KOTA KINABALU: Sisters Caesyzizi and Candycyci Liakim are not only turning heads with their beauty and warm smiles, but also as twin contenders for the state Unduk Ngadau crown on May 31.
The 25-year-olds from Kampung Kawiyan Ulu Sugut, Ranau, who are representing the districts of Lahad Datu and Paitan respectively, have impressed the judges and crowd with their fluency in the Dusun language.
Speaking about competing against each other, the sisters said the pageant is less about rivalry and more about personal growth, confidence and promoting Sabahan culture and identity.
The elder sister, Caesyzizi, hopes to introduce her Dusun culture and traditions not only to Sabahans but also to those outside the state and country, while Candycyci is focused on encouraging youths to speak their native tongues.
They feel that although they are from Ranau, competing on behalf of other districts is a way for them to learn about the traditions and cultures of the areas they are representing.
“Our main focus is to introduce and preserve Sabah’s diverse cultures to the world, not necessarily to win the crown in the end,” said Caesyzizi, while her younger sister playfully said both of them are equally beautiful.
Another contestant under the spotlight is 19-year-old Amber Weysha Walter John, who is representing Putatan.
She said while shooting may appear to be a tough sport for women, it has taught her discipline, focus, precision and determination.
“With that kind of training, I also aim to focus and do my best in the (Unduk Ngadau) finals,” said Amber, adding that a woman can be gentle and tough at the same time, in that she can be strong in will and mind while remaining gentle in other aspects.
With the Unduk Ngadau finals less than 48 hours away, contestants are now in the final stage of preparations, while social media users have begun naming their favourites for the crown.
So far, on the state-level Unduk Ngadau official Facebook page, the top five favourites are Gelvia Vanessa Jenny representing Papar, Pitas hopeful Jean Christzabeth Yusevender, Tuaran beauty Juje Elor, Evyanarey Larry for Tamparuli and Kota Kinabalu’s Liane Melve Grace Lias.
Based on likes alone, the underdogs are contestants representing Melaka, Sandakan, Sukau, Tawau and Putrajaya.
Cabin crew member Clarissa Jane (Melaka), who hails from Papar, said she has been preparing herself physically and mentally for the competition, and is not letting anything affect her confidence to do her best.
“As with all competitions, winning and losing is part of the journey, so I am not too worried about that, because at the end of the day, whoever gets the crown will definitely do a good job in promoting Sabah’s culture and story,” said Clarissa Jane.
A total of 53 beauties will be competing for the crown tomorrow and on May 31.
