Twenty-year-old, Malaysian-born, Nurul Zuraintie Shamsul placed fifth in the Miss Universe New Zealand 2018 beauty pageant over the weekend.
She has called the experience “amazing” and stated that it helped her grow as an individual. However, she said that the best part of the competition was looking over at her parents and seeing that both looked very proud as she was announced one of the top five finalists. She added that her brothers also supported her throughout the competition.
Originally born in Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, she and her family emigrated to New Zealand when she was five years old.
Currently studying psychology at University of Waikato, she wore a gold-colored hijab at the competition. She is the first contestant who has worn a hijab during the final round of competition.
Speaking The Jakarta Post she told reporters that the competition “has always been about breaking boundaries and stereotypes as well as going beyond beauty.”
Contrary to what some might see as a hindrance, Nurul says her hijab was a “disadvantage” in any situation, also reportedly saying the beauty pageant went beyond physical beauty.
Organizers of the competition replaced the swimsuit segment of the beauty pageant six years ago with a calendar shoot. Contestants could opt to don swimwear or opt for active wear. Nurul chose wear modest active wear.
While some may not understand the significance of participating is such pageants, Nurul believes that they are a chance for widen opportunities for women, globally.
