Former 'Tomboy' to represent Malaysia at pageant in Hong Kong

KUALA LUMPUR: After becoming a sportswoman for five years, Carrie Lee Sze Kei decided to shed her boyish character and show off her feminine charms. 

She joined the Miss Chinese Cosmos Pageant 2004, organised by Phoenix Satellite Television, and became the only Malaysian among the 20 final contenders for the crown. 

“I was an athlete who also played handball and netball. But I think it is time for me to learn something more than just sports, something like how to carry myself and improve my Chinese,” said the 19-year-old city lass. 

ORIENTAL CHARM: Malaysia's Lee (right) will be joining 19 other finalists for the Miss Chinese Cosmos 2004 title in Hong Kong on Nov 6.

Fifty girls from 13 countries, including China, England, Hong Kong, Germany and Australia, entered the contest and the organisers announced the 20 finalists at the Palace of Golden Horses here, yesterday. 

The contestants had been here since Sept 30 for a 16-day training stint in etiquette, the arts and dressing, among others. 

The fairest of them all will be given the coveted crown of Miss Chinese Cosmos at the grand final in Hong Kong on Nov 6. 

United States representative Qi Jie, who was judged Miss Friendly, said the pageant was not merely a carnival of beautiful girls. 

“To me it's not just a gathering of beauties. It is about brains, intelligence, a loving heart and how to set a good example,” she said, adding that her fellow contestants were mostly highly educated.  

“The competition encourages us to aim higher and do better – like a pyramid.” 

She refutes suggestions that to stay in the competition meant wearing sexy costumes.  

She added, however: “If you feel good about yourself, why not? All of us here have shown that we are brave enough to show off our body.” 

Phoenix Chinese Channel deputy head Bobby Wan said: “Our programme has received an overwhelming response from the audience.  

“We are putting our efforts to train every contestant and I think that is why we received many applications from those who have high qualifications,” he said, adding that more than 90% of the contestants are graduates from higher learning institutes. 

International choreographer Roger Hannah, Hong Kong image designer Flora Cheong-leen, director Mabel Cheung and fashion designer and consultant Judy Mann are among those who trained the contestants.