Taanusiya Chetty, representing Malaysia, secured third place at the Miss World 2026 pageant held on September 5 in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The competition featured 111 contestants from around the globe [1, 2, 3].
Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic won the crown, while Elisabeth Reynes Alabern of Spain finished second [1, 2, 3]. Chetty’s third-place finish matches Malaysia’s best-ever performance by Lina Teoh, who also placed third in the 1998 Miss World pageant [1, 2, 3].
Chetty, 26, was also awarded the Beauty With A Purpose (BWAP) title, which honors contestants for their dedication to impactful community projects [1, 2, 3]. Her project focused on education and advocacy, earning praise from Malaysia’s Education Minister, Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek.
Fadhlina said, "I am impressed not only by her achievement on the world stage, but also by Taanusiya’s commitment to making education and advocacy part of her cause. Beauty may open the door to the stage, but knowledge and critical thinking determine what we do once we are on it. Congratulations, Taanusiya. Continue to use the platform and voice you have to champion meaningful causes. Malaysia is proud!" [1]
The final ceremony took place in the evening of September 5, concluding weeks of competitions among 111 contestants representing countries worldwide [1, 2, 3]. Chetty’s accomplishment highlights Malaysia’s presence in international pageantry after nearly three decades.
With the Miss World 2026 event concluded, attention will now turn to how Chetty and other finalists use their platforms for advocacy and social initiatives.
