Robert Kuok, Malaysia-born ‘Sugar King of Asia’, feted on 100th birthday

Robert Kuok, the Malaysian-born Hong Kong magnate renowned for his political savvy, daring and extensive connections, turned 100 on Friday feted by a regional elite in awe of his lifetime achievements.

Born in 1923 in Malaysia’s Johor state to Fujianese parents, Kuok stands among a select group of Asian entrepreneurs who, tempered by wartime horrors and colonial injustice, built businesses that evolved with the newly independent nations succeeding vast Western empires.

Hong Kong’s wealthiest man, the 95-year-old Li Ka-shing and his son Victor Li Tzar-kuoi, 59, were among those congratulating Kuok on his centenary. In a message sent to the Post, the Lis said: “Happy birthday, Robert! Wish you continued good health and happiness! We treasure very much your friendship and the great times we have spent together. You have been a great friend.”

The Lees of Henderson Land Group, a leading Hong Kong developer, also extended their warm wishes. “Your visionary leadership and remarkable contributions to the industry have left an incredible mark. Here’s to a century of achievements, good health, and continued happiness,” said a message sent to the Post by the company’s 95-year-old founder Lee Shau-kee and his sons Peter Lee Ka-kit, 60, and Martin Lee Ka-shing, 52.

Joe Tsai, chairman of the Post, which was once owned by Kuok before he sold it to the Alibaba Group in 2015, also offered the centenarian his best wishes.