adminKUALA LUMPUR: Ratu Prestigious Event Management (RPEM) today introduced 13 of the 15 finalists who will compete for the title of Miss Universe Malaysia (MUM) 2026 in early October.
RPEM President and MUM National Director Ayu Omar said two more participants would be announced in the near future.
Those selected are Wenn Sin, 31; Shawn, 22; Shalini Devi, 29; Sapphire Wong, 33; Preevena, 25; K Pratiba, 27; Khai Chin, 30; Eunice Wong, 37; Emmanuelle, 31; Diana Charles, 39; Desaeny, 34; Clarysse, 25 and Amreet, 30.
According to Ayu, all finalists will undergo a six-day intensive program that includes public speaking and self-development workshops in preparation for the international stage.
Taking up the theme “Legacy Reimagined”, Ayu explained that this time’s competition was also different because it was open to women aged 21 to 50 years old.
“This inclusive approach reflects RPEM’s belief that true beauty is not only measured by age and physical appearance, but is also reflected through maturity, strength of spirit and the ability to inspire society,” he said at a press conference to introduce the finalists, here on Wednesday.
One of the finalists, Amreet, said her participation was driven by a desire to rebuild her self-confidence and be a source of inspiration to the community after experiencing complications while giving birth to her first child.
“I felt really down. After the quarantine period ended, I wanted to regain my self-confidence and do what I wanted, and today I am here,” said the teacher.
For Emanuelle, her decision to join MUM 2026 was driven by a deep interest in new challenges and a desire to continue growing.
The former national rhythmic swimmer and three-time SEA Games gold medalist considers the stage as an opportunity for him to bring high discipline and sportsmanship to the world of modelling.
“I’ve always loved a challenge. I’ve traveled, worked in various locations and met many people. When this opportunity came up, I thought I had to grab it now,” he said.
Meanwhile, mother of three, Sapphire Wong said that through her participation in the competition, she wanted to encourage mothers to pursue their dreams regardless of age or marital status.
The housewife and part-time model, who has over 15 years of experience in the modeling industry, wants to prove that women can step from home to the international stage if they have the courage and determination.
The MUM 2026 Pageant Week will begin on 29 Sept, followed by the ‘Preliminary Competition’ on 30 Sept, while the culminating night will take place on 2 Oct.
— BERNAMA
