Miss Malaysia Explains National Costume Award Mix-Up in Miss Universe 2019
MISS UNIVERSE 2019 – Miss Malaysia Shweta Sekhon explained the controversial mix-up in naming the winner of the national costume award during the Miss Universe 2019 pageant.
During the coronation of the Miss Universe 2019 pageant held in Atlanta, Georgia, host Steve Harvey announced Philippines bet Gazini Ganados as the winner of the ‘Best in National Costume’ award. The photo of the Pinay beauty queen flashed on the screen.
However, it was Miss Malaysia Shweta Sekhon wearing her Peranakan food-inspired dress, who was on stage to receive the award. She even interrupted him saying, “It’s not Philippines, it’s Malaysia.” Lots of netizens expressed their disappointment over the wrong announcement.
Miss Universe Organization later clarified that the 23-year old Cebuana is indeed the winner of the National Costume award.
“IamSteveHarvey had it right: Miss Universe Philippines Gazini Ganados is the winner of the #MissUniverse2019 National Costume competition! Congratulations, Gazini,” MUO wrote.
On Monday night, Miss Malaysia Shweta Sekhon took to Instagram to air her side on the controversial mix-up during the coronation night. In her caption, she revealed that she was given the impression that she’s the winner because she was asked to wear her costume and go on standby.
“Many has been asking me questions and clarification about the National Costume. Well four countries were briefed to be on standby as we were Top 4 for National Costume and Philippines was part of it too. We were told that a picture would be displayed if we made it to Top 20 and if we don’t, we would have to put it on. The entire day the crew went on finding my costume as I was told to be the WINNER. That is why I got into the costume too,” she wrote.
Miss Malaysia added that she “totally fine” with it. She even congratulated the Filipina beauty queen for winning the award. She also congratulated the newly-hailed Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi.
“Congratulations to the very beautiful [Gazini!] Love you so much babe… Congratulations [Zozibini Tunzi] for the title, too! Truly deserving indeed and I can’t wait to see your journey!” she added.
Lots of netizens expressed their support and admiration for the Malaysian beauty queen. Here are some of their comments on the post:
@larissaping: “You’ve been so so so optimistic. Thank you for being so strong for our country we’re so proud!”
@adelinetsen: “Not your fault… u all still winners congratz Philippines you both shine bright”
@fiqrieisme: “kudos to you girl for correcting Harvey with such poise yet in a fun tone. And everything else you did to make it here.”
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