in plantations, property, financial services, and automotive dealerships, most notably Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia. His career demonstrates a long-term commitment to expanding business interests in Malaysia.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Information regarding Lau Cho Kun's early life and educational background is not readily available in the search results. However, it is known that he inherited the company from his uncle.

Rise to Success

Tan Sri Lau Cho Kun's rise to success is primarily attributed to his role as the largest shareholder in Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad (HSCB). He inherited the company from his uncle, Tan Sri Panglima Lau Gek Poh, who founded Hap Seng. Initially involved in the timber industry, Lau expanded the group's interests to include property development, plantations, automotive dealerships (Mercedes-Benz), financial services, and more. His strategic decisions and expansion efforts led to significant growth and recognition within Malaysia's business landscape.

Key Business Strategies

Lau Cho Kun's key business strategies involve diversified investments across various sectors. A significant part of his success is tied to his strategic shareholdings in Hap Seng Consolidated, allowing him to influence the company's direction and expansion. Key business interests include palm oil plantations, property investment and development, and the automotive sector, particularly through Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Malaysia and other regions. The diversification of Hap Seng Consolidated has proven to be a core strategy, enabling the company to navigate market fluctuations and maintain its profitability over the years.

Philanthropy

While specific details about Lau Cho Kun's philanthropic initiatives are not available in the search results, his involvement in the business community suggests a commitment to social responsibility. Further research into his charitable activities may reveal additional information about his philanthropic endeavors.

Career Milestones

1969

Mercedes-Benz Dealership

Hap Seng Consolidated began operating Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Malaysia

1930s

Hap Seng Foundation

Lau's uncle founded Hap Seng