Who Are the Richest Malaysians in 2026? Here’s the Top 10 List

• By Eddah Nafula

• 1771

• Last updated Jan 5, 2026

Malaysia is home to some of the wealthiest business magnates in Southeast Asia. These individuals have amassed vast fortunes through various industries, including diversified businesses, finance, telecommunications, real estate, and manufacturing. Here’s a look at the top 10 richest people in Malaysia in 2026, their estimated net worth, and the industries they dominate.

Summary Table 

1. Robert Kuok – $11.5 Billion

Robert Kuok remains the wealthiest person in Malaysia, with a fortune of $11.5 billion. The founder of the Kuok Group, his empire spans various industries, including sugar, palm oil, shipping, and real estate. He is also the owner of the luxury Shangri-La hotel chain, which has properties across Asia and beyond. Despite his advanced age, Kuok's business influence remains strong.

2. Quek Leng Chan – $8.8 Billion

Quek Leng Chan, the chairman of Hong Leong Group Malaysia, has an estimated net worth of $8.8 billion. His business empire includes banking, finance, real estate, and manufacturing. Quek’s wealth has grown steadily due to his strategic investments in Malaysia and Singapore.

3. Teh Siblings – $5.4 Billion

The Teh siblings inherited their fortune from the late Teh Hong Piow, the founder of Public Bank, one of Malaysia’s largest financial institutions. With a combined net worth of $5.4 billion, they continue to oversee the family’s investments in finance and banking.

4. Lee Yeow Chor & Yeow Seng – $5.35 Billion

Brothers Lee Yeow Chor and Lee Yeow Seng are heirs to the IOI Group, a conglomerate with major interests in palm oil plantations and real estate development. Their combined net worth stands at $5.35 billion, thanks to the global demand for palm oil and continued real estate investments.

5. Koon Poh Keong & Siblings – $5.3 Billion

Koon Poh Keong, along with his siblings, controls Press Metal Aluminium Holdings, Malaysia’s largest aluminum producer. Their fortune of $5.3 billion comes from the growing demand for aluminum in various industries, including automotive and construction.

6. Ananda Krishnan – $4.8 Billion

Ananda Krishnan, the telecom tycoon, has a net worth of $4.8 billion. He founded Maxis, Malaysia’s largest telecommunications provider, and has diversified investments in media, oil, and satellite communications. His stake in Astro and offshore drilling ventures continues to contribute to his fortune.

7. Francis Yeoh & Siblings – $4.7 Billion

Francis Yeoh and his family run YTL Corporation, a conglomerate involved in construction, engineering, utilities, and hospitality. Their net worth of $4.7 billion is fueled by YTL’s global expansion, including investments in power plants, real estate, and hotels.

8. Jeffrey Cheah – $2.4 Billion

Jeffrey Cheah, the founder of Sunway Group, has a net worth of $2.4 billion. Sunway is one of Malaysia’s leading property developers, with interests in real estate, education, and healthcare. His group is also known for developing the popular Sunway City township.

9. Lim Kok Thay – $2.2 Billion

Lim Kok Thay is the chairman and CEO of Genting Group, a multinational corporation specializing in gambling, casinos, and resorts. With a net worth of $2.2 billion, he oversees Genting's casinos in Malaysia, Singapore, and the United States, as well as its cruise line business.

10. Chia Song Kun & Family – $1.8 Billion

Chia Song Kun and his family own QL Resources, one of Malaysia’s largest agro-food companies. With a net worth of $1.8 billion, their business specializes in aquaculture, palm oil, and food production. Their investments in sustainable food production have continued to drive growth.

Conclusion

Malaysia’s richest individuals have built their wealth through strategic investments in various industries, from diversified businesses and finance to real estate and telecommunications. These billionaires play a crucial role in the nation’s economy, contributing to job creation and economic development. As Malaysia continues to grow, their fortunes are likely to expand even further.