PAPAR, Nov 5 — Fourteen finalists of Miss Cultural International 2025 were given an exclusive look at the vibrant Benoni New Township in Papar, leaving many captivated by the area’s modern architecture and community charm.
The visit, hosted by WSG Group, included a tour of the Benoni Show Gallery, where contestants were briefed on the group’s flagship project, Parklane City — a mixed-development township that blends lifestyle, business, and leisure.
The finalists, representing Malaysia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Inner Mongolia, China, later visited local lifestyle spots such as Goodcoco Café, U-Tea, and 10Star Cinemas, gaining first-hand experience of Papar’s emerging urban lifestyle.
Organised by Kimora Entertainment Network, the Miss Cultural International pageant aims to promote cross-cultural understanding and unity among Asian countries. The grand finale is set for November 8 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
WSG Group director Melissa Wong said the contestants’ visit underscored Sabah’s growing reputation as both a tourism and investment destination.
“We are proud to host the finalists here. Their visit not only highlights Sabah’s hospitality but also showcases its potential for international property investment under the Sabah My Second Home (Sabah-MM2H) programme,” she said.
Melissa also wished the contestants success in the grand finale, expressing hope that their experience would leave a lasting impression of Sabah’s warmth and potential.
One of the finalists, Hannah Tu, 23, from Taiwan, shared that it was her first visit to Malaysia — an experience she described as both eye-opening and inspiring.
Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Resources, Hannah said she was pleasantly surprised by Sabah’s blend of nature, modernity, and hospitality.
“I thought Sabah was all about rainforests and beaches, but it’s also a place of innovation and modern living. I can see tremendous potential here,” she said.
Hannah also expressed admiration for WSG Group managing director Datuk Susan Wong Siew Guen and Melissa Wong, describing them as “women of vision and strength.”
“They lead with confidence, set trends, and yet remain humble and approachable — qualities I deeply admire and hope to emulate,” she said, adding that she hopes to return to Sabah in the future for both business and leisure, possibly under the Sabah-MM2H scheme.
WSG Group is among the official sponsors of Miss Cultural International 2025, reflecting its commitment to promoting cultural exchange and regional collaboration.
Also present during the event were WSG Group director Datuk Wong Ten An and Kimora Entertainment Network CEO Ken Wong.
Following their stop at Benoni, the finalists continued their Sabah itinerary with visits to the Borneo Cultural Village and Imago Shopping Mall, and are scheduled for island tours and a Sabah Tourism Board welcoming dinner at Sutera Harbour Resort later this week.