A Malaysian beauty queen has stepped down from her title after a video of her dancing during a holiday trip to Thailand caused controversy. Viru Nikah Terinsip, aged 24, voluntarily gave up her Unduk Ngadau Johor crown, which she won in 2023, just hours before the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) president, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, announced her dethronement.
The video showed Terinsip "dancing suggestively with scantily clad male dancers," as reported by Asia One.
The Unduk Ngadau Johor title is a prestigious award given during an annual harvest festival in Sabah, honoring the legendary figure Huminodun for her virtuous qualities.
Confirming the decision to strip Terinsip of her crown, Kitingan acknowledged the varied reactions the video provoked, ranging from amusement to disapproval. He stressed the association's desire to avoid unnecessary scrutiny and encouraged other contestants to learn from the incident.
?Kitingan emphasized the public aspect of Terinsip's role as a beauty queen, noting that the incident diverted focus from the association's goals and attracted unwarranted attention. While acknowledging the video was captured during a private vacation, he underscored the importance of individuals in influential positions exercising discretion.??
Prior to the official decision, Terinsip publicly renounced her title through a TikTok video, expressing her gratitude and humility. "I joined the Unduk Ngadau competition by my own will and returned this title without coercion. I respect my decision," she stated, according to The New Strait Times. Emphasizing the importance of self-worth beyond titles, she acknowledged her imperfections and urged a focus on moving forward.
In her closing remarks, Terinsip appealed for understanding and urged the public not to involve her family and friends in the controversy. She expressed gratitude for the support received while urging a collective shift towards addressing other pressing issues.
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