Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2025 Takes Center Stage in Penang

GEORGE TOWN: The production team of the highly anticipated Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2025 has arrived in Penang for an exciting four-day outdoor shoot. This marks the first time that the iconic beauty competition is being filmed in the enchanting state of Penang, elevating its profile as a filming destination.

Filming Locations and Activities

The outdoor filming kicked off at City Hall and the Esplanade seafront yesterday, with plans for additional shoots at various well-known attractions until Monday. The 14 finalists will don traditional Nyonya attire and participate in a captivating swimsuit segment, paired with local cuisine tasting sessions that highlight Penang’s culinary delights.

Special Guest Appearances

Adding star power to the event, TVB personalities Benjamin Yuen Wai-ho and Moon Lau Pui-yuet are joining the production as special guests. Yuen, a former Mr. Hong Kong titleholder, expressed his hopes that the contestants will enjoy the experience despite the demanding schedule.

Valuable Lessons Amidst Challenges

“The process will be tough and challenging, but it will be valuable for growth and learning,” Yuen remarked. He also mentioned his excitement about being part of the shoot and hinted at sampling some of the local food offerings.

Encouragement for Contestants

Meanwhile, Lau, who was crowned the second runner-up in the Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2013, encouraged the contestants to be bold in expressing themselves. “Since I do not have to participate in the swimsuit segment, I will gladly ‘take on’ more of the local food on behalf of the contestants,” she joked during her appearance at City Hall.

Supporting Penang’s Tourism Appeal

Welcoming the filming team on-site was Wong Hon Wai, the chairman of Penang’s tourism and creative economy committee. He highlighted the significance of the Miss Hong Kong pageant, which began in 1946 and has been organized by TVB since 1973, emphasizing its recognition in the Chinese-speaking world as a leading beauty contest.

A Historic Collaboration

Wong noted that the decision to film in Penang showcases the state’s growing allure as an international filming destination. He stated, “This is a historic moment. We see it as a chance to showcase Penang’s cultural depth and modern appeal to audiences worldwide.” The filming was made possible through collaboration between the Penang government and Hong Kong-based budget airline HK Express after several weeks of discussions.

Enhancing Connectivity

In a move to boost tourism, HK Express will double its daily flights between Hong Kong and Penang starting October 26. This follows a promotional campaign in late June led by Wong, featuring a Penang delegation to Hong Kong under the theme “Penang: Not the Penang You Know,” aimed at showcasing the state’s diverse cultural and tourism offerings.