Sir Michael Kadoorie on Hong Kong’s resilience and the Lion Rock Spirit

The Spirit of the Lion Rock Fred Ma, hosted by Frederick Ma Si-hang, featuring Sir Michael Kadoorie, chairman of the Kadoorie family, a prominent Hong Kong dynasty with over 140 years of history, aired on Saturday.

In a rare and heartfelt interview, Sir Michael shared insights into his family’s legacy, their commitment to philanthropy, and his unwavering optimism about Hong Kong’s future, resonating deeply with viewers.

A legacy built on trust and values

Sir Michael reflected on the Kadoorie family’s long history, emphasizing that their business endeavors have been guided by core values for over a century.

He stressed that trust and respect in relationships with employees and partners have been key to the family’s success across various industries, shaping the Kadoorie empire.

Beyond their commercial achievements, the Kadoorie family has remained committed to philanthropy, particularly in conservation and education.

Sir Michael expressed a strong belief in giving back to society, noting that those with the means should support those in need.

His dedication to social good over the past six decades, despite Hong Kong’s challenges, earned widespread admiration from the audience.

Hong Kong as a resilient “rubber ball”

Addressing Hong Kong’s current challenges, Sir Michael shared his father’s metaphor, comparing the city to a rubber ball that bounces higher the lower it falls.

He conveyed confidence in the resilience of Hong Kong’s people, believing they have the strength to overcome adversity. This optimistic message sparked lively discussions on social media, with many online users commenting that every low point offers an opportunity for renewal.

Inspiring the next generation

In a message to Hong Kong’s youth, Sir Michael encouraged them to develop their skills and maintain faith in the future.

He expressed confidence that, with determination, the younger generation could achieve even greater success than their predecessors.

He also shared his hope that the “Lion Rock Spirit,” a symbol of Hong Kong’s perseverance and unity, would continue to inspire and propel the city forward.