According to Shin Min Daily News, some of the Miss Singapore Pageant contestants are receiving counselling after being traumatised by online comments about their appearances.

Afraid of public places & phones

Some of the finalists have reportedly been afraid to make public appearances as a result, while others get nervous thinking they might be photographed or filmed when they see someone taking out a phone.

One contestant, who has anxiety disorder, reportedly missed three days of training as a result of being afraid of going out.

One unnamed 19-year-old contestant was quoted as saying:

"When we knew about her condition, we felt saddened by the negativity of the netizens."

“They have hurt our pride.”

Organisers sought help

A spokesman for ERM Singapore Marketing, which organises the pageant annually, said:

"Some of the finalists are still young and may not know how to cope with the negative remarks."

“So the company organised for counsellors to help them rediscover their confidence a week after the incident.“

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In July, the 19 finalists were judged online based on their appearances as their photos made the rounds, with some comments saying they were "ugly" and "repulsive".

One contestant was told her appearance was the result of a hit-and-run accident.

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Top photo via Miss Singapore Beauty Pageant