At the “YOU Is U 2025” pageant held in Pattaya, Thailand last week, Thai transgender beauty queen Chayavate Somwong made an emotional appeal for the immediate release of Myanmar’s detained democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
The annual event, which began in 2004, is more than a beauty contest. It serves as a platform to promote individual dignity and rights for the LGBTQ+ community across Southeast Asia. This year, Somwong competed in traditional Burmese attire styled after Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s iconic look, earning the title of 4th Runner-Up.
Speaking to The Irrawaddy, Somwong explained her decision to spotlight Myanmar’s political crisis during the pageant and shared her admiration for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
Why did you call for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s release during the beauty pageant?
Because she is a true leader, a role model, and a woman of immense strength. Her unwavering spirit commands respect—even from men. Most importantly, she deserves to reunite with her family at this stage in her life.
What do you admire about her?
She sacrificed everything for her country. She gave up personal comfort for the greater good of the public. That’s what a real leader does.
Why did you choose to wear traditional Burmese dress?
She is my role model. So, I wore Burmese dress and a flower just like she does to represent her. I wanted to embody her, and represent her spirit.
As a Thai national, what message do you have for the people of Myanmar?
I want every citizen to fight for their country the way Daw Aung San Suu Kyi did. I hope the military that has staged a coup listens to the voices of the people. And I want ASEAN [the Association of Southeast Asian Nations] to stand up for Myanmar people.
I feel sorry to see Myanmar people forced to spend all their savings just to come to Thailand by any means to work here, all because of the military. We need good leaders so that people can live in peace in their homeland. Finally, I wish that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi be released and reunited with her family and the people.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I urge those who love Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to make good use of their social media platforms to advocate for her release.
