KOTA KINABALU: Viru Nika Terinsip had returned her Unduk Ngadau crown with a “humble and grateful heart”.
The 24-year-old winner of last year’s Johor Unduk Ngadau beauty pageant came under fire after a video of her “wild” holiday in Thailand went viral recently.
“Today, I found that strength, and I believe this is not the end. I returned the title of Unduk Ngadau Johor 2023 with a grateful and humble heart.
“I participated in Unduk Ngadau willingly and returned the title without coercion. I am able to accept criticism and advice from others.
“However, it’s remarkable to receive, listen, and make peace with oneself. To those who continue to judge me, thank you for being too busy to heal your own festering wounds.
“And to those who always support, depression and heartache can be easily overcome with you,” she said in a video uploaded in her Facebook.
Earlier, KadazanDusun Cultural Association (KDCA) president Huguan. Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan announced the revocation of her title, stating the central committee had decided to strip her of the title after considering the views of the its Council of Elders and the Bobolians (ritual leaders).
“Because of her actions, the KDCA has faced scrutiny and criticism,” said Pairin.
Viru Nikah’s controversial video, which showed her reacting to suggestive male dance performances while on holiday in Thailand, drew mixed reactions from social media users, with some finding it offensive and others demanding respect for people’s private activities.
In her video, Viru Nikah said the matter wasn’t about only the title but about recognising that wearing the crown doesn’t guarantee perfection or success.
“I am not a perfect person. I always pray, God, grant me the strength to face it all,” she said.
Viru Nikah, who is a content creator, was seen as a surprise winner in last year’s Unduk Ngadau in Johor, but she lost in the final at Hongkod Koisaan, Penampang.
