Miss World Praises Sabah’s Leadership After Impactful Beauty With a Purpose Tour

11 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The Miss World Organisation has concluded its 2026 Beauty With a Purpose Tour in Sabah, expressing deep appreciation for the State’s progressive leadership, strong governance and compassionate community spirit.

The delegation noted that Sabah’s leadership and people have fostered an environment in which tourism continues to thrive and communities are well supported.

Led by Dr Sean Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HyperLive Entertainment and Franchise Owner of Miss World Malaysia, the delegation included Mrs Julia Morley CBE, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Miss World Organisation, Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata, and Miss World Malaysia 2025 Taanusiya Chetty.

Throughout the visit, the team witnessed first-hand how Sabah’s development is driven by committed leadership, active community organisations and a shared sense of responsibility among citizens to uplift one another.

The Beauty With a Purpose mission in Sabah was designed to inspire and complement the important work already undertaken by government agencies, educational institutions, hospitals, non-governmental organisations and community leaders.

The initiative brought together young people, partners and volunteers to contribute positively within their respective communities.

As a mark of respect and goodwill, the Miss World delegation paid a courtesy call on Head of State Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Musa Aman, at the Istana Negeri.

During the meeting, Dr Sean Wong conveyed his admiration for Sabah’s harmonious and dynamic progress, reflected in its flourishing tourism sector, rich cultural diversity and strong culture of mutual care.

He remarked that these achievements were a testament to Tun Musa’s leadership in nurturing unity, civic pride and a collective sense of responsibility among the people of Sabah.

The engagement underscored shared values of humanitarianism, youth empowerment and collaborative efforts in advancing positive social outcomes for the State.

The delegation also joined Kota Kinabalu City Hall at the historic Atkinson Clock Tower for a tree-watering ceremony themed Heritage and Environmental Preservation. The event was graced by Dato’ Sri Dr Haji Sabin Samitah, J.P., Mayor of Kota Kinabalu.

The ceremony symbolised a shared commitment to safeguarding heritage and protecting the natural environment for future generations.

The Miss World team expressed admiration for the city’s thoughtful urban planning and environmental stewardship, noting that Kota Kinabalu’s charm, cleanliness and balance between heritage and modern development were among the reasons for their third return to the city.