What truly defines beauty? While beauty may be subjective—existing in the eyes of the beholder— Top 10 of Asia’s selection of the Top 10 ASEAN beauty queens embodies the profound concept of beauty with a purpose. These remarkable women not only possess captivating physical traits, but their character and unwavering dedication set them apart. They inspire us to strive for our best selves. Join us as we celebrate these extraordinary queens who redefine beauty and inspire change, presenting them to you in no particular order.
Priyanka Annuncia (Singapore)
Beauty pageants and crime-fighting may seem like an unlikely combination, but Priyanka Annuncia shatters stereotypes with grace and determination, proving that beauty is synonymous with strength and resilience. Holding the title Miss Universe Singapore 2023, Priyanka is also an investigator and advocate fighting human trafficking across Southeast Asia. Collaborating with groups like International Justice Mission, her work focuses on rescuing victims and dismantling trafficking networks. Additionally, she is also a fitness trainer and founder of Bodsitive, an inclusive clothing brand promoting body positivity. Talk about being the real Officer Barbie!
Soo Wincci (Malaysia)
Soo Wincci is the epitome of multifaceted success. As a Malaysian singer, actress, music producer, composer, celebrity chef, model, and entrepreneur, she dazzles across industries. Crowned Miss World Malaysia in 2008, she quickly became an international sensation. Her striking beauty earned her a place among Hollywood’s 100 Most Beautiful Women in 2013, and in 2018, she was honored as “The Most Beautiful Dr.” With four Malaysia Book of Records entries and the 2023 Best Laurette Brand Woman Entrepreneur Award, Soo also serves as an adjunct professor at Multimedia University Malaysia, embodying true brilliance.
Catriona Gray (Philippines)
No one embodies grace, passion and purpose quite like Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray. Captivating the world with her iconic “lava walk,” she further impressed with her thoughtful and intelligent responses to the judges, winning hearts globally. But Catriona is more than just a beauty queen. As she boldly declared, “Even though my label is that of a beauty queen, I am not going to limit myself to that, just because that is my title.” True to her word, she’s a fierce advocate for HIV awareness, Filipino arts, and cleft care, as well as a talented singer with singles like “Love Language” and “Raise Your Flag.”
Raden Roro Ayu Maulida Putri (Indonesia)
Raden Roro Ayu Maulida Putri, lovingly known as Ayu, is a trailblazer with a heart of gold. Crowned Puteri Indonesia 2020, Ayu not only holds a law degree from Universitas Airlangga but channels her passion far beyond the legal world. As an advocate for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and the leader of Senyum Desa—a movement empowering villages through education on healthy living and entrepreneurship—Ayu is dedicated to uplifting communities. With her grace on the runways of Indonesia Fashion Week and the Asia Model Festival, she embodies intelligence, elegance, and a steadfast commitment to making Indonesia a better place, one smile at a time.
Chalita Suansane (Thailand)
Hailing from Samut Prakan, Thailand, Chalita “Nong Namtan” Suansane is a force to be reckoned with—a model, actress and beauty pageant titleholder. Crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2016, she made history as the first Thai contestant to reach the final six at the 65th Miss Universe pageant. With a background in science and microbiology, Chalita demonstrates that beauty extends beyond the arts. She serves as an inspiration to young people, showing them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Inspired by her journey through poverty, she dreams of becoming a researcher and is dedicated to uplifting others facing similar struggles.
H’Hen Niê (Vietnam)
H’Hen Niê, crowned Miss Universe Vietnam in 2017, has become a powerful symbol of beauty and empowerment for marginalized girls across the nation. With her striking dark skin and cropped hair, she shattered traditional beauty norms, proving that authenticity wins over conformity. But H’Hen is more than just a pretty face; she’s a philanthropist at heart. By donating her prize money to support education, she embodies the spirit of giving back. As the first ethnic minority woman to compete at Miss Universe, she speaks boldly against child marriage and champions literacy. H’Hen Niê reminds us all: true beauty blossoms from kindness and resilience.
Thuzar Wint Lwin (Burmese)
Thuzar Wint Lwin has redefined the beauty pageant platform since being crowned Miss Universe Myanmar 2020. Her iconic stage entrance—dressed in traditional Chin attire and holding a sign that reads “Pray for Myanmar”—showcased her courage and commitment to her country. Thuzar’s bravery highlights the powerful truth that strength is beauty and that we must stand up for what is right. With her fearless spirit, Thuzar embodies the essence of a classic heroine, demonstrating that true beauty comes with purpose and a passion for change.
Payengxa Lor (Laos)
Dubbed the village belle of Laos’ Hmong town, Payengxa Lor made history as the first Hmong woman to be crowned Miss Universe Laos in 2022. Recognized by the World Bank as a transformational leader, she co-founded the Hmong Women’s Networking, a passionate initiative dedicated to women’s empowerment. Her commitment extends to supporting underprivileged communities through various non-profit organizations, embodying the essence of confidence and hard work. With a heart set on inspiring others, Payengxa believes a clear purpose leads to success, serving as a guiding light for young women in their journey to achieve their dreams.
Opal Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand)
Miss Universe Thailand 2024, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, commands the stage with her striking presence. At just 20 years old, she stands tall at 5’11”, making her one of the tallest contestants in pageant history. As a cancer survivor, Opal passionately raises awareness about breast cancer through her platform, collaborating with the National Cancer Institute and the Cancer Foundation at Siriraj Hospital. She even founded a non-profit project dedicated to women’s health education. With her determination and inspiring journey, Opal not only represents beauty but also embodies resilience and purpose, making her a remarkable figure in the ASEAN community.
Pia Wurtzbach (Philippines)
Crowned the 64th Miss Universe, Pia Wurtzbach made history by securing the Philippines’ third crown after a 40-year wait. Beyond her unforgettable winning moment, Pia dazzles as a talented actress and model, featuring in various television shows and films. After competing in the Miss Philippines pageant three times, she triumphed in 2015. Since then, Pia has launched her novel, Queen of the Universe, and hosts her own TV programme, Pia’s Postcards. A true role model, she inspires countless individuals to chase their dreams and empowers them to believe in themselves.
