Gunsalam (third from left) with Miss Pearl International 2023 Tan (fourth from left) on Oct 29.-Pix courtesy of Deputy Chief Minister's office
KOTA KINABALU: Beauty pageants should continue to be supported because their benefits go beyond mere aesthetics, says Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
Gunsalam, who is also state Local Government and Housing Minister, said such pageants have the potential to enhance tourism and boost the economy.
"Beauty pageants also give opportunities to the contestants to showcase their talents as well as give them confidence to pursue their interests and leadership in (their chosen) field.
“They have the power to uplift and empower individuals, contributing to their personal growth.
“Besides that, it is also an opportunity for corporations to showcase their business connections especially in terms of fashion, beauty products and others.
“Therefore, I believe it is crucial to continue supporting and promoting beauty pageants in Malaysia, in creating a brighter and more beautiful future for our nation,” he said at the Miss Pearl International Beauty Pageant 2023 here on Sunday (Oct 29) night.
In the pageant finals, 27-year-old baker Soen Tan Sieu Ni from the state capital was crowned as the winner.
First runner-up was Diamond Pang Nai Ee, a 21-year-old front desk clerk and social media strategist, also from Kota Kinabalu; while self-employed Jelsi Jass Ellyvera James, 22, was second runner-up.
