KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 3 — Businesswoman Eunice Wong proved that age and experience can be strengths after being crowned Miss Universe Malaysia 2026 at the grand finale of the prestigious pageant here last night.
Wong, 37, fended off stiff competition from 12 other finalists to claim the latest ‘Star of the East’ crown, earning her the responsibility of representing Malaysia at the Miss Universe 2026 pageant in Puerto Rico next month.
Meanwhile, mother of three Sapphire Wong, from Sarawak, was named first runner-up, while Amreet Kaur from Perak and Emanuelle Mah from Bukit Jalil here finished third and fourth, respectively.
Speaking at a press conference after the event, Wong expressed gratitude for the achievement, saying her hard work and sacrifices throughout the competition had finally paid off.
She also took the opportunity to encourage young people to pursue their dreams without allowing their background or circumstances to stand in their way.
“I believe that wherever we are, whether we live abroad or come from a small town, our surroundings should never be a barrier to going further.
“Keep dreaming, work hard and keep moving forward because God will always open a path,” she told Bernama.
The Johor-born beauty also expressed her appreciation for the overwhelming support from Malaysians, who continuously offered her encouragement and messages of support throughout the competition.
On her preparations for the competition in Puerto Rico, Wong said she is determined to carry the ‘Malaysia Boleh’ spirit to the world stage.
“I promise to give my best performance and make Malaysia proud in Puerto Rico, while bringing home an achievement for the country,” said Wong, who will begin her preparations tomorrow.
Previously, actress Sandra Lim made history as the first Malaysian representative in 54 years to advance to the Top 30 from among 125 contestants at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico City, Mexico. — Bernama