Known as a reclusive tycoon, Goh Cheng Liang is a Singaporean businessman with an estimated net worth of $7.96 billion in May 2019. He founded Nippon Paint Southeast Asia Group (Nipsea) in 1962 but he started his first paint shop in 1955 where he became the main distributor of Nippon Paint. The company has more than 50 factories and a 16,000 strong work force in 15 countries with markets in China, Malaysia, India, and Vietnam.

Goh has boosted his fortune when he increased his stake to 39% in Nippon Paint Japan, which made him the single largest shareholder. Nippon has also increased its holding to 51% in the fast-growing joint venture, Nipsea Group. His son Hup Jin, who also showed interest in acquiring Nippon, orchestrated the business ties in the past year.

Goh Cheng Liang is a generous philanthropist through his Goh Foundation. Last year, he donated $40 million to the National Cancer Center Singapore.