By Tan Kee Yun
It was a visibly humbled and remorseful Rui En who took to the stage last night at Star Awards 2016 Show 1.
Receiving the awards ceremony’s highest accolade, All-Time Favourite Artiste,alongside actor Qi Yuwu, the 35-year-old local actress was not her usual cool and aloof self during her acceptance speech.
Last Tuesday afternoon, she had crashed her car into a parked motorcycle in Clementi. The incident sparked off an online brouhaha when it was reported that the first thing she allegedly told the biker was: “Do you know who I am?”
Police are investigating the accident.
Last night, Rui En delivered her acceptance speech after a video montage celebrating her TV career. She held back tears, gasped for breath, asked for forgiveness, and apologised – twice – to the crowd.
At the end of her speech, the actress even bowed deeply.
“This is a milestone year for my career but at the same time, it’s a year where I have to face difficulties in life,” she said in Mandarin.
“Regarding the case that happened earlier in the week, I hope all of you will forgive me for not being able to comment to the media, as it is still under investigation.
“I’m extremely sorry for causing so much inconvenience to everyone. I know a lot of people have given me unconditional love, I really thank them for that.”
She also expressed gratitude to her bosses and colleagues at management company Hype Records, who she said “have stood by me and supported me even though I’ve done wrong”.
The star also thanked her ardent fans for “never forsaking” her.
Often labelled an ice queen, Rui En showed a softer and more vulnerable side, even musing at one point: “To be a responsible actress, it’s not just about acting well, but also about presenting your best side to audiences.
“I’m so straight-talking and I don’t hide my emotions, whether they’re happy or sad emotions. And I’m aware this could cause divisive, controversial opinions (of me).
“Until now, I wonder if I’m suitable for showbiz.”
‘SINCERE’
Mr Bahrom Sarmiten, 52, the owner of the parked motorcycle that Rui En hit last Tuesday, told TNP over the phone that he watched Rui En’s acceptance speech.
“Too bad I don’t understand Mandarin, but I can tell that she wanted to cry,” he said.
“I can feel that she is very sincere.”
To Rui En, Mr Bahrom added: “The higher you climb, the challenges you face are tests from God.”
He said he “does not feel any more anger” over the accident.
“In the past, I would have gone haywire (sic), but I think maybe I’m an old man now, I have mellowed.”
Source: The New Paper
Categorised in All Time Favourite Artiste Award, EN, 超级红星奖, Star Awards, Star Awards 2016, The New Paper.
