The recently concluded Miss World Beauty With A Purpose Tour in Sabah, Malaysia, has left a positive impact on the local community and has significantly boosted tourism in the region. Led by Mrs. Julia Morley CBE, CEO and Chairman of the Miss World Organization, and Dr. Sean Wong, CEO of HyperLive Entertainment, the tour brought together Miss World 2024, Krystyna Pyszkova from the Czech Republic, and Miss World Malaysia 2023, Saroop Roshi. Their five-day visit in July highlighted not only the critical Beauty With A Purpose initiative but also showcased Sabah’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural scene.
The Miss World delegation participated in a variety of activities designed to benefit the local community and raise international awareness of Sabah’s unique offerings. One of the standout events was the Sail Malaysia Tuaran Beach Cleanup, where Mrs. Morley and Miss Pyszkova joined forces with local leaders, including Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment Sabah and Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board. With the support of Tuaran Rally of Sail Malaysia leaders Datuk Mohd Pintaz Badar and Mr. Sazli, as well as teams from Shangri-la Rasa Ria Resort, MOEA, and Discover Sabah Digital, the group successfully collected and removed 402 kilograms of waste from the beach, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining the pristine beauty of Sabah’s coastal areas.
The Miss World team, alongside the champions of the 2024 Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan (UNK) and the UNK national committees, led by Tindarama Joanna Datuk Kitingan, played a crucial role in providing disaster relief and home restoration for flood victims in Kg. Pogunon. This effort was supported by Discover Sabah Digital, Media Works Solutions, Everrise Supermarket, and Bataras Sdn Bhd, with logistical aid provided by the H3ROS 4×4 Club Sabah ensuring the prompt delivery of assistance. The Miss World Malaysia Organization pledged to raise RM 30,000 to further aid these affected families.
The delegation further demonstrated their dedication to healthcare support by engaging with the Sabah Autism Society and the Palliative Care Association. Mrs. Morley generously donated US$10,000 and US$20,000 to these organizations respectively. The group’s philanthropic endeavors extended to a visit to Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-kanak Likas, organized by philanthropist Datuk Susan Chang. They distributed gifts to 45 children battling cancer and thalassemia, celebrating their birthdays and offering joy and encouragement. They also committed to a yearly donation of RM 10,000 for three years to the hospital’s oncology department.
A highlight of their visit was a high tea event at the Sabah State Palace, hosted by Yang Amat Berbahagia Toh Puan Datuk Seri Panglima Hajah Norlidah Binti Tan Sri R.M Jasni, The Consort of The Head Of State Of Sabah and Adviser to Nur Jauhar Foundation, and Brig Gen Datuk Haji Al Hambra Tun Juhar, Deputy Speaker of the State Legislative House and Chairman of Nur Jauhar Foundation. During this event, the Miss World team donated RM 50,000 to Yayasan Nur Jauhar, courtesy of SunStrong Entertainment, further solidifying their commitment to aiding underprivileged families.
In alignment with their environmental conservation efforts, the Miss World team participated in a tree-planting activity at Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK), where they were welcomed by Mr. Lifred Wong, Director General of DBKK. Alongside prominent figures, they planted “Miss World Trees of Hope,” symbolizing their dedication to environmental preservation and sustainability.
These diverse initiatives underscore the Miss World team’s deep commitment to community welfare, health support, and environmental conservation. Endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment Sabah, led by Minister YB Datuk Christina Liew, the Miss World team’s visit was part of a broader effort to showcase Sabah’s hospitality, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Their activities will be featured in the Beauty With A Purpose documentary, highlighting their profound impact. Under Mrs. Morley’s leadership, the Miss World platform has become a formidable force for global betterment, with Miss Pyszkova’s participation exemplifying the influential role of beauty queens in driving positive change. Their collective efforts have significantly touched the Sabah community and set a strong example of how beauty and purpose can combine to create lasting positive effects.
