THE unveiling of the top 12 finalists for Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 took place today at Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang, marking a significant moment that celebrates both cultural heritage and national identity.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the decision to host the announcement in George Town was far from coincidental.
“Internationally renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, the city recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site stands as a living testament to multicultural coexistence and heritage continuity.
“Its timeless charm and architectural elegance have long established it as one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated cultural treasures,” he said in his speech today.
Also present were Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Penang Global Tourism (PGT) chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang senior general manager Lee Boon Kae and Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 image mentor Eileen Chuah.
Wong noted that Penang’s profound cultural depth and diversity make it a natural stage for Miss Heritage Global Malaysia, a platform rooted in cultural preservation and aesthetic appreciation.
“The alignment between the state and the pageant reflects a strong synergy of shared values, particularly in promoting heritage continuity and fostering cultural understanding,” said Wong.
He emphasised that Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 is more than a conventional beauty pageant.
“Instead, it is a purposeful cultural initiative anchored on five key pillars namely cultural diplomacy, heritage advocacy, women’s leadership, tourism and community development, as well as education and storytelling.
“These interconnected pillars align closely with Malaysia’s broader aspirations of advancing cultural diplomacy, promoting sustainable development, and empowering women,” he said.
According to Wong, these principles are not merely conceptual but are embedded throughout the entire programme from the selection process to structured training and holistic development.
“The 12 finalists were carefully chosen and nurtured within this comprehensive framework.
“This year’s finalists reflect the diversity of Malaysia, representing regions across Peninsular Malaysia as well as Sabah and Sarawak.
“Notably, three contestants hail from Penang, representing both the island and Seberang Perai,” said Wong.
The finalists are Wen Cheng (Sarawak), Maisy Tan (Johor), Catherine Ng (Perak), Farra (Kelantan), Leanne Yam (Selangor), Salynna Kum (Kuala Lumpur), Amelia Kaur (Penang Island), Emily Chieng (Sarawak), Leong Shu Jian (Kuala Lumpur), Jesslyn Wong (Penang mainland), Hannah Khoo (Penang Island), and Jessica Sin (Kuala Lumpur).
From May 4 to May 6, the finalists participated in a three-day immersive heritage journey across George Town and its surrounding areas.
During this period, they explored historic streets and cultural landmarks, engaged with cultural custodians, and experienced living traditions that continue to thrive in modern society. The programme offered them deeper insight into Penang’s rich cultural narrative.
Wong explained that the initiative goes beyond learning about culture as it is designed for participants to experience it firsthand.
“This approach ensures that when the finalists eventually take to national and international stages, they will speak about Malaysia’s heritage not only with knowledge but with genuine understanding and conviction.
“Throughout the programme, all 12 finalists were dressed in the traditional kebaya, recognised by Unesco as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
“The attire symbolises the region’s rich textile traditions and reflects the multicultural legacy deeply embedded in Southeast Asia,” he said.
Looking ahead, Wong said the eventual winner who will represent Malaysia at the Miss Heritage Global 2026 World Finals in Vietnam will carry more than just a title.
“She will bear a cultural responsibility as both a storyteller of Penang and a cultural ambassador for Malaysia.
“Through her role, she will present the richness of Malaysia’s multicultural identity to the global stage, highlighting traditions such as Peranakan heritage and Malay textile craftsmanship, elements that form the cultural soul of Penang.
“Ultimately, the platform serves as a contemporary bridge connecting tradition with global audiences, showcasing Malaysia as a nation that is diverse, authentic, and vibrantly alive,” he concluded.
Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 is the official national chapter of Miss Heritage Proprietary Limited (South Africa), organised by Nova Elite Productions Sdn Bhd.
The programme is endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MOTAC) and is dedicated to celebrating, documenting, and elevating Malaysia’s living cultural heritage through the stories and leadership of Malaysian women.
The culmination of Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 will take place on May 30 this month at The Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
One winner will be crowned Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 and will go on to represent Malaysia at the World Final, competing alongside delegates from over 40 countries.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian