Hong Kong entrepreneur Lui Che-woo rises from a tough beginning to run property, hotel and gambling businesses
Lui Che-woo had to struggle in his youth; he now runs property and hotel businesses and most recently a gambling franchise in Macau
"Being rich doesn't necessarily make you happy!" This frank statement coming from the mouth of tycoon Lui Che-woo, one of Asia's richest men who experienced hardships in his early days, carries as much weight as the business empire he forged with his own hands many decades ago.
So for the property and casino tycoon who recently created a buzz in the philanthropic world with his Lui Che Woo Prize, nothing is more important than having a peaceful and loving mind and knowing how to appreciate the good in the world.
At the age of 86, the chairman of K. Wah Group and Galaxy Entertainment has already penned his thoughts in his will to ensure his children continue his philanthropic vision through his various foundations.
"My children are all filial. I have already laid down my plans in my will and there's nowhere they can escape," he told the at his North Point headquarters.
The philanthropist - who had an estimated net worth of US$8.9 billion in August - declined to be compared with Hong Kong's richest man, Li Ka-shing, amid mainland media suggestions that he could replace Li as the city's "spiritual leader" because of his strong adherence to traditional Chinese values.
"I have my own [philanthropic] vision while other people have their own way of thinking. I only care about how we can enforce our objectives and spread goodwill," he said.
Indeed Lui, who is well-known for his keen eye for business opportunities, especially his decision to enter the gambling business in Macau at the age of 73, has shown a strong determination to create his own wealth and help others through his money.
