Thirteen finalists have so far been selected by to compete for the Miss Universe Malaysia (MUM) 2026 title, with the pageant scheduled to take place in early October.
MUM national director Ayu Omar said the finalists were selected by a professional jury following physical and online auditions held in August, while two more contestants will be announced soon.
The selected contestants are Wenn Sin, 31; Shawn, 22; Shalini Devi, 29; Sapphire Wong, 33; Preevena, 25; K Pratiba, 27; Khai Chin, 30; Eunice Wong, 37; Emanuelle, 31; Diana Charles, 39; Desaeny, 34; Clarysse, 25; and Amreet, 30.
Ayu said all the finalists would undergo an intensive six-day programme covering public speaking and self-development workshops in preparation for the international stage.
She said this year’s pageant, themed ‘Legacy Reimagined’, also introduces a new eligibility criterion, opening participation to women aged between 21 and 50.
"This inclusive approach reflects our belief that true beauty is not measured solely by age or physical appearance but is also reflected in maturity, inner strength and the ability to inspire society,” she said at a press conference to introduce the finalists here on Wednesday.
One of the finalists, Amreet, said her decision to enter the pageant was driven by her desire to rebuild her self-confidence and inspire others after experiencing complications and undergoing an emergency caesarean section while giving birth to her first child.
"After completing my confinement period, I wanted to regain my confidence and pursue the things I had always wanted to do, and today, I am here,” said the teacher.
For Emanuelle, her decision to compete in MUM 2026 was driven by her passion for taking on new challenges and her desire to continue growing.
The former national artistic swimmer and three-time SEA Games gold medallist described the pageant as a major turning point in her life, giving her an opportunity to bring the sporting spirit to the modelling world.
"I have always loved challenges. I have travelled, worked in various places and met many people. When this opportunity came along, I thought, why not? I have to seize it now,” she said.
Meanwhile, mother of three Sapphire Wong said her participation carried a bigger mission of giving mothers a voice and encouraging them to continue pursuing their dreams regardless of age or marital status.
The homemaker and part-time model, who has more than 15 years of experience in the modelling industry, wants to prove that women can step beyond their comfort zones if they have the courage and determination.
MUM 2026 Pageant Week will begin on Sept 29, followed by the Preliminary Competition on Sept 30, while the grand finale will be held on Oct 2. — Bernama
