How this Malaysian beauty queen made it to Miss Universe 2024's top 30

'I wanted to truly represent Malaysia during the beauty pageant,' says Lim. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong

Malaysian beauty queen, Sandra Lim Shue Hui, 24, has been feeling on top of the world since returning to Kuala Lumpur after the Miss Universe 2024 beauty pageant in Mexico recently.

The svelte beauty has captured the attention of many Malaysians after securing a spot in the top 30 at the prestigious competition held in Mexico City on Nov 17.

"When Malaysia was announced to be in the top 30, I couldn't hold back my tears. Even backstage, I couldn't stop crying. It's been 54 years since our country achieved this placing, and I am overjoyed. This year, there were 125 contestants at the pageant, and it felt like an almost impossible feat. But we did it!

"Everything is still sinking in. Since returning from Mexico, I have been on the move non-stop. Even on the day when I touched down at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, I headed straight to Ipoh for a series of events. I'm exhausted, but my passion keeps me going," says Lim during an interview in Petaling Jaya, Selangor recently.

Lim's national costume was inspired by Princess Walinong Sari, embodying the strength of Malaysia's legendary warrior princess. Photos: Sandra LimThe first time that Malaysia made it to the top 30 was in 1970, represented by Josephine Lena Wong. Emerging as one of the top semifinalists is big news, and it means so much for Lim and Malaysians alike.

The actress and model from Bandar Puchong Jaya in Puchong, Selangor, hopes her success will inspire other beauty pageant contestants, showing that Malaysia has the potential to reach the top.

"My goal in reaching the top 30 is to show the world the untapped potential Malaysia has. In the past, it seemed almost impossible for us to compete on this level, but I want to prove that with effort and quality, we can achieve greatness. Many people didn’t believe we could make it, but we did.

"Some beauty queens from other countries receive government support to compete in pageants. And now that I've reached the top 30, I hope to inspire backing from homegrown designers and corporations. While Miss Universe isn't the Olympics, it is the pageantry equivalent, and I am proud to carry the Malaysian name on the global stage," shares Lim, her large eyes beaming with joy.

'I am proud to carry the Malaysian name on the global stage,' says Lim. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee HongMalaysia has a low sash factor, (meaning the country isn't traditionally considered a powerhouse in pageantry unlike the United States, Venezuela or Puerto Rico). To stand out, Lim knew she had to be more than just a pretty face.

Her strategy was to excel in every way possible, every step of the way.

"Even during rehearsals, I'd give my best. I tried to be perfect every day. I focused on presenting an overall package – face, energy, positivity and articulation. I wanted to show the judges my professionalism and commitment.

"Even when I was tired, I was ready to work and go the extra mile. To stand as tall as the other contestants during rehearsals, I wore six-inch heels ... which resulted in swollen feet. While you don't have to take such extreme measures to win, for me, it was important to make a statement and leave a lasting impression," shares Lim, who has a degree in mass communications from a private university in PJ.

Lim also won a gold medal at the 2017 Kuala Lumpur International Wushu Tournament and Conference (adult group female 60kg category).

In 2022, she gained widespread recognition after winning the Miss Global Malaysia title. Later that year, she was first runner-up at the Miss Global International pageant in China. She was crowned Miss Universe Malaysia 2024 in September.

Slaying it

During the pageant finals, Lim showcased a national costume inspired by the Pahang Malay folktale of Walinong Sari, a warrior princess. The costume, designed by Ezuwan Ismail, was developed in close collaboration with Lim to bring the concept to life.

It was no surprise that she captivated the judges with a stunning wushu performance while wearing the national costume.

To stand as tall as the other contestants during rehearsals, Lim wore six-inch heels."I saw the national costume round not just as a showcase, but as an opportunity to share a message. It wasn't just about looking pretty or putting on a show – I wanted it to truly represent Malaysia, and the strength and power of women.

"Princess Walinong Sari, referred to as the Malaysian version of Disney's fictional character Mulan, is a leader, and I resonate deeply with her story. Bringing Walinong Sari to the international stage felt like my mission. With over 100 countries competing at the pageant, I wanted Malaysia to stand out – not just visually, but with a 'wow' factor that would leave people saying: 'This is Malaysia'," says Lim, flashing a radiant beauty queen smile.

She also made waves for executing an elaborate hip movement during the runway walk during the prelims. It has gone viral with netizens trying to imitate her sexy move.

When asked about the inspiration behind it, she shook her head, clearly embarrassed, and said, "Oh my gosh, there was no inspiration for that (laughs). I initially wanted to do it more subtly, with no intention of making it so obvious, but it just happened by accident. Maybe it was the adrenaline rush – I didn't expect myself to do it that way. Then it went viral, and people started tagging me in the video. I guess it was a blessing in disguise," says Lim, a former school state runner.

Lim continues to inspire with her poise, and commitment to making a difference.During her free time, she enjoys hitting the gym, going for runs and practising Brazilian jujitsu.

Now that she's finally back in her home country, Lim wants to focus on doing what she loves best – charity work. The third of four siblings, the beauty queen wants to reach out for many causes, including helping underprivileged communities and focusing on issues like mental health.

"Growing up, my parents were involved in lots of charity work. My dad was the president of the resident association in our neighbourhood, and he'd organise community events like parents day, old folks day and recycling activities.

"I want to use the Miss Malaysia platform to help others. Sometimes, a simple act of kindness can work wonders in helping someone in need. It is important to find a purpose in life. And if you can find a purpose that's meaningful, it makes you feel better. And that’s what matters most," says Lim.