The Johor-born took home the top prize for her role in Tam Wai-ching’s “Someone Like Me”, in which she plays Ah Mui, a woman living with cerebral palsy.

Her performance, widely described as nuanced and deeply empathetic, saw her edge out a strong field of nominees including Ma Li, Natalie Hsu, Fala Chen and international star Zhang Ziyi.

For Liew, 36, the win marks a significant milestone in a career that has steadily gained momentum in Hong Kong’s film industry.

She first rose to prominence with supporting roles before breaking through with her award-winning turn in the 2021 biopic “Anita”, in which she played the sister of Cantopop legend Anita Mui.

That role earned her a Best Supporting Actress prize at the same awards in 2022.

Born in Malaysia and raised in Johor Bahru, Liew moved to Hong Kong to pursue acting and gradually built a reputation for taking on emotionally complex roles.

Over the years, she has become known for her versatility, moving between independent productions and mainstream films while earning critical acclaim for her performances.

Her role in “Someone Like Me” – which explores themes of dignity, independence, and how society perceives disability – is seen as one of her most demanding to date. Rather than leaning into stereotypes, the film delves into Ah Mui’s inner world, desires and relationships, including with Ken (Carlos Chan).

Liew reportedly spent time understanding the physical and emotional realities of living with cerebral palsy in preparing for the part.

“Someone Like Me” has already been recognised on the awards circuit, with Liew previously winning Best Actress at the Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards in January, and the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild Awards for the same role.

Liew took to Instagram after her latest win, sharing her appreciation with fans and collaborators. “Thank you to the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild for presenting me with this award,” she wrote.

She also dedicated the award to her parents for their support.