Stunningly beautiful and receiving widespread praise, for “Opal Suchata,” Miss World 2025, had the opportunity to be selected to join the grand procession at the Phanom Rung Festival in Buriram Province, portraying the role of “Queen Phupatindra Lakshmi Devi.” However, drama arose when Cambodians commented on the Miss World page asking for the photos to be removed and accused cultural appropriation of Khmer culture, which Opal opened up about,
explaining that initially she talked with her team and felt it wasn’t something to worry about because, fundamentally, it’s a neighboring country. It’s not unusual to share cultures or traditions. For Opal, this isn’t something negative or a competition to claim. We have our own unique identities to preserve and continue, but where history shows shared rights, it’s important to be open to the common ground we have together. Ultimately, we are neighboring countries, and it’s best not to fight since we live close to each other.
Regarding the drama demanding photo removal, she said she had only seen it briefly and hadn’t checked fully because she’s busy, and some Miss World team members are currently resting on their days off. She expected this reaction but understands it from the perspective that it’s about preserving identity. She wants to maintain that, but reason tells us these are things we share. In the end, we might dress similarly and have similar traditions, but looking at the Thai side, especially Buriram Province, there are distinct steps and ceremonies unique to us. On the Cambodian side, they have their own distinct procedures.
She expressed the hope to find a middle ground. Still, as she said, she understands the patriotism each country feels. She recognizes that social media platforms allow anyone to comment or visit, and regardless of this event, comments and criticisms are always present.
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