KUALA LUMPUR: Although just 19, Larissa Ping now carries a bouquet of weighty responsibilities after being crowned Miss World Malaysia 2018 in Kuching over the weekend.
The Sarawakian beat 11 other pageant finalists for the title, crown, trophies, RM30,000 in cash and other prizes.
That may sound like a windfall – but the shiny bounty comes with a raft of duties and obligations.
For one, Ping will take on the daunting task of representing Malaysia at the 68th Miss World 2018 pageant in Sanya, China on Dec 8.
The young head-turner will also tackle the role of Sarawak’s Tourism Ambassador for 2019, said Sarawak Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
"I am confident that through this prestigious event… you will be able to assist in promoting the state of Sarawak at the international level, and at the same time promote ecotourism in the country,” he told Ping at the event, Bernama reported.
Abdul Karim’s confidence is well-placed, as the teen is stepping into her new roles amply equipped – in addition to claiming the main Miss World 2018 title, Ping swept the pageant’s Miss Photogenic and Top Talent honours as well.
(That’s a tall order, considering that jury members included the likes of fellow beauties Nabila Huda and Carmen Soo.)
Miss World Malaysia 2018, which was themed ‘Beauty with a Purpose,’ was held at the Borneo Convention Centre in Kuching, where guests included Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The pageant’s second and third places were claimed by Naomi Sim, 26, also from Sarawak; and Shennon Jade, 24, of Kuala Lumpur, respectively.