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JUST last week, our very own Miss Universe Malaysia 2020, Francisca Luhong James, packed-up and jetted herself off to the United States to join other delegates participating in the big show this year at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in the city of Hollywood, Florida.
A quick glimpse of the 25-year-old beauty queen’s online updates shows a whirlwind of activities for contestants as the pageant officially begins.
But before she bid her farewell, The Vibes managed to get a quick catch-up with Luhong in this exclusive interview. More below…
The Vibes: How has your journey been till now?
Francisca Luhong: It has been amazing, I work with different groups of people, and it is very unique due to the current situation, it’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience. I cannot wait to show my journey for Miss Universe 2020.
TV: How are you preparing for the big show?
FL: Lots of preparation from Q&A classes, going to the gym, catwalk classes, meeting with sponsors to get myself ready and looking my best before the final show. I chose this path; this is my responsibility. I understand my purpose and always remind myself that if I want to go further and grow, I must move forward, be positive and put a smile on my face. I believe that at the end of the day, all the effort and hard work will come to fruition.
TV: Why do you think the competition is still relevant when the world is facing a global pandemic? How would you signify this importance?
FL: It is relevant because it empowers women to stand their ground, know their vision, and work on their goals and purpose in life. The competition also unites people together. Despite the pandemic we are still working together as one and trying our best to create change for society in the most civilised way.
TV: How can pageantry be the source of optimism for an audience tuning in?
FL: The pageant has helped me to become more confident and move forward in achieving my goals. When people watch pageants, and they see us being optimistic, they tend to look forward to the success of their own nations and naturally tend to come together to root for their home country and hope to create an impact.
TV: Representing Malaysia, what are you most excited about?
FL: To showcase the beauty of my nation and be the first to represent my community at the Miss Universe stage.
TV: What got you into Miss Universe and who was your main source of inspiration?
FL: I started pageantry by chance. I was scouted, and only then got to know about pageantry more – slowly building my self-confidence over time. My main source of inspiration is Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2015. She failed so many times, and eventually won in her 3rd try after failing at her first two attempts. She won everyone’s heart with her enthusiasm and dedication – of course, including mine.
TV: The world of beauty pageants is very competitive. Do you agree? Why?
FL: Yes. It is after all a beauty pageant. You have over 90 beautiful confident girls around the world competing and they are beautiful in their own way. It is all about mental strength. You need to be smart and know what your purpose is in joining the pageant. Everyone can be beautiful, but not everyone can shine above others. When competing for the Miss Universe Malaysia title specifically, the dynamic between the girls was no short of a challenge but we remain good friends until today.
TV: Have you made friendly allies and/or bitter rivals? Are there any ugly truths that you would like to right a wrong?
FL: We are all friends. There were a few dramas but when girls are put in a group for too long for a competition, tensions are normal… but I would prefer to keep the details to ourselves. ?
TV: What are some of the steps taken into consideration in exercising your role while being mindful of the exposure outdoors due to the Covid-19 pandemic?
FL: Quite simple, following the SOP set – making sure to understand how the procedures work before going on-ground, and wearing a mask and always sanitise. It is very important. However, we have reduced our on-ground activities tremendously to ensure the safety of others and ours. – The Vibes, May 14, 2021
*Stream the competition here (https://www.missuniverse.com/competition) and watch our homegirl compete on the Miss Universe 2021 international stage happening at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Hosts Mario Lopez and Olivia Culpo alongside a special performance by Florida’s very own entertainer Pitbull joins the showcase.
The National Costume Show will be at 9am, May 14 (Friday), followed by the Preliminary Competition at 8am, May 15 (Saturday) and the final round to name the title-holder at 9am, May 17 (Monday).
