Love her or debate her, one thing's for sure—TheCiksu knows exactly how to make an entrance.
In a beauty industry where trends disappear as quickly as they arrive, TheCiksu has built her name by doing something surprisingly rare: staying unmistakably herself. Loud, quirky, fearless and unapologetically expressive, she's never been one to chase approval. Instead, she's turned authenticity into her signature, earning a loyal community that celebrates her bold personality just as much as her makeup transformations.
But beyond the viral beauty videos, flawless glam looks and larger-than-life online presence is someone driven by hard work, unwavering self-belief and a mindset that's carried her through every milestone. Her favourite mantra? "Once you manifest, you can see your dream." It's a philosophy that has shaped her journey from aspiring creator to one of Malaysia's most recognisable beauty personalities.
This year marks another exciting chapter as TheCiksu joins Fathom's Finest in Beauty Awards 2026 as one of our esteemed judges, helping crown the year's standout beauty products. She's also one of Fathom's 2026 cover stars, representing a new generation of creators who are reshaping what beauty looks like—confident, individual and unafraid to stand out.
From navigating online criticism and protecting her peace to sharing the skincare essentials she swears by, the products that impressed her most during judging and the beauty trends she's loving (and leaving behind), we caught up with TheCiksu for an honest conversation that goes beyond the filters.
AN INTERVIEW WITH CIKSU
“TheCiksu is UNPREDICTABLE. TheCiksu is known for being a quirky, loud and talented creator that believes “Once you manifest, you can see your dream”. This phrase changed my life through hard work and dedication towards what I have achieved today.
Alhamdulillah, this journey that I manifested – being a Content Creator – is something that I dreamt of becoming. TheCiksu today, has inspired young people to be confident and bold in life. ”
Off camera, who is TheCiksu? What's something people would be surprised to learn about you that doesn't make it onto social media?
Over the years, you've faced criticism and negative comments online, particularly from people who have strong opinions about the way you express yourself and present your style. How have you navigated those moments, protected your peace, and stayed confident in being unapologetically yourself?
“All the criticism and negative comments towards TheCiksu are something I can’t control because people will always judge what they see. TheCiksu protects her peace by stepping away from negativity by stepping away from negativity and focusing on the people who genuinely support, love and believe in her.
TheCiksu learned that being unapologetically herself is not about proving anything to anyone. Now, TheCiksu has reached a certain point where there is no longer feel the need to change who I am just to make other people comfortable.”
“Digital Personality. TheCiksu believes that personality is what allows her to express her true self through her content. Whether it’s online or in real life, who you see is who she is, and that’s what makes my content feel authentic.”
You wear many hats—a makeup artist, beauty content creator, and digital personality. Which role feels the most "you," and why?
The beauty industry evolves almost overnight. How do you stay creative while keeping your content and makeup artistry authentic to your own style?
“Every day is filled with looking for new ideas and brainstorming. As a beauty content creator, TheCiksu is always looking for new ideas and trends that goes with TheCiksu’s niche and content style. ”
Looking back, what has been the biggest turning point in your career, and how did it shape the person you are today?
“The biggest turning point is when brands acknowledge TheCiksu’s hard work. TheCiksu was once invited as a speaker for a makeup demonstration and represented Malaysia on a brand trip. The impact got me to where I am today. I believe my hard work shows results and manifesting is the key, dreams do come true. ”
Out of all the products you’ve tried as one of our judges, what product stood out to you the most?
“As a beauty content creator, I have to be bias so I choose Maybelline Super Stay Vinyl Ink Lipstick. I can say the product quality and long lasting formula works amazing especially on busy days. ”
As someone who wears makeup regularly, what are your non-negotiable skincare steps for keeping your skin healthy behind the scenes?
“It has always been hydrating products whether your skin is dry or oily. TheCiksu always keeps hydration as the key point for the skincare she uses. Products like serums and hydrating mists are part of her daily skincare routine. ”
If you had to leave the house with just three beauty products in your bag, what would they be?
“Perfume, Compact Powder and Lip Gloss of course!”
“It’s an honour to be part of this experience as one of Fathom’s Finest in Beauty Awards judges and cover stars. On top of that, to be noticed and be part of this journey means a lot to TheCiksu. ”
This year, you're not only one of Fathom's Finest in Beauty Awards judges but also one of our cover stars. What has this experience been like, and what does being part of this journey mean to you?
“TheCiksu obsessed with one beauty trend and that is 2016 makeup. Bold and Glam makeup. TheCiksu loves a baddie look with colourful eyes and glamorous style. One trend that should be retired is the Douyin makeup look. TheCiksu thinks that Douyin makeup is not suitable, especially for SouthEast Asian features. ”
Finally, what's one beauty trend you're completely obsessed with right now—and one trend you think it's time to retire?
CREDITS
WARDROBE: SUMAN RAJ
JEWELLERY: KAIMIRRA
LOCATION SPONSOR: RENAISSANCE KUALA LUMPUR
PRODUCTS: MAYBELLINE
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALYSSA NUR AIN