Early Life and Education
Born in Malaysia, Sam Chong pursued mining engineering studies in Taiwan before relocating to Australia in 1972. He furthered his education at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, where he completed his mining engineering degree.
Career in Mining
After graduating, Chong held various roles in the mining sector. In the 1980s, he joined Queensland Coal Mine Management, which later became the Jellinbah Group. Collaborating with industry figures like Jim Gorman and the late Ken Talbot, Chong played a pivotal role in the company’s growth.
The Jellinbah Group operates two significant coal mines in Queensland:
- Jellinbah East Coal Mine: Located in the Bowen Basin, this mine commenced operations in 1989 and has an annual production capacity of 3.5 million tonnes of coking coal.
- Lake Vermont Coal Mine: Another major asset contributing to the company’s portfolio.
In November 2024, Chong expanded his stake in the Australian coal industry by acquiring Anglo American’s 33.3% share in the Jellinbah Group for A$1.6 billion, increasing his ownership to two-thirds.
Property Investments
Beyond mining, Chong has invested in various properties, including hotels and office buildings in Brisbane, diversifying his business interests.
Family and Personal Life
Sam Chong and his son, Paul Chong, serve as directors of the Jellinbah Group, indicating a family involvement in the business.
Net Worth and Recognition
As of January 24, 2025, Forbes estimated Sam Chong’s net worth at $2 billion, ranking him among the world’s billionaires.
Sam Chong’s journey from Malaysia to becoming a prominent figure in Australia’s mining and property sectors exemplifies his strategic vision and dedication to his enterprises.
