Malaysian novelist wins Walter Scott prize

Malaysian author Tan Twan Eng has won the Walter Scott Prize for his post-World War Two novel, The Garden of Evening Mists.

The Walter Scott prize gives honours to historical fiction writers and their works.

Tan, who hails from Penang, is the first writer from outside the United Kingdom (UK) to win the 25,000 pound (RM122,300) award after new rules set last year.

He accepted the prize on Friday at the Brewin Dolphin Borders Book Festival in Melrose, Scotland.

It was presented by the Duke of Buccleuch, who established the award four years ago.

Tan has a background in law and real estate law, where he later pursued his postgraduate studies at the University of Capetown.

He produced his first book entitled "The Gift of Rain," and was listed for the Man Booker Prize.