Following the success of the first film, the highly anticipated Malaysian epic action sequel, Gayong 2, has officially made its return to cinemas on 9 April, as it continues the legacy of Datuk Meor Abdul Rahman, the founder of Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia.
For those unfamiliar with the popular Malaysian film, the first instalment of Gayong was a biopic about the late great Datuk Meor Abdul Rahman (played by Beto Kusyairy), who was the grandmaster and founder of Silat Gayong Malaysia.
It focused on Meor’s dedication to teaching silat and his struggle to balance his responsibilities as a teacher and family man, while also highlighting his role as a protector of his community against invaders during the World War II era.
Gayong 2 picks up Meor’s story as a CID officer within the British Police Force in 1950s Singapore, following the Japanese Occupation. It is within this role where he discovers corruption within the police ranks, that involves a high-ranking officer (played by Bobby Tonelli), linked to the Chinese triads who were operating opium businesses under the protection of corrupt officials.
Here’s a look at the trailer for Gayong 2.
Prior to the film’s release, we caught up with Bobby Tonelli to find out more about his role in Gayong 2 and how he prepared for his role, especially with the fight scenes.
Hi Bobby! How did you come about this role in Gayong 2?
Bobby Tonelli: “I was invited to audition for Gayong 2 here in Singapore, even though the film is based in Malaysia. I had worked with the director previously on a pilot project for Mediacorp Channel 5, and while that show didn’t move forward, I must have left an impression.
Initially, the role of SP Malcolm—set in the 1950s Singapore police force—was different. Malcolm originally had a henchman doing the fighting and enforcing. However, after I landed the part, they reworked it so Malcolm became a lethal brawler himself—still a corrupt officer, but more hands-on.”
Tell us a little bit about your character.
Bobby: “SP Malcolm operates in 1950s Singapore, high up in the police force yet he is deeply entangled with the triads—also known as secret societies. He’s involved with opium, underground fighting, and helps criminals evade the law, while profiting himself.
The lead character, Abdul Rahman Meor, suspects corruption within the police force—specifically Malcolm—but pinning Malcolm to the crimes is challenging because he covers his tracks well.”
What was the most challenging part about filming?
Bobby: “The most challenging part was definitely the physical aspect of filming. There were fight sequences far beyond my prior skill level, and even though I’ve had some Krav Maga and boxing experience, this demanded much more.
I worked with Yayan Ruhian, the renowned Indonesian fight choreographer known for The Raid, John Wick, and Star Wars for the intense fight choreography. He and his team put the fights together, and we spent countless hours refining them.”
Let’s talk about the preparation for your role in this film. What did you have to do?
Bobby: “Preparing for the role meant transforming my physique into a lean, strong fighter that was appropriate in the 1950s.
Early on, I trained with Interpulse Fitness using EMS suits, which were recommended by a friend, that rapidly enhanced strength, endurance, and stamina, with the suit adjusting intensity by muscle group. I also included weight training and cardio.
Additionally, I followed a high-protein, low-carb diet, taking carbs only as needed, to keep my body lean. When I arrived in Malaysia for filming, I followed an intense routine, two times a day, which involved morning cardio, weights, full-day fight training, and sometimes evening conditioning. This built the endurance I needed for long shoots, such as the fight pit scene, which took a full day, so that I could perform realistically and remain injury-free.”
There were quite a few “fight scenes” in the trailer. Did you have to actually hit anyone or get hit by anyone?
Bobby: “You’re trained not to make contact but camera angles or slow-motion shots require the need for you to make contact in order to create something realistic.
We kept it safe with no real accidents though we did encounter one during the final fight with Beto Kusyairy (who plays Meor). It was late at night when he did a silat claw move near my face. He was supposed to miss, but he made contact. I was shocked by it but It didn’t hurt, so I went with it.
Beto is a total professional even though he felt awful and was very apologetic when it happened. Everyone asked if I was okay, but I just thought: did we get that shot? It probably looked real! Whether they kept it or not, that was the only moment. In fight scenes, it’s a dance of trust. Everyone did a fantastic job with the beautiful choreography and I’m thrilled with how it turned out.”
While on set, how did you keep yourself occupied when you’re not filming?
Bobby: “When I was on set waiting to film, I stayed somewhat in the character’s mindset, ready to go, but still friendly and approachable. I’d read, go online, or chat with others, but always kept my focus on being ready to step back in.
On off days, Fauzie Laily, a Singaporean actor, and I spent time together. We’d hit the gym, grab food, and hang out, as our schedules differed and we stayed in different hotels in Ipoh. When we had time though, we got to know each other well and Fauzie’s fantastic.”
Which actors within this film inspired you, and who should we look out for?
Bobby: “All the actors were incredibly talented. Beto Kusyairy was phenomenal, Nabila Huda brought so much depth, and Rabbit Chen stood out as well.
I also want to mention Sandra Lim. Many know her as a former Miss Malaysia, but she really impressed me because she’s a talented actress and a great fighter. When you hear ‘Miss Malaysia,’ you might think of just beauty, but she’s a standout in her performance.
Honestly, I became a fan of all their work. You should definitely watch how each of them brings authenticity and intensity to the screen in the film.”
