The 25 contestants of the Miss World Malta contest practised their pouts yesterday when they were presented to the press.

It is very important that the winner has the right personality; the contest is not just about looks

“We are very satisfied with the turnout and good standard of education of this year’s contenders,” said Sue Rossi, director of organisers Modelle International.

“It is very important that the winner has the right personality; the contest is not just about looks,.

The winner will be crowned on Saturday night. She will go on to represent Malta at the 63rd edition of the Miss World finals in Indonesia in September, against contestants from more than 120 countries.

Ms Rossi said Malta’s winner would get coached by Modelle International so she would be ready for the demands of the competition.

Besides looking her best, Malta’s representative will have to support charitable causes and answer questions from judges designed to showcase her personality.

Some models hoping to be Miss World Malta had already had coaching and others just entered for the experience, Ms Rossi said.

First-time entrant Fabianne Micallef said: “You have to just be yourself. If you are fake people will see through you.”

Among the models and fashionistas at yesterday’s press launch was the radiant reigning Miss World Malta, Daniela Darmanin, who praised the friendly atmosphere among this year’s contestants.

Modelle International is promising a “spectacular” opening to Saturday’s event choreographed by Jes Sciberras. The contestants will be whittled down to 15 semi-finalists then seven finalists, until the judges choose an overall winner.

Another title given on the night will be the Beauty with a Purpose award for the model who gave the most valuable service to charity.­­­