National security law: Hong Kong tycoon Michael Kadoorie backs legislation but urges government to secure public approval

Public fears over the proposed law need to be addressed as a matter of urgency, says Kadoorie, who is from one of Hong Kong’s most powerful families

He is the latest in string of high-profile business figures to offer backing for Beijing’s plan to target secession, terrorism and other crimes

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Protesters and police clash on May 27 as activists take to the streets against the national security law. Photo: Reuters

Published: 2:19pm, 5 Jun 2020Updated: 11:22pm, 5 Jun 2020

Hong Kong billionaire Michael Kadoorie says he is confident the new national security law Beijing plans for the city will help it prosper, but he has called on the government to allay the public’s fears and secure its backing for the proposal.

The energy and hotel tycoon is the latest business heavyweight to try and rally people behind the contentious legislation, which targets secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference in Hong Kong’s affairs.

The 78-year-old’s family first arrived in Hong Kong to settle 140 years ago. Forbes has ranked him the 11th wealthiest person in the city, with a US$7.5 billion fortune.

Michael Kadoorie has made his feelings on the national security law known. Photo: Nora Tam

Kadoorie, who is the chairman of electricity utility CLP Holdings, said it was “disheartening to see the lack of harmony” in the city.

“We believe all countries have the sovereign right and obligation to take the necessary measures to ensure national security,” he told the Post.