Carol Abbey crowned Unduk Ngadau 2023

Carol Abbey Gail Grimaldi, representing the Papar district, achieved a remarkable feat by being crowned the Unduk Ngadau state-level winner for the year 2023.

The prestigious title was bestowed upon her during the grand culmination of the harvest beauty pageant held at the Hongkod Koisaan building, KDCA in Penampang, on Wednesday (May 31).

This event marked the highlight of the Kaamatan celebration, a significant cultural festival in Sabah.

Carol Abbey Gail Grimaldi’s triumph

Carol Abbey Gail Grimaldi, a graduate of the University Malaysia Sabah (UMS), not only earned the coveted crown but also took home a series of prestigious prizes.

Alongside the title, she received a cash prize of RM12,000, a trophy, and various gifts from sponsors. Carol’s exceptional performance and grace throughout the beauty pageant captivated the judges and secured her victory.

Her academic background in economics and her passion for contributing to the community and the nation have further added to her deserving recognition.

Runner-Up and Third-Place winners

Kota Marudu’s Calby Floresa Dolinting emerged as the runner-up in the Unduk Ngadau beauty pageant. She displayed exceptional talent and grace, earning her the second-place position.

Calby Floresa Dolinting received RM10,000 as prize money, along with a trophy and gifts from generous sponsors. She also won one of the three subsidiary titles in the ‘basaan tinandai togingo’ category (Best Dress Design), winning a cash prize of RM500, along with a sash, crown, trophy, and a beautiful flower bouquet.

The third-place winner, Clerice Olvia Augustine @ Justin from Tambunan, showcased her beauty and talents, securing her position among the top contestants.

Galedine Lind Mosuyun, representing Penampang, achieved an impressive fourth-place position in the competition. Following closely behind in fifth place was Florina from Tuaran. Melni Dhial, hailing from Kiulu, secured the sixth-place spot, while Tamparuli’s Rannysa Rachel Lee claimed the seventh-place position.

The Unduk Ngadau state-level beauty pageant garnered immense attention and excitement from the audience and participants alike.

The esteemed prizes were presented on stage by Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni, the wife of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, and Datuk Seri Juliah Salag, the Chief Minister’s wife.

With fifty contestants representing various districts of Sabah, as well as participants from Peninsular states like Perak, Melaka, and Johor, the competition was fierce.

Carol Abbey Gail Grimaldi’s remarkable victory not only brings honour to her district of Papar but also highlights her dedication and exceptional qualities.

Subsidiary title winners

1. Abby Suehaiveey from Nabawan – Miss Bold Pepsi
2. Efa Anniesyah Kambang from Pitas – Miss Popular Gogo OPPO
3. Steffi Olga Aiid from Inanam was crowned Miss Culture, Agritourism and Nature
4. Devegracy Justin from Likas won two titles — Tati Tosuau (Miss Friendly) and Tati Toonong.
5. Adelyn A. Tillon from Karambunai – Tati Topiodo (Miss Natural Beauty)