KUCHING: The much-awaited “Jejaka Idola Berkarisma” (JIB) and “Dewi Idola Berkarisma” (DIB) pageant competitions are back with 36 contestants shortlisted for the semifinals.
Out of these, 14 (females) are shortlisted for the DIB while 22 (males) are for the JIB.
The fifth season of the competition have seen over 60 contestants participating in the auditions held in six locations statewide namely Kota Samarahan, Sri Aman, Sibu, Miri, Bintulu and Kuching.
According to the organiser of JIB and DIB 2018, Awang Arabie Awang Bujang, the participation was overwhelming and the selection for this season was more into those who were experienced in the modelling world.
“Six locations were visited and our thanks to all participants who attended the auditions. Most of the participants fulfilled the requirements and some also walked in during the auditions.
‘Congratulations to the shortlisted contestants and to those who didn’t make it, please try again next year,” he said.
The shortlisted semifinalists will be vying for their spots in the final at the date and location to be decided soon.
Those shortlisted for DIB 2018 are Nurhafeeza, Norlin, Tiong Sie Yiin, Faiqah, Nurul Ain, Azmida, Nurhafifa, Shahzeera, Phyilis, Racheal, Fatin, Deborah, Chiang Dee Ling and Hannah.
For JIB 2018, those shortlisted include Abd Khalik, Azrul, Azami, Amad Sobri, Aqil, Desmond, Duay Jackson, Nabil, Haziq, Rahmat, Raymond, Rizal, Zukry, Joannes, Masnan, Hadiman, Emmanuel, Firdausi, Mattiew, La Ing, Mohd Abree and Edwin Bong.
“We will select 14 JIB and 14 DIB to be in final and we will announce the lists soon. For the semifinal, contestants will be judged based on catwalk, grooming and intellect.
“Among the audition locations involved during the search of the semi-finalists were Mydin Mall Vista Tunku, Petra Jaya, Kuching, Aeon Mall, Kuching Central, Boulevard Shopping Mall Kuching, Coco Cabana Miri and The Summer Mall Kota Samarahan. Thanks to those who sponsored during the auditions,” Awang Arabie said.
