Robert Kuok is a prominent Malaysian businessman who is widely known as the "Sugar King of Asia." 

He was born on October 6, 1923, in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Kuok's parents were Chinese immigrants who ran a small trading company.

Kuok attended Raffles College in Singapore, where he studied economics. However, he did not complete his studies and left college in 1942 when his father died. 

He then took over his family's business, which was involved in trading rice, sugar, and wheat.

Robert Kuok's mother had a strong influence on him and his business acumen. She encouraged Robert to pursue business and taught him valuable lessons about trade and commerce.

In 1949, at the age of 26, Kuok saw an opportunity to invest in sugar at a low price. 

He used his savings to purchase a large amount of sugar from India and sold it at a much higher price in Malaysia, earning a significant profit. This marked the beginning of his successful career in the sugar industry.

In the 1950s, Kuok expanded his business interests and invested in several other industries, including shipping, mining, and property development. 

He also established the Kuok Group, which grew to become one of the largest conglomerates in Asia.

Despite his success, Kuok remained a private person and avoided the spotlight. He worked closely with his family, and his younger brother, William, was his business partner. Together, they expanded the Kuok Group and diversified their business interests.

In the 1970s, Kuok ventured into the hospitality industry and founded Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. 

The first Shangri-La hotel opened in Singapore in 1971, and the brand quickly became known for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service.

Today, the Kuok Group has a diverse portfolio of businesses, including agriculture, property development, and logistics. Robert Kuok is still actively involved in the company, and his son, Kuok Khoon Ean, is the current CEO.

In conclusion, Robert Kuok is a successful Malaysian businessman who has made a significant impact in several industries. 

He is known for his entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and dedication to his family and company.

Despite his wealth and success, he has remained humble and low-key, preferring to let his work speak for itself. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs in Malaysia and beyond.