Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty was crowned second runner-up at the Miss World 2026 pageant in Nha Trang, Vietnam, last night.
The 26-year-old beauty, better known as Taanu, matched the achievement of Lina Teoh, who also finished as second runner-up at the Miss World pageant held in Mahe, Seychelles, in 1998.
Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic was crowned Miss World 2026, while Elisabeth Reynes Alabern of Spain was named first runner-up.
A total of 111 contestants competed in the 73rd edition of the pageant, which ran for almost a month.
Beauty With A Purpose victory boosts Taanusiya
Taanusiya secured a place in the Top Six after winning the Beauty With A Purpose (BWAP) segment, edging out Zimbabwe’s Brunette Makanyiso, Bernama reported.
BWAP is one of the major recognitions at the Miss World pageant. It is awarded based on contestants’ commitment to and impact on the community projects they champion.
During the evening gown segment, Taanusiya looked elegant in a pink gown designed by Vietnamese fashion designer Minh Tuan Couture.
Multilingual video captures public attention
Taanusiya also drew public attention after a video of her speaking in four languages – English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil – during the Miss World 2026 Head-to-Head Challenge on Aug 23 went viral.
Her multilingual presentation further highlighted her participation in the international pageant, where she ultimately secured a place among the Top Three.
