There is a quiet power in transformation — the kind that cannot be manufactured by spotlights or sequins, but earned through conviction, courage, and an unwavering sense of self. Chloe Lim understands this intimately. Stepping onto the Miss Universe stage was not simply a moment of spectacle, but a defining intersection of ambition and authenticity: a culmination of years spent dreaming beyond what felt realistic, and the beginning of a new chapter written entirely on her own terms.
As Miss Universe Malaysia 2025, Chloe has emerged as more than a symbol of beauty. She is a portrait of modern womanhood — poised yet purposeful, driven yet deeply compassionate, balancing softness with strength in a world that so often demands perfection. Her journey is as compelling as it is unconventional: from the structured intensity of management consulting to the global scrutiny of pageantry, from advocating for children to dream bigger to dedicating her life to animal welfare and systemic change.
Through it all, she carries an elegant clarity — that true impact is rooted not in appearance, but in substance, resilience, and heart. Now, as she looks beyond the crown toward creative ventures, entrepreneurship, and the expansive future she is building, Chloe Lim stands firmly in her next era: one defined by vision, intention, and limitless possibility. In this conversation with Fathom, she reflects on the moments that shaped her, the values that guide her, and what it truly means to take a chance on yourself — and be seen.
Looking back now — not as a contestant, but as a woman who stood on the Miss Universe stage — what moment from the pageant changed you the most?
“Standing on the Miss Universe stage was transformative. In that moment, all the lights, cameras, and eyes were on me—every hour, week, and month of preparation culminating in a single instant. It changed me because I finally felt truly seen and confident in my dreams—dreams that were once considered unrealistic. I was owning my authentic ambition, standing tall and unafraid in front of the world, embracing the power of my own story.”
“I’m Chloe without makeup, in an oversized t-shirt, reflecting on my vision board, journaling, and planning steps toward my dreams. I love staying active—whether it’s working out with music on, playing tennis, or horseback riding. I also love spending time with animals, especially my dog!”
Who is Chloe in her quietest, most unguarded form?
You’ve always spoken about redefining beauty with authenticity, courage, and purpose. How did those three values guide you through the Miss Universe journey, especially under global scrutiny?
“In the spotlight, there’s a constant pressure to appear flawless. Authenticity reminded me to stay true to my story and values. Courage gave me the strength to pursue my dreams boldly, even when they felt unconventional. Purpose anchored me—it ensured that everything I did came from the right
intention, from advocacy to personal growth. These values became my
compass in this new and exciting world.”
What was one quiet, behind-thescenes moment in Thailand that reminded you of who you are beyond the crown?
“Sharing stories and laughter with my roommate from Honduras reminded me that I value connection above all else. Beyond the glamour and spectacle, it’s the people we meet and the bonds we form that define a journey and leave lasting impact.”
“I once believed success had to fit a conventional mold —a stable corporate career that ticked all the boxes. I took a courageous leap of faith to pursue my childhood dream of being in the creative industry. Today, I hope to harmonize both sides of myself: pursuing creative ventures whilst also hoping to start a business related to the creative industry, blending passion with vision.”
What’s a dream you once had that you had to outgrow — and what’s the dream you’re chasing now?
After representing the nation globally, what does being Malaysian mean to you now?
“Being Malaysian means embodying confidence in our capabilities. We may be
a small country, but our stories, values, and impact are immense. Representing Malaysia reminded me that true capability isn’t about size or sash factor—it’s about substance, resilience, and heart.”
You once said, “You can be strong and soft, driven and compassionate.” When in your life did you first learn that those two things could coexist?
“I first saw it in my parents. They held high expectations and instilled discipline while nurturing our family with care. From them, I learned that strength and compassion, ambition and empathy, can coexist—they are complementary, not contradictory.”
“My six rescue dogs taught me unconditional love and empathy. My legal research on animal rights revealed how systems can fail those without a voice. Together, these experiences cultivated a grounded empathy that guides how I listen, advocate, and use my platform—to amplify voices and make meaningful impact.”
How did your six rescue dogs and your legal research on animal rights shape the kind of empathy you carry into your role as Miss Universe Malaysia?
Your path — from management consulting to Miss Universe Malaysia — is unconventional. What did the corporate world teach you that helped you survive, and even thrive, in pageantry?
“Resilience - how to perform under pressure, receive constant feedback without losing self-belief, and stay composed when outcomes are uncertain. I’ve always believed pageantry is a test of resilience to stay smiling in perfect hair and makeup in 5 inch heels with minimal sleep and executing everything to the highest standard.”
You’ve seen education systems across four countries. After witnessing both privilege and disparity firsthand, how do you hope to translate those experiences into tangible change for Malaysian children?
“Empowering children believe in their own potential and dreams is the first step. But belief alone isn’t enough. Real progress requires structural reform: closing access gaps, investing in quality teaching, and ensuring our education system is competitive on a global level.”
“After the adrenaline of the pageant, I recharged by spending time alone to reflect and plan the next chapter, while also reconnecting with loved ones who ground me. Travelling helps me open my mind, gain perspective on the world, and discover new opportunities. ”
From the adrenaline of the pageant to the quiet of coming home — how do you personally reconnect and recharge after such a high-intensity chapter?
If you could speak to your younger self — the girl who clicked ‘submit’ just two hours before the pageant deadline — what would you tell her now that you’ve lived this entire journey?
“I’d tell her: amazing things happen when you take a chance on yourself. Savour every moment, embrace every lesson, and trust the journey. Next, I’m excited to establish myself in the creative industry and build my personal brand— through acting, modelling, and collaborating with brands. Another dream I’m pursuing is an MBA at Stanford or UCLA in the near future, and my biggest ambition is to start my own business in the creative space, turning my passion into something tangible and impactful.”
Your initiative, “MY Story with Chloe,” shines a light on everyday Malaysians who inspire. After meeting so many individuals through that platform, what story or encounter left a lasting mark on you?
“Every story I’ve encountered through “MY Story with Chloe” has been inspiring, each offering a unique insight on success—whether it’s finding your ‘why,’ taking the first step, or learning to be comfortable with risk. I can’t choose just one; each has taught me something new, and I hope that sharing these stories will inspire others!”
CREDITS
99% ANGEL
TANGOO
NUMBER 76 SALON
MAKEUP ARTIST: SZE MUN
PHOTOGRAPHY: DHIRAN RAJ