Hong Ling Prioritizes Family Over Work Following Star Awards 2025 Win

SINGAPORE — Hong Ling, a prominent actress recognized at the Star Awards 2025, has expressed a significant shift in her priorities following a challenging year filled with personal losses. The 30-year-old star, who received the Top 10 Most Popular Female Artistes award on July 6, 2025, shared insights into her life changes and the emotional journey she has undergone in recent months.

In a candid interview post-award ceremony, Hong Ling revealed that her family now takes precedence over her professional ambitions. “Our priority is family, so work is secondary. It’s not as important,” she stated. This statement reflects a broader narrative among many professionals who reassess their work-life balance after facing personal adversities.

This past year proved to be particularly tough for Hong Ling, as she experienced the passing of her mother in February and suffered a miscarriage just weeks later. These events have profoundly impacted her perspective on life and work. “Honestly, I surprisingly wasn't yearning for an award that much because I realized there are too many things going on,” she remarked, highlighting the emotional distractions that shaped her outlook.

Despite being nominated for Best Actress for her role in the drama series "Unforgivable," her expectations were tempered. “I thought it was going to be [like in 2023] when I didn't get Best Actress. I also didn't get into the Top 10. After losing Best Actress this time, I told myself: ‘Okay, maybe that award won't be mine,’” she recalled. Her humility and realistic expectations resonate with many who face similar pressures in their respective fields.

At the awards ceremony, she received her trophy from renowned actor Chow Yun Fat, who lightened the moment with a playful comment about her name, making the event memorable. “I thought: ‘Eh, he's really so friendly. He joked with me after hearing my name,’” she shared, emphasizing the importance of such light-hearted interactions in the entertainment industry.

Hong Ling also expressed her intention to celebrate her win with her fans, stating that she enjoys rewarding them with meals. “Every time I win, I'll take them out for a meal to reward them,” she mentioned, showcasing her appreciation for her supporters. She even hinted at cooking for them in her new home with her husband, Nick Teo, saying, “I enjoy cooking,” thereby indicating her multifaceted personality that extends beyond acting.

As the actress navigates this new chapter of her life, her decision to prioritize family over work underscores a significant trend among individuals in high-pressure professions. According to Dr. Emily Tan, a psychologist at the National University of Singapore, “Many professionals reevaluate their life priorities after experiencing significant life events. It’s a natural response that fosters deeper connections with loved ones.”

Furthermore, the entertainment industry often places immense pressure on individuals to constantly achieve and excel. Dr. Michael Lim, an expert in media studies at Singapore Management University, noted that “the competitive nature of show business can lead to burnout, prompting many to step back and reassess what truly matters.”

Looking ahead, Hong Ling's journey may inspire her peers and fans to embrace a more balanced approach to life and work. As she continues to navigate her career amidst personal challenges, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family and well-being in the fast-paced world of entertainment.

In conclusion, Hong Ling's reflections post-Star Awards 2025 encapsulate a growing sentiment among professionals facing adversity: that personal fulfillment and family connections often take precedence over career accolades. As she embraces this new chapter, her story will likely resonate with many who find themselves at a similar crossroads.