Just like every other little girl, we too grew up playing with Barbie dolls and we’re pretty sure some of us even dreamt of having our own version of the dolls that look exactly like us!
While we may not have our own version of the dolls, one Malaysian does and it’s none other than Malaysia’s Olympian gymnast, Farah Ann Abdul Hadi!
Photo via Coconuts KL
The Barbie doll is made to look exactly like the 26-year-old SEA Games gold medalist, complete with her jet-black hair, and silver-studded leotard in pink, gold, and white. It is the first, and only one-of-a-kind doll created in Malaysia, and unfortunately, it is not available in retail stores.
“I am very honoured to be recognized as a Barbie role model for young girls for sports,” said Farah Ann in a press statement, according to Yahoo News.
She added: “I believe that all of us are capable of achieving our dreams and goals no matter what it may be. You just need to remember that self-belief is your greatest weapon in achieving anything.”
Farah Ann’s Barbie is actually a part of the American toy company, Mattel’s “You Can Be Anything” campaign for 2020 with its theme “You Can Be An Athlete” that aims to encourage young girls to pursue a career in sports through inspiring female athletes.
Other Malaysian athletes that were named as role models for the campaign include squash champion Nicol Ann David, Olympic diver Leong Mun Yee, bowler Shahlin Zulkifli and speed skater Anja Chong.
What a dream come true! Congratulations, Farah Ann.
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
