KUALA LUMPUR: Recently-crowned Dewi Remaja 2018/19 Haneesya Hanee had her title revoked following the controversial viral video with allegedly damning evidence against her and other finalists.
This was announced at a press conference held by Dewi Remaja brand owner Nu Ideaktiv, in Shah Alam today.
Unlike the usual procedure of beauty pageants which sees the first runner-up automatically assuming the title, it is not the case for Dewi Remaja.
Remaja magazine editor Faiz Aimman said Tia Sarah would remain as the first runner-up.
“None of the runners-up will be replacing the vacated position, as it is clear that Haneesya deserved it.
“But as things unfolded rather unfortunately, Nu Ideaktiv has come to the conclusion that this is the best decision so as to maintain the pagaent’s credibility and reputation. There will be no Dewi Remaja winner for this year’s edition,” he said.
The 19-year-old Haneesya who was also at the press conference said: “I would like to apologise to all and admit that what I’ve done is wrong. I accept the decision made by Remaja willingly.
“I’m aware that what had occurred could also tarnish the image of the brand, and I feel extremely regretful for what had happened.”
After the Dewi Remaja event held last Sunday, a video of several young women partying in a nightclub went viral.
It appeared that the women were drinking alcoholic drinks, and three of them bear an uncanny resemblance to Haneesya and finalists Fazreen Fazeera and Erni Shahira.
Netizens have condemned the “party-goers” and urged Dewi Remaja’s organisers to take stern action against the finalists if they were indeed the persons in the video.