The 5th edition of Miss Universe Cambodia, i.e. Miss Universe Cambodia 2023, was held last night at Bayon TV Steung Meanchey Studio, Phnom Penh, Cambodia where Sotima John was crowned as the new winner as she became the official representative of Cambodia at Miss Universe 2023.

John Sotima represented Kampong Cham at the national competition and bested thirty-four other contestants to win the crown. The 23-year-old stunner is not new to the pageantry as she competed at Miss Universe Cambodia in 2019 and was adjudged as the 2nd runner-up.

Through the pageant, she was adjudged as Miss Tourism Cambodia and went on to compete in Miss Tourism International 2019 in Malaysia where she was awarded the title Dreamgirl of the Year International.

The newly crowned Miss Universe Cambodia 2023 John Sotima’s court included –

1st Runner-up – Sai Fhon representing Phnom Penh

2nd Runner-up – Vannak Bormey representing Svay Rieng

3rd Runner-up – Channa Pisey representing Battambang

4th Runner-up – Kolianne Mailfait representing Prey Veng

Top 11 also included Ly Sovanreaksmey (Kampot), Rotha Phyadeth (Khmer Kampuchea Krom), Lim Sunleng (Krong Bokor), Khon Sreykhouch (Ratanakiri), Tan Pouvjessica (Stung Treng), Kit Thavy (Tbong Kmoum).

The hosts of the evening were Anita Leakmony, Sela Vorn, Anna Kim. John succeeds and was crowned by Miss Universe Cambodia 2022 Manita Hang who represented Cambodia at Miss Universe 2022 but could not place in Top 16.

Miss Universe 2023, the 72nd edition of Miss Universe, will be held in El Salvador on 18th November 2023 where Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel of USA will crown her successor at the end of the event finale.