PETALING JAYA: Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by US President Joe Biden for being the first Asian to win an Oscar as Best Actress in 2023.
In presenting her with the medal on Friday (May 3), Biden said for decades Yeoh has “shattered stereotypes and glass ceilings to enrich and enhance American culture.”
“Her roles transcend gender, cultures, and languages. From martial arts, to romantic comedies, to science fiction, to show us what we all have in common.
As the first Asian actor to win an Oscar as Best Actress, she bridges cultures to not only to entertain, but also inspire and open hearts and that’s what she keeps doing. Congratulations,” he said.
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In March 2023, Yeoh made history as the first Asian and Malaysian to win an Oscar for her role in the movie Everything Everywhere All At Once.
Prior to this, the White House had said in its introduction of Yeoh at the ceremony that her efforts to advance gender equality, conservation issues and global health have been felt around the world.
“Equal parts performer and pioneer, Michelle Yeoh continues to enrich American culture and inspires us to believe in possibilities on the big screen and beyond,” it said.
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