Thailand hosted more than 100 candidates on Sunday, November 2nd, for the launch of the 74th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok .
The Cambodian candidate, whose participation sparked debate amid tensions between the two countries , was among them.
Organized under the theme "The Grand Universe: The Power of Love, The Power of Thailand", this event marks the fourth time that Thailand has hosted this global competition.
Cambodian participation amid diplomatic tension
Nawat Itsaragrisil, host of Miss Universe Thailand, welcomes Cambodian candidate Thai Neary Socheata upon her arrival in Bangkok for the Miss Universe 2025 competition, on November 2, 2025.
The Cambodian candidate, Thai Neary Socheata, or Fiyata, arrived in Bangkok despite the announcement the day before of the withdrawal of Cambodia by the company ELEVENTO9, holder of the national license, citing "unresolved situations between Cambodia and Thailand".
Fiyata's independent decision to participate in the competition sparked online debate in both countries.
She received a warm welcome from her Cambodian fans at Suvarnabhumi airport before posting a message on social media:
"I have arrived safely in Thailand."
Thank you all for your warm welcome, your kindness and your support.
Your love means so much to me.
A showcase event for Thai tourism and culture
Nawat Itsaragrisil, host of Miss Universe Thailand, welcomes Pavina Singh, Miss Universe Thailand 2025 (left), as she enters the Miss Universe 2025 competition at the Chatrium Riverside Hotel in Bangkok, on November 2, 2025.
The organizers, Nawat Itsaragrisil, president of Miss Grand International PCL (organizer of Miss Universe Thailand), and Victoria Kjær Thelvik of Denmark, the reigning Miss Universe, welcomed the 103 candidates to the Chatrium Riverside Hotel in Bangkok.
Among them was Pavina Singh, Miss Universe Thailand 2025, who came to represent the kingdom at this 74th edition.
The events will take place from November 2nd to 21st in three major cities, Bangkok , Phuket and Pattaya , showcasing the tourist and cultural appeal of Thailand.
The final coronation will take place on November 21 at the Impact Muang Thong Thani in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi (northwest of Bangkok).
- The Miss Universe 2025 competition takes place from November 2nd to 21st in Thailand.
- The Cambodian candidate is participating despite the diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
- Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya host events to promote Thai tourism and culture.
See also:
Thai woman wins Miss Globe 2025, a first in a century
Historic victory: Opal becomes the first Thai Miss World
Miss Universe Thailand named 3rd runner-up to Miss Universe 2024
Source: Khaosod English
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