Meet the 14 Bornean contestants competing for the titles of Ms and Ms Elite Stellar World Malaysia Borneo, while discovering their individual causes.
Kuching to organise first-ever Miss Ms Stellar World Malaysia Borneo
Last week, we unveiled the faces of the 11 outstanding Sarawakian women who will compete in the grand finale of the Miss Stellar World Malaysia Borneo in June.
Today, we will introduce 14 more finalists from Sabah and Sarawak who will also participate in the beauty pageant. These contestants will compete in the Ms category (aged 30 to 44) and the Ms Elite category (aged 45 and over) during the event.
Ms Stellar World Malaysia Borneo finalist
Lae Giling, 34 (Sibu)
I want to share my life journey as a single mother of three. Just so you know, being a single mother was not a choice that I made; it required emotional and mental strength, especially coming out of a very toxic relationship. It also necessitated full support from family members. I stand here today because of the strong support of my family. As one of the finalists, I finally feel that I have the confidence to be seen in public.
Rachel Ujai, 42, Iban (Kuching)
I want to encourage people to be brave and live the life of their dreams according to their vision and purpose, instead of conforming to the expectations and opinions of others. Additionally, I aim to showcase the beautiful and unique design of the Borneo motif through clothing. It’s one of my dreams, and I hope to achieve it.
Dahliani Mingai, 42, Kedayan (Kuching)
I want people to respect and openly accept the participation of hijab-wearing women in any beauty contest. Therefore, I wish to highlight the diversity of people and share my passion for fashion to break stereotypes.
Mardiana Dickson, 32, Iban-Melanau (Miri)
Education is more than knowledge; it unlocks potential and uplifts communities. It serves as a beacon of hope, particularly for girls, yet millions are denied this right. It’s time to break barriers for their empowerment. Gender disparities persist due to cultural norms and biases, hindering access. Investing in girls’ education ensures a brighter future, as educated girls become leaders and advocates for change. Let’s prioritise girls’ education, challenge stereotypes, and promote equality. Together, let’s empower girls through education for a better future. ‘Educate a girl; empower a generation.’
Traisy Vivien, 30, Iban-Bidayuh (Kuching)
As a former national diver, I am passionate about inspiring the new generation, especially young women, to engage in sports. Sports bring fulfilment in all aspects of life — physically, mentally, and socially. I want women to realise the benefits that come from sports, and I aim to empower them to fulfil their own individual destinies.
Pauline Jagan, 41, Iban (Sibu)
As a mother of a special needs child, I want to encourage parents to consider sending their children to special schools because education is crucial for everyone. With the education and skills they acquire from these schools, they will be better equipped to care for themselves. Let us not feel ashamed if we have a special child; instead, let us feel proud, as they teach us the meaning of patience and give us strength.
Priscilla Yii, 36, Iban-Chinese (Kuching)
I strive to uplift the lives of Bornean and Malaysian people through education, awareness, and youth empowerment. Being raised in poverty taught me resilience and the importance of never giving up. Though I came from a poor family, I refused to let that define me. Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. ‘One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher’ can change the world.
Priscilla Thomas, 36, Bidayuh (Kuching)
In many parts of the world, women are not represented at policy tables to speak about how they are impacted every day by bad or no policies. That’s why it is crucial to have more women in leadership and advocacy roles. Women must be included at the forefront of any and all plans put forth that could impact them.
Ms Elite Stellar World Malaysia Borneo finalists
Lynne Chee, 53, Kadazan-Chinese (Kota Kinabalu)
This isn’t just a beauty pageant; it’s a platform for empowering women and promoting the diverse, vibrant cultures of Malaysia. Pageants serve to empower individuals who envision making themselves stronger. I am here, ready to advocate for change, empower others, and celebrate the traditions that make Malaysia unique. Let us focus on the positives of this competition and draw inspiration from it. May we always uplift one another and bring smiles to the faces of people around us.
Ani Mustapah, 48, Bajau (Kota Kinabalu)
I urge all women who are facing problems, whether they have experienced abuse or have been left by their husbands, to stand up for their rights. There are numerous government departments and non-governmental organisations that can provide assistance. It is our right as women to strive for a better life and not to be subjected to punishment.
Joanna Kitingan, 66, Kadazan-Dusun (Kota Kinabalu)
Our cultural heritage is a treasure trove of wisdom, beauty, and resilience passed down through generations. It is a tapestry that weaves together our history, traditions, and values, shaping who we are and guiding us forward.
As young women, we are the torchbearers of our heritage, entrusted with the task of preserving and celebrating the rich tapestry of our ancestors. By embracing our roots, we not only honour the sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us but also pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Let us wear our heritage with pride, drawing strength from the stories of our elders, the melodies of our music, the flavours of our cuisine, and the colours of our traditional attire. Let us be ambassadors of our cultures, sharing their beauty and diversity with the world and inspiring others to do the same.
Together, let us stand tall, united in our diversity, and empowered by our heritage. For in preserving our cultural legacy, we not only enrich our own lives but also sow the seeds of understanding, respect, and unity for generations to come.
Kristena Gawan, 53, Iban (Sibu)
I wish to help people who have been victims of narcissists and traumatic bonding by offering them the moral support they need. My goal is to assist them in regaining their self-confidence and emerging from their shells into the spotlight.
Sofea Yusuf, 47, Malay (Kuching)
Entering this competition is truly challenging for me, as I am just an ordinary mother and Nek Mummy (grandmother). Being brave and confident in facing the public is essential. Therefore, I would like to encourage more women to join beauty pageants, enabling them to demonstrate their capabilities and talents.
Julia Thomson, 47, Iban (Kuching)
My advocacy centres around embracing inner beauty and strength. In a society that often places undue emphasis on outward appearances, I believe it’s crucial to remind ourselves and others that true beauty transcends physical features. It emanates from the depths of our souls, fuelled by qualities such as kindness, resilience, and compassion. I want to inspire women to look beyond societal standards and embrace their unique qualities, flaws, and all. I aim to encourage them to nurture their inner strength, believe in themselves, and recognise their inherent worth. I will use this platform to uplift and inspire women from all backgrounds to celebrate the beauty of their culture, uniqueness, traditions, languages, and customs that have thrived for centuries. I am committed to leading by example every step of the way.
The finale night will be held at the Grand Riverine Ballroom by Lok Thian, Kuching, on June 30.
As you know, the top five winners will represent Borneo on the national stage to compete for the first-ever Miss, Ms, and Ms Elite Stellar World Malaysia titles on August 3 in Kuala Lumpur.
Following that, in 2025, all title holders will represent Malaysia in the Miss Ms Stellar World pageants held in the United States.
For entrance ticket inquiries, contact Kimi Tomas, the Borneo director and Ambassador of Empowerment for Miss Stellar World Malaysia, at 018-3983136.
