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Billionaire Profile
L
Global Rank
#586

Image: Unknown Author | CC0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Lee Thiam Wah

CEO, Retailing
MALAYSIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$6.767B
Estimated based on Retailing stock value as of March 6, 2026
+0.8% (24h)
Age
62
Source
Retailing
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
MALAYSIA

Biography

Lee Thiam Wah, a Malaysian entrepreneur, is the founder and CEO of 99 Speedmart, Malaysia's largest mini-mart chain, and a major shareholder in Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd. Despite facing polio at a young age, which left him wheelchair-bound, Lee built a retail empire from the ground up. His journey from a roadside stall to a billionaire is a testament to resilience and entrepreneurial vision, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Malaysia with a net worth of $7.6 billion as of February 2, 2026.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Lee Thiam Wah was born in Klang, Malaysia, in 1964. His early life was marked by both poverty and polio, which left him wheelchair-bound at a young age. Despite these hardships, Lee showed strong business instincts from an early age.

Rise to Success

Lee began his entrepreneurial journey by selling snacks at a roadside stall. He opened his first grocery store, Pasar Raya Hiap Hoe, at the age of 23 in 1987. In 1992, he established the Pasar Mini 99 chain. In 2000, he consolidated his growing network of stores under the 99 Speedmart brand. The company went public on Bursa Malaysia in 2024.

Key Business Strategies

99 Speedmart has grown into Malaysia's largest mini-mart chain with nearly 2,700 outlets as of 2024. The company focused on affordable pricing and strategic store locations.

Philanthropy

Specific details about Lee Thiam Wah's philanthropy are not available in the search results.

Career Milestones

1987

Founded Pasar Raya Hiap Hoe

Opened a traditional grocery store in Klang, Malaysia.

1992

Established Pasar Mini 99 chain

Opened the first mini-mart in Klang, targeting low-income customers and migrant workers.

2000

Rebranded to 99 Speedmart

Consolidated stores under the 99 Speedmart brand.

2024

99 Speedmart IPO

99 Speedmart went public on Bursa Malaysia.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"In life, you cannot aim for perfection, but you can aim for 99%."

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