How did the Malaysian Miss Grand finalist respond to the batik controversy?

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Malaysian Miss Grand Finalist Addressed Batik Controversy by Stating Pride and Urging Supporters to Remain Calm

Debra Jeanne Poh, a finalist in the Miss Grand International 2018 pageant, responded to accusations regarding her batik top by asserting her pride in the garment and advising her supporters to refrain from engaging with negative comments. The controversy arose when Indonesian social media users accused her of appropriating Indonesian batik motifs. Poh clarified that she had not claimed the batik as Malaysian in origin and encouraged a measured response from her supporters.
Clarification on Clothing Origin and Pride

Poh directly addressed the allegations in a series of Instagram stories, stating that she had not made any claims about the origin of the batik she wore. She expressed her personal pride in the clothing itself, emphasizing that it was a garment she chose to wear. The 22-year-old beauty queen from Labuan, Sabah, made it clear that her intention was not to misappropriate cultural fabric but to express her personal style.
Call for Supporters to Ignore Negative Reactions

In her response, Poh also cautioned her fans against escalating the dispute. She thanked those who had offered support but urged them to ignore the negative comments directed at her. Her advice was to maintain a dignified stance and to "pray for the best for them," suggesting a desire to de-escalate the situation rather than engage in further conflict.
Context of the Controversy

The controversy began when Poh appeared at a competition event wearing a batik top with contemporary design elements, including a cropped silhouette and bell sleeves. Indonesian social media users identified the pattern as a batik parang motif, which they assert is native to Indonesia, and expressed anger, accusing her of using "other's country original fabrics." This sentiment was amplified by comments from Miss Grand Malaysia 2017, Sanjeda John, who criticized the Indonesian reaction, further fueling the online debate. Poh was preparing to represent Malaysia at the Miss Grand International final in Myanmar on October 25.

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How did the Malaysian Miss Grand finalist respond to the batik controversy?

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