CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON (2000) star MICHELLE YEOH was awarded an honourary title in her native Malaysia yesterday (19APR01).

The 38-year-old actress has become a DATUK, a title similar to knight which is the second-highest that can be conferred by anyone other than Malaysia's king.

The honour came from SULTAN AZLAN SHAH, ruler of northern PERAK state where Yeoh was born. Yeoh, who travelled from China to Perak to accept the title, said she was excited and honoured. She said, "This award is an acknowledgment for my achievement and my career and it will encourage me to strive further in the future." (PDD/WNWCNT)

Source: WENN