Malaysians are brimming with pride over the latest honour bestowed upon Michelle Yeoh, the celebrated actress whose accomplishments have not only delighted audiences worldwide but also shattered stereotypes and bridge cultural divides.
On Friday, Yeoh was among 19 esteemed individuals to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, in recognition of her "exemplary contributions" to culture and society.
Photo via The Star
At the White House ceremony, President Joe Biden presented the award to the Oscar-winning star, praising her for her trailblazing roles and her impact on American and global culture. “Over four decades on and off the screen, Michelle Yeoh has shattered stereotypes and glass ceilings to enrich and enhance American culture," Biden said. "Her roles transcend gender, cultures, and languages, from martial arts to romantic comedies to science fiction, showing us what we all have in common. As the first Asian actor to win an Oscar for Best Actress, she not only entertains but also inspires and opens hearts. And she keeps doing it."
Despite a small slip in his introduction, when he mistakenly referred to her as "Michael," Biden quickly corrected himself before presenting the award. Dressed in elegant black, Yeoh graciously received the medal, her smile radiating with the joy of the moment. The ceremony's alphabetical order made her the last to receive the medal, a fitting capstone for the esteemed honorees.
For Malaysians, Yeoh's journey from her hometown of Ipoh to global superstardom is an inspiring story of perseverance, talent, and integrity. Her career took off in the 1980s with Hong Kong action films, and she gained international recognition with her role in the James Bond film "Tomorrow Never Dies." Throughout her career, she steadfastly refused to play stereotypical roles or characters who were merely props, setting a standard for other Asian actors to follow.
Michelle Yeoh's career is filled with groundbreaking achievements. She worked with the finest directors and starred in acclaimed films such as "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," "Memoirs of a Geisha," and "Crazy Rich Asians." Yet it was her role in "Everything Everywhere All at Once" that brought her the coveted Oscar for Best Actress, making history as the first Asian woman to win in that category.
Her acceptance speech at the Oscars resonated with audiences worldwide. “For all the little boys and girls who look like me watching tonight, this is a beacon of hope and possibilities," she said. "Dream big, and dreams do come true." With her new accolade from the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Michelle Yeoh's inspiring story continues to inspire and uplift people around the globe.
Malaysians are thrilled by her success, which represents the best of what hard work and determination can achieve. The pride they feel is immeasurable, and they look forward to seeing what she will accomplish next.
Congratulations, Michelle Yeoh, on this well-deserved honour. We are so proud of you!
