Myanmar’s most iconic voice for change and democracy that requires little introduction. Her perseverance living under oppression breathe hope to countless of souls.
Written by Carol Lee, Mrs Universe Malaysia 2013.
Aung San Suu Kyi’s principles mirror closely those of mine and I am in awe of how steadfastly she stands behind her beliefs. Aung San Suu Kyi is prepared to put her life at risk for the greater good. She puts the needs of the people and her country first, and in her struggle for Myanmar’s freedom, she sacrificed her own freedom. Although she had the opportunity to run away from the oppression of the ruling junta, she chose to stay in Myanmar. Despite being under house arrest for so long, she continued to struggle for democracy and the human rights which she herself was denied.
Her perseverance is now bearing fruit, with changes and reforms reverberating through the Myanmar political arena. This includes her release from house arrest, the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, amnesties for more than 200 political prisoners and relaxation of press censorship, among others. Suu Kyi even won a seat in the 2012 by-elections, leading her party, the National League for Democracy to victory. Although there is still a long way to go, Aung San Suu Kyi has planted the seeds of democracy in her beloved country of Myanmar through her dedication, strong will and steadfastness in her beliefs to achieve her dream of a democratic country, which is now slowly but surely becoming a reality. Her determination has inspired me greatly and one does not need to look any further than Aung San Suu Kyi for inspiration.
Contributor Profile
Carol Lee
Mrs Universe Malaysia 2013
KyiCarol Lee is the reigning Mrs Universe, after she secured the crown in Aruba last August – competing against 30 other contestants. She became the first Malaysian – and first Asian – to return victorious from this international competition, and on the world stage she did the country proud. The pageant gave a wider insight into the woman beneath the flowing dress and winner’s sash. A current TV news presenter and morning talk-show host, Carol is prominently involved in children’s causes and the empowerment of women. She works closely with the All Women’s Action Society (AWAM) on its Nationwide Campaign Against Domestic Violence, organising seminars where women can be educated about the changes in the domestic violence act and the support available from service providers such as the police, the welfare department and general hospitals. Her charity portfolio includes time spent gaining pledges for an Organ Donation Campaign and fundraising drives for orphanages. The mother-of-one is a global ambassador for the caring and grace that Malaysia has to offer… a natural beauty, inside and out.
