Hong Kong variety show: I Am a Tycoon

Chapter 190 Taking Over Kowloon Motor Bus
When I met Deng Zhaojian, the 80-year-old philanthropist was wearing a traditional Chen-style jacket with silver hair and eyebrows.

After exchanging pleasantries, Deng Zhaojian broke the ice: "Mr. Chen, why go to such lengths? How about this, I'll buy your shares at 18 yuan per share?"

Although Deng Zhaojian had never been in contact with Chen Jiajun, he knew Chen Jiajun's "no action without a clear objective" policy, so he proposed a high-price share buyback right from the start.

At HK$18 per share, based on Chen Jiajun's current holding of 36 million shares, this is equivalent to a profit of over HK$100 million.

Faced with the olive branch extended by Tang Shiu-kin, Chan Ka-chun shook his head: "Sir Tang, I'm afraid you've misunderstood. My attack on Kowloon Motor Bus was not for profit or to leave the scene."

"I'll add 50 cents to the 18 yuan per share, and I'll also persuade him to give up Golden Princess Cinemas."

Deng Zhaojian added another 50 cents.

Chen Jiajun said with a smile, "Sir Deng, I really want to acquire Kowloon Motor Bus, not for the Golden Princess Cinemas."

"Are you optimistic about the future of Kowloon Motor Bus Group, or about the land it owns?" Tang Shiu-kin immediately got to the heart of the matter.

Chan Ka-Chun answered directly: "What I value is not the land of Kowloon Motor Bus."

Furthermore, the Financial Secretary has already stated that without his consent, property development cannot be used for purposes unrelated to bus services.

"To put it bluntly, as far as I know, Kowloon Motor Bus carries up to 100 million passengers every year. It is a great platform, and I want to do something through the Kowloon Motor Bus Group."

Even so, Chan Ka-Chun did have some consideration for the land owned by the Kowloon Motor Bus Group.

"If I believed your explanation, I'd be senile," Deng Zhaojian thought to himself.

Chan Ka-Chun continued, "Sir Deng, things have come to this point, so why not accept the facts and agree to my acquisition of the Kowloon Motor Bus Group?"

"After all, the current situation is obvious. KMB is constrained by the profit control agreement of the British Hong Kong government. Relying solely on the bus business, it is difficult to achieve greater success in the face of competition from the MTR. The existing shareholders are also unwilling to increase investment. Isn't the Lui family taking a different approach and entering the film industry?"

"If this continues, the Kowloon Motor Bus, which Sir Deng has painstakingly built, will truly fall into ruin, which would be extremely heartbreaking."

"Of course, I can assure you that Sir Deng's shareholder interests in KMB will not only not be harmed, but will actually be enhanced."

"Accept reality?"

Deng Zhaojian's face darkened: "What if I don't give Mr. Chen this face?"

Faced with Tang Shiu-kin's threat, Chan Ka-chun's gaze was gentle and his tone sincere: "Sir Tang, although you are the Chairman of the Board and the Director of Operations of Kowloon Motor Bus, and your influence over Kowloon Motor Bus is unmatched, you actually hold fewer shares in Kowloon Motor Bus than other shareholders such as the Lui family."

"Because Sir Deng, you are a shrewd investor. Kowloon Motor Bus stock is just one of your many investments. The reason you are so dedicated to working for Kowloon Motor Bus is because of your enthusiasm for Hong Kong's public service sector."

"Now, a better development opportunity is in front of us. Don't you think this is a win-win solution?"

Deng Zhaojian's expression softened as he received the compliments.

Chen Jiajun smiled slightly: "In addition to Guojun Group having acquired 34% of Kowloon Motor Bus's shares, I also control approximately 6% of Kowloon Motor Bus's shares through other channels."

The remaining 6% was held by Zhan Peizhong, Sima Xiang, Huang Shitong, and a few others.

These seemingly gentle words, laced with barbs, made Deng Zhaojian rub his bald head; he could certainly understand the implication of Chen Jiajun's words.

Even if the Kowloon Motor Bus veterans wanted to put up a last-ditch effort and wage a full-scale takeover battle, they had no chance of winning.

Because Chan Ka-Chun already holds 40% of KMB's shares, the mandatory takeover threshold has been triggered.

Deng Zhaojian picked up his teacup, took a sip, and remarked with emotion, "The younger generation surpasses the older generation."

Chen Jiajun immediately understood the implication: "So you're agreeing to my taking over the Kowloon Motor Bus Group?"

Deng Zhaojian nodded: "I have only one request."

"Please speak," Chen Jiajun gestured for him to continue.

Tang Shiu-kin said firmly, "KMB Group is a large public facilities conglomerate, and I don't want you to bring your triad-related things into it."

Chen Jiajun had no doubt about Deng Zhaojian's influence; the Deng family had been wealthy for five or six generations.
After his death, the list of pallbearers included: Luo Bishi, He Shanheng, Xiao Luobao, Shen Bi, Shao Yifu...

Law Peck was the Chief Inspector, ranking among the top five in the senior administration of British Hong Kong.

Ho Sin-hang – Founder of Hang Seng Bank.

Little Luo Bao is the same madman who threatened He Xin that "when the SJM casino opens, it will be the end of Macau."

The Venerable Master Jueguang, a highly respected monk, sealed the coffin. The Hong Kong Royal Police, Immigration Department, Fire Services Department, Correctional Services Department, Customs and Excise Department, and all other Hong Kong disciplined forces sent teams or honor guards to attend the funeral.

Various Hong Kong government agencies, community organizations, and companies organized public memorial ceremonies.

Funerals of this caliber are extremely rare in all of Hong Kong.

"Don't worry, besides, you should know that I invested in building the Kwok Chun College to provide free education for the indigenous people of the New Territories. Why would I easily ruin my reputation?"

Chen Jiajun immediately agreed.

"It's still early, why don't you stay for dinner and chat?" Deng Zhaojian's expression softened completely.

"I dare not refuse such a gift from an elder," Chen Jiajun said with a smile.

During the ensuing conversation, Chen Jiajun told Deng Zhaojian what he planned to do.

First, some measures to facilitate the public have been implemented, such as renovating the existing Kowloon bus stops and adding facilities such as lighting, sunshades, and steel chairs to address the issue of long waiting times for passengers.

In addition, self-service kiosks are set up at the stations where citizens can pay for newspapers, travel brochures, and other items, while the station signs display timetables, route maps, and other information.

Secondly, the introduction of air-conditioned double-decker buses will make public transportation more comfortable for citizens.

Then, they partnered with media companies to launch a car show radio station.

KMB Group has a lot of room for improvement in its services, but the current KMB veterans, including Lui Kok-kwan, seem to have no interest in developing the business and are just getting by.

Deng Zhaojian is now eighty years old and no longer has the energy to manage the Kowloon Motor Bus Group. He listened to Chen Jiajun's explanation and looked at the simple drawings Chen Jiajun made on the draft paper, nodding frequently.

He finally understood Chen Jiajun's intentions; Chen Jiajun could come up with all sorts of tricks just from a bus stop.

Kowloon Motor Bus carries hundreds of millions of passengers every year, and passengers spend a lot of time at bus stops. After billboards are set up at bus stops, the advertising business alone can generate a substantial income.

There are also self-service booths, bus radios, and in-vehicle TVs, all of which generate substantial income.

Deng Zhaojian gave Chen Jiajun an approving look and gave an evaluation: "Lei Juekun is indeed far inferior to you."

"Not at all, Sir Deng, you flatter me." Chen Jiajun humbly took a sip of tea.

In fact, what Chen Jiajun wanted to do was a TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) model that combines routes and properties. Simply put, it is to take public transportation stations such as bus stops as the core and build urban complexes that integrate offices, commerce, culture, education and residences in the vicinity.

The idea that he's eyeing Kowloon Motor Bus's land is complete nonsense, according to stock commentators and media figures.

According to his proposed model, KMB Group would also need to invest in purchasing properties near bus stops.

After filming "A Better Tomorrow" was completed, Chen Jiajun was even able to place advertisements at bus stops and on buses...

While I was having a lively conversation with Deng Zhaojian, Deng Zhaojian's grandson, Deng Yongqiang, returned: "Grandpa."

"Ah Qiang, come here and let me introduce you. This is Chen Jiajun, the chairman of Guojun Group. Don't let his younger age fool you; his achievements and insights in business and philanthropy far surpass yours."

Deng Zhaojian waved to Deng Yongqiang.

Deng Yongqiang stood in front of Chen Jiajun, extended his hand to him and said, "Boss Jun, I've heard so much about you. You're the leader of Hung Hing."

"Ok?"

Deng Zhaojian immediately glared at him, feeling that it was inappropriate for his grandson to expose someone's shortcomings in front of him.

Chen Jiajun smiled and waved, saying, "Sir Deng, we young people don't care about these things. Hello, Brother Qiang."

As Deng Zhaojian's grandson, Deng Yongqiang is an absolutely remarkable person. As the fifth generation of the Deng family, he holds a PhD in Philosophy from Cambridge University.

The children of wealthy families don't study engineering or civil engineering; only philosophy and art can showcase the grandeur of a wealthy family...

In fact, Deng Yongqiang lived like an aristocrat. He had his own clothing brand, his own club, and even danced with the Empress. He later became a professor at Peking University, where he taught many, many elites...

"Ah Jun, to be honest, I'm a fan of Chow Yun-fat. I heard he's making a movie for you? Can you tell me about it?"

"No, but I guarantee this movie will be a historic work in Hong Kong's film industry. I'll book an entire theater for you when it's released."

"I'll choose, so powerfully?"

"Of course, I acquired Jiahe Cinemas and Diamond Hill Studios for this film, investing hundreds of millions in total."

"Could you give me a role?"

“How about I give you a minor role? He Tian’er from the He family is currently playing minor roles in this movie.”

That evening, while dining at the Deng residence, Chen Jiajun and Deng Yongqiang chatted amiably, discussing all sorts of topics.

Towards the end of the conversation, Chen Jiajun suddenly had a whimsical idea: "Brother Qiang, would you be interested in serving as the general manager of Kowloon Motor Bus Group as a representative of Guojun Group?"

"Why me?" Deng Yongqiang asked in surprise as he exhaled a puff of his cigar.

Chan Ka-Chun frankly stated, "You know my true identity. If I were to take over as general manager of KMB Group, many people would worry that I'd be a troublemaker." "In fact, I genuinely want to develop KMB Group. If I wanted to make money or develop KMB's land, why would I do this?"

Deng Yongqiang nodded.

Chen Jiajun continued, "And you are Sir Deng's grandson, so it's more acceptable to the outside world for you to serve as the group's general manager."

Deng Yongqiang understood; he was merely the executor.

He was quite open-minded. "Since Ah Jun, your plan is so detailed, I'm willing to act as the executor, to hone my skills and accumulate experience, so that my grandfather and father won't always treat me like a child, and even my marriage will have to follow their wishes."

Chen Jiajun was amused, but Deng Yongqiang's words were absolutely from the heart; even scions of wealthy families have their own troubles.

Deng Zhaojian, who was smoking a cigar nearby, immediately cast an unfriendly glance at him, and finally shook his head and instructed, "Qiang, since Chen Jiajun invited you, you must do it conscientiously."

"Don't worry, Grandpa," Deng Yongqiang said excitedly.

He then looked at Chen Jiajun and asked, "Jun, what changes do you want to bring to the KMB Group?"

"No matter who becomes the owner of Kowloon Motor Bus, the sensitive issue of labor relations cannot be avoided. Appropriately improving the treatment of bus drivers and other grassroots employees is the most effective way to win people's hearts."

Chen Jiajun offered his earnest advice.

Deng Yongqiang nodded, continuing to adopt a posture of eagerness to hear more details.

Chen Jiajun then recounted the plans he had previously discussed with Deng Zhaojian, and finally pulled out a booklet, saying, "I have written down all the specific business plans in this booklet."

With the support of the people arranged by Chan Ka-Chun and the paving the way by veterans like Tang Shiu-Kin, the future development of the KMB Group is basically worry-free.

Upon leaving the Hong Kong government and returning to the Kwok Chun Building, James Chan, Sima Xiang, Wong Sai-tung, Law Man-sang, and others were already showing signs of impatience, having waited for quite some time.

"Have you contacted all the independent directors of the KMB Group?" Chen Jiajun asked casually after taking his seat.

In addition to representatives from founding families such as the Tang and Lui families, the board of directors of Kowloon Motor Bus Group also includes Hong Kong social elites like Hu Baiquan serving as independent directors to maintain appearances.

“I’ve already visited a bunch of people. Basically, apart from the representatives of the founding family, the KMB board members are all inclined to accept reality. What’s Sir Tang’s reaction?” James Chan asked with concern.

“Sir Deng is very supportive of my joining. You can release the news tomorrow,” Chen Jiajun said with a slight smile.

The members of the landlords' association immediately grasped the deeper meaning behind Chen Jiajun's words. They couldn't help but slap their thighs excitedly. After they left, Chen Jiajun called Lu Hantao: "Uncle Tao, it's me, Ajun. Are you still awake?"

"not yet."

"It's good that you're not asleep. I'll be there in an hour; I have something important to discuss with you."

Before Lu Hantao could react, Chen Jiajun hung up the phone and drove his Porsche to the New Territories.

"You idiot."

"Is this a place you can come and go as you please?"

Lu Hantao cursed angrily. Although he was indignant, he immediately called over the butler, Uncle Fu: "Uncle Fu, Jun is coming over later. Tell the kitchen to cook wontons for him. Remember, don't put dried shrimp in them. Jun doesn't like dried shrimp."

"I understand, sir."

The housekeeper nodded and hurried into the kitchen.

Just then, Lu Yongyu heard the name "A-Jun" and happily walked out of the room: "Dad, is Brother Jun coming over?"

"Jun-ge, Jun my foot. I told you to get to know Ah Jun better, are you stupid? You're already 21 years old, I had you when I was 18."

Lu Yongyu's behavior angered Lu Hantao so much that he slapped his cane.

"Dad, I just want to stay by your side more."

"Get out of here! Your dad can eat and drink well now, does he need you to take care of him?"

……

A large bowl of wonton noodles was served; the broth was clear, the noodles were smooth, and the wontons were huge.
Chen Jiajun brought over a bowl and first took a small sip of the piping hot soup, savoring the subtle aroma of leek sprouts.

Since he didn't like dried shrimp, the chef specially substituted it with soaked dried squid.

After adding some vinegar and pepper, Chen Jiajun quickly devoured the wonton noodles, a satisfied look on his face.

Lu Hantao said with a big smile, "Do you want more? I'll have Afu make another bowl."

"Don't eat too much; leave some for next time," Chen Jiajun praised.

After finishing their late-night snack, they went to the study. Seeing that the two were about to talk, Lu Yongyu put down an ashtray for them and said, "Brother Jun, Dad, I'm going to sleep now."

"Don't sleep yet, I need to talk to you about something that concerns you," Chen Jiajun said, lighting a cigar.

"Oh?"

"Oh?"

Lu Hantao and Lu Yongyu both looked surprised. After the two sat down, Chen Jiajun said briefly, "...In short, it is a foregone conclusion that Guojun Group will take over Kowloon Motor Bus. I have invited Deng Zhaojian's grandson, Deng Yongqiang, to serve as the general manager and have provided him with a management team."

"A brilliant move."

Lu Hantao immediately understood Chen Jiajun's intention in inviting Deng Yongqiang to serve as the general manager of Kowloon Motor Bus.

Chen Jiajun looked at Lu Yongyu and said, "Yongyu, Guojun Group has three seats on the board of directors of KMB. I'll give you one of the other two seats. I want you to join KMB Group in my place to gain experience, since the future development focus is on the New Territories."

Unlike Deng Yongqiang, Lu Yongyu wasn't as individualistic. She looked at Lu Hantao, who stroked his chin and said, "Ajun, you gave the other seat to Lu Yeqiang?"

"That's right, the other seat will be given to Lu Huangfa's son, Lu Yeqiang. A board seat in the Kowloon Motor Bus Group is very important and will benefit the future of the Lu Guo Group as well as your personal future development."

"Wherever KMB Group plans to expand its minibus routes, the land prices in the vicinity will inevitably rise."

Chen Jiajun made no attempt to hide his intention to leverage the Luk family to develop the Kowloon Motor Bus Group.

Over the years, Chan Ka-Chun has done a lot for Tuen Mun and the New Territories, and now it's time to leverage the Luk family's influence in the New Territories.

Lu Hantao naturally understood this principle, and more importantly, he wanted his daughter to get closer to Chen Jiajun.

Isn't this an opportunity right now?

Lu Hantao smiled and said, "In that case, Yongyu, why don't you go and gain some experience at the KMB Group?"

"Ah."

Lu Yongyu nodded, a blush creeping onto her cheeks, and glanced shyly at Chen Jiajun.

"Alright, you young people can chat some more. Yongyu, you should learn more from Ajun. Ajun, I'll call Afa tomorrow. If you're chatting too late, you can stay. I'll have Afu get you a room."

After Lu Hantao finished speaking, he stretched and immediately slipped out of the room, showing no signs of being an old man who needed a cane.

Chen Jiajun and Lu Yongyu looked at each other, understanding what Lu Hantao meant. Chen Jiajun was thick-skinned, but Lu Yongyu blushed even more and was at a loss for what to do in this situation.

"Brother Jun, I'll go get you a cigar." She stood up, trying to use doing something to cool her burning cheeks.

"Why bring a cigar? Why don't you come for a walk with me to digest your food?"

"Okay, okay."

"Go change your clothes."

"... "

Fifteen minutes later, Chen Jiajun and Lu Yongyu were walking through the streets and alleys of Tuen Mun.

Tuen Mun today is a completely different place from the past. With the increased foot traffic brought by the three companies, namely Kwok Chun Group, Kwok Chun Clothing, and Kwok Chun Academy, Tuen Mun is much more prosperous than before.

Every now and then, some Tuen Mun thugs and students would greet Chan Ka-Chun:

"Ada."

"Chen Sheng."

Some uncles, grandfathers, and grandmothers would chat with Chen Jiajun about everyday things.

"Mr. Chen, taking a walk with Yongyu so late?"

"Mr. Chen, when are you getting married? Will you invite us to your wedding candy?"

If Luk Wong-fat and Luk Hon-tao were the supreme rulers of Tuen Mun, then Chan Ka-chun was the great philanthropist in the hearts of the Tuen Mun natives. The free admission quota for just one college, Kwok Chun College, filled the lives of countless Tuen Mun hooligans with hope.

Now, however, they can be classmates with these middle-class and upper-class children.

“Since you came to Tuen Mun, things have changed a lot.” Away from the crowd, Lu Yongyu strolled along, trying to start a conversation.

Chen Jiajun took two puffs of his cigar, stood still, gazed at the calm sea, and said in a deep voice:
"But Tuen Mun is not a good place. In the entire New Territories, there is only the right of male children, not the right of female children."

"Lu Yongyu, the reason I brought you to the KMB Group was to show you another world, to help you escape the quagmire of Tuen Mun."

(End of this chapter)