Thomas Tan
The inaugural Super Model Universe Malaysia 2019 presented by Yinzi Event & Marketing held their top qualifiers audition at Quill City Mall in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, July 14.
Ammetta Malhotra, national director of Super Model Universe Malaysia said the top qualifiers were whittled down to 21 males and 15 females following a nationwide online search and tough screening that lasted three months.
The contestants strutted onto the stage and introduced themselves. They were judged based on their catwalk, body and Q&A.
The audition enlisted an impressive list of judges who were all top in their respective fields. They included, amongst them, Bumiputra Designer Association (BDA) president Bon Zainal, international award-winning filmmaker Julez Wong, International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Bronze Medal Champion Morteza Eslami and Mister Tourism World second runner-up Joshua Benedict.
“The top finalists, 12 men and 12 women, picked by the judges will be revealed during their Fashion Preview Show at Olympian Bar Puchong on July 26,” said Ammetta, a fashion and fitness model and beauty queen.
The event was hosted by emcee and TV personality Raj Aria. The co-organisers of the event were Madam Lim Siew Cheng and Jianee Lee.
The competition which was open to all nationalities residing in Malaysia, embraces the twin aims of promoting Malaysian models internationally and local brands and fashion designers in the domestic and foreign markets.
Main sponsors for the audition were LSY Media (main sponsor), XES Shoes (Platinum Sponsor), From Nature, Cocosfera and Reyoung Beaute NP.
Part-time model Ahbirammi Thanabalan, 20, from Kuala Lumpur said it was her dream to become a supermodel.
“I would definitely say that the people who had confident on me, who believed in me and made me think that I’m more than just an ordinary girl, not forgetting my passion has always been modelling and becoming a super model is all I ever dream too,’ she said.
The 177 cm (5’ 9.7”)tall model will be doing her ADP program in Business Management next year. She studied Mass Communication but after finding out that she didn’t like the course, she decided to change course and choose Business Management as she has an interest in maths and in business.
“I want to be someone to be remembered and to inspire the younger generations to reach their potential,” she added.
Ahbirammi, who works on weekends doing online marketing, enjoys hobbies such as swimming and reading books. She loves to do things related to arts such as drawing and paintings.
Another part-time model Carolyn Qiqi, 30, also from Kuala Lumpur said, “I’ve been in the modelling career for many years, and this Supermodel Universe contest is a great avenue for me to express myself through my passion. It’s been a great experience so far as I’ve been able to meet many knowledgeable people who are able to help me bring out the best version of myself.”
The 174cm (5’ 8.5”) tall part-time model who also works as a property negotiator is an animal lover.
“I’ve always had a passion for animal welfare. As such, I’m always on the look out for stray animals to be adopted. It is also very fulfilling for me as I feel like I’m making a difference. This is, however, on a personal capacity and I’m not affiliated to any organisations right now but I hope to explore that when I’m more capable to do so. Running an animal welfare centre wouldn’t be out of the question if I manage to source the necessary funding.
“I have a 12-year old shih-tzu named Mylo at home and he’s been with me through my toughest periods. I love him very much and I can’t imagine a life without him,” said Carolyn.
For all her ambition and hard work, Carolyn wants to be a role model for others, to help others get a chance.
“My ambition is to be a role model for any young blood who wants to delve into this industry. There were certainly hardships along the way to where I’m currently at right now, but I want everyone to know that if they soldier through it, it will all be worth it in the end.
“I want to be an icon in the industry one day and to be a source of inspiration.” she said.
Carolyn knows how to stay healthy and fit. She eats in moderation and practices portion control.
“I don’t have a rigid workout regime but I make sure my diet is in check by having six small healthy meals containing a balance of proteins, fruits and vegetables. Also, fruit juices to sip first thing in the morning. I also make sure that I get enough sleep every night to keep my complexion at its best,” she said.
For 19-year old student Ling Wei Sheng from Klang, he was nervous for his audition.
“I was a little nervous since this was my first time to a modelling audition. I didn’t fret. I was prepared. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and walked in confidently.
“I want to become a model. Accepting opportunities like this give me as much exposure as I need. I will just do my best to boost my self-confidence,” he said.
Ling, who stands 182 cm (5’ 11.6”) tall, is waiting for his Cambridge O level exam result which will be released on 13 August. He intends to pursue a degree in Art & Design.
Ling is fond of sports and his favourite is volleyball.
Top Winners for the Audition
Top 3 Male
Best Fitness
1. Ojediran Shina Emmanuel
2. Hardy Saiful
3. Rohit Kapoor
Best Body
1. Moslem Bouribandeh
2. Saravanan S Rajenthiran
3. Aryan shirazi
Best Catwalk
1. Partiban Vijiyanathan
2. Kevin Li Sheng
3. Henry Ong Hong Seong
Best Personality
1. Corentin Blanche
2. Yee Chiun Hsiang, Jovean
3. Daniyel Joneidi
Top 3 Female
Best Catwalk
1. Siau Ven Kay Carolyn (Qiqi)
2. Suvithaa M Murigiah
3.Sirisopar Suttha
Best Body
1. Thalia Thin Yi En
2. Suvithaa M Murigiah
3. Dayangku Zyana
Best Personality
1. Ainee Masturah
2. Nicole Lau
3. Jasmine Kaur
CJMY
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