GEORGE TOWN: It is merely about 370km away but for Kimberley Ann Estrop-Leggett, leaving Penang for Kuala Lumpur is life-changing as she prepares to do her country proud at the Miss Universe 2012 pageant.

The Miss Universe Malaysia 2012 will move to Kuala Lumpur next week to start rigorous training for the pageant.

She said this time around, after what happened in the pageant's Malaysian leg when she submitted an online entry via Facebook smack on the closing date on May 12, everything has to be in order and ready.

"Moving to Kuala Lumpur will be a huge step for me as it will be the first time I'll be away from my family. But I need to really prepare myself for this major event," she said.

The 1.75m-tall lass of British and Dutch-Eurasian parentage, who deferred her studies to take part in the beauty pageant that she won last November, is now scouting for a private institution in Kuala Lumpur to pursue a double degree in Business.

Since bagging the prestigious title, life has been very hectic for the Penang-born lass as she has to attend radio and television interviews and studio photoshoots.

And before leaving for Kuala Lumpur, Kimberley Ann made a guest appearance at the Penang Eurasian Association's get-together held here recently.

Association treasurer Christina Karl said the gathering also doubled up as a dinner to welcome the beauty queen back to her hometown.

Also present were Kimberley Ann's parents Stephen Leggett and Jillian Estrop and grandmother Mildred Estrop.

Kimberley Ann, who turns 19 next month, regards education as her main priority and aspires to be a fashion entrepreneur.

As for Valentine's Day, she does not have a date yet.