Madame Tussauds Singapore launches wax figure of iconic native girl

The figure is modelled after Nur Surya Binte Mohamed Ambiah, a flight stewardess with Singapore Airlines (SIA) who joined in 2007 but left to start a family in 2011 and rejoined SIA in 2012 under the Returning Crew Scheme. 

 

“We are truly delighted to have created a wax figure of the Singapore Girl; she is a global icon and the epitome of grace and hospitality. Representing a leading Asian brand, the iconic Singapore Girl is well-known all over the world and therefore we wanted to feature her in our attraction which aims to showcase the best of Singapore,” said Sharon Wong, Marketing Manager, Madame Tussauds Singapore. 

 

“The Singapore Girl, with her distinctive sarong kebaya, is a global icon and one of the most instantly recognisable figures worldwide. She is perennial and appeals to both young and old. Our customers have a strong emotional connection with our brand as a result of her iconic image. Her contribution to SIA’s brand is invaluable and we are excited for her to be featured in Madame Tussauds Singapore,” said Marvin Tan, Singapore Airlines Senior Vice President Cabin Crew.

 

This is the second figure of a Singapore Girl to be produced by Madame Tussauds. The first was modelled after Lim Suet Kwee and was launched in 1993. Lim, who is now Assistant Manager for Crew Performance, played a crucial role in the selection process for the new Singapore Girl wax figure. 

 

Several factors were considered during the selection process, the most important of which was the fact that she should embody the characteristics of the Singapore Girl, such as Asian grace, hospitality and commitment to service. Other factors include her poise and confidence in presenting herself. 

 

In September 2014, the Madame Tussauds team met Surya for an eight hour sitting which involved collecting measurements, photos, costume donations, a hand cast, hair samples, a signature and checks for eye colour matches. About 500 precise body and facial measurements were taken. 

 

Lim was also present at the sitting to provide Surya with guidance, based on her past experience. The figure was created in London and took approximately three months to complete. Surya’s wax figure is wearing an SIA sarong kebaya cabin crew uniform, donated by SIA. 

 

Madame Tussauds is one of the world’s most popular visitor attractions, drawing millions of visitors across the world every year. The attraction features some of Singapore’s most popular celebrities, as well as International and Asian A-list celebrities from around the world. Madame Tussauds Singapore is located at Imbiah Lookout on Sentosa and sits alongside Images of Singapore LIVE which is now open to the public. Images of Singapore LIVE introduces an entirely new element with live actors, telling stories about Singapore’s history. The two attractions are linked by the ‘Spirit of Singapore’ boat ride.