Early Life
Lee Thiam Wah was born in Klang, Malaysia, in 1964. At the age of eight months, he contracted polio, which left him permanently reliant on a wheelchair. Lee came from a humble background; his father was a construction worker, and his mother was a hawker. Due to financial constraints, he only received primary education. Despite these challenges, Lee was a dedicated learner, borrowing books and reading newspapers.
Rise to Success
At 14, Lee started selling snacks to support his family. In 1987, at age 23, he opened his first grocery shop named Pasar Raya Hiap Hoe, using savings from his small business. Lee learned about customer preferences, suppliers, and competitors through his retail experience. In 1992, he sold the grocery store and opened a mini-mart in Klang. In 1999, he rebranded it as 99 Speedmart.
Key Business Strategies
Lee focused on a business model based on convenience and affordability. He strategically placed stores near residential areas. 99 Speedmart's success can be attributed to its cost efficiency and rapid replenishment. Lee developed an integrated logistics and distribution network.
Philanthropy
Information on Lee Thiam Wah's specific philanthropic amounts is not available in the search results.
