CS Kong, co-founder of United Overseas Australia Ltd (UOA) and managing director of UOA Development, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, at the age of 85 [1, 2, 3]. Kong had over 42 years of experience in construction and property development across Malaysia and Singapore [1, 2, 3].
Kong founded UOA with partner Kong Pak Lim in 1987 and played a key role in rapidly expanding the group’s presence in Malaysia [1, 2, 3]. Kong Pak Lim, UOA Development chairman, announced the death and said he would temporarily take on the managing director role until a permanent successor is appointed within three months [1, 2, 3].
Kong was appointed director and managing director of UOA Development on May 27, 2004, holding leadership positions until his passing [1, 2, 3]. Earlier in his career, during the 1970s and 1980s, he was project advisor for Harapan Group, overseeing construction of three major Singapore hotels valued at over S$866 million: Le Méridien Singapore, Glass Hotel, and Changi Méridien Hotel [1, 2, 3].
He also held leadership roles in publicly listed companies in Malaysia and Singapore, including Raleigh Bhd, Town and City Properties Ltd, and Tuan Sing Holdings Ltd [1, 2, 3]. Kong Pak Lim praised his late colleague, stating, "His contribution to the growth, governance and long-term success of the company has been significant and enduring" [1].
UOA Development will begin the search for a new managing director immediately, with a timeline to fill the position within three months [1, 2, 3].
