A mother, daughter and son competed together in their own age groups and captured an award each at the recently concluded Miss Malaysia Kebaya 2021 pageant.
The Miss Malaysia Kebaya (MMK) pageant ranges from four-year-old child to married women competing for various titles.
“I feel I’m a very lucky person to have done this together,” said mum Yvonne, 44, who was thrilled to see her two children bagged an award each that night.
Yvonne took clear lead in ‘The Most Popular Vote’ subtitle in the Mrs. Malaysia Kebaya category with over a thousand ‘Likes’ on MMK Facebook. The photo of finalists in Miss Malaysia Kebaya Facebook page with the most number of likes wins the subtitle.
Her 7-year-old son Aiden Wu was crowned Little Batik Prince 2021 in his age group (4-8 years) and also won “The Most Popular Vote” subtitle in the group, while her 4-year-old daughter Aimee Wu was named first runner-up in Little Kebaya Princess 2021.
Yvonne and her husband have supported their daughter and son participating in the pageant that saw family bond strengthened.
“It was very meaningful and a great way to bond with the kids. They were having fun and enjoying themselves on stage. Of course I’m very proud of myself taking another challenge in my life and win the title. I’m also very proud to both of my kids as they have done so much better than expected. At least we have done something differently in our life,” she said.
Yvonne and her two children began competing in contests this year. She came to know about MMK in April this year, after which she registered herself and her two children for the competition.
“I was mentally and physically ready to take that step. Of course, the most important things pageant like this gives us opportunities to build self-confidence, make friendships, learn communication skills, leadership, poise and public speaking.”
Prior to this pageant, Yvonne competed in Mrs Chipao Malaysia 2021 in October and was awarded first runner-up. She also bagged the first runner-up position in Miss Saree Malaysia Ambassador 2021 held in November.
“I got my children involved because the pageant is cultural oriented to encourage the young generation to appreciate the beauty of cultural heritage and I want them to feel like they are part of this culture.”
Yvonne said entering her children in competitions has boosted their self-confidence and helped them develop self-discipline.
“My son and daughter have so much understanding in self-discipline. They feel comfortable and confident with themselves and take pride in their effort and success. Their childhood will not be the same with others.
“I become role model to my kids for sure, and I hope that can inspire more mothers and kids participating in pageantry.”
Aiden previously competed at Junior Idol World Malaysia 2021, where he won the title of Best Poster Boy and finished runner-up in the mini boy category. He went on to do well at Little Samfu 2021 and was placed 1st runner-up and at Little Miss & Mister Ibiza Spain where he proved his worth by winning Best Fashion Boy title and 2nd place Wip Model.
As for Aimee, she may be only four years old but she is already making a name for herself as she became the youngest finalist in her age group (4-8 years old) to grab her first award – runner-up in Little Kebaya Princess 2021.