MUKAH: Nineteen-year-old Joshelynnia Josefinna Jackery from here was crowned Teluwaih Jinih 2025 during the traditional beauty pageant held as part of the Mukah Kaul Festival at the Kaul Main Stage, Kala Dana Beach, on Thursday night.
The competition, a cultural highlight of the Melanau community’s annual festival, saw Joshelynnia triumph over nine other contestants, winning a cash prize of RM3,000 along with a trophy.
The first runner-up title went to Yvonne Natasya Bell, who received RM2,000 and a trophy, while Elmeldha Dellalynno Stalin secured third place. Alexandra Garnett Patrick and Nur Azatul Hanim Jeffereen were awarded fourth and fifth places, respectively.
In addition to the main title, several special awards were presented, including Miss Favourite (Azira Gale), Miss Photogenic and Miss Video Content (Alexandra Garnett Patrick), Best Melanau Costume (Yvonne Natasya Bell), and Best Catwalk (Joshelynnia Josefinna Jackery).
The prize presentation ceremony was officiated by Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, Deputy Minister of Economy and Mukah MP.
Teluwaih Jinih, which translates to ‘beautiful woman’ in the Melanau language, has been an annual pageant since 2008 in conjunction with the Mukah Kaul Festival. The event aims to promote the culture and heritage of the Melanau people, particularly through the showcasing of traditional and contemporary attire.
The pageant also serves as a platform for Melanau women to display their talents in modelling and communication.
With this victory, Joshelynnia not only earns the crown but also assumes the role of cultural ambassador, representing the grace and distinctiveness of Melanau women throughout the year.
Also present at the event were Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine, Mukah District Officer Peleadzman Ahip, and Temenggung Hendi Suhai.
