"Michelle Yeoh Is A Malaysian" — HK Actor Reminds His Govt Not To Claim Her Oscar Success

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To made the statement after the Ipoh-born actress became the first Asian to win the Best Actress award in the Academy's 95-year history for the movie Everything Everywhere All At Once, yesterday, 13 March.

In a Facebook post at 11.57am on Monday, To said, "A reminder to the Hong Kong government, Michelle Yeoh is a Malaysian. Don't take credit for that. Thank you."

The statement irked many Malaysians nationwide.

After Yeoh's win yesterday, Yeung congratulated her again, saying, "Michelle Yeoh rose to prominence in the Hong Kong film industry for years, then moved on to the international stage and became a shining star with impressive achievements.

"Her honour of winning the Oscar award, one of the most significant awards in the film sector, is well deserved. This is a testimony to the strong potential of Hong Kong's talents and film industry."

Hong Kong film director Norman Chan, who produced some of Yeoh's earliest films, such as The Owl vs Bombo and Yes, Madam, also extended his congratulations to the 60-year-old actress, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP).

"Of course, we're so happy," said Chan, adding, "When she was young and came to Hong Kong, we trained her as an action star. She didn't know kung fu at all and trained tirelessly to become a female action star – her whole body would get hurt, but she never ever gave up.

"It's very rare to find a talent like her — someone who can act different roles, speak English well, and do martial arts — and you can't find someone else as hardworking. So for her to win the award, it's not an accident at all."

"To my extended family in Hong Kong where I started my career, thank you for letting me stand on your shoulders, giving me a leg up so I can be here today," said Yeoh, dressed in a white Dior couture on stage.

Prior to that, she said, "I have to dedicate this (award) to my mum, all the mums in the world because they are really the superheroes, and without them, none of us would be here tonight.

"I'm taking this home to her. She's now watching it in Malaysia, KL, with my family and friends. I love you guys. I'm bringing this home to you."

Watch this for a quick rundown of Everything Everywhere All At Once, which won seven awards at the Oscars, including the biggest award of the night, Best Picture.