Born into a modest family with Yemeni roots in the Hadramawt region, Syed Mokhtar Al-Bukhary faced financial challenges growing up in Kedah, Malaysia. Despite the hardships, he displayed resilience and determination, relocating to Johor Bahru in 1961. For six years, he lived there before returning to Alor Setar to attend St. Michael’s Secondary School.
Concurrently, he actively participated in his father’s cattle business. However, a setback occurred when the family business collapsed due to an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. A few months before completing Secondary 5, Syed Mokhtar had to abandon his education due to the inability to afford exam fees.
Undeterred, he embarked on a career as a rice trader, gradually expanding his empire into diverse industries, including plantation, engineering, automotive, and construction. Today, Syed Mokhtar Al-Bukhary is globally recognized for his achievements.
His philanthropic endeavors have earned him numerous honors and awards, with over $500 million contributed to various causes, such as supporting orphans, refugees, and victims of natural disasters.
Ranked as the 11th wealthiest person in Malaysia, Syed Mokhtar boasts a net worth of Rs 12,500 crore. Notable businesses under his umbrella include DRB-HICOM, MMC, and Tradewinds Plantation. Additionally, he holds shares in Media Prima, the owner of the New Straits Times Press, and ALTEL, the company entrusted with the 5G telecom spectrum contract in Malaysia.
Syed Mokhtar Al-Bukhary’s journey serves as a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of unwavering ambition.
