(From left) PDK Miri supervisor Chiong Bee Lan is seen with finalists Tanisha Kaur Harjit Singh and Cynthia Jekeria.
Contestants speak to the parents of special needs children at PDK Piasau.
The finalists pose for a group photo.
MIRI: The 16 Miss Global International Malaysia (MGIM) finalists have had a full programme since arriving here on Wednesday.
Yesterday, the girls visited the Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre (PDK) Piasau, where finalist Claudia Gan from Kuching was seen in tears.
“Even though I often visit charitable organisations back home, I did not expect myself to be so emotional upon seeing these children with special needs,” she said.
Various events have been lined up leading to the grand finale next Saturday (Aug 1).
Contestants began with a tour of Miri when they arrived and then faced a debate competition on Thursday, where they were divided into four teams to debate the topics ‘Reality TV shows do more harm than good’ and ‘Which is a more complicated gender – men or women?’.
“These are two great topics that are often debated on the international stage.
“Hence we took the opportunity to have these girls brainstorm among themselves and get ready physically and mentally to face these questions,” said organiser Marlene Lim, who is also MerveilluxM Production managing director.
She said the winner of the first round will receive prizes from the sponsor MyHomeStay,
where the girls are currently staying.
“The debate does not only stop there as they will continue for a second round at Curtin University Sarawak Malaysia during a visit next week.
“These activities have in a way encouraged them to improve their knowledge, skills, communication and team building skills at solving problems.
“And at the same time, we ensure that they have a great time,” Lim added.