Fire victims of Putra Heights urgently appeal for prolonged assistance as initial pledges remain unfulfilled, stating they are more concerned about survival rather than luxury.
Spotlight on Sign Language Interpreter Tan Lee Bee: A Lifetime of Resilience and Dedication
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 — With more than four decades of passion and empathy guiding her work, Tan Lee Bee, a 64-year-old sign language interpreter, was bestowed the prestigious Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN) by His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia today. This recognition came as a testament to Tan's tireless efforts in the 'silent' struggle to amplify the voices of the voiceless.
Addressing Bernama after the Investiture Ceremony at Istana Negara, Tan, who was also the first court sign interpreter in Malaysia in 1994, expressed her feelings: "I feel happy, moved, I feel like crying too... I feel very grateful." This heartfelt moment, however, was not just for her personal victory but a significant nod to every unseen interpreter contributing to a fairer inclusivity in Malaysia.
Tan Lee Bee's journey began in Segamat, Johor, driven by the love and empathy she held for her younger sister, who is deaf. This connection was the spark that ignited her mission to serve the deaf community. Her teaching career at the Selangor School for the Deaf spanned 17 years, during which she also took on interpreter roles at Malaysian federal court proceedings.
The turning point in Tan's career came in 1985, as she graced the screens of Television Malaysia (RTM). Since then, her expressive facial expressions and clear signing have made her a fixture in national news broadcasts, public service announcements, and advertisements, serving as a crucial bridge for persons with disabilities accessing news and information.
Beyond RTM, Tan's versatility enabled her to provide her services to corporate companies with employees with disabilities, offering vital insights during meetings, briefings, and training sessions. Her presence pushed for progress, fostering inclusivity within these organizations.
The story of Tan's life's work does not end here. The King's recognition signifies her invaluable contribution to the world of broadcasting and, more fundamentally, to the deaf community. As she tearfully expressed her gratitude, she proclaimed, "This recognition is not just for me but a symbolic tribute to every interpreter who works silently for a fairer inclusivity in Malaysia."
Tan's journey, filled with personal dedication and professional resilience, sets an exceptional example for those who strive for progress in a quiet and unassuming manner. Her lifelong commitment to empowering the voiceless resonates with the hearts of the deaf community and stands as a testament to her unwavering passion and spirit.
[1] Bernama, June 2, 2025.[2] The Star Online, September 2, 2020.[3] Malaysian National News Agency.[4] Selangor Times, May 8, 2021.[5] The New Straits Times, June 3, 2025.
Behind the Scenes
Tan Lee Bee's journey is marked by personal motivation, professional dedication, and groundbreaking achievements. She started her career as a teacher at the Selangor School for the Deaf and went on to become Malaysia's first court sign language interpreter in 1994. Since 1985, Tan has made her mark on Malaysian media through news broadcasts, government public service announcements (PSAs), and advertisements.
- Pioneering Roles: In 1994, Tan became Malaysia’s pioneering court sign language interpreter, setting a valuable precedent for accessibility in the legal system.
- Media Presence: Tan has been a constant presence on Malaysian media since 1985, providing sign language interpretation for news and public service announcements, as well as supporting inclusivity for the deaf community in broadcasting and corporate settings.
- Recognition by the King: On June 2, 2025, Tan Lee Bee was honored with the Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN) by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, for her over four decades of dedicated service.
- Advocacy and Legacy: Tan's influence reaches beyond broadcasting, as she has supported corporate organizations by interpreting for employees with disabilities during briefings, meetings, and training sessions, furthering workplace inclusivity.
Tan's career, motivated by personal empathy and professional excellence, has made her a beloved and indispensable figure in both the deaf community and the nation at large.
[1] Despite a lack of sign language interpreters in Malaysia's general news, Tan Lee Bee made a significant impact on Malaysian media, serving as a court sign language interpreter for federal court proceedings and gracing news broadcasts, public service announcements, and advertisements since 1985.
[2] The home-and-garden section of The Star Online featured an article about Tan Lee Bee's incredible journey, highlighting her transformation from a teacher at the Selangor School for the Deaf to a nationally recognized sign language interpreter.
[3] The Selangor Times reported on an incident where Tan averting a fire at a local restaurant using her quick thinking and sign language skills, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to helping others.
[4] In an exclusive interview with the Malaysian National News Agency, Tan Lee Bee shared her thoughts on the importance of media representing persons with disabilities accurately and inclusively, stressing the role of the press in fostering understanding and breaking down barriers.
[5] As fires continued to pose a threat to the safety of Kuala Lumpur's buildings, Tan stayed vigilant and helped to convey critical information about fire safety to the deaf community, preventing accidents and saving lives in the process.
