Kartina (centre) flanked by Felisia (left) and Clarissa at the crowning.
Iban lass Kartina Bagan was crowned Miss Borneo Dayak Cultural Festival (BDCF) 2024 at the finals in Sibu, Sarawak.
Kartina, 20, from Song, about 90 minutes’ drive from Sibu, took home RM5,000 cash along with a crown, sash, trophy, hamper and flowers, beating seven others.
Afterwards, a jubilant Kartina, the youngest of four children in her family, attributed her success to support from her family and village folk.
“I did not expect to win, as I joined the competition to promote our Iban culture.
“I must thank my family members and village folk who came all the way to support me,” she said in an interview.
She also attributed her success to the use of the original ngepan, which is the traditional dress of her ethnic group.
“Last year, I was a consolation-prize winner.
“This time I was more prepared. I rented a ngepan, which cost me RM900 but it also included make-up and hair-do.
“This ngepan is more expensive and is an original one,” she said.
Kartina, who has just finished her Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) and is pursuing university education, praised the other contestants.
“They are all very friendly. We supported each other throughout the competition,” she added.
Kartina had previously won the 2023 Julau Kumang, and came third in the July 2023 Selangau Kumang.
Meanwhile, first runner-up spot went to Felisia Jeffery who took home RM3,000 along with sash, trophy and hamper.
Clarissa Rinya Setian won third place, earning herself the RM2,000 prize, sash, trophy and hamper.
The fourth to eighth place winners were Angelina Rani Gawan, Sylviana Rinya Galing, Hermina Anthony, Natasha Malviana Nyandang and Arabella Sunta Langkan who each received RM800 cash.
The competition was held in conjunction with BDCF Dayak Stage Night 2024, which was officiated by Katibas assemblyman Lidam Assan who represented Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
