Malaysia’s Supermodel Search will present the Ford Supermodel of the World reality show next month

Models in a row ... Amber Chia, May Wan, Choy Wan and Arianna Teoh.

The executive producer of Malaysia’s Supermodel Search Yap Wen-Ji and Malaysian supermodel Amber Chia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to produce a new reality television programme entitled Malaysia’s Supermodel Search Presents Ford Supermodel of the World, which follows the effort, heartache and heartbreak of young and aspiring male and female Malaysian
models.

Ford Supermodel of the World is an international modelling contest established by Eileen Ford in 1980 that showcases young fashion model entrants from over 50 countries in order to discover new talent for the fashion industry. Now approaching its 30th year, the Ford Supermodel of the World was the first talent search of its kind, and has helped to discover some of the most notable new stars in the fashion world, such as Adriana Lima, Chanel Iman, Camila Finn, Melanie Marquez, Kang Seung-Hyun and Elsa Benitez.

Increased exposure

At a time when Asian faces are gaining increased exposure on the international modelling arena, the reality show is poised to showcase the diversity of beauty that is present in Malaysia, and at the same time, help aspiring models enter onto the global stage.

Contestants will be mentored by none other than Amber Chia, whose incredible career highlights the rags-to-riches possibilities that such competitions can bring. Chia became the international face of GUESS? after a similar model search in 2004, and proved to the world that location is not a barrier to success.

Constantly striving and pushing boundaries has enabled Chia develop her career to amazing heights, and it is this experience and the lessons learnt that will be so valuable to share with the contestants; from understanding the mistakes not to make, to tips to adapt to their environs.

"It is a great opportunity for me to share my experience and help others to cope with the world of international modelling" says Chia. "A lot of people, even aspiring models, still don’t see modelling as a long-term career; one that can open doors to bigger and better opportunities.

"We hope to change their perception with this reality show, and highlight to them that if they are determined, work hard and smart, they will be able to make modelling a sustainable career, or use it as a platform to achieve other goals – be it acting, hosting or singing, or even in business, for the entrepreneurial lot."

Producer, Yap Wen-Ji, who is behind this visionary programme, is excited at the opportunity to showcase and develop Malaysian talent: "There are a lot of beautiful models out there in Malaysia, and all we needed is an avenue to put us on the world stage. We have this opportunity with the Malaysia’s Supermodel Search Presents Ford Supermodel of the Year reality show, which gives Malaysians an opportunity to step up and compete among the best in the world. Although we’d love our Malaysian contestants to win at the global finals, the experience of the competition and the exposure they get will be something more valuable than simply the prizes". 

Amber Chia	Adrian Chee	Zahnita Wilson

The Malaysia’s Supermodel Search Presents Ford Supermodel of the Year pre-judging sessions which took place in select locations around the country culminated on Aug 28 at Bangsar Village II, where 36 hopefuls now await their fate as the numbers will be trimmed down to just 22 just contestants – 11 female and 11 male – for the taping of the reality programme.

Beyond the RM 50,000 cash prize for the leading male and female model, there are also lucrative modelling contracts up for grabs, and the piece-de-resistance – for the ladies, a chance to compete in the Ford Supermodel of the World competition, as well as a spread in FHM magazine – and for the guys, an opportunity to undergo professional modelling training in the United States.

There will also be a chance for viewers to have their say. Although the final decision rests with the judges, an sms voting campaign will allow the public to bring back an eliminated contestant who they feel has what it takes to compete in the finals.

The eight-episode reality show will be aired on a local TV station next month.