Malaysian Secures Top 30 Spot In Miss Universe For The First Time In 53 Years
The 23-year-old beauty queen from Selangor is an actress, model, and martial artist.
By May Vin Ang — 18 Nov 2024, 03:00 PM
A Malaysian beauty queen made it to the Top 30 of the Miss Universe pageant over the weekend, marking the country's first placement in the semifinals in 53 years
According to the New Straits Times, 23-year-old Sandra Lim clinched the coveted spot at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico on Saturday, 16 November.
The last Malaysian to achieve this honour was Josephine Lena Wong, who reached the Top 15 in 1970.
"Congratulations, Sandra Lim! Your dedication and passion have inspired so many, and we are proud to call you our Queen who made history for our beautiful home," wrote the Miss Universe Malaysia Organisation on Instagram.
Lim, who hails from Selangor, was crowned Miss Universe Malaysia in September to represent the country at the grand finale in Mexico City
The actress, model, and martial artist was a favourite from the outset, achieving a spot in the semifinals with her consistently strong performances.
During the Miss Universe preliminary rounds, she showcased Malaysian heritage by wearing a national costume inspired by Pahang folklore and Princess Walinong Sari, designed by renowned local designer Ezuwan Ismail.
Lim also impressed fans and judges alike with her performances in the Q&A, evening gown, and swimwear segments.
"I'm very grateful and honoured to represent Malaysia. I have always aimed for a placement and it has been my dream to make Malaysia proud," Lim said in a statement after the event
"This achievement is dedicated to my country, family, friends, the Miss Universe Malaysia Organisation team, and all my fans who have supported me every step of the way," she added, as quoted by theSundaily.
The annual pageant featured 130 women from across the world, with Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, being crowned Miss Universe 2024.
Miss Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, claimed second place, while Miss Mexico, Maria Fernanda Beltran, took third.
