Penang becomes hotspot for Hong Kong and Chinese celebrities

Hong Kong actor Philip Keung and Chinese artiste Samantha Ko were in Penang last month to shoot their film, 'Lock War'. Photo: Samantha Ko/Instagram

Penang seems to be a favourite hotspot for Hong Kong and Chinese celebrities.

In recent months, we have seen stars like Ruco Chan, Aaron Kwok, Bosco Wong and Dickson Lee expressing their love for the beautiful state.

Adding to the list are Hong Kong actor Philip Keung and Chinese artiste Samantha Ko who were in George Town last month for their movie, Lock War.

In an interview with China Press, Keung revealed that he was interested in making a movie about Penang because of its cultural heritage.

“I discussed my plans with the Penang government before but it’s still in progress and hasn’t been confirmed yet,” he shared, adding that his love for Penang began six years ago when he was holidaying in the state.

Prior to filming Lock War, the 56-year-old hasn’t been in Penang for three years due to the pandemic.

Although the lifestyle of people in Penang has changed since then, Keung said he loved how the “human touch” of Penang remained unchanged.

“People in Penang can speak Cantonese so it’s easy to get along and befriend them. In a way, Penang feels very nostalgic for me.

"It’s strange how I’ve never seen certain places before yet it still seems somewhat familiar,” he explained.

Meanwhile, his co-star Ko told China Press that even though this was her first time visiting Penang, she is interested in buying a house there.

“I’m happy because Penang gave me so many good memories. It’s such a welcoming city too.

"I love the sea view at Batu Ferringhi, so I might get a property somewhere by the sea," she elaborated, adding that real estate agents can contact her anytime to recommend good properties in Penang.

During her three-week stay in the city, Ko revealed that she took advantage of the gaps between filming to go sightseeing.

The 37-year-old said that George Town was her favourite location.

“There's one area in George Town that has mini libraries made from abandoned phone booths. It left the biggest impression on me.

"At that time, I asked the driver to turn around and I got out of the car to snap some pictures,” Ko shared.

Lock War is funded by award-winning actor Louis Koo and features Keung, Ko, Raymond Wong, Benz Hui and Malaysian actress Yumi Wong.

It is expected to be released at the end of this year.