Body of Miss Tourism Myanmar 2018 discovered under rubble of Mandalay quake

THE body of Miss Tourism Myanmar 2018 was discovered beneath a 12-storey condominium in central Mandalay, following last week’s earthquake.

The beauty queen, Silimee, represented Myanmar at the Miss Tourism World 2018 competition.

Reuters reported that she was among the victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay on March 28.

Tremors were felt across neighbouring countries, including Thailand, Vietnam and parts of China.

She was found trapped within the rubble after the Sky Villa condominium collapsed during the earthquake, and was found dead by rescuers on April 2, according to a Facebook post by the Miss Tourism Myanmar organisation.

As reported by The New York Times, Sky Villa – which was completed in 2017 – was one of the worst-hit buildings, despite being promoted for its “earthquake-resistant foundation”. The complex was home to Mandalay’s largest rooftop bar and a state-of-the-art gym prior to its collapse.

Myanmar’s junta says the death toll has risen to more than 3,100, according to Reuters. – April 5, 2025