Malaysia has no shortage of talent, and these nine homegrown stars are living proof. From the stages of Hollywood to global music charts and fashion runways, they’ve turned local beginnings into worldwide success stories. Their journeys aren’t just about fame, they’re about breaking barriers, representing Malaysia on the world stage, and proving that dreams really do travel far.
Meet Our Stars Who’ve Gone Global
Michelle Yeoh
From a small town in Perak to Hollywood’s brightest lights, Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. She made history as the first Malaysian, and the first Asian woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress, thanks to her standout performance in Everything Everywhere All At Once.
But Yeoh’s story began decades earlier. Trained in ballet, she first made her mark in the high-octane world of Hong Kong action cinema, earning fame for doing her own stunts. Her international breakthrough came with roles in Tomorrow Never Dies, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and Memoirs of a Geisha, showcasing her grace, grit, and versatility. More recently, she’s charmed new generations through Crazy Rich Asians, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and the Star Trek: Discovery series.
Now regarded as a living legend, Yeoh has not only broken barriers but reshaped how Asian women are seen in film.
Siti Nurhaliza
Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza is more than a household name in Malaysia; she’s a cultural force across Asia. Rising to fame in the late ’90s, Siti wowed international audiences by winning the Gold Award at the Asia New Singer Competition in Shanghai (1999) and clinching the Grand Prix at Kazakhstan’s Voice of Asia in 2002.
Over the years, Siti has released more than 20 albums and collected over 300 awards, making her one of the region’s most decorated vocalists. But her success doesn’t stop at music.
She’s also a savvy businesswoman. Through her brand SimplySiti, she ventured into cosmetics and skincare, building a million-ringgit empire that stands alongside her music career. She’s since expanded into health supplements and wellness products, all while maintaining her image as Malaysia’s sweetheart.
Read: Siti Nurhaliza: From Music Legend to Beauty Mogul
Henry Golding
Born in Sarawak to an Iban mother and British father, Henry Golding’s rise to stardom is the stuff of dreams. Formerly a travel show host (notably in Surviving Borneo), Golding made a spectacular acting debut as the charming Nick Young in Crazy Rich Asians, a role that made him an instant heartthrob.
The film’s success catapulted him into Hollywood, landing roles in A Simple Favor, Last Christmas opposite Emilia Clarke, and Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen. He even took on the lead role in the G.I. Joe spinoff, Snake Eyes, proving he could handle both rom-coms and action franchises.
With his good looks, charisma, and down-to-earth demeanor, Golding is now one of Hollywood’s most bankable Asian actors, and he’s just getting started.
Nigel Ng (a.k.a. Uncle Roger)
Nigel Ng, a Malaysian comedian based in the UK, struck viral gold with a simple, spicy critique: Western chefs ruining rice. His character Uncle Roger, a hilariously judgmental “Asian uncle” in an orange polo tee, became a YouTube phenomenon after a now-iconic reaction video to a BBC rice cooking segment.
But Uncle Roger was just the beginning. Nigel now tours globally, hosts a popular podcast (HAIYAA), and is growing a comedy brand that merges relatable Asian humor with cross-cultural commentary. A former data scientist, Ng took a leap of faith into stand-up, and it paid off big time.
Today, he’s among the most-followed Asian comedians in the world, with millions of fans and a growing business in merchandise, endorsements, and content production. Don’t forget to check out his restaurant too.
Read: Uncle Roger Takes Over MyTown with More Rice and Smaller Prices
Yuna
With her soulful voice and effortless style, Yuna (Yunalis Mat Zara’ai) has built a musical career that defies categories and continents. Starting out in MySpace’s heyday, she gained international traction after working with Grammy-winning producer Pharrell Williams on her breakout single “Live Your Life.”
But it was her duet with Usher, Crush, that solidified her global presence. The track earned her a BET Award nomination, the first ever for a Malaysian artist, and brought her into the orbit of pop royalty like Beyoncé and Rihanna.
Yuna’s critically acclaimed album Chapters was named one of Billboard’s Best R&B Album. She’s also performed at major festivals including Coachella, Lollapalooza, and SXSW, all while staying true to her identity.
Ronny Chieng
Born in Johor Bahru and raised between Singapore and Australia, Ronny Chieng has become a comedic tour de force. Best known as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Chieng brings a unique mix of sharp wit and cultural commentary to American audiences.
He also co-wrote and starred in Ronny Chieng: International Student, and has released two Netflix specials: Asian Comedian Destroys America! and The Ronny Chieng Show. His deadpan humor and clever jabs at Western media norms have earned him a devoted global following. On the big screen, he’s appeared in Crazy Rich Asians, Shang-Chi, and M3GAN, expanding his reach well beyond the comedy stage.
Amber Chia
Amber Chia broke into the international fashion scene when she became the first Asian to win the Guess Watches Timeless Beauty contest in 2004. Known for her striking features and poised presence, she went on to grace runways and fashion covers across the globe.
Beyond modelling, Amber founded the Amber Chia Academy to groom future models, action stars, and beauty professionals; a bold move that reflects her entrepreneurial side.
Her name remains synonymous with Malaysia’s fashion evolution, and she continues to mentor the next generation of talent, proving her influence goes well beyond the catwalk.
Shila Amzah
Nurshahila binti Amir Amzah, better known as Shila Amzah, is a vocal powerhouse who found fame far beyond Malaysia’s shores. Singing fluently in Malay, English, and Mandarin, Shila broke into the Mandopop scene by winning China’s Asian Wave competition in 2012.
She went on to place third in the hugely popular I Am a Singer series, an unprecedented achievement for a Malaysian. Her multilingual talent and cross-cultural appeal earned her the nickname “Asia’s Sweetheart.” Today, she continues to bridge East and West with her music, proudly representing Malaysia on international stages.
James Wan
You might not know his face, but you definitely know his work. James Wan, born in Kuching, Sarawak, is the mastermind behind some of the most successful horror franchises of our time, including Saw, Insidious, and The Conjuring universe.
His transition into blockbuster territory was just as seamless, directing Furious 7, Aquaman, and its sequel, all of which dominated the global box office. Wan’s unique blend of storytelling and commercial instinct has made him one of Hollywood’s most bankable directors, with his films grossing over $3 billion worldwide.
Global Stars, Malaysian Roots
These stars prove that talent knows no borders , and neither does Malaysian pride. From award-winning actors to viral comedians and chart-topping musicians, their journeys remind us that greatness often starts small. They’ve not only conquered international stages but also inspired countless others to dream bigger.
As these stars continue to rise and shine across the globe, they carry a little piece of Malaysia with them wherever they go. Whether you’ve followed their stories from the start or just discovered them, one thing’s for sure, these homegrown stars are just getting started!
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