Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

politics

Palestine

winner

actor

Joe Biden

Michelle Yeoh

Oscar

criticism

award

medla of freedom

If Malaysians were to highlight notable celebrities, Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh would undoubtedly top the list as arguably the most prominent Malaysian star in Hollywood.
It's no wonder that, owing to her remarkable achievements, she has elevated our country's reputation onto the global stage. Michelle Yeoh's stellar trajectory has been punctuated by numerous milestones, including being crowned <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2022/time-magazine-names-michelle-yeoh-as-2022-icon-of-the-year">TIME magazine's Icon of the Year in 2022</a>, clinching the title of the <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2135/michelle-yeoh-becomes-the-first-malaysian-to-win-a-golden-globe-award">first Malaysian to receive a Golden Globe Award</a>, securing an <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2256/michelle-yeoh-bags-a-sag-award-and-drops-a-f-bomb-mid-speech">SAG Award</a>, and making history as the <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2282/michelle-yeoh-paves-the-way-as-the-first-malaysian-and-asian-to-win-an-oscar-award">first Malaysian and Asian to bag an Oscar</a> for her role in "Everything Everywhere All at Once."
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c196591e64f0c81b5d825988844612c918d135145c0db1b51654d5a033a8bece" />
Once again, our esteemed actress has captured the spotlight, marking yet another historic moment in her illustrious career. She recently received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom from US President Joe Biden, solidifying her status as a trailblazer. This accolade comes on the heels of her groundbreaking achievement as the first Asian to win the Oscar for Best Actress in 2023.
Shattering Stereotypes Of The Asian Culture
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f11d4f95a6a4cf4d6eab07f7b37980b6b39b771b86c875cc8c693b832e8f18b7" />
According to a report by The Star, the ceremony took place in the esteemed East Room of the White House. President Biden lauded Michelle as a transformative figure in Hollywood, acknowledging her career's ability to break stereotypes and elevate American culture.
&ldquo;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&rsquo;s what she keeps doing. Congratulations,&rdquo; said Biden.
In March 2023, Yeoh reached a historic milestone by becoming the first Asian and Malaysian to receive an Oscar, honoured for her exceptional performance in the film "Everything Everywhere All At Once." Prior to this groundbreaking achievement, the White House emphasized Yeoh's global influence, recognizing her advocacy for gender equality, conservation efforts, and contributions to global health initiatives.
"It is with equal admiration for her artistry and advocacy that Michelle Yeoh enriches American culture, igniting our imaginations both on screen and in the broader landscape," stated the White House.
What Is The Presidential Medal of Freedom?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8bd6a6998edb4467f4fdf895275a57af7288aa8b09209a227aa26f1acf5f1979" />
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honour in the United States. It is awarded by the President to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security or national interests of America, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavours.
Established by President Harry S. Truman in 1945, the medal recognizes a wide range of achievements, including contributions to the arts, science, sports, philanthropy, and politics. Recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom are selected by the President or their designee and are typically honoured during a ceremony at the White House.
This year, a distinguished group of 19 individuals, among them Michelle Yeoh, were honoured with the highest civilian award, the Medal of Freedom. Notable recipients included Ellen Ochoa, the pioneering first Hispanic woman in space, and Jim Thorpe, the legendary athlete who made history as the first Native American to secure an Olympic gold medal in 1912.
Fans Give Mixed Reactions Towards Michelle&rsquo;s Achievement
Usually, when we hear of such monumental achievements, the comments section would be brimming with celebration. However, Malaysians expressing their sentiments in Michelle's comments were rather disheartened by her actions.
Many netizens expressed disappointment, asserting that the actor should have declined the honour due to accusations of the US government's support for acts of genocide against Palestinians since October 2023. Some also urged the actress to utilize her platform to educate her audience about the ongoing atrocities in the Middle East. Nonetheless, amidst the criticisms, there were congratulatory messages and expressions of gratitude for representing Malaysia on the global stage.
Here's some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b795e3db185d9ad9a565f68e8b01cf2b33240bcaeb0431f72f78e69127e6e890" />
As of now, Michelle Yeoh has remained silent in response to the criticism surrounding her acceptance of the medal. Yet, as the debate ensues, the question arises: should she consider declining the award, given that it originates from a president who has openly supported the conflict in Palestine?
While it's often suggested that politics be kept separate from such honours, the ongoing Palestine-Israel conflict has become a deeply entrenched issue. To date, it has tragically claimed the lives of at least 34,683 Palestinians.
Nevertheless, a huge congratulations to Michelle Yeoh! Let your achievements continue to illuminate the path of Malaysian pride.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Despite the prestige of the award, many have criticized her decision not to decline it.

a72ed63b89207cfa97baba7a71af1e6e2ba5f16eb75a6e3c0fcf171d39a845e4

Fans Criticize Michelle Yeoh's Acceptance Of Presidential Medal Of Freedom From Joe Biden

Fans Criticize Michelle Yeoh's Acceptance Of Presidential Medal Of Freedom From Joe Biden

Despite the prestige of the award, many have criticized her decision not to decline it.

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