Andy Teh has spent years taking part in the Malaysia Film Festival. This time, he has his first Top 5 nomination, for playing Uncle Mike in Abah Saya, Uncle Mike.

Bernama’s 15 October report says the film has eight Top 5 nominations at FFM35, including Best Film. Idan Aedan is also shortlisted for Best Actor for his portrayal of Rafei.

Andy, 40, is competing in Best Supporting Actor. He told reporters that being shortlisted already meant a great deal to him, while explaining that the role offered a chance to move beyond the antagonists and action parts audiences often associate with him.

The nominations recognise a different kind of performance: a character remembered through care and relationships rather than a fight scene.

A family story anchors the film

Astro’s official synopsis says the drama is inspired by the true story of a Chinese man who raised three Malay orphans as his own children.

Gempak’s account of the film describes Rafei as the eldest sibling, determined to protect his younger brothers before they meet Uncle Mike. Cultural differences and social stigma form part of the obstacles in the dramatised story.

That is the film’s setup, rather than a claim that every scene happened exactly as shown in real life. It gives viewers a reason to look beyond the awards shortlist and towards the family at its centre.

A shortlist is recognition; the winners are another announcement

Bernama reports that this is Idan’s second FFM nomination, after the promising-actor category at FFM32 for Anak Rimau The Movie. The current achievement places him among established performers in the Best Actor contest.

The festival result has not been settled by these nominations. For now, the milestone is Andy’s first appearance in the Top 5 and a film with several parts of its creative team recognised together.

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