The ASEAN Bloc of the 63rd Miss Universe Pageant

I know that the 63rd Miss Universe Pageant in Doral Miami is a tough beauty competition first and foremost. And it is not a search for the friendliest young woman in the planet. But let me say that I am quite proud of all six (6) ASEAN ladies among the contenders. Gone are the days when representatives from our region are solely identified as gentle, demure and non-aggressive. The evolution is very progressive.

And Elvira of Indonesia, Sabrina of Malaysia, Sharr of Myanmar, MJ of the Philippines, Rathi of Singapore and Pimbongkod of Thailand are proofs positive that our beauties this side of the globe have come a long way. Just watch their individual web interviews below and you will see how they define the modern version of the ASEAN female. More than mere eye candies, they exude a nice blend of smarts and all-around attractiveness. :-)

Miss Indonesia Elvira Devinamira

Miss Malaysia Sabrina Beneett

Miss Myanmar Sharr Htut Eaindra

Miss Philippines Mary Jean Lastimosa

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Miss Singapore Rathi Menon

Miss Thailand Pimbongkod Chankaew