PUBLISHED : 20 Nov 2023 at 04:30
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has congratulated Anntonia Porsild, the Thai beauty queen who was named the first runner-up in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador yesterday, government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said yesterday.
The 72nd edition of the international beauty contest was held at the Jose Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador. The title went to Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua, while Ms Anntonia was named first runner-up — the best performance by a Thai representative since 1988.
“[Ms Anntonia] showcased Thailand’s culture, especially [by using] the Thai traditional dress that was inspired by the sculpture of Phra Mae Thoranee [‘The Earth Goddess’] which originated in the Ayutthaya Period,” said Mr Chai.
Miss Thailand Anntonia Porsild was named first runner-up in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in San Salvador yesterday. Photo By missuniverse instagram
“Even though she wasn’t crowned Miss Universe, she has made Thailand famous on the world stage. Thais are very proud of her.”
Mr Srettha also took to X, formerly Twitter, to congratulate Ms Anntonia, saying he would work with the deputy chairwoman of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee to figure out ways to further promote Thailand on the world stage.
The 27-year-old Nakhon Ratchasima native was born to a Danish father and a Thai mother. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication arts from Stamford International University in 2022.
Ms Anntonia wrote on her Instagram: “No words can describe the way I’m feeling right now. I put my all on the stage tonight for Thailand, for everyone who believed in me and was a part of my journey.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t bring the crown home for us, and I am eternally grateful for all of the love and support I have received throughout this journey.
“Without your support, I wouldn’t be standing here today. As I was once told, it’s not the crown and sash that is most important — but it’s what you do with the platform you have that matters most.
“I will continue to work towards my dreams and hope you will all come along with me on whatever path we go from here. I hope I can continue to be a guiding light to anyone who has a dream.”