Miss Malaysia Universe candidates swing into action

By KEE HUA CHEE

SINCE last year, the Miss Malaysia Universe franchise has been held by Beyond Entity with Syeba Yip as event director and Heah Sieu Lay as chairman. Known more for his financial dealings than beauty queen wheelings, Heah is convinced a Miss Malaysia will bring home the Miss Universe crown or at least be in the top five, a feat he sees as possible.

“This year’s candidates are top class and include four working in the banking industry and high finance. All speak English unlike in previous pageants when some contestants needed interpreters which is untenable at international level.” he says.

Both Heah and Yip run MIFA (Malaysian International Fashion Alliance) and are injecting new ideas to raise the local standard.

Vivacious: Some of the finalists posing in sportswear.

Among the initiatives is the newly- established Miss Malaysia Universe Hall of Fame comprising former winners who have gone on to make a name.

“They embody the essence of beauty and personal success and have continued to be in the limelight through their work,” Heah said.

Ethereal: One of the finalists, Charlene wearing Elegance Club jewels designed by Tracy Ong.

“Include in this year’s Hall of Fame are Nancie Foo, Maggie Loo, Elaine Daly, Datuk Yasmin Yusuf, Anna Lin and the mother and daughter winners Datin Josephine Fonseka and Andre Fonseka who is famous in Singapore.”

“The past winners will mentor the 18 finalists and give invaluable tips based on their experiences. Maggie Loo, for instance, has groomed more than half a dozen Miss Malaysias while Nancie Foo went on to be an actress and now producer. Datuk Yasmin Yusuf was a singer, MC, agency owner and recording artiste and Elaine Daly graduated in law.”

Sensuous: All the finalists are required to be fluent in English. Jenny seen here wearing Elegance Club jewellery.

They will also be involved in fund- raising and charity work in future events organised by Beyond Entity.

To add glamour and prestige, Miss Universe 2005 and Misss Canada Natalie Glebova will grace the finals on May 30 at Royale Chulan.

Entertainment will be provided by the Joanne Kam and Peter Choo Dancers.

Sponsors include Elegance Club as official jeweller, Adidas for sportswear, Tangs for eveningwear, Alfo, Adonis Wellness and Royale Chulan.

Tickets are priced at RM300, RM500, RM800 and RM1,000 and can be bought from Beyond Entity (012-980 1503).

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