Iban girl crowned Miss Grand Malaysia 2025
31 Jul 2025 11:50am
Viviana, fondly known as Vivi, is the first Iban woman to win the Miss Grand Malaysia crown. - Photo credit: Pageantry Moments
KUALA LUMPUR - Viviana Lin Winston, from Kuching, Sarawak, was crowned Miss Grand Malaysia (MGM) 2025 during the grand finale of the beauty pageant held last night at the HGH Convention Centre here.
The 25-year-old captivated the panel of judges with her grace and intellect, earning her the title along with a cash prize, jewellery and various exclusive packages.
With this victory, the Iban lass will go on to represent Malaysia at the Miss Grand International (MGI) pageant, which is expected to be held in Bangkok in October.
The first runner-up was Dr Nisha Thayananthan from Negeri Sembilan, while third place went to Rochil Sagarino from Sabah.
Viviana, fondly known as Vivi, is the first Iban woman to win the Miss Grand Malaysia crown.
"This achievement is not just a personal victory on a beauty pageant stage, but a chance to celebrate diversity and prove that the uniqueness of Iban culture also deserves a place on the global stage.
"I hope this success inspires young people from all backgrounds to believe in themselves and keep striving,' said the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak student.
Viviana added that this win also comes with a great responsibility, especially in representing Malaysia at the MGI stage and continuing the legacy of past Malaysian representatives who ranked among the world's best.
"From now on, I want to focus on working with experienced individuals so I can elevate Malaysia's name even further. Winning (on the global stage) is not impossible with consistent training, proper guidance and teamwork,' she said.
Meanwhile, MGM 2025 national director Melisha Lin said Viviana's win was the result of her hard work and strengths in all five core areas assessed at the international level, namely "beauty, body, brain, behaviour, and business'.
She said the organisation hopes that Viviana will be placed among the Top 20 at this year's Miss Grand International, adding that Malaysia secured sixth place (fifth runner-up) in the previous edition. - BERNAMA
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