Li Ka-shing urges protesters to return home

Hong Kong's richest tycoon Li Ka- shing on Wednesday called on the Occupy Central protesters to go back home.

Li said in a statement that if Hong Kong's rule of law breaks down, it would be the "greatest sorrow" for the city.

Since Hong Kong's return to China in 1997, the "one country, two systems" formula has guaranteed Hong Kong's lifestyle, and promoting progress in the political system can ensure a future after the formula remains unchanged for 50 years, said Li.

"We can totally understand the students' passion, but their ' pursuit' must be guided with wisdom and everyone should abide by the rule of law," he added.

"Your parents, family members, the Hong Kong people and the central government are concerned about you, and you have successfully made your voices heard," he told the young protesters.

"I urge everyone not to be agitated and not to let today's passion become tomorrow's regrets. I sincerely appeal to everyone to go back to their families immediately," Li said.

The Occupy Central protest started off on Sept. 28, with thousands of protesters blocking major roads in several districts in Hong Kong to express discontent with electoral reform package for choosing the region's next leader.