Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#1055

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Sukanto Tanoto

CEO, Royal Golden Eagle (RGE)

Real-Time Net Worth

$3.8B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Diversified

Industry

diversified

Citizenship

Biography

Sukanto Tanoto is an Indonesian businessman and philanthropist, recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals in Indonesia. Born on December 25, 1949, in Medan, he is the founder and chairman of Royal Golden Eagle (RGE), a global group with diversified interests in pulp and paper, palm oil, viscose fiber, and energy. His journey began in the family spare parts business, evolving into a global enterprise with operations across multiple countries. Tanoto is also the founder of the Tanoto Foundation, which focuses on education and community development. His business philosophy centers around the principles of being Good for the Community, Good for the Country, Good for the Climate, and only then Good for the Company, reflecting his commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Sukanto Tanoto was born Tan Kang Hoo on December 25, 1949, in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. He is the eldest of seven sons. His parents were immigrants from Putian, China. Tanoto's education was interrupted when Chinese schools were shut down in 1966 due to policy changes. He began his entrepreneurial journey by taking over the family spare parts supply business at the age of 17 after his father suffered a stroke.

Rise to Success

Tanoto expanded the family business, securing contracts for building gas pipelines. He recognized an opportunity in the plywood industry and established his own mill. He then ventured into the forest industry in 1973. Tanoto's vision led to the formation of the Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) group, which grew into a global conglomerate. The company's headquarters were established in Singapore in 1997.

Key Business Strategies

Tanoto's business strategy focused on global presence in selected sectors. RGE operates in pulp and paper, palm oil, viscose staple fibre, and energy sectors. His business philosophy centers on the “4 C’s”: good for the Community, good for the Country, good for the Climate, and good for the Company. This approach reflects a commitment to sustainable practices and responsible business operations.

Philanthropy

Tanoto and his wife, Tinah Bingei Tanoto, founded the Tanoto Foundation in 1981, which focuses on education, empowerment, and community enhancement. Through the foundation, he supports various initiatives, including scholarships and educational programs in Indonesia, Singapore, and China.

Career Milestones

1967

Started his first business

Supplier of spare parts and construction contractor to the oil industry.

1973

Founded RGE (Royal Golden Eagle)

Started as a plywood business.

1981

Founded Tanoto Foundation

A philanthropic organization focused on education.

1997

Relocated RGE Headquarters to Singapore

To facilitate global expansion.

2024

Completed Vinda Takeover

Acquired Vinda International.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Tanoto Foundation

N/A

Focuses on education, leadership development, and medical research.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“We are building a business, not a project.”"

"“I have always believed that conservation is not a liability to industries. Instead, if done properly, it can be an asset.”"

"“Our business philosophy is the four C's. We do business in a way that is Good for the Community, Good for the Country, Good for the Climate, and only then will it be Good for the Company.”"

Leadership Principles

Continuous Learning

Emphasizes the importance of constantly seeking knowledge and adapting to change.

Sustainability

Focusing on the long-term impact of business on the community and the environment.

Community Engagement

Prioritizing the well-being of the community.

Controversies & Challenges

N/A

APRIL Deforestation Controversy

RGE faced criticisms related to deforestation within its supply chain. The company committed to eliminating deforestation in its supply chain by 2015.

1989

PT Inti Indorayon Utama Pollution Accusations

PT Inti Indorayon Utama, a pulp mill, was temporarily closed due to accusations of environmental pollution.