Czech Republic’s Anna Dvorakova crowned ‘Queen of the Seas’ 

KOTA KINABALU (Nov 30): The 2025 Miss Scuba International Grand Finale concluded in dazzling style on Friday night at the Hakka Hall, Kota Kinabalu.

Anna Dvorakova, a 34-year-old technical-sales executive and scuba instructor from the land-locked Czech Republic, outshone 21 other delegates to claim the coveted crown.

Kimber Lynn Collins, a 30-year-old American conservation journalist, finished first runner-up and also swept the “Miss Marine Conservation” and “Miss Congeniality” awards.

Second runner-up went to 22-year-old Anumi Sassaroli Oriana of Costa Rica, who works in underwater archaeology.

Standing 173 cm tall, Dvorakova told the judges that her profession had opened a gateway to the ocean.

“Whether you live inland or on the coast, regardless of gender, anyone can become an ambassador for the sea,” she said during the final speech round.

Special awards were shared across Asia and the Americas. Hong Kong’s Lin Lok-Yi dazzled in national costume to win “Best National Costume”, Indonesia’s Bening Fajriani took “Miss Photogenic”, and India’s Arushi Chawla wowed the crowd with a powerful dance routine to secure “Best Talent”.

The theme this year is Blue Economy — an ocean of opportunity to advance gender equality and women’s role.

Founder and president Datuk Robert Lo stressed that spotlighting women’s strengths.

“It is by doing so that we can hope for healthier oceans, more resilient communities, and a more just and inclusive approach to sustainability,” he said.

Past title-holders also returned to share their journeys as ocean ambassadors, inspiring a new wave of women to join the blue movement.

Now in its 12th edition, the pageant drew 22 contestants. Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Chief Executive Officer of the Sabah Tourism Board, attended the finale and through video and live segments, showcased Sabah’s charm and ongoing efforts to grow a sustainable blue economy.