19-7-2024 (IPOH) The Malaysian entertainment scene has been abuzz with excitement as a slew of Hong Kong celebrities have been spotted across the country in recent weeks. The latest star to grace Malaysian soil is none other than the veteran actor Simon Yam, who was seen relishing a plate of bean sprouts chicken at a local eatery in Ipoh, Perak.
On Wednesday, the proprietor of the restaurant took to Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese social media platform, to share a series of photographs featuring the esteemed actor. The post, which quickly garnered attention, was captioned: “I met a celebrity in Ipoh! Simon Yam is here. He’s very nice, considerate and friendly.”
Yam, 69, cut a casual figure in a denim jacket, olive green cargo trousers, and a cap. According to eyewitness accounts, the actor exhibited a down-to-earth demeanour, willingly posing for photographs with both patrons and staff members of the establishment.
While the purpose of Yam’s current visit remains undisclosed, it’s worth noting that the actor’s affinity for Malaysia dates back to the 1980s. In previous interviews, Yam has expressed that visiting Malaysia feels akin to “returning home”, highlighting his deep-rooted connection with the country.
This isn’t Yam’s first foray into Malaysia this year. In May, he was in Penang for a promotional event, where he enthusiastically shared his love for local cuisine. The actor listed char kway teow, laksa, oyster omelette, and chicken rice among his favourite Malaysian dishes, demonstrating his appreciation for the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Yam’s appearance in Ipoh is part of a recent trend that has seen numerous Hong Kong celebrities making their way to Malaysia. Local social media has been alight with sightings of other prominent figures such as Nicholas Tse, Bosco Wong, Jackson Wang, and Anita Yuen, leading some netizens to quip that “half of the Hong Kong entertainment industry has come to Malaysia”.
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