The Miss Grand International (MGI) organization has formally revoked the second runner-up title of Miss Grand Myanmar 2024, Thae Su Nyein, citing her “inappropriate behavior and actions” as the primary reason. The announcement, made by MGI President Nawat Itsaragrisil, follows an escalating series of confrontations between Nyein and the pageant organization.
The situation unraveled during the pageant’s finale when Myanmar’s National Director, Htoo Ant Lwin, took the crown and sash from the 18-year-old contestant, visibly displeased that she only achieved the second runner-up position, which was won by Miss Grand India, Rachel Kupta. The incident led to MGI severing its ties with Lwin, imposing a lifetime ban for “lack of sportsmanship and business credibility.”
In a later public address, Nyein confirmed her decision to reject the runner-up title, stating, “I don’t want the second runner-up position… I came to win first place and believe I deserved a higher position.” She also questioned her lack of recognition in categories like Best National Costume and Popular Vote, further fueling the discord.
Nawat defended the organization’s position during a press conference, attributing the response to her unrealistic expectations, saying, “If she wants first place and must have it, I suggest she create her own pageant so she can win every title.” He affirmed that while this controversy has drawn widespread attention, MGI’s operations and relationships with other countries remain unaffected.
MGI issued an official statement on October 28, announcing the revocation of Nyein’s title. “The Miss Grand International Organization has decided to revoke the title of 2nd Runner-Up from Miss Grand Myanmar 2024, Ms. Thae Su Nyein due to inappropriate behavior and actions that violated several regulations,” the statement read.
