Billionaire Profile
Surin Upatkoon
Global Rank
#2480

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Surin Upatkoon

CEO, Telecom
THAILAND
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.531B
Estimated based on Telecom stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.03% (24h)
Age
76
Source
Telecom, lotteries, insurance
Industry
Telecom
Citizenship
THAILAND

Biography

Surin Upatkoon is a Thai billionaire known for his diversified investments across telecom, lotteries, and insurance. As of February 2, 2026, his real-time net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion. He made his fortune through strategic ventures and a significant stake in Thai telecom company InTouch, which he partly realized in 2013. Upatkoon's career began in 1971 at MWE Weaving, and he currently resides in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. His business acumen has propelled him to become a prominent figure in the Malaysian business landscape.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Surin Upatkoon, a Thai national, was born in Thailand and later moved to Penang, Malaysia, to complete his education. He has been a resident of Malaysia ever since. His journey began in the textile industry, laying the foundation for his future success.

Rise to Success

Upatkoon's career took off in 1971 when he joined MWE Weaving Mills Sdn. Bhd. as a manager. He steadily climbed the corporate ladder, gaining experience and expertise in the business. He later served as Managing Director of MWE Spinning Mills Sdn. Bhd. and MWE Weaving Mills Sdn. Bhd., and a Director of MWE Holdings Berhad. A pivotal moment in his career was selling a 10% stake in the Thai telecom company InTouch in 2013, which significantly boosted his wealth.

Key Business Strategies

Upatkoon's success stems from his strategic investments across diverse sectors, including telecommunications, lotteries, and insurance. He owns significant stakes in listed companies such as Magnum Berhad, a gaming company, and has maintained interests in textile firms. This diversified portfolio has been key to his enduring wealth and influence.

Philanthropy

Information on Surin Upatkoon's specific philanthropic activities and donation amounts is not readily available from the search results.

Career Milestones

1971

Manager at MWE Weaving Mills Sdn. Bhd.

Began his career at the textile company, starting in a managerial role.

1974

Managing Director of MWE Spinning Mills Sdn. Bhd.

Took charge of daily operations at MWE Spinning Mills.

1979

Managing Director of MWE Weaving Mills Sdn. Bhd.

Assumed the role of Managing Director, further expanding his leadership within the MWE Group.

2000

Executive Director of Multi-Purpose Holdings Berhad (now Magnum Berhad)

Appointed as Executive Director, marking a significant role in the group.

2002

Managing Director of Magnum Berhad

Played a major role in formulating business strategies and directions of Magnum Group.

2013

Sold stake in InTouch

Sold a 10% stake in Thai telecom company InTouch.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

General Philanthropy

Chang Ming Thien Foundation and Magnum Foundation

$XB

Trustee of these foundations.