The Kuok alliance in the early days with the Tans


Perak township: Chin Nam led his brothers to develop Ipoh Garden.

THE Tan brothers – who co-founded IGB Corp Bhd – made their early fortunes from trading. However, according to some corporate veterans, the duo learnt the ropes of trading from “sugar king” Robert Kuok Hock Nien.

Datuk Tan Chin Nam and the late Datuk Tan Kim Yeow came from a family of 12 siblings. Both started from humble beginnings, working as roadside vendors selling vegetables, chicken and fruits in their teens before striking a long-term friendship about seven decades ago.

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Related stories:
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Business News

Trading ideas: Steel Hawk, Critical, GDB, Hextar Industries, Infraharta, MFM, MGB, Oriental, UEM Sunrise, Maxis, SKP
Malaysia clinches RM1.8bil sales at Gulfood 2026
Steel Hawk unit secures PETRONAS deal
One Credit debuts smart fintech system
Dividend yield catalyst for CelcomDigi re-rating
HIB acquires 51% stake in Woodpeckers
Dialog enters recovery year driven by midstream recurring income
OGX launches IPO ahead of ACE Market listing
Critical Holdings wins RM35mil design contract
Rousing outlook for Heineken in FY26

Others Also Read