Miss Shenise Wong stood out in a line-up of beauties on Tuesday evening, not just for being the winner of Miss Singapore Universe, but also the oldest contestant to claim the title in the last 10 years.

In a Straits Times report today, the 26-year-old winner was highlighted for her age in a beauty contest where the average age of past winners is 24. Meanwhile, the last 10 Miss Universes have ranged in age from 18 to 25, with the average age being 21.

Miss Wong is one year away from the age ceiling.

When The Straits Times asked about her age issue, she said: "Everyone gives her best in this pageant so it doesn't matter how old you are. But I think that being 26, I have more experience and have been more exposed to life."

She added: 'I don't think age plays a part because it takes someone with confidence to win the competition. So, even if you're 21 or 22 but lack confidence, you won't do well.'

Former beauty queen Teo Ser Lee, 42, agreed. She told The Straits Times: 'Ultimately, it's still how you present yourself at the pageant'.

This win is the fourth one for Ms Wong. Her past victories were Miss Asia Pacific Singapore 1999, Miss Singapore International 2002 and Miss Singapore World 2005.

Mr Daryl Pang, business and promotions director for Derrol Stepenny Promotions which organised Miss Singapore Universe 2008, says: 'I won't know what will happen and whether she will make it to the top 10 because I haven't gone there yet and have not seen who the others are.'

For the full report, grab a copy of The Straits Times today.