The controversy escalated when Htoo was captured on camera removing Than’s tiara and sash during the October 26 coronation ceremony at the MGI Hall. This public display of disapproval sent shockwaves through the international pageant community and prompted swift action from the organization.
Allegations and Counter-Claims
The situation intensified when Htoo made serious allegations against Miss Grand International President Nawat Itsaragrisil, claiming the crown was offered for $25,000 and suggesting improper dealings with Indonesian pageant officials. Itsaragrisil firmly dismissed these accusations as “ridiculous,” leading to a heated exchange that caught global attention.
During a press conference at Bangkok’s Movenpick Sukhimvit 23, Itsaragrisil challenged Than’s position, suggesting she “create her own pageant” if she desired guaranteed victory. He emphasized that competitive events require participants to accept both victory and defeat gracefully.
Competition Outcomes
The pageant concluded with historic results as India’s Rachel Gupta secured the country’s first “golden crown,” while the Philippines’ Christine Juliane Opiaza claimed the first runner-up position. Than later clarified she harbored no ill feelings toward her fellow contestants, expressing disappointment primarily over Myanmar’s inability to secure the national costume prize and “Country Power of the Year” recognition.
In the national costume category, determined by online voting, Brazil’s Talita Hartmann, Ecuador’s Maria Jose Vera, and Honduras’ Yariela Garcia emerged victorious. Thailand ultimately claimed the prestigious “Country Power of the Year” award. The 12th edition of this Bangkok-based pageant maintains its record of never crowning either a Filipino or Myanmar representative as its winner.