KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 — The relationship between Hong Kong cinema and Malaysian audiences stretches back to the golden era of the 1980s and 1990s.

While some may argue that local interest has waned, the passion remains alive, with many still embracing contemporary titles.

Icons such as Aaron Kwok, Chow Yun-fat and Leslie Cheung — along with legendary actresses Anita Mui and Amy Yip — continue to be fondly remembered across the nation.

Today, a new generation is carrying the torch, and among them is rising talent Locker Lam (Lam Ka-Hei), who is steadily making his mark and helping to reignite interest in modern Hong Kong films.

The actor was among the stars who took the stage last weekend at the opening of the Hong Kong Gala Film Presentation 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, giving many fans their first glimpse of him in person.

It was not, however, Lam’s first visit to Malaysia.

Love for Malaysian food, personal hobbies and acting beginnings

In an interview with Malay Mail, Lam expressed his fondness for Malaysian cuisine, citing favourites such as bak kut teh, nasi lemak, kaya toast and lala claypot.

He also shared some of his personal interests, including football and cooking — hobbies that reflect his laid-back, down-to-earth personality.

“My hobbies and interests are already quite open on my social media,” he said.

Acting, Lam revealed, began almost by accident.

“Back in school, they needed someone for a role, so I joined the shoot.

“Slowly, I grew to love acting, partly because of my playful personality and curiosity,” he said.

“Over time, I realised acting allows me to experience many different roles and lives, broadening my perspective of the world.

“It has contributed greatly to my personal growth and career, and on a deeper level, I believe being an actor also requires a sense of cultivation and self-refinement.”

Behind the scenes of Fight for Tomorrow

Lam has already made a strong impression in dramas such as In Geek We Trust and The Parents League, as well as in films like Tai-Lee Chan’s Fight for Tomorrow, in which he plays Stone Shek Tau, a son and boxer.

The film was among the titles screened at the festival’s Kuala Lumpur stop.

Speaking about the production, Lam said it involved elements of street fighting reminiscent of the Young and Dangerous (1996–2000) era.

“The challenge was that I only had three weeks to prepare before filming started.

“During that period, my life was like that of a fighter — waking up at 6am for a run, training in Muay Thai, resting, studying the script, then running again at night — all while maintaining peak physical condition,” he said.

“The physical demands were a huge challenge. Filming itself was also tough, as the schedule was very tight and the daily hours were long.”

Locker Lam shares his experience on the set of the film ‘Fight for Tomorrow’. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Looking ahead

Lam said he plans to slow down and be more selective with future projects.

“In the next five years, I will take on fewer projects. I plan to be more selective with my roles and focus on meaningful stories. In the past, I might have done six films a year, but going forward, I’d prefer to focus on maybe one major production a year,” he said.

As for the ongoing festival in Kuala Lumpur, Lam hopes Malaysian audiences will enjoy Fight for Tomorrow, screened on September 21 — a gripping story of personal redemption and the fight for a better future.

The film also showcases Lam’s impressive range and emotional depth, giving audiences a deeper appreciation of his craft.