KOTA KINABALU: Sabah holds a special place in the heart of Julia Morley, so much so that she had included the state as part of the Miss World Netflix and Beauty with a Purpose mission.
This time around, the Miss World Organisation chairman and chief executive officer brought Krystyna Pyszková of the Czech Republic, the reigning Miss World 2024, to also enjoy Sabah, the way she did.
“Since 2022, Mrs Morley has been visiting Sabah annually, bringing with her the reigning Miss World. This consistent commitment speaks volumes about her affection for Sabah and her unwavering support for our community,” said Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew at a press conference about the mission on Tuesday (July 23).
Liew said this year, Morley returned with an even greater purpose, aiming to make a more substantial impact.
“We are deeply grateful for your dedication and for choosing Sabah as a pivotal part of your tour. That is why the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry Sabah is giving the Miss World Beauty With A Purpose Tour in Sabah its full support,” she said.
In addition to Pyszková, the event was also graced by the presence of psychologist and model Saroop Roshi, who was crowned Miss World Malaysia 2023.
Liew added that it is a recognition of the global significance of the Miss World Festival and their commitment to humanitarian efforts.
Pyszková’s tight schedule includes participating in the Sail Malaysia Tuaran Beach Cleaning event, visiting flood-affected homes in Kampung Pogunon, Penampang, as well as the Sabah Autism Society.
She will also be visiting the Palliative Care Association of Kota Kinabalu, to which she pledged to donate USD$20,000 (about RM91,000) in aid of palliative care patients.
Pyszková also visited the Sabah Women and Children's Hospital in Likas, where she delivered gifts to 45 children with cancer and thalassemia, as well as helped raise RM50,000 for Yayasan Nur Jauhar to help disadvantaged families.
“As for environmental and community support, Pyszková is also involved in tree planting activities promoting environmental sustainability, and this will be documented as part of the "Beauty With A Purpose" mission, showcasing Sabah's landscapes and culture to the world,” said Liew.
