Bab 395: Chapter 395: I Am Also Happy to Give Away Shares
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Johor, being close to Malacca with well-connected roads, made it easy for Huang Henian to travel with his second brother, Huang Hexin, and his eldest son, Huang Linghui, to Malacca.
Upon arrival, they were greeted by streets adorned with lights and colorful flags.
"What's the occasion for all this festivity?" Huang Hexin asked, intrigued.
Huang Linghui got out of the car to inquire and learned that Governor Hardy and Mrs. Han were making their first visit to Malacca. Huang Henian remarked, "I didn't expect them to be here now. Let's head to the dock and meet the Governor."
The trio proceeded to the dock, which was bustling with activity. Security personnel in black military uniforms maintained order. These soldiers, tall and with a commanding presence, appeared to be highly trained.
Soon, a series of sirens announced the arrival of several torpedo boats, followed by eight warships in escort and, finally, a luxury yacht.
Huang Linghui murmured, "This Governor is impressive, arriving with such a large fleet of American warships."
His second uncle, Huang Hexin, explained, "I've done some research on Governor Hardy. He's worth over 8 billion dollars and ranks among the top global magnates. His wealth has surged in just a few years."
"He holds titles such as British Baron, Governor of the Cayman Islands, and the Governor of Penang and Malacca, with a hereditary Viscountcy expected next year."
"His influence extends to owning the largest TV network and newspaper in the U.S., dominating the gambling industry, and being a close ally of President Johnson. He's also a significant arms dealer and supplier."
"HD Security, his company, is the largest of its kind globally, with over 20,000 employees and access to all heavy weapons below fighter jets. Hardy's forces in Penang and Malacca exceed the British garrison in both number and capability."
"Moreover, he is Japan's economic envoy and wields considerable influence in the business world. Even Japanese Prime Ministers show him respect. Hardy's efforts in Hong Kong, coupled with the U.S. embargo, showcase his power and connections."
Huang Henian nodded in agreement, acknowledging the impressive background of Governor Hardy. Huang Linghui was taken aback by the sheer scale of Hardy's accomplishments.
As Hardy and Han Yezhen disembarked from the yacht to enthusiastic cheers, the Huang family observed Hardy's youth—he was only in his thirties—and Han Yezhen's dignified beauty.
Huang Linghui remarked, "If I had a daughter like her, our family would surely rise to prominence."
Hardy took the podium, delivering a speech on equal rights, adherence to British legal systems, economic development, and openness to investment. His assurances of a stable legal system and protection of property appealed strongly to Huang Henian.
After the speech, Hardy and Han Yezhen were driven through the streets, showered with flowers by the crowd.
"Brother, have you made a decision?" Huang Hexin asked.
Huang Henian replied with determination, "Yes, we're moving forward. I plan to purchase land in Malacca, build a new house, and relocate the family. We'll also transfer our business operations and company registration to Malacca for added security."
"We need to establish contact with Hardy. This partnership is crucial for the Huang family's future."
Huang Hexin agreed, and the three visited the Hardy Investment Company in Malacca. They were informed that all staff were occupied with greeting Mr. Hardy and were advised to make an appointment for business discussions.
The next day, they returned to the company. Paul, a senior manager, greeted them warmly in the VIP room.
"Hello, Mr. Huang. What can we discuss today?" Paul asked.
"We want to become a cooperative enterprise with Hardy Company," Huang Henian stated, detailing the Huang family's assets, including plantations, rubber forests, and factories, with a total worth of about four to five million dollars.
Paul responded, "We need to conduct a detailed assessment of your assets and value."
Huang Henian agreed, and a team led by Paul, accompanied by security personnel, visited the Huang family's industrial park for evaluation. They assessed the company's accounts, land leases, equipment, and historical records, ultimately valuing the assets at 3.5 million dollars.
The Huang family decided to sell 30% of their shares to Hardy Investment Group, while the group proposed a 40% share. The Huang family retained control and operational rights.
The final agreement saw the Hardy Group investing 1.4 million dollars, offset by the group's support policies, which included financial, technical, and sales channel assistance. The Huang family's products would benefit from Hardy's extensive global network.
Paul assured that Hardy Group companies would be protected by HD Defense, providing legal tax protection and safeguarding against harassment.
The final agreement was that the Huang family would transfer 40% of their shares to Hardy Investment Company. Hardy Group would provide technical support in agriculture, faster loans through Wells Fargo, and comprehensive sales channels.
The Huang family would pay an annual security premium of 150,000 dollars to HD Security, but this amount was offset by the support received.
Huang Henian and Huang Hexin signed the contract, which was notarized and became effective.
Huang Linghui, perplexed, questioned, "Father, second uncle, are we really giving away 40% of our property and paying a 150,000-dollar protection fee?"
Huang Henian responded, "Linghui, you're still young. The current situation is precarious. Despite the costs, aligning with Hardy Group offers unparalleled protection and opportunities. The 40% share is a safeguard against the volatility we face. With Hardy's channels, our business will thrive."
Huang Hexin agreed, "The Hardy Group's involvement secures our future. Any attempts to undermine us would be countered by Hardy's influence."
Huang Linghui began to understand the strategic value of their decision.
Bab 396: Chapter 396: When the "Hans Pharmaceuticals" Thunderstorm Was Underway
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Penang beach was a picture of tranquility, with a large area cordoned off and black-clad guards stationed every few meters. On the beach, Han Yezhen, dressed in a floral dress, cradled her son in her arms while Hardy, in nothing but swim trunks, played in the sand with their child.
The little Byrne was in high spirits, his small legs flailing in the sand. Every time the waves tickled his toes, he let out gleeful squeals. Exhausted from the day's fun, Byrne eventually dozed off in Hardy's arms.
Han Yezhen reclined on a beach blanket, savoring the peaceful scene of father and son.
"Yezhen, I need to discuss something with you," Hardy said.
"What's up?" Han Yezhen asked, turning to face him.
"I plan to grant you residency status for Malacca and Penang, making it dual nationality," Hardy said.
"Why's that?" Han Yezhen inquired, puzzled.
"There's going to be a member election soon. I intend for you to enter parliament and eventually become the speaker," Hardy explained.
Han Yezhen nodded in agreement. "Alright, if you think it's best. But what exactly will being a speaker involve?"
Hardy gave a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. We have a team in place to help you with everything. You'll get the hang of it as you go."
Hardy was confident about Han Yezhen's future role. The Hardy Group had a well-trained administrative team, which had already established a government team for the dominion swiftly. His vision for governance was pragmatic; he wasn't about to invest heavily just to create a façade of democracy. He aimed to safeguard his interests while maintaining a semblance of democratic processes.
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The first assembly of the Dominions of Penang and Malacca had convened, comprising 59 councillors, including British and American dual nationals, as well as representatives from Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. They were mostly local gentry and influential figures, as the concept of popular elections was still developing.
The assembly elected a speaker, a deputy speaker, and a secretary. Han Yezhen was chosen as the first chairman of the dominion. Though some might argue that this was nepotism, the process was entirely legal and part of the democratic framework Hardy was putting in place.
The deputy speaker was William Wallace, an American dual national known for his democratic leanings, while the secretary to the speaker was a Chinese individual. Their roles were to assist Han Yezhen in managing the council and ensuring its smooth operation, especially when she was away.
Han Yezhen would continue to reside in Hong Kong, preferring its safety and the presence of her beloved career museum. Her role as speaker was more symbolic, as Hardy was the true power behind the scenes.
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In the Temporary Governor's Mansion, Chief Minister Peter Smith and Economy Minister James Ryan were briefing Hardy.
"Your Excellency, construction of the Governor's Palace has begun. We've received applications from five design firms from the US and UK," Peter Smith reported.
Hardy nodded. The location for the Governor's Palace was carefully selected by Feng Shui experts from the Hong Kong Hadi Group. The chosen site was an area with favorable Feng Shui, situated on elevated terrain with a sea view and a sprawling 1,100-acre garden.
"There are twelve confirmed corporate projects, including new terminals in Penang and Malacca. These will provide freight ports, fuel, supplies, and transshipment services," Peter Smith continued.
While Hardy had a more extensive terminal project planned for Singapore, the focus for Penang and Malacca was on business distinct from Hardy Group's interests.
"The temporary government office will continue to be used until a larger one is built. The court, prosecutor's office, and police station are already operational. Immigration has surged, with over two thousand new arrivals, predominantly Chinese and a few British farmers. The number of Malays remains low."
"There are now over 60 Malayan business owners and estate owners who have signed agreements with Hardy Investment, totaling over 34 million USD," Smith added. "Interestingly, all signatories are Chinese."
This was a testament to the growing trust within the Chinese community, as exemplified by Huang Henian's bold move to secure protection by selling 40% of his family's assets.
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Hardy's assistant interrupted, presenting a telegram from the US:
"Hans Pharmaceuticals Thunderstorm."
Hardy contemplated briefly before instructing his assistant, "Make arrangements for my return to the United States."
The next day, Hardy took Han Yezhen and their child to Hong Kong, where they spent the night at Taipingshan Manor. Hardy then flew to the United States alone.
Upon arrival in the US, Andy was there to greet him. In the car, he handed Hardy a copy of the Los Angeles Financial Times with a headline that read: "A Massive Scam: Hans Pharmaceuticals' Myth Exposed."
The article detailed the scandal surrounding Hans Pharmaceuticals, revealing that the company's purported breakthrough drug was ineffective and that experimental data from Africa had been falsified. This scandal was expected to have far-reaching implications.
Andy confirmed, "Yes, we're shorting Hans Pharmaceuticals."
Hardy smiled, knowing this was the culmination of a well-orchestrated plan. The operation had not only earned them substantial cash but also positioned them advantageously for future opportunities.
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