KOTA KINABALU:The Miss World Organisation has commended Sabah’s progressive leadership, strong governance and community-driven values following the successful conclusion of its Beauty With A Purpose Tour in Sabah 2026, which created meaningful social impact across the state.
Led by Dr Sean Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HyperLive Entertainment and Franchise Owner of Miss World Malaysia, the delegation was headed by Mrs Julia Morley CBE, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Miss World Organisation. The group also included Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata and Miss World Malaysia 2025 Taanusiya Chetty.
Throughout the visit, the delegation observed how Sabah’s development is underpinned by committed leadership, active community organisations and a shared sense of social responsibility among its people, contributing to a thriving tourism sector and inclusive community well-being.
Courtesy Call on Yang di-Pertua Negeri
As a mark of respect, the Miss World delegation paid a courtesy call on Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Musa Haji Aman, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, at the Sabah State Palace.
During the meeting, Dr Wong expressed admiration for Sabah’s harmonious progress, highlighting its cultural diversity, social cohesion and strong civic pride. He noted that these achievements reflected effective leadership that fosters unity and shared responsibility, values aligned with the humanitarian mission of Beauty With A Purpose.
Heritage and Environmental Conservation
The delegation later joined Kota Kinabalu City Hall at the historic Atkinson Clock Tower for a tree-watering ceremony themed Heritage and Environment Preservation, officiated by Mayor Dato’ Sri Dr Haji Sabin Samitah.
The event symbolised a collective commitment to safeguarding heritage and the environment for future generations. Members of the delegation praised Kota Kinabalu’s balanced urban development, environmental stewardship and cleanliness, noting that these qualities had drawn them back to the city for the third time.
Community and Humanitarian Engagements
A series of community engagements were carried out in collaboration with local institutions and non-governmental organisations.
At Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-Kanak (Hospital Likas), the delegation spent time with children undergoing cancer treatment and their families, celebrating birthdays, distributing gifts and organising a lion dance performance. The hospital’s medical teams were commended for their professionalism, dedication and compassionate care.
At the Sabah Autism Society, Mrs Morley reaffirmed her long-standing support after witnessing significant progress since her contribution of USD10,000 in 2024. Encouraged by expanded programmes and positive outcomes, she pledged RM300,000 towards the development of a new school with improved facilities.
The delegation also visited Sekolah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Kota Kinabalu, where deaf and special needs students showcased performances. Moved by the students’ confidence and the commitment of educators, Mrs Morley pledged USD5,000 to support programme expansion and educational resources.
Education and Youth Empowerment
At University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF), the delegation was welcomed with cultural performances and a tour of galleries featuring student and faculty artworks. Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris expressed interest in establishing a long-term collaboration with the Miss World Organisation to position Beauty With A Purpose as a sustainable platform linking education with humanitarian initiatives.
Inspired by the creativity displayed, Mrs Morley personally acquired one of the artworks showcased.
Rural Outreach and Social Support
The tour also included visits to Kampung Dambai and other rural communities, where the delegation engaged families and children through dialogue, encouragement and essential support. These visits were conducted in collaboration with welfare organisations such as Persatuan Kebajikan dan Usahawan Tavan Sabah, complementing existing government and community programmes.
Showcasing Sabah to the World
Beyond community outreach, the delegation experienced Sabah’s natural attractions, including a sunset cruise described as among the most scenic in the region. These moments were shared on global platforms, promoting Sabah not only as a destination of natural beauty but also as a state defined by compassion, diversity and human connection.
Shared Vision
Concluding the tour, Dr Wong said Beauty With A Purpose aimed to inspire young people and unite partners committed to social good.
“Sabah is a state led with vision and compassion, where leadership, institutions and communities work together. It is a privilege to bring the Miss World Organisation here to witness this spirit and to support collective action that uplifts lives,” he said.
The Beauty With A Purpose Tour in Sabah 2026 highlighted the impact of collaboration between international humanitarian platforms, local leadership and grassroots communities, reinforcing Sabah’s reputation as a progressive, welcoming and globally admired state.-BNN
