KUALA LUMPUR: Actress Susan Lankester was overcome with emotion when her name was announced as the Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Asian Academy Creative Awards (AACA) 2024 in Singapore, yesterday.
The 62-year-old star clinched the award for her poignant portrayal in Rain Town, directed by Tunku Mona Riza.
She narrowly edged out New Zealand actress Robyn Malcolm by a mere 0.08 points, as reported by Berita Harian.
In her acceptance speech, Susan expressed gratitude to the jury for recognising her talent despite her age.
"Thank you for seeing me and for seeing actresses over 60 years old who are still doing work," she said.
Lankester also extended heartfelt thanks to director Tunku Mona Liza, revealing that she wasn't initially considered for the role of Aileen Choo.
"Tunku Mona told me during auditions that I was not the first one. She said, 'I got other ones out there also'. "But she chose me and we created Aileen, which was an incredible role," Susan shared.
This marks Susan's second win at the AACA, following her Best Female Comedy Actress award three years ago for Keluarga Baha Don.
Susan dedicated the award to all mothers, as well as her late mother who inspired the character of Aileen.
"I'd like to dedicate this award to all the mothers out there who fight their silent battles and who wake up every day to take care of us.
"This award goes to my mom too. She is Aileen. I created Aileen because of her," she said.
In Rain Town, Aileen Choo is a mother battling cancer while trying to mediate conflicts between her grown children and husband.
Despite her illness, Aileen chooses to keep it a secret, prioritising her family's happiness over her struggles.