KOTA KINABALU: Teacher Taanusiya Chetty was voted fairest of all and crowned Miss World Malaysia 2024 at the grand coronation event here.
The 24-year-old from Kuala Lumpur wowed judges with her elegance and intellect, earning her the title, along with RM50,000 in cash and prizes. She will represent Malaysia at the Miss World pageant next year.
Kelly Eleanor Tseu from Kota Kinabalu and Hantze Liow, also from Kuala Lumpur, were named first and second runners-up, respectively.
Asked what she would say to world leaders if she had an opportunity to meet them, Taanusiya said: “I will use my platform, particularly my Beauty With A Purpose project, to highlight issues affecting children, as they grow up facing numerous challenges.
“They often compare themselves to what they see on social media. This is one of the issues we need to address. I want to focus on three core principles: to listen, to educate and to connect.”
Held at the Sabah International Convention Centre, this year’s pageant marked its second consecutive year in the state and is expected to return next year.
Pageant director Dr Sean Wong said Sabah’s natural beauty was the key attraction for hosting the international event in the state again.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew stressed the importance of such events to promote tourism.
“This event also brings significant benefits to local industries by boosting brand visibility and providing valuable opportunities for local talents,” she said.
Liew also highlighted how the Miss World mission of “Beauty with a Purpose” aligns with Sabah’s values.
“This event is not just about crowning a new queen but also empowering young women, inspiring change, and showing the impact that beauty with purpose can have,” she said.
The 11 finalists spent five days in Kota Kinabalu before the grand finale visiting tourist attractions and taking part in corporate social responsibility activities, including a beach cleanup at Dinawan Island and a food aid charity drive at Kampung Kironggu, Inanam.
Datuk Joanna Kitingan, chairperson of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association Women Council and Sabah Social Entrepreneurs and Ecodevelopment founder Datin Jeannette Tambakau were among guests.
Two other Sabah contestants, Fillonie Francis and Lyn Sinsua, also made it to the top six.
