Malaysia 40 richest individuals are worth a combined $51 billion, the latest Forbes Asia survey reveals.

The total is up from $36 billion in the previous year and trumps the previous $46 billion record registered in 2008. The country's strong economic growth and its quick recovery from the global financial crisis were key contributors to its 42 per cent rise for 2010.

At the top of the list is Tan Sir Robert Kuok, who has maintained this position since 2006. The tycoon's net worth was reported to have climbed $3 billion from 2009 to $12 billion. According to Forbes, he is highest gainer in terms of dollars.

Other yardsticks of how the world's wealthiest citizens have fared - such as this year's Sunday Times Rich List - have pointed to a rebound in wealth over the past 12 months as global equity markets have recovered.

In second place in the Malaysian list, the publication said, is Ananda Krishnan, the telecommunications tycoon, who posted an $8.1 billion net worth, up $1.1 billion from the previous year. At third is Tan Sri Lee Shin Cheng, the CEO of IOI Group, who has $4.6 billion, up $3.2 billion. Majority of the members of the top 40 saw their wealths rise in the year.

Newcomers to the list include billionaire brothers Datuk Shahril and Shahriman Shamsuddin, both at number 23, with a $270 million net worth. Meanwhile, the roster also saw the return of Datuk Seri Nazir Razak, who lists at 32 with a net worth of $145 million.

Members of the top 40 need to have at least $110 million to qualify, Forbes said. In 2009, the minimum was $90 million.