Miss World 2026 second runner-up Taanusiyaa Chetty inspires Malaysian teachers to dream big, earning praise for her confidence, beauty and intelligence
MALAYSIAN-born Taanusiyaa Chetty, who finished as second runner-up at the 2026 Miss World final in Nha Trang, Vietnam, has inspired teachers to dream big after winning praise for her confidence, personality and beauty.
The 26-year-old, who represented Malaysia on the international stage, recently took to Threads to reflect on her journey, describing it as a great honour to carry the country’s name this far.
“Now, I just hope more people will believe that a teacher can dream big, take a bigger step to reach further and carry the name of the country to the world stage,” she wrote.
“With all my heart, for Be.The.Change.my, everything I fight for, I do it because I believe that change starts with a small step.
“Thank you to all for having trust in me. This is not about how far I go but how far we could bring change, together.”
Her message has since drawn an outpouring of praise from Malaysians from all walks of life, including fellow teachers, many of whom affectionately refer to her as “Cikgu Taanu”.
“Love teachers. You are pretty, smart and have your own aura. The most important thing was, you made us scream every time your name was mentioned,” one netizen wrote.
Others praised Taanusiyaa for her beauty, intelligence and humility.
“Beauty with brains!” another netizen commented.
“You were the most beautiful on the prestigious stage,” another wrote.
“Your beauty, intelligence, composure and eloquence flow so effortlessly,” another netizen said.
Taanusiyaa’s confident demeanour also earned widespread admiration, with some Malaysians saying they believed she deserved to win the coveted crown.
“You are nothing but the real definition of ‘Beauty With A Purpose’. We know, not just us Malaysians but the whole world, that you are the real winner. You won so many hearts out there and showed the genuine you. Fly high, Queen! You deserved this. We will always support you,” a netizen wrote.
Her pink couture gown also won the hearts of many, with some fans affectionately describing her as a “Barbie Doll Malaysia”.
