In the world of pageantry, beauty often shares the spotlight with purpose. For Diana Alisa Robert, her journey is more than grace on stage – it is about carrying her heritage, championing her advocacy, and using her voice to inspire others.
Crown with a Cause
BLENDING her Sarawakian-Sabahan heritage, Diana Alisa Robert secured a place in the Top 8 of Miss International Malaysia at the recent coronation. As her first pageant, it became a steppingstone into the world of not only beauty but also advocacy.
Recognised as one of the four largest pageants globally, Miss International has long highlighted women and culture, while aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For Alisa, her advocacy echoed this mission as she spoke passionately about preserving and celebrating Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage.
Her advocacy is aligned with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, specifically Article 11.4, which calls for strengthened efforts to protect and safeguard cultural and natural heritage.
“From traditional textiles like keringkam and songket to music, dance, crafts and oral traditions, our culture is a living treasure that reflects the identity and resilience of our people,” she said.
Of Dusun-Bidayuh heritage, Alisa noted that many traditions are at risk of fading away. Her mission, therefore, is to create greater awareness, inspire younger generations to take pride in their roots, and showcase how culture can be reimagined in modern fashion, art and global conversations.
“Through workshops, cultural exchanges and collaborations, I hope to connect communities, support artisans, and ensure that Sarawak’s heritage is not only preserved but celebrated worldwide. Culture is our bridge between past and future, and protecting it is vital,” said Alisa, who also won the subsidiary title of Most Cultural Heritage 2025.
Beyond pageantry, towards growth
In an interview with Sarawak Tribune, Alisa, who was crowned Miss International Sarawak 2025, said her achievement goes beyond a title.
“It feels surreal and truly an honour to represent Sarawak. Carrying our culture, diversity and beauty on a national stage fills me with pride, and I hope I made Sarawak proud,” she said.
She also treasures the camaraderie built during the competition.
“The most memorable moment was not only when they called my name as Miss International Sarawak, but also the sharing sessions with my pageant sisters.
“Listening to each other’s stories, struggles and backgrounds made the bond so meaningful. It reminded me that this journey is not just about competition, but about sisterhood and growth together,” said the 25-year-old.
Amid like-minded and strong-willed women, there was never a dull moment. Even under stress and pressure, sisterhood prevailed.
Alisa fondly recalls the laughter backstage: “One fun memory was helping each other during our kebaya nyonya session. We had to do our makeup in a rush, yet we still found time to joke and calm each other down.”
A journey of growth
The path to the crown was not easy, she admitted. Balancing mental and physical preparation, Alisa trained herself to practise mindfulness and build confidence through rigorous Q&A sessions. At the same time, she maintained her fitness and health to deliver her best on stage.
For her, the Q&A rounds were especially tough, testing both her knowledge and her composure under pressure with limited time to respond.
Nevertheless, the challenges became valuable life lessons. The greatest of all, she said, was the importance of self-belief.
“When you trust yourself and embrace your uniqueness, you shine in your own way. Winning isn’t just about the crown – it is also about growing, learning and becoming the best version of yourself,” she said.
The experience, she added, has made her stronger, more disciplined and more appreciative of those around her.
“Transformative, challenging and unforgettable,” Alisa said, summing up how the pageant shaped her not just as a contestant, but as a woman with a clearer purpose.
Be inspired to inspire
Supported by family, close friends and loyal fans from Sarawak, Alisa learned to lean on their encouragement during moments of doubt.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support. This crown or title is not just mine – it belongs to all of us in Sarawak,” she added.
Their unwavering support, she added, fuels her determination to give back. As she prepares for the next stage of her journey, she is committed to using her platform to champion causes close to her heart.
Hoping to inspire others through her story, she said: “I want to show other young women that dreams are valid no matter where you come from. With passion, courage and determination, they too can shine on any stage.”
With the guidance of Miss International Sarawak’s State Director, Datuk Raymond Jolly, and General Manager Fiona Keith, Diana Alisa Robert has proven that “beauty with purpose” is not just a phrase, but a living example. She continues to share her journey with followers on Instagram at @dianaalisarobert.
