KOTA KINABALU: The battle for the State-level 2015 Unduk Ngadau title began in earnest yesterday with 42 girls registering themselves at Le Meridien Hotel here.
They will be further groomed during a five-day programme en route to competing in the finale on May 31.
Meticulously planned by State-level organising committee headed by chairperson Joanna Kitingan, the programme which started yesterday, included talks on culture and customs, motivation and conservation, in the belief that the knowledge would enhance their chances of winning the coveted crown.
After the registration, the 42 girls checked into the Le Meridien Hotel and then proceeded to a briefing session.
Last night, Huguan Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, hosted a Sodop Pintutunan (introduction night) for the beauty pageant finalists, where his wife, Puan Seri Genevieve Kitingan presented a sash to each participant.
It was also the prejudging of the Creative Evening Gown wear based on ethnic motif, the winner of which will be announced on May 29 during the Sodop Unduk Ngadau or the Gala Night.
Joanna said, the expectations of the organizer were getting higher and higher each year, especially with the newly introduced subsidiary title this year, Miss Conservation WWF.
“The Unduk Ngadau winner is supposed to be able to exude a high degree of moral because they are representing the Kadazan, Dusun and Murut women. We are also looking at a winner who can be the role model to the younger generation and has a spirit of voluntarism in being willing to sacrifice her time for the community, besides being intelligent to ably present our country, culture and tourism to the world.
Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: 42 beauties and new costumes in 2015 State Unduk Ngadau
..