ONE of the biggest victims when Covid-19 reigned three years ago was beauty pageants. Now over a year after the reopening of the economy, the world of beauty is reborn with the return of pageantry, fashion shows, as well as the launch of new fashion wear.
One interesting dimension or rather maturity of the moment, is the emergence of married or middle-aged women pageants in the past year.
It showcases that beauty is not only all looks but an equal spectre of intelligence, character and dedication to wellness, especially for those recovering from childbirth.
Petite young women remained the representation of beauty in essence but the older women are also showing their worth today, especially where the supporting enterprises of beauty care, cosmetic surgery, nutrition and fashion fad are growing fast in the country.
There is an endless stream of products and services preaching that ageing can be reversed.
Seasoned pageant judge Francis Yip Hon Cheng said that it takes hard work to participate in a pageant. One needs to undergo training, have a fitness regime and eat right, often for months, to stay competitive for the judging process.
"Women want to showcase their sacrifices. And we should applaud their efforts so what better way than to offer pageantry as a platform for the lifelong commitment to look good."
In the past three months, Yip was in three events, judging with a pool of several others. The most recent was the Mrs Malaysia Universe and Mrs Elite Malaysia Universe franchise pageantry.
Held in the landmark Sungai Wang Plaza shopping arcade, the twin pageants, were organised by Lim Siew Cheng, a former beauty queen herself.
Lim spoke of the warmth and friendships gained during the pageants among the organisers and participants, while also acknowledging that some contestants are serious about competing to the extent that they undergo personal strenuous training to be ready.
She looks up to them, citing that it is a form of women empowerment, and a beauty contest is an ideal occasion to showcase everything good about the female gender.
She sees a potential to enhance such events, as ultimately all women like to look good, and the event allows them to be consistent in trying to do it.
"And do not forget, men too crave to look the best that they can be."
To look good on the outside, there is also a need to care for the inner beauty, she exclaimed.
The Mrs Malaysia Universe 2023 was for beauties aged 40 and below, while the Mrs Elite Malaysia Universe 2023 was for those aged above 40.
The winners of both pageants shared their insight into the world of beauty here.
Dr Sharon Liew, 38, the winner of Mrs Malaysia is a chiropractic physician, who specialises in rehabilitation.
"Honestly, the (pageant) preparation is 80% and 20% for the final day. But for me, I am almost 80% ready upon registration and audition because this is not my first pageant. I never thought of joining (a) Mrs pageant title," Liew said in a text message interview.
It was her husband Yalin John Adiguzel who had motivated her.
"I am blessed physically. Despite after two child births, my body shape is leaner and thinner than before pregnancy. So overall, it’s more of time management since I am juggling my time between being a mother/housewife/ a lady boss and a committed contestant."
On the difficulty of staying fit as one ages, Liew said this: “In this era, [the] 40s are the new 20s. When I am young, I am inexperienced… but when you are in your 40s you are a divine feminine. What I really meant was, at this age (40s), we are financially more independent, most of us are accomplished women and we are mature and get to make our own decisions wisely. We are unstoppable and I’m glad we are given this opportunity for women's empowerment.”
She says that Malaysia has a huge potential to host more pageants, as it can also become a tourism product to complement the efforts to boost the industry. On any tips to share with women keen to be part of a beauty pageant, Liew simply said, “The stage is yours, earn it. Welcome to the runway of dreams.”
Maria Tay is the winner for the category of above 40, called Mrs Malaysia Elite, saying that her involvement in preparing for the pageant was in itself a rewarding experience. A company director, Tay, 50, said that she just committed to boot camp activities and practise her group dancing routine to emerge as a winner.
On the difficulties of competing when one is aged, Tay had this to share: "Those in their younger age, they may have toddlers or university or work to handle. For older women, our children have grown up, so we have time."
Although physically, older women are not as agile or energetic compared to the young, she acknowledged. Tay said that the Philippines hosts a range of pageants yearly to showcase their country, so likewise in Malaysia, it can be done.
"I also believe that many Malaysian women would like to take part, but they are constrained with their work, religious restrictions and a conservative outlook."
.jpg)
It took her four months from the initial auditions, which took place on weekends to the grand finale in Sungai Wang, but for Tay it was worthwhile. She emerged the winner, proving that sacrifices to look good do pay off.
Yip said, “As a judge, I am proud and happy for the contestants. When I first met some of them during audition, they were shy and reserved. But look at them now – a tower of strength, a queen of catwalk and a radiant beauty on stage. I urge them to take what they have learned and continue to shine and empower others.
"They are no longer Eliza Doolittle (My Fair Lady) but the Queen in their own way. Be a role model and Queen of Hearts to others. Those who didn't win, don't be disheartened. They are all winners in my heart because of their transformation. Keep shining,” added Yip.
Kedah Fashion Week a hit
Weeks later and some 435km away in Alor Setar, Kedah, an annual fashion extravaganza was held at the Aman Central Mall, the premier shopping point. Despite the conservative nature of the people here, the organisers behind the Kedah Fashion Week helmed it as a chance to showcase fashion but with attires that are not offensive. And it was a hit because the show was bigger and better this year with loads of sponsors and designers compared to last year.
The event showcased local and foreign designers with the theme of “Fashion Big Bang”. The official hotels for this year are the Star City Hotel along with Frazel Heritage Hotel which hosted the models and fashion designers. Among the designers for the opening show was Kanapot from Thailand, Ikmal Mukmin (Gens Great Idea), Asyraf Arrif, Bytwoo, Daniel Zharifofficial and Four Degree Studios from Myanmar.
Other participants are Icahfa, D’Yana, Tomei, Elrah Exclusive, HLA, Bonia, Salleh Hamed, D, New Era, YT Label, Anuar Faizal and Outdwell. An organising spokesperson said that the new fashion gives a glimpse into how people like to look in the future. An interesting point was to see how face masks – a must during the pandemic – are being incorporated into fashion wear. – The Vibes, August 25, 2023
