By John Ogunsemore
Iconic actor, Jackie Chan has mourned late famous Singaporean columnist and food critic, Chua Lam, whom he said taught him “many ideas about filmmaking”.
The Hong Kong-based Lam died aged 83 on Wednesday.
In a tribute shared on Facebook on Friday, the Rush Hour star described Lam as his “half master”.
Chan, 71, said the late food critic taught him not only about filmmaking but also wine tasting, collecting valuable items, and enjoying a good life.
He said, “Many years ago, while shooting with Sammo Hung and Yuen Biao in Europe, I remember a guy who taught us many things.
“His stories were very fresh and inspiring for us youngsters. He told us that he already knew how to enjoy life when he was very young because from his point of view, enjoying life is the true way to cherish life.
“He always took us out for a good time; taught us wine tasting and collecting valuable items; and also taught us many ideas about filmmaking.
“That’s why I have full respect for him as my “half-master”. His name is Chua Lam (I usually call him Chua-san).”
Chan disclosed that he was on a film set when he was informed about Lam’s passing.
He added, “The first thing that surfaced in my mind were the times we filmed together overseas. Back then, he taught me many meaningful lessons, and it wasn’t until later in life that I started to slowly understand.
“I recall him saying how our time on earth is about learning how to live, how to die, and how to survive.
“And the most important thing in life depends on whether you’re happy or not. I know that he lived a free-spirited and joyful life, which is most important.
Chua-san once said, ‘People eventually leave in life. You can miss them, but don’t miss them too much.’ I would like to say to him, rest in peace. Just like many other people around the world, I will always miss you.”
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