KUALA LUMPUR – Hollywood superstar and acclaimed Malaysian actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh has thrown her weight behind the Refugee Olympic Team, urging global support for this “very special team” representing over 100 million displaced people worldwide.
The Oscar winner highlighted the extraordinary efforts and sacrifices made by these athletes as they prepare to compete in Paris.
In a heartfelt 33-second video shared on both the official Olympic Games and her personal Instagram account on Friday, Yeoh called for public support for the displaced athletes.
“They have fought harder and travelled further to get to Paris.
“They are the Refugee Olympic Team. Please support them with all your heart. When you see them, show your support by sharing your heart with them,” she said.
Yeoh, an elected member of the International Olympics Committee (IOC) and Olympic Refuge Foundation, is known for her advocacy on humanitarian issues and has highlighted the broader significance of the team’s participation.
“Together, this team represents over 100 million displaced people around the world. Let’s cheer them on, loud and proud,” she said.
In a separate post on her Instagram account, Yeoh posted a photo of her with some of the athletes from the refugee team.
“Their resilience, their passion, their determination, and talent are inspiring,” she wrote.
Yeoh became the first Asian to win Best Actress at the Academy Awards in 2023 for her role in the hit film Everything Everywhere All at Once.
In May, Yeoh also received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom from US President Joe Biden. – July 27, 2024