New drama unfolds: Six Asian countries barred from 75th Miss Universe



The stage was set for the 75th Miss Universe Competition in Puerto Rico, but before the festivities could begin, controversy erupted. 
On October 21, six Asian countries—Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos—announced they would not participate in the highly anticipated event scheduled for November 24.
The announcement, made through Miss Grand International (MGI), sent shockwaves across the global pageant community.
Unlike past withdrawals, when countries pulled out by choice, the circumstances were different this time. These nations were barred from competing due to a heated corporate franchise dispute.
At the heart of the controversy lies a disagreement between JKN Universe LLC and Miss Universe Eastern, managed by Nawat Itsaragrisil.
JKN Universe LLC declared that the national franchise agreements—previously held by Miss Universe Eastern—were now invalid. Meanwhile, MGI maintains that it had secured the rights for these territories via legitimate contracts with the proper authorities at the time of signing.



Caught in the crossfire are the six national candidates, all of whom had been preparing for months to represent their countries on the international stage.
Although they will no longer compete for the crown, MGI emphasized that these women—Thailand’s Tharina Botes, Malaysia’s Eunice Wong, Singapore’s Vion Tan, and Vietnam’s Quynh Anh Nguyen (with Laos yet to name a representative)—will continue to serve as ambassadors for their nations, using their platforms to create positive change and inspire others.
“MGI stands firmly beside all six women,” the organization stated. “The circumstances surrounding the 75th Miss Universe competition should never diminish what these women have achieved or the responsibilities they continue to carry for their countries.”
Despite the controversy, more than 100 contestants from around the globe will compete for the coveted Miss Universe 2026 crown, currently held by Mexico’s Fatima Bosch. But as pageant fans know, drama and debate are nothing new to Miss Universe.
Last year’s edition was also clouded by high-profile withdrawals, walkouts during key ceremonies, and ongoing disputes about the fairness of the competition.
As the finals approach, all eyes remain on the Miss Universe organization and the broader pageant community, waiting to see how the latest saga unfolds—and whether the six excluded Asian candidates find new ways to shine beyond the competition stage.

MAIN PHOTO CAPTION: Miss Universe Thailand 2026 Tharina Botes (Facebook)

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