Nandagopall Mohan : 'Sayang Sayang' Film Earned Him a Golden Horse Nomination

For many actors, making their feature film debut is a milestone in itself. For Malaysian actor Nandagopall Mohan, his first step onto the big screen has brought an unexpected honour, a nomination at one of Asia’s most prestigious film awards.

Nandagopall has been nominated for Best New Performer at the 63rd Golden Horse Awards for his performance in Sayang Sayang, marking a remarkable moment in his acting journey. The recognition came as a surprise to the actor, who never imagined that his very first film role would take him this far.

“Receiving a Best New Performer nomination at the Golden Horse Awards through my first film is something I never imagined,” he shared.

Yet, for Nandagopall, the nomination means more than personal recognition. It is also an opportunity to bring attention to the experiences and stories of people in the Deaf community.

“More meaningful than the recognition itself is the opportunity to bring Ajay to life and share a story that represents individuals in the Deaf community,” he said.

It is this sense of purpose that makes his journey with Sayang Sayang especially meaningful. Moving from theatre to film brings a different set of challenges for any actor. While the stage demands projection and performance that can reach an entire audience, the camera captures even the smallest expressions, gestures and silences.

For Nandagopall, making his feature film debut in Sayang Sayang offered an opportunity to explore a new side of his craft while taking on a character whose experiences required care, understanding and authenticity.

His portrayal of Ajay is central to a story that goes beyond dialogue, placing emphasis on expression, human connection and the everyday experiences of people whose lives are often underrepresented on screen.

The role also places responsibility on the actor to approach the character with sensitivity, ensuring that Ajay is seen not merely through his disability, but as a person with his own identity, dreams, emotions and place in the world.

Set against the backdrop of Malaysia’s East Coast, Sayang Sayang follows three young Deaf characters from different backgrounds, Ajay, Mina and San San as they navigate their identities, pursue their dreams and search for where they belong.

Their journeys are connected by family, the land and the sea, as well as the love that binds them together. Through their individual experiences, the film presents a moving portrait of life, relationships and the universal desire to be understood.

Rather than focusing solely on the challenges faced by the Deaf community, the film invites audiences to look beyond differences and recognise the hopes, struggles and aspirations that people share. For Nandagopall, bringing Ajay’s story to life offers a chance to help audiences better understand a community whose experiences deserve greater visibility and representation.

Nandagopall’s nomination is particularly significant as he is reported to be the first Malaysian Indian actor to receive a nomination at the Golden Horse Awards.

For an actor making his feature film debut, the achievement represents an encouraging start. It also shines a spotlight on Malaysian talent and the stories that local filmmakers can bring to a wider international audience.

The recognition reflects the collaborative effort behind Sayang Sayang, which brings together more than 100 cast members and film professionals from Malaysia, Taiwan and India.

The film features Taiwanese actor Lee Lee-Zen and rising actress Sasha Tang, alongside Malaysian performers including Jo Kukathas, Ong Ai Leng, Farah Ahmad, Amir Ahnaf, Vemanna Appannah, Khir Rahman, Mia Tan Shu Man, Jonathan Lee and Tan Li Yang.

Its screenplay has also received recognition, winning the Outstanding Award at the 44th Excellent Screenplay Awards presented by Taiwan’s Bureau of Audiovisual and Music Industry Development under the Ministry of Culture. The project was also selected for the Golden Horse Film Project Promotion programme.

Together, these achievements reflect the film’s journey beyond the screen and the collective work involved in bringing its story to life.

While award nominations can mark important milestones in an actor’s career, Sayang Sayang carries a message that extends beyond the accolades. At its heart, the film is about people trying to find their place in the world, something audiences can relate to regardless of their background or abilities.

By sharing Ajay’s journey, Nandagopall hopes the film will encourage viewers to look beyond appearances and differences, listen with greater understanding and recognise the humanity in every person. His Golden Horse nomination may be a milestone he never expected, but the opportunity to represent a community through his first film appears to be just as meaningful.

Sayang Sayang will be released in Malaysian cinemas on November 5, 2026, following its Taiwan screening on October 16.

For Nandagopall Mohan, it is more than a film debut. It is the beginning of a journey that has already brought international recognition and an opportunity to help a story that matters reach more people.