Michelle Yeoh's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 18, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Michelle Yeoh. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Michelle Yeoh is a Malaysian actress with a career spanning four decades. Initially credited as Michelle Khan, she gained fame in the 1980s and 1990s through Hong Kong action and martial arts films, notably performing her own stunts in movies like *Yes, Madam*, *Police Story 3: Super Cop*, and *Wing Chun*. She has received numerous awards, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in film and television.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

April 2001: Awarded Darjah Datuk Paduka Mahkota Perak (DPMP)

On April 19, 2001, Michelle Yeoh was awarded the Darjah Datuk Paduka Mahkota Perak (DPMP), which carries the title Dato', by Sultan Azlan Shah, the Sultan of Perak, in recognition of the fame she brought to the state.

November 2002: The Outstanding Young People of the World (TOYP) (Cultural Achievement)

On November 25, 2002, Michelle Yeoh was honoured as The Outstanding Young People of the World (TOYP) (Cultural Achievement) by JCI (Junior Chamber International).

April 2007: Knight of the Legion of Honour

On April 23, 2007, French President Jacques Chirac conferred upon Michelle Yeoh the title of Knight of the Legion of Honour (French: Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur).

October 2007: Presentation of Knight of the Legion of Honour

On October 3, 2007, the Knight of the Legion of Honour decoration was presented to Michelle Yeoh in a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur.

March 2012: Officer of the Legion of Honour

On March 14, 2012, Michelle Yeoh was promoted to Officer of the Legion of Honour (Officier de la Légion d'honneur) by French President Nicolas Sarkozy at a ceremony held at the Élysée Palace.

May 2012: Awarded Darjah Seri Paduka Mahkota Perak (SPMP)

On May 22, 2012, Michelle Yeoh was awarded the Darjah Seri Paduka Mahkota Perak (SPMP) which carries the title Dato' Seri during the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah's birthday.

March 2013: Excellence in Asian Cinema award

In March 2013, Michelle Yeoh received the Excellence in Asian Cinema award during the 7th Asian Film Awards in Hong Kong.

June 2013: Awarded Panglima Setia Mahkota (PSM)

On June 1, 2013, Michelle Yeoh was awarded the Panglima Setia Mahkota (PSM) which carries the title Tan Sri during the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the birthday of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah.

February 2016: Officier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres

On February 12, 2016, Michelle Yeoh was made an Officier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French ambassador to Kuala Lumpur, becoming the first Malaysian citizen to receive that honour.

March 2017: Commander of the Legion of Honour

On March 27, 2017, Michelle Yeoh was promoted to Commander of the Legion of Honour (Commandeur) by François Hollande at the official residence of the French ambassador in Kuala Lumpur.

2020: Included in BBC's 100 Women list

In 2020, Michelle Yeoh was included in the BBC's 100 Women list.

August 2022: Honorary Doctorate from American Film Institute

On August 13, 2022, Michelle Yeoh received an honorary doctorate of fine arts degree from the American Film Institute for her contributions to the art of the moving image, becoming the first Asian artist to receive the honour.

December 2022: Kirk Douglas Award

On December 9, 2022, Michelle Yeoh received the Kirk Douglas Award from the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

January 2024: Crystal Award by World Economic Forum

On January 9, 2024, Michelle Yeoh was awarded the Crystal Award by the World Economic Forum for her role as a cultural leader and for her contributions to society as an exceptional artist.

May 2024: Presidential Medal of Freedom

On May 3, 2024, the White House announced that Michelle Yeoh would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honour, for continuing to shatter stereotypes and enrich American culture.