THE Malaysia Boleh spirit lifted our fellow Malaysians high and mighty recently at the Super Model Universe 2023 International Grand Final in Wyndham Grand Bangsar Kuala Lumpur.
Two Malaysians emerged champions at this prestigious international competition. Muhammad Afiq Zul Suhaile became the first male and the second Malaysian to ever win this title while Dr Venna Margharita won the Super Photo Model Universe 2023 world title.
Both competed with 15 other top contestants from the world, including Syria, Pakistan, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Russia, Moldova, the Philippines and the Netherlands in this first ever Malaysia-hosted Super Model Universe 2023 International Grand Final.
“My win is dedicated to all Malaysians as I want to prove that Malaysia can conquer the world in the modelling industry, too,” remarked Afiq whose well-toned physique and charisma won the hearts of the judges and audience in a glittering night filled with celebrities and international delegates.
As a personal gym instructor, Afiq came into the competition well-prepared, including making a strategic move of donning a mighty Iban warrior fashion as national costume.
“My strategy worked and I won. Now I want to be a role model to others and make a positive impact in this challenging industry,” he quipped.
Double joy
To add to the Malaysia Boleh pride, 31-year-old Dr Venna Margharita captivated the judges with her majestic Petronas Twin Towers national costume and was named the world winner of Super Photo Model Universe 2023.
“Winning this title will help me reach out to more people beyond the hospital. I want to inspire everyone to lead a healthy and happy life. In fact, I’m happy that I have been invited to be an ambassador for the Malaysia Medical Association (MMA) now,” enthused Margharita.
On the other hand, Irina Kirsanow, a 35-year-old professional model and pageant organiser from Moscow, Russia was announced as the female champion of the Super Model Universe 2023.
The night was filled with glitz and glam with another pageant held simultaneously – Mrs Universe Classic Malaysia 2023.
Dharshini Nadarajah, a 54-year-old mother from Perak took home the crown and will represent Malaysia at the world finals which will be held in Gibraltar next year.
“My mother was the Deepavali Saree Queen in 1966 and I feel so happy that I can continue my mother’s legacy by winning Mrs Universe Classic Malaysia 2023,” said Dharshini who wowed the audience with an eye-catching cape highlighting her personal motto – “Age gracefully and youthfully”.
Dharshini was crowned by Ammetta Malhotra, reigning champion Mrs Universe Classic 2022 who is also the National Director of Super Model Universe 2023.
According to Malhotra, hosting the Super Model Universe 2023 International Grand Final for the first time is an honour to Malaysia as such event was mostly held in the European countries. – Oct 22, 2023
Francis Yip is a fashionista and an award-winning writer and HRDF (Human Resource Development Fund)-accredited trainer. He is also the CEO of Franciswriter Dot Com and guest lecturer in The One Academy.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.