From left: Miss Grand India Rachel Kupta, MGI President and Director Nawat Itsaragrisil and Miss Grand Myanmar Thae Su Nyein during the coronation on October 25, 2024. MGI

Miss Myanmar has been permanently banned from Miss Grand International (MGI) following her controversial pageant exit. MGI President and Director Nawat Itsaragrisil made the announcement on Monday (October 28) in a Bangkok press conference. The incident began when Thae Su Nyein, Miss Grand Myanmar, publicly rejected her second runner-up title during a live broadcast, stating, “I don’t want the second runner-up position… I came to win first place.” Her decision came after Myanmar’s National Director, Htoo Ant Lwin, removed her crown and sash following her loss to Miss Grand India Rachel Kupta and Miss Grand Philippines Christine Juliane Opiaza, who was first runner-up. The pageant was held in Bangkok, Thailand on October 25. Nawat condemned the conduct, stating, “What makes her so delusional? If she wants first place and must have it, I suggest she create her own pageant so she can win every title.” The director cited this as a case of “lack of sportsmanship” and issued a lifetime ban on the Nyein, Myanmar's National Director and the Myanmar pageant franchise. The pageant organizers issued an official statement confirming their decision, explaining that these events, along with the recent termination of the Cambodia franchise, “have not impacted our business operations.” MGI is currently exploring new partnerships for the Myanmar and Cambodia franchises, ensuring contestants continue to represent their nations responsibly. Reflecting on the decision, Nawat said, “Someone like you shouldn’t participate in anything competitive or challenging others. You should stay in your own imaginary, fantasy virtual world.” ICA/Expat Media
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