新加坡首富去世：贫民窟走出的潮汕之子，将一手烂牌打成了王炸

Core Points - Goh Cheng Liang, the founder of the Goh Cheng Liang Group and major shareholder of Nippon Paint, passed away at the age of 98 on August 12 [3] - He was born in 1927 in Singapore and was of Chinese descent, specifically from Chaozhou, Guangdong Province [3][7] - Goh Cheng Liang became Singapore's richest person in 2021 with a wealth of 142 billion yuan [5][6] Background and Early Life - Goh Cheng Liang came from humble beginnings and faced numerous challenges throughout his life, ultimately transforming his circumstances through determination and hard work [4] - His parents were from Guangdong and moved to Singapore during a tumultuous period, leading to a difficult upbringing [12][14] Career Development - At 18, Goh started a small soda factory, which failed after a year, but he learned valuable lessons from the experience [16] - He transitioned to selling paint, where he gained extensive knowledge about the industry, eventually leading to the founding of his own paint brand [17][19] - Goh capitalized on the post-war market by purchasing surplus paint, which he repurposed and sold under the brand "Dove Paint," achieving significant market success [21][22] Business Expansion - In 1962, he partnered with a leading Japanese paint company to establish "Nippon Paint," which rapidly expanded across Southeast Asia [24] - Goh's brand "Nippon" became synonymous with quality paint in the region, and he strategically invested in China after diplomatic relations were established in 1990 [25][27] Philanthropy and Legacy - Goh Cheng Liang was deeply committed to his roots, contributing over 100 million yuan to his hometown for infrastructure and educational projects [29][33] - His philanthropic efforts included building schools, hospitals, and other facilities, significantly improving the local community [31][34] - Goh's life story exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and dedication to both personal success and community welfare [38]