Sarawakians Perpetua Leman John and Ophelia Tambi made their mark at this year’s Miss Stellar Queen International, taking home the grand winner and second runner-up titles respectively. Their journey through the pageant spotlighted not just beauty, but resilience, purpose, and a passion for meaningful change.
From Self-Doubt to the Spotlight
IN a world where beauty is often in the spotlight, this year’s Miss Stellar Queen International (MSQI) took a bold step in redefining what it means to wear a crown.
For Sarawakians, Perpetua Leman John and Ophelia Tambi, their pageant journeys were not just about glamour – they were about resilience, growth and making a difference.
The two emerged as Grand Winner and Second Runner-Up respectively, representing not only their state but also a powerful message of purpose over perfection.
According to MSQI founder, Sherlyn Chan Seet Leng, the vision behind the pageant has always been to uplift real women with real stories.
“We wanted to create a platform that celebrates diversity in all its forms and places value on impact over image,” she shared. “Today, that vision is alive and evolving.”
Held in early May in Kuala Lumpur, this year’s edition aligned itself with the ‘United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production’.
“Through sustainable event practices, advocacy-based initiatives, and community-driven outreach, we are proving that pageantry can be both beautiful and meaningful,” said Chan.
“We hope this platform serves as a reminder that the true crown lies in the impact we create.”
With 35 participants from across Malaysia and abroad, Sarawak’s delegates stood out.
Marketing student Perpetua, 22, and finance assistant Ophelia, 33, carried their titles with pride and purpose as they shared their journey with the Sarawak Tribune.
Can you tell us about your history in pageantry?
Perpetua: This was my first pageant. I had never joined one before so I was truly grateful for the opportunity to participate.
Ophelia: My pageantry journey began with a desire to step outside my comfort zone and use my voice meaningfully. I started with Ratu Kebaya Pantu in 2024, where I learned a great deal about poise, confidence and presence.
Each experience has helped me become more self-assured. Joining MSQI was the most transformative chapter yet – it brought immense personal growth and the honour of representing something much bigger than myself.
Tell us more about your experience in this recent pageant.
Perpetua: Praise be to the Lord – I feel humbled and deeply grateful to have been named the Grand Winner of Miss Stellar Queen International 2025.
It’s a tremendous honour and I thank the organisers and judges for believing in my potential.
Ophelia: Being named Second Runner-Up was incredibly humbling. Standing among such inspiring, empowered women was already a victory.
The recognition affirmed all the effort, growth and heart I had poured into the journey. It reminded me that even small steps forward can lead to something deeply meaningful.
How did you prepare for the competition, both mentally and physically?
Perpetua: Mentally, I did research on analytics and statistics to be wellinformed about what I was advocating for.
I also did a lot of self-reflection to identify my weaknesses and areas for improvement.
Physically, I worked out, lifted weights, maintained a strict diet and prioritised my health.
I trained in catwalk techniques with my pageant coach, Yalina Fiona Amy Rue Keith, and practised consistently at home.
Ophelia: My preparation required a balanced approach.
Physically, I kept a regular fitness routine and made sure my nutrition supported my energy levels. As a Wellness Coach, this was second nature.
Mentally, I focused on resilience and staying grounded. I used mindfulness, affirmations and visualisation techniques to keep myself centred.
Juggling pageant preparation with daily life was challenging but I managed with time management and support from family, friends and colleagues.
The process taught me the importance of discipline and self-care.
What was the most challenging part of the pageant, and how did you overcome it?
Perpetua: The most challenging part was adapting to wearing high heels – specifically 6.7 inches!
I had never worn heels that high before and maintaining balance and posture was difficult.
I’m grateful to the talented individuals who trained me and helped me overcome this hurdle.
Ophelia: For me, the biggest challenge was overcoming selfdoubt, especially during the live Q&A segments.
It’s easy to second-guess yourself in front of an audience. I reminded myself that authenticity mattered more than perfection or to meet others’ expectations.
I used grounding techniques and took time to centre myself before key moments.
By staying true to my voice and purpose, I was able to speak confidently.
What life lessons did you learn from the pageant?
Perpetua: I’ve learnt that our problems may not be as overwhelming as we think.
Among the finalists were individuals from broken homes, with unsupportive families or financial difficulties – but instead of letting that hold us back, we used it as motivation to grow.
It’s not about where you come from but who you choose to become.
Ophelia: One of the most important lessons was learning to embrace vulnerability.
Authenticity is powerful.
I also learnt the value of resilience – things don’t always go as planned, but how we respond is what defines us.
The pageant pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me uncover inner strength.
Ultimately, success isn’t about titles; it’s about growth, connection and impact.
Can you share a memorable moment from the competition?
Perpetua: The whole pageant week was an unforgettable experience but one moment that stood out was a session led by speaker and Judging Auditor, Lam Man Teng.
She asked us to reflect on how we see ourselves in the mirror. It was deeply emotional and allowed us to confront our vulnerabilities. It reminded me why I embarked on this journey of self-growth.
Ophelia: One of the most memorable moments for me from the competition was during the final walk.
Standing on stage with the other contestants, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and accomplishment. It wasn’t just about winning – it was about the journey.
The cheers, the spotlight, the energy – all of them reminded me that every doubt, challenge and step led to something truly special.
What is your advocacy for the pageant?
Perpetua: My advocacy is “Embracing Womanhood”. It’s about learning to live authentically without seeking external approval.
I aim to uphold this by using social media, participating in community service, and promoting educational development.
Ophelia: My advocacy is promoting a healthy lifestyle and holistic wellbeing.
As a Wellness Coach, I’ve seen how small changes can lead to major improvements in people’s lives – physically, mentally and emotionally.
After the pageant, I plan to continue coaching, hosting wellness talks and raising awareness.
I want to support youth and underserved communities in taking charge of their health and future. It’s a lifelong mission for me.
What are your future goals now that you’ve won your title?
Perpetua: My goal is to graduate with flying colours and begin my professional journey.
I want to be a role model for others, especially young girls – encouraging them to embrace the changes in their bodies and develop a growth mindset.
Ophelia: Winning Second Runner-Up has opened new doors. I want to continue using this platform to promote holistic well-being, especially among youth.
I’ll keep coaching, speaking and engaging in community outreach. Professionally, I hope to grow both in my finance career and as a Wellness Coach.
Pageantry has boosted my confidence and given me the courage to pursue public speaking and mentoring – something I’m excited to develop further.
Any advice for aspiring beauty queens?
Perpetua: Choose a platform that aligns with your values.
Be authentic – don’t change yourself to fit someone else’s beauty standards. Believe in your potential, no matter your flaws or insecurities.
Never give up. Keep striving for your best. Ophelia: Stay true to yourself and embrace the journey.
Pageantry is about inner strength and purpose. Don’t compare yourself to others – focus on your own growth.
Prepare mentally and physically but also give yourself grace.
Surround yourself with supportive people and remember: every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Whether or not you win a crown, the transformation is what truly matters
