Rubber magnate in Singapore, born in 集美, Fujian, who spent his fortune on schools: he founded 厦门大学 (Xiamen University) and the Jimei school village, and raised funds for China in the war against Japan.
Tan Kah Kee is honored as 'banner of the overseas Chinese, glory of the nation.'
Tips
history
Mao Zedong honoured him with the eight-character tribute 华侨旗帜，民族光辉, 'banner of the overseas Chinese, glory of the nation', which became the Party's official verdict on him.
usage
In Singapore and Malaysia he is romanized 'Tan Kah Kee' (Hokkien); in mainland China always 陈嘉庚 in pinyin Chén Jiāgēng.
