Just for information, Ling Low is actually one of Malaysia’s writers, journalists, and also filmmaker,s and her own short fiction titled ‘Weeds’ was among 25 out of 6,423 entries from 50 Commonwealth countries shortlisted for this year’s Commonwealth Short Story Prize. The annual competition which is in its tenth year is actually organized by the Commonwealth Foundation and awarded to the best unpublished fictional short story by any citizen of the 54 former territories of the British Empire.
As stated on Commonwealth Writers’ website, ‘Weeds’ was written during the first Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia last year. It is about a wealthy retiree who passes his time indoors during the national lockdown by staring at the gardeners working outside. He becomes jealous of their ability to spend their time outside in the sun.
Actually, Ling Low is not a new name in the industry as she has received recognition for her talent in storytelling. She stated on her own website, “I’ve published short fiction and I’ve written and directed short films, music videos, and brand videos”. She also added, “I am sometimes funny. I’ve written for BBC Radio 4’s sketch show Sketchtopia, and I was a finalist for the BBC’s inaugural Felix Dexter Bursary for BAME comedy writers”.
She mentioned, “My journalism is mostly about culture, urban development, travel, and heritage. I like interviewing people. I’ve been commissioned by The Guardian, The Telegraph, Condé Nast Traveller, Time Out Kuala Lumpur, Esquire Malaysia and more”. She also said, “I’ve worked with a range of clients on projects that include directing videos and photoshoots or strategizing media campaigns. Past clients include Carlsberg, British Council, Levi’s and more”.
Sources: YouTube Commonwealth Writers, Twitter Ling Low, Website Ling Low.