The Malaysian entertainment industry mourns the passing of another talented individual. Sam Chong (张咏华), known more familiarly as Brother Sam (Sam哥), has passed away at 51 years old after succumbing to a heart attack.
The “Hungry Ghost Diner” actor was climbing a mountain when he suddenly fainted and was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. Friends with him during the climb had performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on him before Sam was rushed to the hospital but the rescue efforts were ineffective.
The news of the star’s passing shocked fans and members of the local entertainment industry, who took to social media to mourn Sam’s death. Actor Frederick Lee (李洺中), who has known Sam for almost 15 years, said the late actor would always bring cheer and warmth to the set. He added, “Your smile, (and) sincere attitude towards people will always be remembered and (I) will miss you forever.”
Singer Juztin Lan (劉界輝) was also shocked by the new, who he had acted alongside in a few projects. In his Instagram post, the celeb wrote about the senior actor, calling him an “elder he respects and a good friend” and saying, “I will never forget the wonderful memories of us acting together.”
Other celebrities, including Jack Lim (林德荣), Remon Lim (林奕廷) and Eric Chen (陈沛江), have also mourned the actor’s passing and sent their condolences to the late Sam’s family. According to the details of Sam’s funeral shared by family members, the late actor will be laid to rest at Wonderland Memorial Park in Senai, Johor.
Our condolences to Sam Chong’s family, friends and loved ones. May he rest in peace.
Sources: China Press (1)(2)(3)(4), Instagram (1)(2)(3)
