Entering beauty pageants has given many local talents the opportunity to not only represent their states but also represent Malaysia in international pageants if they manage to secure the win nationally. We’ve had Lesley Cheam representing our country after winning Miss Universe Malaysia last year.
Even our very own Michelle Yeoh represented our homeland when she entered the Miss World pageant back in 1983. Now another local talent has made his state and country proud after winning first place in a recent international pageant.
31-year-old John Watson Tamin from Sarawak was crowned as the winner of the Mister Heritage International 2023 pageant that recently took place in Manilla, the Philippines. The singer-actor represented both Sarawak and Malaysia to compete against 30 contestants from all over the world in a competition that aims to preserve and protect culture and tourism.
“I am more than proud to represent my beloved unique country Malaysia in this international pageant. I am grateful for all the endless support from everyone,” he wrote in his Instagram post shortly after winning. During the grand finale, the local talent wore the traditional Iban Ngepan clothing that reflected Sarawak’s rich and unique culture which definitely made him stand out from the other participants.
Apart from the amazing outfit, the public figure managed to win judges over with his outstanding performance and portrayal of the Iban culture. It was reported that the Sarawakian-born model won USD 5k (RM22k) and earned titles such as Best Spokesperson, Best Personality, and Best Grand Arrival!
Speaking to local media, John revealed that he struggled financially in order to participate in the Mister Heritage International pageant as he had to cover his own expenses for the competition. “I regret to say that I had to pay from my own pocket for the competition. I didn’t get any sponsorship or help from the government or any NGOs,” he said.
Hopefully, with his latest achievement, he’ll be able to bag deals, sponsorships, and financial support moving forward.
Sources: Instagram, Facebook, TheBorneoPost
