Many Malaysians are eagerly awaiting 7th October – that’s the day when Marvel Studio’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” is scheduled to hit local cinemas!
We can’t wait to see Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh (楊紫瓊) and comedian Ronny Chieng (錢信伊) on screen. In fact, yesterday (16th September), Marvel released a short video of Ronny. The actor not only promoted the movie, he also proved he’s still a bona fide Malaysian with a few choices of Malay phrases.
The 35-year-old actor was born in Johor Bahru but schooled in Singapore. He later began comedy acting in Australia. Ronny made it big on the American talk show “The Daily Show” and ended up starring in “Crazy Rich Asians” in 2018. This time, in “Shang-Chi”, Ronny will be portraying Jon Jon, an underground fighting arena manager.
In an earlier interview with Channel News Asia (CNA), Ronny admitted that Jon Jon was a total ‘Ah Beng’. He drew on his experiences in Malaysia and Singapore to properly convey his character. “You know, I was speaking Chinese in it. At one point I dropped Bahasa Melayu in there as well,” he said. “In Singapore, that’s how we roll! We just go (in and out).”
Of course, saying it is one thing. Ronny proved he still had a grasp for the language when he promoted the movie yesterday. “Selamat Hari Malaysia! (Happy Malaysia Day!)” he greeted. “Johor Bahru kampung saya. Saya anak Malaysia! (Johor Bahru is my hometown. I’m Malaysia’s son!)”
Ronny may be living in the States currently, but he’s still a Malaysian at heart. His language skills weren’t the only proof. Ronny pulled out his Malaysian passport and promised he still uses his “lahs and mehs” all the time. He even demonstrated his ability to order like a pro at the local coffee shop (kopitiam)— a must for any Malaysian.
Although “Shang-Chi” isn’t out yet, we are definitely looking forward to it, especially with the promise of hearing our accent and language in the blockbuster movie. In the meantime, avoid spoilers and stay safe!
Check out his interview and promo video here:
