BEAUFORT: Year Six pupil Insyirah Sharayal of SK Kebajang was named Grand Winner of the Merdeka Outfit Competition - Beauty Pageant Segment, organised by Majestu Crown Management, in Kota Kinabalu.
The competition, held at the Sabah Youth Council Hall, featured seven finalists showcasing National Month-themed outfits incorporating creativity, elegance and cultural identity.
Insyirah presented an outfit featuring elements of Bisaya culture, designed by Ruslina of RQ Tailor.
Her father, Rill Rie @ Sharayal, said the achievement was the result of sacrifices and support from family members, friends and supporters throughout the competition.
He said the family had invested considerable time, effort and money in supporting Insyirah’s participation.
Rill Rie, who is also an ethnic Bisaya music producer and singer, thanked those who supported his daughter, including voters who contributed through the competition application, as well as the organisers and judges.
Insyirah began participating in ethnic and traditional fashion shows at the age of six and has won several competitions at school and district levels in Beaufort, Menumbok and Papar.
The experience helped develop her confidence, discipline and skills in modelling ethnic and traditional attire.
Her participation also received support from several leaders, including Lumadan Assemblyman and United Sabah Bisaya Association President Datuk Ruslan Muharam, Klias Assemblyman Datuk Isnin Aliasnih, Beaufort MP Aminah Aching and Sipitang MP Datuk Matbali Musah.
Insyirah said she was grateful for the achievement and thanked everyone who supported her throughout the competition.
She said the victory was meaningful not only to her family but also in promoting Beaufort and Bisaya culture on a wider platform.