Biden honours Michelle Yeoh with Medal of Freedom, the top US civilian award

Source: CNA

WASHINGTON: Malaysia's Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh was one of 19 people to receive the US Presidential Medal of Freedom on Friday (May 3).

Others who received the highest US civilian award from President Joe Biden included Team USA swimmer and Olympic champion Katie Ledecky, assassinated civil rights leader Medgar Evers and television host Phil Donahue.

In presenting Yeoh with the medal at the White House, Biden said she 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," he added.

"As the first Asian actor to win an Oscar as best actress, she bridges cultures not only to entertain, but also inspire and open hearts. And that's what she keeps doing. Congratulations."