Hong Kong Billionaire Lee Shau-kee Dies at 97, Reports BBC
Lee Shau-kee, one of Hong Kong’s richest men and a legendary property tycoon, has passed away at the age of 97. According to the BBC, his property company, Henderson Land Development, announced his death, saying he died peacefully surrounded by his family. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Lee was once the richest man in Asia and the fourth wealthiest in the world. In February, Forbes estimated his net worth at nearly $30 billion (£23 billion). Born in Guangdong Province, China, he moved to Hong Kong as a young man and started his career in gold and foreign currency trading before becoming a real estate giant.
In 1958, Lee co-founded Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP), one of Hong Kong’s largest property developers. Later, in 1976, he started his own company, Henderson Land Development, which he led for over 40 years before retiring in 2019. His two sons now run the company.
Known as “Uncle Four” because he was the fourth child in his family, Lee was not only a successful businessman but also a generous philanthropist. He donated heavily to education and job development programs. In 2007, he received Hong Kong’s highest honor, the Grand Bauhinia Medal, for his contributions to society.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, praised him as an “outstanding business leader” who played a key role in the city’s economic growth and stability.
Lee Shau-kee’s legacy as a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist will be remembered in Hong Kong and beyond. His life story is a testament to hard work, innovation, and giving back to the community.
Credit: This story is based on reporting by the BBC.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjry9wyyz98o