From the hospital wards of Dublin to the global stage of Miss Universe Ireland 2026, Malaysian-born doctor and innovator Dr. Nisha Thayananthan champions women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, and cultural diplomacy.
Healing lives, shaping change
Dr. Nisha Thayananthan is no stranger to breaking boundaries. From excelling as a school topper and JPA scholar to serving as a dedicated medical doctor, she has consistently proven that brilliance and beauty can coexist.
Crowned Miss Earth Malaysia 2020/2021 and now preparing to represent Ireland at Miss Universe 2026, Dr. Nisha embodies the modern archetype of “beauty with brains”.
Her journey is not just about pageantry or fashion modelling, it is about advocacy, innovation, and cultural diplomacy. Whether pioneering biodegradable sanitary pads to combatting plastic pollution, championing women’s empowerment, or showcasing Sarawak’s Melanau heritage on the Cannes red carpet, she continues to inspire women across the globe.
Dr. Nisha’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and purpose. She has shown that a woman can be a healer, an innovator, a cultural ambassador, and a beauty queen, all at once.
Her voice reverberates not only in the halls of hospitals and on international runways, but also in communities where empowerment and environmental responsibility are most needed.
As she embarks on her journey to Miss Universe Ireland 2026, Dr. Nisha carries with her the hopes of many, proving that pageantry is no longer about crowns alone, but about creating meaningful change.
Whether in Ireland, Malaysia, or on the global stage, her mission remains clear: to make the world a better place.
In this exclusive interview with ASSOCIATE EDITOR RAJAH MURUGAIAH, Dr. Nisha shares her thoughts on balancing medicine and glamour, her mission for a better world, and her vision for the future.
Sarawak Tribune: You’ve balanced medicine, social work, and pageantry with remarkable grace. What inner drive keeps you going?
Dr. Nisha: My passion for helping others and making a positive impact drives me. As a doctor, I’ve seen the difference that compassionate care can make in people’s lives. Through pageantry and social work, I aim to amplify my reach and inspire others to pursue their passions. I’m driven by a desire to make a difference and leave a lasting impact.
What inspired you to enter Miss Universe Ireland 2026, and why Ireland instead of Malaysia?
I’m a permanent resident in Ireland, and I’ve fallen in love with the country’s warmth and kindness. The Miss Universe Ireland pageant is renowned for its fairness and high standards, which captured my admiration. I believe that my values and platform would be well-represented on this stage. While my Malaysian roots are an integral part of my identity, I feel a strong connection to Ireland and would be honoured to represent it on the global stage.
How do you respond to critics who feel you should represent Malaysia rather than Ireland?
I understand that people have different opinions, and I respect their perspectives. For me, it’s about where I feel most aligned and can make the most impact. As a permanent resident in Ireland, I believe I can be a strong ambassador for the country and its values. I’m proud of my Malaysian heritage, and I hope to show that our cultures and values can intersect beautifully.
Looking back at your varsity days when you first won beauty titles, what lessons from those early experiences still guide you today?
Winning beauty titles in my university days taught me the importance of confidence, hard work, and resilience. I learned to present myself with poise and confidence, which has helped me in various aspects of my life. These experiences also showed me the value of community and support. Having people believe in me made all the difference. I carry these lessons with me today, reminding me to stay focused, work hard, and support others along the way.
Pageantry is no longer just about beauty. How do you see yourself redefining the “beauty with brains” archetype on the global stage?
As a doctor and advocate, I believe that true beauty comes from within; it’s about intelligence, compassion, and a desire to make a difference. On the global stage, I aim to redefine the “beauty with brains” archetype by showcasing my intellect, passion, and commitment to social causes. I want to inspire others to value substance over superficiality and to use their platforms to drive positive change. By being authentic, intelligent, and compassionate, I hope to show that beauty is more than skin deep.
As a plastic surgery resident in Dublin, how do you balance the demands of medicine with the glamour of pageantry?
Balancing medicine and pageantry is indeed a challenge, but for me, they’re complementary passions. My medical training teaches me discipline, time management, and empathy; all essential skills for both surgery and pageantry. When I’m on call or in the operating room, my focus is entirely on my patients. When I’m on stage or working on my cleft palate organisation, I bring the same dedication and passion. It’s about finding balance and prioritising my time effectively. Both pursuits push me to be my best self, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to pursue them.
Has your medical background influenced the way you approach issues of beauty, health, and self-confidence?
Absolutely. My medical background gives me a unique perspective on beauty and health. I’ve seen first-hand the impact that reconstructive surgery can have on a person’s self-confidence and quality of life, especially in cases like cleft palate. This experience has taught me that true beauty is about more than just physical appearance. It’s about health, self-acceptance, and inner confidence. As a future plastic surgeon, I want to help people feel their best, whether that’s through reconstructive surgery or aesthetic procedures. I believe in empowering individuals to make informed choices about their bodies and promoting a healthy, positive body image.
Do you see yourself continuing in medicine long-term, or will pageantry, modelling and entrepreneurship eventually take centre stage?
My ultimate goal is to be a successful plastic surgeon, specialising in cleft palate reconstruction. I plan to continue in medicine long-term and make a meaningful impact through my work. Pageantry, modelling and entrepreneurship are passions that complement my medical career; they allow me to connect with people, advocate for causes I care about, and inspire others. I’m also passionate about my cleft palate organisation, which aims to provide surgical care and support to children in need. I see myself balancing medicine, modelling and pageantry, using each one of them to enhance the other. As I always say, “There’s no limit for human potential.” I believe in pushing boundaries and achieving excellence in all areas of my life.
You pioneered biodegradable sanitary pads at a time when few were talking about it. What sparked this innovation?
During my community posting at UNIMAS, I witnessed first-hand the struggles of underprivileged women and girls who couldn’t afford proper menstrual hygiene products. Seeing the impact it had on their health, education, and dignity sparked a fire within me. I decided to use my own savings to develop biodegradable sanitary pads that would be both affordable and environmentally friendly. It was a challenge, but I was driven by the desire to make a difference in their lives.
You received little support for Ecopad back home, yet you found success abroad. How did that journey shape you?
The lack of support back home was disappointing, but it didn’t deter me. Instead, it fuelled my determination to prove that eco-friendly innovations like Ecopad could succeed. Finding success abroad reflected the global demand for sustainable products. It taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and believing in my vision. This journey has made me a stronger and more resilient entrepreneur, and I’m grateful for the opportunities it has brought.
You’re donating Ecopads to Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. What does this humanitarian effort mean to you personally?
This humanitarian effort is close to my heart. Providing Ecopads to Palestinian refugees in Lebanon is not just about distributing a product; it’s about showing compassion and dignity to those who need it most. Menstruation is a natural part of life, and no one should have to suffer due to lack of access to basic hygiene products. This effort is a small step towards a larger goal of promoting menstrual health and dignity worldwide. It means everything to me personally, as it aligns with my values of empathy, kindness, and making a difference in the lives of others.
What more can governments and industries do to support eco-friendly innovations like yours?
Governments and industries can play a significant role in supporting eco-friendly innovations by providing funding, resources, and infrastructure. This could include grants, tax incentives, or subsidies for sustainable products like Ecopad. Creating policies that promote eco-friendly practices and raising awareness about the importance of sustainability can also help drive demand and growth. Collaboration between industries, governments, and innovators is crucial to overcoming the challenges of bringing sustainable products to market. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future and make a positive impact on the environment and society.
Do you think Malaysian politics will remain male-dominated, or are women ready to break barriers?
I believe women are more than ready to break barriers in Malaysian politics. We’ve seen women excel in various fields, and politics should be no exception. As for me, I’m inspired to participate in politics to drive change, especially in education and supporting the underprivileged. I want to empower youngsters to achieve their dreams and create opportunities for those who need it most. It’s about time we have more women in leadership positions, bringing diverse perspectives and ideas to the table.
Sexual crimes are on the rise. Are lawmakers doing enough to protect women, and what urgent steps must be taken?
While there have been efforts to address sexual crimes, more needs to be done. Lawmakers must prioritise stricter laws and enforcement, ensuring perpetrators are held accountable. Education and awareness programmes are also important in preventing such crimes and changing societal attitudes. We need a multi-faceted approach that involves the government, NGOs, and communities working together to create a safer environment for women.
As someone vocal about child protection, what reforms do you believe are most critical for safeguarding schoolchildren?
Safeguarding schoolchildren requires a comprehensive approach. We need to strengthen child protection laws and ensure they’re enforced effectively. Schools should have trained counsellors and robust reporting mechanisms to address any form of abuse or bullying. Also, educating children about their rights and how to stay safe is vital. We also need to support and empower teachers to identify and report concerns.
How do you personally define women’s empowerment, and how do you embody it in your daily life?
To me, an empowered woman is someone who can pursue her goals and dreams without being held back by self-doubt or others’ opinions. She’s resilient, confident, and inspires others. I’ve faced my share of criticism and fake rumours, but instead of breaking me, they’ve made me stronger. I believe all women should be able to say the same. An empowered woman is also someone who pays it forward, inspiring the younger generation to be confident and pursue their passions. I strive to embody this in my daily life by staying true to myself, pursuing my goals with determination, and supporting others along the way.
At Cannes 2025, you showcased Sarawak’s Melanau heritage through your songket gown. What was the most powerful reaction you received?
The most powerful reaction I received was from a fellow Malaysian in the audience who was moved to tears seeing our traditional songket gown on the Cannes stage. They shared with me that it reminded them of their own heritage and cultural roots. It was a moment of pride knowing that I was not just representing myself, but my community and country. I felt a deep sense of responsibility and honour in showcasing Sarawak’s Melanau heritage to the world.
How important is cultural diplomacy in today’s world, and how do you see fashion as a tool for it?
Cultural diplomacy is crucial in today’s world as it fosters understanding, respect, and cooperation between nations. Fashion is a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy as it transcends borders and languages, allowing us to share and celebrate our unique cultural identities. Through fashion, we can showcase our heritage, traditions, and values, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. As a platform, fashion can bridge cultures and bring people together.
Having lived in Ireland for four years, do you see it as your permanent home, or do you envision returning to Malaysia to serve your people?
I consider both Ireland and Malaysia as my homes. Both countries have contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. While I have fond memories and appreciation for Ireland, I also feel a strong connection to my roots in Malaysia. In the future, I envision myself splitting my time between both countries, giving back to my community in Malaysia while also sharing my experiences and expertise with the European community. I believe in the importance of giving back and would love to create services and initiatives that benefit both regions.
My final question. With so much achieved already, is marriage or family life on your horizon, or do you feel your mission still takes precedence?
For me, my mission and personal growth take precedence right now. I believe that when a woman achieves great things, it can be challenging to find a partner who is equally supportive and understanding. However, I think everyone deserves a loving and competent partner to share their life with. For me, marriage is about finding someone who is willing to make a lifelong commitment, and it’s not something I feel the need to rush into. Right now, I’m focused on giving myself attention and making the most of my life. My principle is that life is short and happens only once, and I want to make the most of it. Marriage is not a compulsory part of my life plan, and I’m happy to see where life takes me.
