The search is on for Miss Universe Malaysia 2023

Miss Universe Malaysia 2023 press launch at The St Regis Kuala Lumpur on Feb 17, 2023. From L-R: Dato’ Westin Chew, Miss Universe 2022 second runner-up Andreína Martínez Founier, Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, Datin Wira Poppy Capella, Datuk Wira Justin Lim, Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel and Gabriëla Dos Santos. – Photo: Yamchatime/TTan

The search for the next Miss Universe Malaysia is now officially on with the joint press launch of the competition by Just Capella Sdn Bhd, the new licensee for the Miss Universe Malaysia beauty pageant, and the Miss Universe Organization at a ceremony held in The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur on Feb 17.

They are now accepting applications for the 2023 pageant.

Just Capella chief executive officer Dato’ Westin Chew delivering his speech during the press launch of Miss Universe Malaysia. – Photo: Yamchatime/TTan

In his speech, Just Capella chief executive officer Dato’ Westin Chew said: “The Miss Universe Malaysia brand is set to be boosted to a higher level qualitatively, through the injection of fresh blood, creativity and innovation into the latest pageant.

“Just Capella will also be introducing new processes throughout all activities and judging, to ensure integrity, transparency, honesty and fairness.”

Just Capella Sdn Bhd, co-owned by Datin Wira Poppy Capella and Datuk Wira Justin Lim, is poised to re-energize the beauty pageant industry in Malaysia.

“We are thrilled to be appointed by JKN Global Group, the owner of Miss Universe Organization, to manage the Miss Universe pageant in Malaysia.

“The Miss Universe organization is committed to empowering women and promoting diversity, and we share a vision to create an incredible impact through Miss Universe Malaysia 2023,” said Datin Wira Poppy Capella, national director of Miss Universe Malaysia.

Just Capella Sdn Bhd co-owners Datin Wira Poppy Capella (right) and Datuk Wira Justin Lim (left) giving his speech at the launch of Miss Universe Malaysia. – Photo: Yamchatime./TTan

According to Capella, the Miss Universe Malaysia pageant is a platform that provides women with the tools to create positive changes personally, professionally, and philanthropically, allowing them to serve as inspirational leaders for their communities and fans. It also empowers them to stand and shine forever on their own.

“We are excited to launch the Miss Universe Malaysia and provide young women with an opportunity to showcase their talents and be a role model for future generations.

“We believe that this pageant is not just about beauty, but about guiding women to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. We hope to be a force for good, with our five G’s: Give, Good, Generous, Gratitude and Go Green,” added Capella.

JKN Global Group chief executive officer Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel (USA), second runner-up Andreína Martínez Founier (Dominican Republic) and top 5 finalist Gabriëla Dos Santos (Curacao- Netherlands) also graced the event.

JKN Global Group chief executive officer Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip gives Miss Universe Malaysia the thumbs up. – Photo: Yamchatime/TTan

Under the Miss Universe’s new direction, Anne Jakrajutatip is confident of Just Capella’s ability to elevate the competition in Malaysia to the next level.

“The Malaysian platform has been untapped for a long time and it’s time to change. It’s time to improve. It’s time to look forward to have a new horizon.

“We hope to see Miss Universe Malaysia gets into the Top 20, Top 16, Top 10 and Top 5.

“We would love to see the Miss Universe Malaysia new momentum on the international stage,” said Anne Jakrajutatip.

Press launch of Miss Universe Malaysia. – Photo: Yamchatime/Alex Soh
During the launch of Miss Universe Malaysia, the Miss Universe Organization unveiled their brand new Miss Universe Jet. – Photo: Yamchatime/TTan
From L-R: Gabriëla Dos Santos, R’Bonney Gabriel and Andreína Martínez Founier. – Photo: Yamchatime/TTan 
Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel. – Photo: Yamchatime/Alex Soh
Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel. – Photo: Yamchatime/Alex Soh

During the launch of Miss Universe Malaysia, the Miss Universe Organisation unveiled their brand new Miss Universe Jet. This jet will be used to transport Miss Universe titleholders all around the world, allowing them to travel in safety, privacy and comfort.

Miss Universe Malaysia will feature a series of preliminary rounds, including swimwear, evening gown, and interview competitions.

The winner of the pageant will represent Malaysia at the Miss Universe competition, joining contestants from around the world to compete for the coveted Miss Universe title. 

Miss Universe Malaysia 2022 is Lesley Cheam, 26, who was crowned on October 7, 2022 and represented Malaysia in Miss Universe 2022 in New Orleans, USA on Jan 23, 2023.

The Miss Universe Malaysia 2023 pageant is now open for registration.

Young women who are interested in participating in the pageant are invited to visit https://missuniverse.com.my or email info@missuniverse.com.my for more information and registration.