The man who built Stamford Tyres into a regional giant passes away after a battle with stomach cancer.
Mr. Wee Kok Wah, the founder of Stamford Tyres, passed away on October 21, 2024, at the age of 78 after a battle with stomach cancer. Mr. Wee transformed his father’s small petrol station and tyre shop, Stamford Motor Service, into one of the largest tyre and wheel distributors in the region. After joining the family business in 1970, he secured distribution rights for major tyre brands and expanded the company’s reach, creating a global brand with operations in over 90 countries.
Under his leadership, Stamford Tyres grew to include its own line of alloy wheels and tyres, which are sold internationally. The company’s success also included ventures in Thailand, Malaysia, South Africa, and Indonesia, and its presence in the automotive industry is well-recognized globally.
Mr. Wee was known for his charisma and generosity, often mentoring others in the tyre business. He was highly regarded for his leadership through significant challenges, including the Asian financial crisis and a devastating fire that destroyed the company’s headquarters in 1997. Despite these setbacks, Stamford Tyres rebounded and thrived.
In 2021, due to health reasons, Mr. Wee stepped down as managing director, transitioning to the role of founder and senior adviser. Under his guidance, Stamford Tyres posted a net profit of $6 million in 2024, marking continued success even after his departure.
