Ali Lee, who won the Best Actress Award at the Hong Kong TV Awards for her role in the TVB drama "BB is Coming," will make her first appearance in a Malaysian production after leaving TVB, with the new drama "Yi He." She will be reuniting with her former co-star Lai Lok-yi. This drama is expected to air at the end of this year and is one of the key highlights of Astro’s 2025 lineup, eagerly anticipated by viewers.
At a media gathering on Wednesday, Astro announced this news. "Yi He," featuring actors from Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, focuses on the power struggles within a small-town gang following the death of its leader, leading to power shifts and scheming.
Lai Lok-yi confirmed during an interview with Hong Kong media that he is currently coordinating his schedule to participate in the filming. He stated that this opportunity is highly attractive, not only because he can collaborate with Ali Lee again but also because Malaysia is a place he loves very much. "I really hope to finalize the schedule soon so that everyone can hear this good news." He revealed that since "Yi He" is produced by the Malaysian side, there is no need for arrangements to be reported to TVB. Ali Lee responded briefly with a smiling face emoji, indicating her excitement about the project.
Additionally, at the Astro 2025 program release event, several key highlights were unveiled, ranging from heartwarming romantic and family comedies, thrilling supernatural stories, to popular reality shows and singing competitions, offering a rich and diverse lineup of Chinese content. This year also sees the joining of heavyweight Hong Kong artists, and the return of the celebrated rookie singing competition.
One of the most anticipated highlights is the strong return of the classic rookie singing competition, initially launched in 1997 and taking a break from the stage in 2016. Now rebranded as "Rising Rookie!" it will reignite on October 11, providing a platform for young singers to showcase their talents.
The competition will be hosted by Astro presenter Xiao Huimin alongside emerging singer Cai Enyu, with Hong Kong Emperor Entertainment executive and renowned agent Mani Fok as a professional judge, offering expert guidance. The 2002 rookie champion Nicholas Teo will also make a special appearance to lead the new generation of singers; also present will be artist Pei Yong, who is popular among young audiences, injecting youthful vitality into the competition.
Another highly anticipated event, "Astro Classic Golden Melodies Singing Competition 2025," will grandly debut on July 19, welcoming its 25th edition. The event will be co-hosted by Yan Jianghan and Wen Huiyin, with legendary Hong Kong artist Nancy Sit as a resident judge, joining previous champions and golden melody singers to write a new chapter of classic tunes.
Astro’s Head of Chinese Content Production, Lee Chi Cheng, stated that this year’s content will be more relatable for local audiences, combining elements of emotion, music, and entertainment with the aim of providing a higher quality television experience for Chinese families across Malaysia.