KUCHING: Sarawakian beauty, Arshela Abdullah, has made Malaysia proud after being crowned Miss Icon International 2025 at a prestigious competition held at AEON Mall 1, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Monday.
The 25-year-old, who hails from Bintulu and is of Iban-Bugis heritage, made history as the first-ever winner of the newly launched international pageant.
Describing her victory as both an honour and the beginning of a meaningful journey, Arshela said she intends to use her platform to uplift others, especially young women who feel they don’t “fit the mold”.
“I plan to champion authenticity, empower unheard voices, and collaborate on initiatives that bring real change both locally and globally,” she said in a statement.
“The crown isn’t just a symbol, it’s a responsibility I carry with pride,” she added.
Reflecting on how the competition transformed her perspective, Arshela said it helped her discover new depths of inner strength and purpose.
“I came in thinking it was just about beauty and performance, but it’s so much deeper.
“I’ve learned that true strength comes from vulnerability, and real icons are the ones who lead with heart,” she said.
She stressed the importance of representation, saying, “I’m proud to be that representation for others who’ve long felt unseen.”
Looking back on her pageant journey, Arshela described the experience as intense, beautiful, and deeply humbling.
“From the rehearsals to the friendships and all the little behind-the-scenes moments, every part of it shaped me,” she said.
“It wasn’t always easy, but it was real. That’s what made it so meaningful.”
She said while the crown is a major achievement, what she cherishes most are the memories, personal growth, and renewed sense of purpose that she gained throughout the competition.
