'Is it safe?': HK actor Nick Cheung on learning mall is built at Pudu Jail site

HK actor Nick Cheung was in Kuala Lumpur to attend the 7th Malaysia International Film Festival. Photo: Handout

Even after 11 years, Hong Kong actor Nick Cheung has vivid memories of his time filming the horror movie, Hungry Ghost Ritual, in Malaysia in 2013.

During a recent media conference in Kuala Lumpur, Cheung reminisced about passing by the century-old Pudu Jail, which was in the process of being demolished at the time.

"People said that this prison couldn't be demolished. Has it been demolished now?" the 59-year-old asked.

Upon learning that the a mall now occupies the site, the filmmaker joked: "Is it safe?"

Cheung was in KL to promote his upcoming movie, Peg O' My Heart, which made its global premiere at Udine's Far East Film Festival in Italy earlier in April.

The psychological horror also closed the 7th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest), where the actor was honored with the Award for Excellent Achievement in Film.

During the media conference, Cheung said he has a fear of ghosts.

He also admitted he needed someone to accompany him in his KL hotel room after filming Hungry Ghost Ritual as he was too scared to sleep alone.

Despite his fear, the Line Walker actor enjoys the challenges that come with filming horror movies.

Cheung added that many seniors have cautioned him against making too many ghost films as it would bring bad luck. However, he believes that times have changed now.

"The range of themes in movies these days have evolved to some extent. I hope to create more films of this nature (horror) so that audiences have more options.

"Whether one chooses to watch it or not (doesn't matter). It's better than not having anyone to make it at all," he said.