16-8-2023 (SINGAPORE) Former Miss Singapore contestant Michelle Poa has addressed speculations about her appearance after joining the Miss Hong Kong 2023 pageant. The 22-year-old Singapore Permanent Resident is among the top 16 finalists competing for the crown. Netizens noticed that Poa looks different from her previous pageant appearances, leading to rumors of plastic surgery. However, in a recent interview, Poa denied undergoing any cosmetic procedures and emphasized that her features are natural. She attributed her improved appearance to weight loss achieved through regular exercise during the Covid-19 pandemic.
During an interview with Hong Kong publication ST Headlines, Poa expressed her happiness that people thought she had plastic surgery. She stated that such speculations indicated that she had become more beautiful and praised the skills of makeup artists. Poa also credited her change in hairstyle for making her more photogenic. She shared her positive outlook on the rumors surrounding her appearance.
Meanwhile, another Miss Hong Kong contestant, Zora Chen, found herself caught in a social media controversy. Chen made a comment on an Instagram post featuring a video of the contestants’ cute expressions and interactions. In the comment, written in simplified Mandarin, she jokingly referred to herself as “ugly.” Netizens criticized her for insensitivity and having low emotional intelligence. They also pointed out that she used simplified Mandarin instead of traditional Mandarin. Chen clarified that the comment was meant as friendly banter with the staff who filmed the video, but it was misunderstood. She also admitted that she is not proficient in Cantonese, which further exacerbated the situation.
The pageant’s official stated that they have advised the contestants to manage their image on social media but cannot control their interactions with netizens. Despite the explanation, Chen continued to receive negative comments, prompting her to delete or hide all her Instagram posts. In an Instagram Story update, she shared her concerns about the misunderstanding and the ensuing attacks from netizens. Chen’s friend advised her not to feel the need to prove herself as people will always find fault regardless.
The Miss Hong Kong 2023 pageant is scheduled to take place on August 27. As the competition draws near, both Poa and Chen have faced scrutiny and challenges arising from their online presence.
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