(Petaling Jaya, Thursday) : DAP wishes to extend the heartfelt congratulations to internationally-renowned actress and Ipoh-born Datuk Michelle Yeoh for being the first Malaysian actress to receive France's highest civilian award, Legion of Honor (Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur), in recognition of her contributions to culture and society. Michelle has done Malaysians proud by being the first Malaysians to be accorded such honour by France.

Michelle was a model of humility when she said that she will be a bridge between France and Malaysia but that she was still an ordinary Ipoh girl. This is a singular honour for a Malaysian to be accorded international recognition, not from any ordinary developing country but from a developed country like France, that prides itself as the leader of fine culture, refinement and good taste. Michelle’s achievements are the more remarkable when considering that she did not receive any government assistance.

Questions will naturally be asked why Malaysia fails to value the achievements of its citizens that are recognised by developed countries like France. The Malaysia government should learn from Michelle Yeoh’s achievements and adopt policies that provide equal opportunities to allow both optimization of talent and maximization of human resource that benefits the country. We should also learn from talented Malaysians like Datuk Michelle Yeoh by harnessing the abilities of many other Malayisans who can be global champions if only the government can reward merit and performance.

(4/10/2007)