Malaysia is a nation of many races and faiths calling this country home. That spirit shines through in the new local film, “Abah Saya Uncle Mike”, about a bachelor named Mike Tong (Andy Teh) who opens his home – and heart – to three orphaned Malay siblings, raising them as his own.
The boys – Rafie (Idan Aedan), Rasyid (Merah Muhaimin) and Rahman (Umar Shakur) – were once living in an orphanage in which Rafie, the eldest, was often caned by Ustaz Shaari (Sobri Anuar), the man running the home.
Mike first meets Rafie when the orphaned teenager responds to his advertisement about a room for rent. Curious, Mike visits the orphanage only to find the teen locked up as punishment for trying to escape. By then, Rafie’s brothers had been relocated.
Seeing Mike, Ummi (Nadiya Nisaa), a worker there, begs him to take Rafie in. Horrified by the treatment of the teen, Mike agrees.
What begins as a two-week arrangement becomes permanent, with Mike later welcoming Rafie’s brothers as well into his home.
Mike’s decision sparks tension with his girlfriend, Nancy (Pauline Tan), and his father (Chew Kin Wah), particularly since he goes to great lengths to ensure the boys remain grounded in their Muslim faith.
The movie is directed by Ezrie Gazali and produced by Astro Shaw, while the the plot is inspired by the true story of Michael Tong, who took in three Malay brothers, becoming both a father and mother figure to them.
The film’s powerful message is anchored by Teh’s portrayal of Uncle Mike. Although known for his action roles, Teh delivers a solid performance here and tackles emotionally charged scenes with depth and sincerity.
His chemistry with the actors who play the brothers is evident, making their bond feel authentic, and reinforcing the film’s message.
Idan also delivers a commendable performance as Rafie, the one determined to keep his family together. Scenes of him enduring Ustaz Shaari’s caning in silence is heart-wrenching.
Having met the real Rahman, this writer found Umar’s portrayal of him especially convincing as he expertly captures the youngest sibling’s cheekiness and charm.
If there is one grouse, it’s that Mandy Chong, who plays Mike’s mother, did not have more screen time. From her first meeting with Rafie, she exudes a warmth that puts him at ease – the kind that may remind the audience of their “opah”, “patti” or “popo”.
Long after the credits fade, the film’s message lingers as Uncle Mike’s actions show that love and respect can transcend ethnicity and boundaries.
Early in the movie, two scenes stand in striking contrast: in the first, Rafie returns to the orphanage after working all night at a market, hoping to earn enough so he and his brothers can escape. He ends up facing the wrath of Ustaz Shaari, who canes him for sneaking out and missing prayers.
In contrast, during Mike’s first encounter with Rafie, he offers the teenager his own sandals as Rafie’s shoes are worn out. He even gives Rafie a bottle of soft drink.
While in his care, Mike reminds the boys to pray, and even arranges Quran classes for them. During the first Chinese New Year celebration with his family, they order food from a halal restaurant, and even buy new cutlery to put the siblings at ease.
For older audiences, these scenes may evoke memories of a time when those of different races played together, shared meals and lived in harmony. It’s a poignant reminder that Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity.
Overall, “Abah Saya Uncle Mike” is more than just a film: it’s a timely reminder that love, respect and unity remain the true spirit of Malaysia.
On Merdeka Day, moviegoers at TGV Central i-City were in for a treat when Teh, Idan, Merah and Umar appeared alongside the real Uncle Mike, Rafie and Rahman. Their presence delighted the audience, with one attendee remarking: “I’ve never been to a movie screening like this!”
Addressing the audience, Teh summed up the film perfectly: “This is not just a Malay movie – it is a Malaysian movie, made by Malaysians, for Malaysians.”
As of press time, ‘Abah Saya Uncle Mike’ is screening in cinemas nationwide.