Yue-Sai Kan will ensure China's beauties uphold the honor of the motherland. Photo: Anna Tang

By Xu Liuliu

Famous Chinese-American Yue-sai Kan was honored by the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) as the National Director of Miss Universe China in Beijing on Friday.

Kan has twice been a judge in the MUO final pageant. "Yue-sai will be solely responsible for holding a pageant and selecting a representative to compete at the 60th Miss Universe Pageant to be held on September 12 in Brazil," Paula Shugart, president of MUO, told the Global Times.

The MUO Pageant is one of the world's most prestigious beauty pageants. Women from many countries have been crowned during its history, but China is an exception.

Kan recalled: "The pageant that I took part in at 19 years old was the first time that I used cosmetics, learned how to create a flattering hairstyle and understand color, taste and fashion. The training I received was invaluable in transforming me from a college student into a polished young lady, and providing a foundation for my future. So I want to give this same opportunity to other young women in China. I believe that in the near future, we will see Miss China become Miss Universe," said Kan.

Since 1992, when Chinese women first appeared at MUO, the best result has been a second runner up. "It is time to celebrate Chinese women. They are beautiful, elegant and talented. With proper training and preparation, they can win a title," she added.

Applications for contestants have been already accepted. Girls between 18 and 27 years old can hand in online application at the official website before June 15. After that, the candidates will undergo training before the competition.