MOSCOW: The Miss Universe pageant is being held in the Russian capital, Moscow, for the first time in the pageant's history. And for the first time in 52 years, Miss Myanmar is taking part -- a sign of the changes in the country once ruled by the army. The pageant, which will crown the Miss Universe 2013 in its final show on Saturday, is not all about individual glamour.
For the participants, Miss Universe is a good chance to showcase their countries to the world, and for one woman from Myanmar, it has been a chance for her to finally join the club. It was 1961 when Myanmar's military rule stopped competitors from coming to Miss Universe. But now, 25-year-old Moe Set Wine is back flying the flag.
Moe Set Wine, Miss Myanmar, said: “I feel that because 50 years is a very long time, so I feel that this is like a new story, a new history and this is the first time after the changes in Myanmar started, so I feel very proud and honoured.” With 86 contestants this year, Miss Universe just got a little more competition.
That is fine, said the current Miss Universe, and crucially it is a good sign at home in Myanmar too. Olivia Culpo, Miss Universe 2012, said: “I'm sure that it wasn't easy for them to accept this, and for her to come and make it okay, is a step forward and hopefully can lead to other things becoming okay in the country.”
However, things are not so easy yet. In one part of the contest, competitors wear swimsuits. That was a test for Myanmar's conservative society, but those present at selection competitions did not mind. Ms Moe Set Wine said: “The people who came to the show actually love it. They accept it because the announcer also explained that this is to see how healthy a body is.” The pageant is not only great exposure for Myanmar, it is also a chance for Ms Moe Set Wine herself.
Doing her country proud, she is s already one of the favorites to be the next Miss Universe.
- CNA/nd
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