Susan Lankester wins Best Actress at Malaysia Film Festival, eyes bigger roles in Asian cinema

Susan Lankester was crowned as Best Actress at the 33rd Malaysia Film Festival (FFM33) on Saturday (Dec 7).

The victory is a significant milestone for the 62-year-old, who has been dreaming of this recognition since she began her acting career in 1983.

Her performance in Rain Town earned her the award, ending a long wait since her last FFM win in 1994 for Best Supporting Actress in Femina.

This latest win also comes just days after Lankester clinched the Best Actress In A Leading Role award at the prestigious Asian Academy Creative Awards (AACA) in Singapore.

But rather than aiming for the Oscars or Hollywood, Lankester aspires to expand her acting career within Asia first.

“I’d prefer to focus on acting opportunities in Asia rather than aiming for the Oscars or Hollywood – that feels too far.

“I’m interested in collaborating with creators from Australia, New Zealand, or Britain. They often shoot here, and their industries are impressive in their own right. Who knows, maybe an opportunity will come along.

“I’m proud of the Malaysian industry. This is a major achievement not only for me but for our industry as well,” she said at the FFM33 awards ceremony held at Auditorium Seri Angkasa, Angkasapuri, in Kuala Lumpur.