19-11-2023 (BANGKOK) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has extended his congratulations to Anntonia Porsild, who represented Thailand in the Miss Universe 2023 beauty contest, for being named 1st runner-up, according to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke.
The highly anticipated Miss Universe 2023 pageant, the 72nd edition of the prestigious event, took place at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador, El Salvador on Sunday morning, Thailand time.
Thailand’s representative, Anntonia Porsild, achieved the remarkable feat of securing the 1st runner-up position, marking the country’s highest placement since 1988. The coveted Miss Universe 2023 crown was awarded to Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua.
Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke conveyed the prime minister’s congratulations to Anntonia Porsild, acknowledging her outstanding performance as Thailand’s representative and her impressive achievement as the 1st runner-up.
“Ms Anntonia has showcased the rich Thai culture to the world, serving as a testament to our country’s soft power. Her Thai traditional dress, inspired by the Ayutthaya Period’s Earth Goddess (Phra Mae Thoranee) sculpture from the 14th-18th century, captivated the audience,” the spokesman stated.
“While Ms Anntonia may not have been crowned Miss Universe, her 1st runner-up title has brought Thailand significant recognition on the global stage. We, the Thai people, are immensely proud of her remarkable accomplishment,” added Chai Wacharonke.
Anntonia Porsild, 27, was born to a Danish father and a Thai mother, whose family hails from Nakhon Ratchasima. She completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Communication Arts at Stamford International University in 2022. Following the Miss Universe 2023 competition, she took to Instagram to share her sentiments.
“I am at a loss for words to describe how I’m feeling right now,” she wrote. “I gave my all on the stage tonight for Thailand, for everyone who believed in me and supported me throughout my journey.”
“I apologize for not bringing the crown home, but I am eternally grateful for all the love and support I have received. Without your unwavering support, I would not be standing here today,” expressed Anntonia.
She continued, “As someone once told me, it’s not the crown and sash that matter most, but rather what you do with the platform you have. I will continue to pursue my dreams, and I hope you will all join me on this journey. I aspire to be a guiding light for those who have seemingly impossible dreams. Dare to take that first step because you never know where it will lead you and who you will meet along the way. From the depths of my heart, I love you all. Thank you for everything.”
