Azean Irdawaty - The Actor and The Fighter

Picture source : http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2007&dt=0711&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Hiburan&pg=hi_01.htm

"Don't cry for me, Malaysia. Instead, send me positive energy. Let's tell this cancer to go to hell"

~ Azean Irdawaty

Recently diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, this brave enigmatic actress who graces our Malaysian cinema, Malay movies specifically made the above statement; a testament to her strong faith and determination to combat the disease that took away our previous 1st lady, Datuk Seri Endon's life away.

I still remember Azean's portrayal of the character of an actress way past her glory days under the direction of Shuhaimi Baba in "Layar Lara" and of course her acting sparring with another great Malaysian actress Ida Nerina in the same movie.

She attended the recently held Malaysian Film Festival in Penang to collect her Best Supporting Actress Award for the movie "Waris Jari Hantu" in her near-balding head. She quipped, "As for losing my hair, bah, it will grow back". I guess there must be a standing ovation for her bravery that night.

Let's hope Azean will win her battle and the respective artistes' association will provide the financial assistance needed for this great actor.

(written after reading the news on The Star)