Pageant News Bureau - Miss Oriental Pearl Chinese International 2003

When a pageant is born, it's always a festive time. And when this pageant holds the promise of becoming one of the major events in the industry, PNB takes notice.

Nov. 29, 2003, was a historic day in that regard. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, contestants from much of the world gathered to compete for the title of Miss Oriental Pearl Chinese International 2003.

It's a long title, but it speaks volumes. "Oriental Pearl" conjures up exotic images. For centuries, the pearls of East Asia have been among the most valuable adornments on Earth. And "Chinese International" may be one of the most remembered phrases of the 21st century, as the world's largest and most ancient culture takes its rightful place in the world.

This sounds like a lot of responsibility to place on one pair of shoulders. But such lovely shoulders! When the final call was sounded, the title belonged to 22-year-old Yan Yan, competing as Miss Xian, representative of the old Chinese imperial capital. It seemed fitting somehow.

Xenia Tiong, 21, competing as Miss Kuching, was the first runner-up, and Pharawan Khambun, 25, who competed as Miss Phuket, was the second runner-up.

A new title, a new queen, a new beginning. We look forward to a long string of pearls.