Commenting on the matter during an exclusive interview with The Star, the 69-year-old billionaire also urged other wealthy Malaysians to do the same.

"I think it is not wise to leave all your wealth to your family only, after all our accumulated material wealth is made possible with the support from Malaysians and government's concessions and licences and other help by many people we encountered in our lifetime of wealth accumulation," he said.

He added that he was also passionate about building affordable homes for Malaysians.

The report detailed how Berjaya had successfully designed and built a 5-bedroom 4-bathroom/toilet unit of 900 sq ft and a 4-bedroom 3-bathroom/toilet unit of 750 sq ft.

"The private sector should be prepared to sell affordable houses with a price range of RM250,000 and RM300,000 for a 900 sq ft apartment in different cities and towns in Malaysia," he commented.

Luck played a part

During the interview with The Star's Advisor Datuk Seri Wong Cun Wai, Tan also admitted that it was luck that helped him gain his wealth.

He said that he was fortunate to receive a number of opportunities, including getting the franchise for McDonald's and Starbucks and buying 7-Eleven for a good price from a Malaysian group.

"It is only right that I give half of my wealth back to the people and country. It is the right thing to do," he said.

We hope more wealthy people will donate their money or at least channel it for a good cause too.