Lan Kwai Fong’s legendary leader Dr. Allan Zeman crowned the 2023 PropertyGuru Icon Award

Celebrating a legacy of innovation and excellence, Dr. Zeman’s pivotal role in shaping Asia’s real estate and entertainment sectors earns him the esteemed title

In a grand ceremony that brings together the crème de la crème of the Asian real estate industry, the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2023 is thrilled to announce Dr. Allan Zeman, the Founder and Chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Group, as the winner of the distinguished 2023 Icon Award. This accolade, reserved for individuals who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also made a lasting impact on the industry, is a testament to Dr. Zeman’s unparalleled contributions to Asian real estate.

A storied career: Dr. Allan Zeman’s journey to the top

Dr. Allan Zeman, GBM, GBS, JP, FCPA (Aust.), is a towering figure in the world of real estate and business. His journey is one of relentless ambition, visionary leadership, and a commitment to excellence that has spanned several decades. As the Chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Group, he has been instrumental in transforming Hong Kong’s Lan Kwai Fong area into a bustling hub of tourism and entertainment, making it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Under his visionary leadership, the Lan Kwai Fong Group has expanded its footprint beyond Hong Kong, marking its presence in key cities across China, including the metropolitan hubs of Chengdu and the Greater Bay Area. His ventures also extend to Thailand, where he owns Paradise Properties Group, the developer behind the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Award-winning Andara Resort in Phuket. His joint venture with Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited in Phang Nga – the luxury resort and villa development, Aquella, stands as a testament to his prowess in developing world-class properties.

More: Luxury, exclusivity, and romance collide at Andara Resort & Villas in Phuket

A diverse portfolio: Beyond real estate

Dr. Zeman’s influence extends well beyond the real estate sector. He serves as a director of the “Star” Ferry Company, Limited and holds significant positions in several high-profile corporations, including being the Non-Executive Director of Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited, an independent non-executive director of Sino Land Company Limited, Tsim Sha Tsui Properties Limited, Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB), and Fosun Tourism Group. His role as the Non-Executive Chairman of Wynn Macau Limited highlights his diverse interests and capabilities in various sectors.

A lifetime of service and recognition

Having called Hong Kong home for over 50 years, Dr. Zeman has immersed himself in a variety of community and government services. He has left his indelible mark as the Chairman of Hong Kong Ocean Park, contributing significantly to its development and success. His involvement with the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority and the HKSAR Human Resources Planning Commission showcases his commitment to cultural and human resources development in Hong Kong.

His numerous awards and recognitions are a reflection of his exceptional contributions. He was appointed as a Justice of the Peace in Hong Kong in 2001, received the Gold Bauhinia Star in 2004, and was honoured with the Grand Bauhinia Medal in 2011. His dedication to the business community was recognized when he was awarded Business Person of the Year by the Hong Kong Business Award in 2008.

More: Man of the hour: A chat with the father of Lan Kwai Fong

A visionary’s perspective: Exclusive Q&A with Dr. Allan Zeman

Q: What does the 2023 Icon award mean to you, your team at Lan Kwai Fong, and your business partners?

A: It is an honour to be awarded the 2023 Icon Award. Lan Kwai Fong has become a great brand in HK and throughout the world. This is very important to us and to our partner.

Q: To whom do you dedicate this special award?

A: I would like to dedicate this award to all our customers and all the suppliers. As well as everyone who has helped to make Lan Kwai Fong into what it is today.

Q: Why do you continue to invest in Asian real estate?

A: We will continue to invest in Asia. I have been investing in Asia for more than 55 years. I have seen the incredible growth and it will only continue from strength to strength. For real estate investment, there is no better place to invest than in Asia.

More: Aquella: A breathtaking oasis for families and golfers alike

Q: What are your future plans as head of LKF, and what kind of real estate projects are you passionate about?

A: We are building Lan Kwai Fong commercial together with residential projects throughout many cities in Hong Kong, China and Phuket. We also have quite a few condominium projects in Phuket. The design of each project must be iconic and most important user friendly. We will continue in this trend as we continue to expand.

Looking ahead: Dr. Zeman’s ongoing vision

As we celebrate Dr. Zeman’s remarkable achievements and well-deserved recognition with the 2023 Icon Award, it is clear that his influence and contributions will continue to shape the real estate landscape in Asia and beyond. His forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence set a benchmark for future leaders in the industry.

Gynen Kyra Toriano, Digital Content Manager at PropertyGuru, wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].