Michelle Yeoh’s speech of thanks

Monsieur l’ Ambassadeur chez Alain, family and dear friends

It is so hard to find the words to express the overwhelming feelings of emotion, joy and pride that are racing through my mind right now.

Forgive me if I stumble, I’m used to having all my lines meticulously crafted by professional writers. The words might not be quite so poetic, the integrity and love is true and deep.

It is with the greatest of pleasure that I accept the French order of the Chevalier de la Legion D’Honneur. It’s especially meaningful for me because I’m receiving this incredible honor from a country I have learned to love in more ways than one…In my home country that will ALWAYS hold my heart and my soul.

I’m grateful to His Excellency Alain that we can be all together in his ’home’ tonight.

I share this honor with my family and Malaysia! And fellow Malaysians both here and in France, who work quietly forging the goodwill, understanding, friendship, and respect between our two nations. We thank you for this recognition…and I promise I will do my best to be a worthy representative to both of our countries.

I’ve been very fortunate in my life. I’ve had some success in a profession I love. It’s opened my eyes to laughter, joy, heartache, and sufferings of people all over the world. In the process, it has also offered me the platform to open the minds and help educate others about important issues: AIDS, cancer, brain research, environment, among others.

I stand in awe of those who are so talented and dedicated to helping others.

I’m very grateful for their allowing me the opportunity to be part of their meaningful endeavors; such as L’Oreal on eradication of Aids and malaria, whose approach to business has a conscience that makes people like me proud to be part of their family. And ICM - the research lab on Spinal cord and Brain in Paris, which is really Jean’s baby, through which I am blessed to work with eminent French doctors, politicians, and my peers.

I guess deep down, I’m still a small town girl from Ipoh who has been living a magical dream. Many of my schoolmates from Ipoh from 30yrs ago are here tonight with my teachers. And, my discipline mistress too. They can attest to a rascal with a pony tailed who loved the stage, bright lights and dancing more than her books. Thank you for providing an education that challenged us to follow our dreams reach for the stars.

I would like to dedicate this award to my family…. My dad, this is especially amazing because he is joining us tonight! ….I learned how to be patient, dedicated, dignified. I am most proud when someone says, "you are so much like your Dad!!" My beautiful mom, for her unconditional love and who never cease to inspire me with her exuberance for life. My dearest brother and my wonderful sister-in-law who’s given me the most precious gifts… my nephews and nieces. You always given me your love, always accepted my crazy schedule and life pace, and always been my center and my anchor. You provided me the strength to weather the good times and bad, and provided me a sanctuary to rest and recover when I am tired. Your unwavering support means more to me than you will ever know, and I will always love you for that.

And to Jean, my love, who is my daily strength, who brings out the best in me. His presence in the past years has been one of the pillars of my happiness. I have been close to the world of cinema in France but with Jean,

I have brought closer to the French on all levels…artistic, scientific and political. Our Very own Grand Officer, the Tun Sri of the Chevaliers.

Finally, thank you, my sisters and brothers (don’t worry Mum, they are not all from Dad), my closest friends, from Ipoh, Singapore, Hong Kong, Amsterdam, Tokyo, NY!! Each and everyone of you for all for being here.

It’s an incredible honor to receive this recognition, and I am humbled by your making the effort to share it with me. Life could not possibly be so wonderful without each and everyone of you in it. I am truly blessed.

Mr. Ambassador Alain, thank you for welcoming me into your wonderful home and country. My heart will always be part French.

Thank you.