KUCHING: Sarawakian, Viviana Lynn Winston, who wrote a new chapter in Malaysian beauty pageantry by becoming the first Iban woman to win the Miss Grand Malaysia 2025 title, returned home to a heady welcome on Sunday.
She was clearly blown away by the reception that awaited her at the Kuching International Airport, replete with a traditional fervour seldom accorded to people other than political leaders.
Iban warriors, adorned in feathered headgear and ceremonial regalia led the way as her family, fans, friends and supporters received her with pomp and pageantry befitting her big win.
Viviana, 25, visibly emotional and grateful, expressed her excitement and pride in making history.
“I’m so happy to be here as the first Sarawakian and Iban to win this title. This is a dream come true. I want to represent my culture on the international stage and show the world what Sarawak and Malaysia can offer,” she said.
The newly crowned queen is now set to represent Malaysia at the Miss Grand International 2025 competition, which will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, on Oct 18.
At a press conference Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan said Viviana, has made Sarawak proud.
“We are very proud of her achievement, she has worked hard and prepared well. She is celebrated not only for her beauty but also for her determination and hard work that led to her win.
“From now until October, it’s about international standards. We believe she can go even further.
“We wish her the best and I hope she will prepare well for the competition.”
Viviana who bagged about RM50,000 in the national event said she and her team would start planning and budgeting everything to prepare for Bangkok.
Her preparations will be both strategic and cultural, with the aim of making Malaysia proud.
Viviana, meanwhile, played down online criticism about her evening gown in the national competition, explaining that the gown was inspired by the traditional ‘sirat’ and was meant to be grand, in line with the Miss Grand concept.
“My next gown design has not been decided yet. Stay tuned,” she said, confidently.
Her team members were quick to add that it was not just about clothing but character.
“What matters is how she carries her values as a proud Sarawakian and Malaysian, on the international stage,” they said.
In this context, Viviana said she would align with Miss Grand International’s core campaign.
“I will use my voice to support the ‘Stop War and Violence’ campaign, which is the main mission of Miss Grand International 2025,” she said.
She can also count on support from Miss Grand Malaysia 2024 and fifth runner-up at Miss Grand International 2024, Melisha Lin.
“If I could achieve fifth runner-up, I truly believe Viviana can aim even higher. I will use all my experience, connections, and team to ensure she is prepared to compete at the global level,” she said.
