A fresh chapter begins for the Miss Universe Malaysia Organization (MUMO) as it officially reveals the Top 16 finalist from Miss Universe Malaysia 2025, introducing not only new faces but also a new leadership, vision, and a redefined approach to pageantry.
In a press conference held at Holiday Inn Bangsar, MUMO welcomed Charissa Chong, Miss Grand Malaysia 2022, and runner-up of Miss Universe Malaysia 2020, as the new National Director. Her appointment signals a renewed focus on empowerment, inclusivity, and excellence, all under the 2025 campaign tagline, ‘Redefining Your Journey’.
The Top 16 Finalists
Handpicked from hundreds of nationwide applicants, the Top 16 finalist represent a modern, multifaceted Malaysian identity, a blend of ambition, intellect, resilience, and cultural richness. The finalists are, Bhadrani Nagendran (27), Chloe Chin (24), Chloe Lim (27), Elaine Cheah (26), Elina Cheah (24), Jen Li (28), Joey Leng (25), Kavita Sanglish (26), Keerthanaah Parthipan (25), Malveen Kaur (31), Priscilla Yap (25), Priyaa Simmi (30), Priyanka Sockanathan (24), Ranmeet Jassal (33), Tan Su Jie (25), and Valenice Tiong (36).
The open call for Miss Universe Malaysia 2025 began on 4th May, with a significant rise in diversity and calibre, thanks to newly inclusive eligibility criteria that allow participation regardless of marital status, motherhood, or age.
Following a rigorous closed-door and online audition held in June, judged by Datin Seri Livonia Ricky Guing (Chairperson of MUMO), Charissa Chong, James Tan (Evenstar Management), and actress Rubini Sambanthan, and 26 students were shortlisted. From there, public voting, and panel scores, equally weighted at 50%, determined the final 16, ensuring a balanced, community-driven outcome.
Stories That Inspire
This year’s lineup includes women from all walks of life. Among them, a Tsinghua University postgraduate and United Nations speaker, a doctor with international medical mission experience, a former Mrs Malaysia World championing financial literacy and a TEDx speaker leading a foundation for refugee children’s education and mental health. Others include a dive coordinator and model, and a business strategist excelling in male-dominated industries like finance and shooting sports.
Datin Seri Livonia Ricky Guing, Chairperson of MUMO said, “We are blown away by how articulate and passionate the girls are. It was an incredibly tough decision, as all of them brought something unique to the table. The Top 16 finalists we have selected represent a powerful purpose and potential, and we are confident that they will continue to grow and thrive throughout their journey with Miss Universe Malaysia.”
Public Voting
Public voting was conducted via the Zetrix MU App, backed by blockchain technology to ensure fairness and security. Fans can continue to use the app for finalist updates, pageant profiles, voting, and community engagement.
Charissa said, “It’s an incredible honour to return to this stage, not as a contestant but as a mentor and National Director. My goal is to ignite the potential within every Malaysian woman. With our 2025 tagline ‘Redefining Your Journey,’ we are creating a space where each finalist feels empowered to embrace her identity, celebrate our diversity, and pursue her dreams without limits. True beauty is about confidence, resilience, and authenticity. This year, I am focused on helping our finalists find their voice, grow their influence, and inspire meaningful change on stage and beyond.”
The Road Ahead: More Than a Competition
The Top 16 will embark on an intensive two-week Pageant Week programme, filled with curated events, mentoring, and development sessions designed to prepare them for the national stage, and beyond.
More than just a crown, the journey is about building friendships, leading with purpose, and becoming ambassadors for Malaysia. Fans can follow their transformation through behind-the-scenes on Miss Universe Malaysia YouTube channel.
The journey culminates in the Gala Night, where the new Miss Universe Malaysia 2025 will be crowned, and go on to represent the nation at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand on 21st November 2025.
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