Kota Kinabalu Chosen as a Global Destination, Miss World Champions Heritage and Environmental Preservation

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KOTA KINABALU — The city by the sea stepped into the international spotlight as Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu (DBKK) hosted a special visit by Miss World 2025, Opal Suchata, and Miss World Malaysia 2025, Taanusiya Chetty. The visit formed part of a meaningful programme titled A Timeless Commitment: Heritage And Environmental Preservation With Miss World 2025, held at Signal Hall.


Mayor of Kota Kinabalu, Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah, emphasized that the presence of these global icons carried a message far beyond ceremonial appearances. It underscored the importance of social responsibility, environmental awareness, and the preservation of local history and culture.

Miss OPAL SUCHATA
Miss World 2025

Miss TAANUSIYA CHETTY
Miss World Malaysia 2025

He noted that promoting Kota Kinabalu as a tourism destination is not solely about scenic beauty, but about showcasing a city that values its heritage and community spirit. Initiatives like this, he said, inspire local communities, especially women, to take active roles in shaping society and protecting the environment.


Also present at the programme was DBKK Deputy Director General for the Financial Management Sector, Mr Victor Gerard, together with city officials and invited guests who gathered to support the initiative highlighting sustainability and heritage preservation.

Miss World 2025, Opal Suchata, expressed admiration for Kota Kinabalu’s natural charm and cultural richness. She observed that the warmth of the people, the shared tropical climate, and the community’s commitment to preserving heritage and nature created a sense of familiarity and connection.

Miss World Malaysia 2025, Taanusiya Chetty also shared her appreciation for the hospitality she experienced during the visit. She described the city’s celebrated sunsets as more than a picturesque moment. Each glowing horizon, she noted, reflects the collective effort of a community that cares deeply for its natural surroundings.

In many ways, the visit felt like a meeting point between beauty and purpose. Kota Kinabalu continues to show that progress and preservation can move forward together, carrying culture, nature, and community into the future in one steady, luminous stride.

Photo courtesy to Mr Victor Gerard social media page
Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

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