PETALING JAYA: Despite the controversy surrounding the sole Malaysian contestant of the reality model search programme, Asia's Next Top Model (AsNTM), Tuti or her real name Nuraini Noor is ready to put the past behind.
Being a model of Malay ethnicity, Tuti became the subject of scrutiny over her choice of participating in the show, where some felt that it was inappropriate for her to wear revealing or provocative clothings.
"I try to be as balanced as possible and not cross certain boundaries, but at the same time still make progress in my career. As a Muslim woman, I am proud that I am able to be a part of this international competition and show that my religious beliefs can co-relate with my career in the modelling industry," said the bubbly 24-year-old at the launch of the show in Bandar Utama earlier today.
When asked if being a Muslim model would send a wrong message to the rest of the local girls who share the same beliefs and religion, Tuti replied: "I think it's important for me to be opened to new ideas from mentors, judges, stylists, photographers and all the industry's experts. I want to learn, grow and stretch my horizons but still stay true to my beliefs."
"I know it's not going to be an easy ride the moment I made a decision to be in this competition. I'm here to win and I'm ready for it," said the lanky Kuala Lumpur lass.
Tuti had previously joined X Top Model Search Malaysia in 2012 and was named the winner. Besides that, she was also the winner of the X Walk.
"I am very committed when it comes to pursuing my dreams. I want to be as successful as I can be. There is no other way to do it but through pure hard work, determination and perseverance. I believe I can achieve great things if I keep my focus on the right things," she added.
AsNTM Cycle 4 airs every Wednesday at 9pm on Star World (Astro channel 711) and Star World HD (Astro channel 722), beginning tomorrow.