The annual Ms Valentine 2009 at the Filipino Overseas Workers Centre in KL. It was the 1st beauty pageant I have seen since the days when Peter Sinclair was introducing the Lorraine Downes and Judith Dobson in the 80’s. I still remember how proud we were as New Zealanders when the future NZ Sports-Great Spouse was crowned Miss Universe back when, like heavyweight boxing, the world title meant something.
So fast forward to Ms Valentine 2009, staged in al fresco, tropical conditions with a very makeshift stage. The sound system had that tinny resonance that really captured the amateur atmosphere perfectly. The reason we were here was the entry of our maid, Ginalyn, in this exclusively Filipino event.
It is an undeniable fact, one only the most guilt ridden expatriate would refute, that having cheap home help is a major player in making the Malaysian lifestyle very comfortable. Fortunately, Lina and I have rich experience in sharing our living space. We did the calculations and of our 10 years together, only 1 ½ years has been shared living with no flatmates, or house guests. We don’t see this as a negative however, as we have made great friends over the years by doing this.
And so during the majority of our time in KL, we have availed ourselves of Ginalyn’s live-in maid services. Ginalyn is from the Philippines and is one of the 11% of Filipinos living abroad. Unlike New Zealand, where there are regular sensational media headlines, bemoaning the ‘brain drain’, overseas workers are considered an essential part of the Filipino economy. This is unsurprising given that this group contributes 13.5% of the Philippines GDP (the money made is sent home to support the family), and besides, there are not nearly enough jobs to go around at home.
From world economics, back to the pageant which was divided into a performance section, evening wear, and interview section (no swim suit section unfortunately). Ginalyn finished a respectable 5th out of 15 contestants. The performances ranged from exotic (not TOO exotic) dancing, to bizarre artistic dancing with the contestant holding a picture of Jesus, and singing of contrasting quality. The audience, made up of expatriate Filipinos, was having a hoot, and overall it was quite an experience. Isaac particularly enjoyed it and was constantly trying to take the stage when Ginalyn made an appearance.
Back stage pass for Isaac
The introductory section
Pre-pageant entertainment
Ginalyns performance
An impressive ballroom performance by one contestant.
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