Miss World visit to Sabah TYT unwarrantedly politicised, says former assistant minister

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 12): Criticism of Sabah Head of State Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman following the recent courtesy call by the Miss World 2025 delegation to the Istana Negeri has been deemed unwarranted and politically motivated.

Former State Works Assistant Minister Datuk Robert Tawik said questioning the visit reflected political immaturity and a misunderstanding of the Head of State’s role as a unifying figure.

“The Yang di-Pertua Negeri is the symbol of unity of the people of Sabah and the highest institution of the state.

“It is standard practice for international delegations to pay a courtesy call on the Head of State as a mark of respect and official recognition,” he said in a statement.

The Miss World delegation, which included Miss World Organisation Chairman and CEO Julia Morley CBE, Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata Chuangsri, and Miss World Malaysia Taanusiya Chetty, visited the Istana Negeri earlier this month.

Robert highlighted that the visit carried messages of unity, charity, and international networking with tangible benefits for the state. He cited Julia Morley’s RM300,000 contribution to the Sabah Autism Society in Tuaran and a US$5,000 donation to SK Pendidikan Khas Kota Kinabalu.

“Miss World’s presence is not an empty visit. It opens opportunities to promote Sabah globally and brings charitable contributions directly felt by the people.

“This should not be politicised,” he said.

He added that honouring guests is a long-standing cultural value upheld throughout history, regardless of political differences.

“Political differences should not compromise decorum to the extent of turning the visit into political capital against the Yang di-Pertua Negeri,” Robert stressed.

He reaffirmed that the Head of State carries out his duties constitutionally and above partisan politics, noting that attacks on the office undermine Sabah’s image and stability.

“Visits by world-class figures such as Miss World offer strategic opportunities to introduce Sabah internationally, especially in tourism and economic sectors.

“Publicity and global networks are valuable assets, and Sabah should be proud to host the Miss World delegation,” he said.

Robert urged all parties to focus on development and unity rather than politicising such events.

“Good matters should build and unite the people, not divide them,” he said.