Two-time pageant winner wants to inspire women to pursue further education

SIBU: Deirdre Serena Sendi Michael Remy has been crowned Kumang Gawai Dayak Sibu 2024, the second time she has won a similar competition.

The 27-year-old, who holds a masters degree in tourism, also won the Borneo Cultural Festival Kumang in 2019.

Deirdre took home the RM4,000 purse, a crown, sash, trophy, hamper and certificate of participation.

Nine finalists participated in the contest on Saturday (May 25), the highlight of the Sibu Division Gawai Dayak Night.

An elated Deirdre said the contest meant a lot to her as she wants to inspire "indu Iban" (Iban women) to pursue further education.

"I can use this platform to serve as a role model for young people to demonstrate the excellence of Indu kumang," said Deirdre, who is a guest service ambassador at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

She dedicated her victory to her grandmother, who has been an active pua kumbu weaver for over 20 years.

Deirdre also said she would use her winnings to help fund her doctorate once she decides her subject of study.

Meanwhile Lulong' (second place) went to Clarissa Rinya Setian, 20, who took home a RM3,000 prize, and Nelly Mujan Rogelio won the title of 'Selinggar Matahari' (third) who won RM3,000.

The six other finalists won RM800 each, namely Sylviana Rinya Galing, Suriana Abas,Bernardette Sumbang, Vennellise Lee, Cynthia Runai Simond and Manisha Vyonnie Gelebat.

Prizes were presented by Datin Sri Angelina Ujang, the wife of Minister of Public Works Datuk Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.