R obert K uok: Family, Dialect, and State in the Making of a M alaysian Magnate

C hinese overseas family businesses generally lack longevity. In addition to difficulties in transiting towards professional management they are susceptible to state pressures. However, R obert K uok, the richest man in S outheast A sia who heads a vast business empire, has been able to surmount both challenges. This study shows how K uok successfully turned three important sources of identity into strengths: family, dialect, and the state. These three sources are set against his J ohor B ahru background, the changing domestic political landscape, and shifting regional economic influence.