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Rakyat Post
3 days ago
- General
- Rakyat Post
The Visual Storyteller: Veteran Interpreter's Silent Dedication Honoured By The King
Subscribe to our FREE In a moment as graceful as her gestures on screen, veteran Malaysian sign language interpreter Tan Lee Bee was recently honoured with the Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN) by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim. Local media outlets Image: Facebook | Persatuan Jurubahasa Isyarat Malaysia If you've ever watched a news broadcast in Malaysia and noticed a spirited interpreter in the corner of the screen, translating every word with animated expressions and heartfelt clarity, chances are you've seen Tan Lee Bee in action. Her presence has long been a comforting and essential bridge for many in the Deaf community – a steady hand bringing the world's events to those who experience them through signs. 'I feel happy, moved, I feel like crying too. I feel very grateful,' the 64-year-old said, emotions welling up after receiving the AMN award. But in true humility, she didn't accept the honour just for herself. 'This recognition is not just for me, but a symbolic tribute to every interpreter who works silently for a fairer inclusivity in Malaysia.' Tan was one of 16 individuals who received the award that day, but her story speaks volumes. Her journey began not from career ambition, but from the deep love and empathy she held for her younger sister, who is deaf. 'I have a deaf sister. I learned sign language because of her,' she shared. What began as a way to connect with someone she loved soon became her life's calling. She went on to become a teacher for the deaf for 17 years, while also breaking new ground as Malaysia's first court sign language interpreter in 1994. Her contribution to national broadcasting began even earlier, in 1985, with her debut on Selamat Pagi Malaysia . From there, her face and expressive hands became a familiar and cherished part of the daily lives of many viewers, especially those relying on her to access vital information. Through Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and beyond – including corporate settings where she ensured that employees with disabilities were never left out of the conversation – Tan's role has always been about more than translation. It's about inclusion, dignity, and making sure no one is left behind. Her story is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most powerful voices are the ones spoken in silence – with hands, expressions, and a heart full of compassion. Tan Lee Bee's decades of service may have taken place quietly in the corner of the screen, but this week, the spotlight rightfully turned to her. Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
Free Malaysia Today
3 days ago
- General
- Free Malaysia Today
Sign-language interpreter Tan Lee Bee receives royal award
Veteran media personality and sign-language interpreter Tan Lee Bee with her Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara award. (Bernama pic) KUALA LUMPUR : For her dedication as a sign-language interpreter spanning more than four decades, Tan Lee Bee received the Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN) from Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim yesterday. Tan, who often graces the corner of the television screen during news broadcasts, described the award as a 'great recognition' in her 'silent struggle to convey the voices of the voiceless'. 'I feel happy, moved, I feel like crying, too… I feel very grateful,' the veteran media personality told Bernama after the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the king's official birthday celebration at Istana Negara. 'This recognition is not just for me, it's a symbolic tribute to every interpreter who works silently for a fairer inclusivity in Malaysia,' the 64-year-old added. Tan was among 16 individuals who received the AMN at the ceremony, during which Attorney-General Dusuki Mokhtar and armed forces chief Gen Nizam Jaffar were bestowed with the Darjah Panglima Mangku Negara, which carries the title Tan Sri. Tan's journey as an interpreter began out of love for the person closest to her heart: her younger sister, who is deaf. 'I learnt sign language because of her … people always ask me how I learnt sign language, and they're always surprised to know I never took formal training before I began my career,' she told FMT in 2021. She then served as a teacher for the deaf for 17 years, which she initially found challenging. 'I found it very hard to teach the deaf and I would sometimes cry. At times I just could not make my students understand.' Tan is best known for gracing the corner of TV screens during news broadcasts with her dynamic signing and compelling facial expressions. (Tan Lee Bee pic) During those years, she also served as an interpreter with the federal court. Tan went on to become Malaysia's first court sign-language interpreter in 1994. Still, one might be surprised to learn that her contribution to the world of broadcasting began much earlier, when she appeared on television circa 1985 on the show 'Selamat Pagi Malaysia'. Her facial expressions and signing actions became important visuals in news broadcasts as well as in official communication videos, advertisements, and various broadcasting mediums. Apart from RTM, Tan provides her services to companies with employees who have disabilities. She told FMT five years ago that she derived great satisfaction from serving the deaf community. 'Whatever we interpret, it has to be understood,' she said. 'I have to make sure my interpretation is clear and that I do not make any mistakes. 'As an interpreter, when the deaf understand you well enough and are happy about it, they will come to tell you. As long as my hand is able and my mind is still okay, I will go on interpreting … it is my passion.'
The Star
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Royal recognition for sign language interpreter
KUALA LUMPUR: With more than four decades of dedication as a sign language interpreter, Tan Lee Bee is the face seen by millions of Malaysians watching the news programmes on television. Often seen at the corner of the television screen showing her expressive facial expressions, Tan, 64, was grateful to have been awarded the Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN) from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, during the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the King's official birthday celebration at Istana Negara yesterday. She described the award as a great recognition for her in the 'silent' struggle to convey the voices of the 'voiceless'. 'I feel happy, moved; I feel like crying too... I feel very grateful,' the veteran sign language interpreter told Bernama after the ceremony. Although the award was celebrated in a ceremonial atmosphere at the palace, for Tan, it came with long memories and the twists and turns of life in a career that received little public attention. 'This recognition is not just for me but a symbolic tribute to every interpreter who works silently for fairer inclusivity in Malaysia,' she said. Tan's journey as a sign interpreter began not because of ambition but because of love and empathy for her younger sister, who is deaf. 'I learnt sign language because of my sister. Then, I started working as a teacher for the deaf. I was a teacher for 17 years. 'While I was a teacher, I also served as an interpreter with the Federal Court of Malaysia,' said Tan, who also became the first court sign interpreter in Malaysia in 1994. The contribution of the Segamat native to the world of broadcasting began earlier in 1985 when she appeared on television through the show Selamat Pagi Malaysia. Her face and sign language actions became important visuals in news broadcasts on RTM as well as in official communication videos, advertisements and various broadcasting mediums, which played an important role in conveying information to special groups.
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Monday (June 2, 2025)
Malaysia: * Federal awards, titles not for sale, says King/ King urges leaders to prioritise unity and integrity * King expresses appreciation for govt, civil servants' role in handling nation's challenges * PM congratulates King on His Majesty's official birthday/ * King to embark on Royal Tour of Federal Territories * Sign language interpreter Tan Lee Bee receives award from King for her service over four decades * Unity not optional but a national requirement, says Anwar * Malaysia to continue leading role in regional diplomacy, says PM * Diplomatic corps praises King's role in regional diplomacy, national unity * Mentris Besar, Chief Ministers congratulate King on His Majesty's official birthday * British man missing in KL since May 27, UK media reports * DPM Ahmad Zahid arrives in UK for four-day working visit * Highway graft probe: RM20mil of funds used for gambling, says MACC * T'ganu cops open 12 probe papers over 'lucky draw' fraud * UMS student group urges legal action over water issues * UM leads in latest rankings amid global competition * E-cigarette liquids legal but strictly regulated, says Health Ministry * Mara-sponsored students may pursue studies in the UK amid US policy changes, says Zahid * Malaysian haj pilgrim suffers heart attack, saved in time, says Saudi Health Ministry Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra attends the annual Pride Parade to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community's Pride Month in Bangkok, Thailand. - AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit Singapore: * Jail for Thai man who tried to bribe two auxiliary cops in Singapore when caught urinating in public * Trade tensions, political uncertainty dim air travel outlook; record traveller forecast trimmed * Woman gets S$1 a month in maintenance, after Singapore judge dismisses her appeal for spousal support * Asean currencies seen strengthening this year as US dollar weakens * Singapore - City-state's appeal as a safe haven rises * Asia's factory activity shrinks in May as US tariffs bite * South-East Asia joins Europe's calls to defend subsea cables * Emerging Markets -Asian shares fall on Trump's steel tariff threat but currencies steady Indonesia: * Tourism rising - Indonesia sees nine per cent rise in foreign tourist arrivals in April; Malaysian largest source of visitors * Indonesia trade surplus shrinks as global tariff fears boost imports from China * Fresh faces, party stalwarts in the mix in PPP leadership race in Indonesia * Asia's factory activity shrinks in May as US tariffs bite * Indonesia needs smarter farming, not more farmers: Comment * Oil rebounds after Opec+ sticks to same output hike in July vs June/ Oil jumps 3% after OPEC+ keeps output increase unchanged The European Union's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, right, poses for pictures with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines Monday, June 2, 2025. -- Ezra Acayan/Pool Photo via AP Thailand: * 11 Indian students injured in Bangkok bus crash on Monday * An unforgettable Sunday for Thailand as their top model wins Miss World title as their shuttler scoop two titles at Singapore Open * Thai Airways partners with airlines to boost US tourism, drops direct flight plans * Airlines warn over weakening of global trade rules * Asian Stocks drop, gold rises in risk-off start to week/ Asia share markets, dollar wary on tariff news Philippines: * EU-Philippines defence dialogue targets foreign interference and cyber threats * Four dead including toddler and another five injured in tragic road crash in central Philippines * AirAsia MOVE faces economic sabotage case for alleged overcharging in the Philippines * Philippines eyes India, Thailand rice to cut Vietnam reliance * Philippines and EU to set up security and defence dialogue, minister says A woman wearing a long-sleeve top and a sun visor to protect against UV rays rides a bicycle past the Hanoi Opera House on a hot day in Hanoi on Monday, June 2, 2025. -- Photo by Nhac NGUYEN / AFP Vietnam * Vietnam aims to universalise AI by 2030 * Vietnam drafts first population law to tackle demographic challenges * Steelmakers in South Korea, Vietnam tumble on Trump's new tariffs * Vietnam Airlines to finalise order for 50 Boeing 737 MAX jets very soon, executive says * Hanoi pushes private sector growth agenda/ Vietjet soars into next phase of growth Myanmar: * Highways baking at 70 deg Celsius signal a red-hot summer from China to the US * Families of four Myanmar workers killed in Bangkok bridge crane collapse each receive one million baht compensation * Junta extends ceasefire again amid quake recovery * Months on with no relief in sight -- Survivors of devastating March quake still live in leaky tents Supporters of Kim Moon-soo, the presidential candidate for South Korea's conservative People Power Party, cheer during the final campaign rally before election in Seoul, South Korea, on Monday, June 2, 2025. -- Photo: REUTERS/Go Nakamura Cambodia: * Cambodia says it will seek World Court ruling on border disputes with Thailand that led to clash * Cambodia detains 10,487 drug suspects, seizing 1.78 tons of narcotics during January-May period * Cambodia demands Thais investigate border shooting, slated to take border dispute to ICJ * Green tech, AI and robots galore: Highlights from the 2025 World Expo in Japan Laos: * Laos reaffirms to prioritise children's rights * Lao officials hold meeting to review economic situation * Lao economic indicators show signs of recovery amid global uncertainty Brunei: * Brunei to leverage digital technology in transportation * Deputy Brunei Sultan attends funeral prayers of late former minister * Brunei tempt Terengganu's Akhyar to spread his wings to Borneo team Supporters of Kim Moon Soo, presidential candidate with the People Power Party, perform during his election campaign rally in Seoul, South Korea, late Monday, June 2, 2025. -- AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon AseanPlus: * Sabah's muay thai prodigy Angie Yan shines in Turkiye * Million of fans across Asia wait with much anticipation for India's super combo of Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam's new blockbuster 'Thug Life' * Welcome to 'Ombak Kitchen', it gives you the pleasure of having South-East Asian seafood cuisine in its own Asia way of eating style * Delicious Spanish flavours at Barraca, a must-try during KL Restaurant Week 2025 * Malaysia's 'flying roti canai' draws long queues at Expo 2025 in Osaka * Exclusive-Iran poised to dismiss US nuclear proposal, says Iranian diplomat * US appeal court allows Donald Trump's tariffs to stay in effect * At least 34 dead in India's northeast after heavy floods * Japan to set up Minister-level meeting to address rice supplies * Air India CEO says Pakistan airspace ban adding to flying costs * Meet India's 'history hunter' – salvaging the past to preserve the future * South Korea presidential hopefuls make final pitch to voters ahead of election * Taiwan warns of rise in Chinese military activity around region * TV graphics put fun into South Korean election count * Shares and dollar tumble as tariff tensions flare * Snakes on a plane: Indian smuggler caught with venomous vipers * Shocking accident as cyclist killed in crash with train in southern Brisbane, Australia * Bangladeshi chief adviser urges Chinese investors to make Bangladesh their home, production hub * Japan touts progress in US trade talks with eyes on June summit * South Korean election frontrunner still leaves many unconvinced * Protect workers from heat waves or face fines, Japan tells firms * Badminton -- Herry hails Aaron-Wooi Yik's fine run as extraordinary * Badminton -- Fire Dragon Herry stays cool ahead of 'hot' reception in Istora for first time * Chinese listing spree sparks revival hopes in Hong Kong stocks * Cricket - Indian legend and superstar Kohli closes in on long-awaited IPL title * Soccer - South Korea coach says Son won't be pushed too hard in 2026 qualifiers * Golf -- Steadfast Stark outlast Japanese and home challenges to win maiden Major title at exciting US Women's Open * Chess - Carlsen slams table in defeat to Gukesh at Norway Chess
Malay Mail
4 days ago
- General
- Malay Mail
‘I feel like crying': Malaysia's first court sign interpreter Tan Lee Bee receives AMN after decades of silent service
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 — With more than four decades of dedication as a sign language interpreter, Tan Lee Bee was amply recognised when she was received the Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN) from His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia today. Often gracing the corner of the television screen of news programmes with expressive facial expressions, Tan, 64, described the award as a great recognition for her in the 'silent' struggle to convey the voices of the 'voiceless'. 'I feel happy, moved, I feel like crying too... I feel very grateful,' the veteran sign language interpreter conveyed to Bernama after the Investiture Ceremony in conjunction with the King's official birthday celebration, at Istana Negara today. Although the award was celebrated in a ceremonial atmosphere at the palace, for Tan, it came with long memories and the twists and turns of life in a career that received little public attention. 'This recognition is not just for me but a symbolic tribute to every interpreter who works silently for a fairer inclusivity in Malaysia,' she said with a tearful tone. Tan was among 16 individuals who received the AMN award at the ceremony. — Bernama pic Tan was among 16 individuals who received the AMN award at the ceremony, which also saw Attorney General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar and Armed Forces chief Gen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar being bestowed with the Darjah Panglima Mangku Negara (PMN), which carries the title of Tan Sri. Tan's journey as a sign interpreter began not because of ambition, but because of love and empathy for the person closest to her heart, her younger sister, who is deaf. 'I have a deaf sister... I learned sign language because of my sister. Then I started working as a teacher for the deaf. 'I was a teacher for 17 years. While I was a teacher, I also served as an interpreter with the Federal Court of Malaysia,' she said, who was also the first court sign interpreter in Malaysia in 1994. The contribution of the native of Segamat, Johor to the world of broadcasting began earlier than many expected, around 1985 when she appeared on television through the show Selamat Pagi Malaysia. Her face and sign language actions became important visuals in news broadcasts on RTM as well as in official communication videos, advertisements and various broadcasting mediums that played an important role in conveying information to special groups. Apart from RTM, Tan also provided her services to corporate companies with employees with disabilities, offering information, meetings, and briefings. Meanwhile, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, who was bestowed with the Darjah Panglima Setia Mahkota (PSM), which carries the title of Tan Sri, said the award was a great recognition for him as well as an honour for the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM). 'Thanking His Majesty for this gift, I will continue to carry out the duties and responsibilities entrusted to me as DIG with full commitment, to ensure that the country's security is always maintained,' he said. He also called on all enforcement officers at various levels to uphold the spirit of Sultan Ibrahim's decree, which requires them to carry out their duties with trust and integrity. Present at the ceremony was Her Majesty, Raja Zarith Sofiah, the Queen of Malaysia. Also present were the Prime Minister's wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Speaker of Dewan Rakyat Tan Sri Johari Abdul, Speaker of Dewan Negara Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and other members of the cabinet. — Bernama
