Cluett’s performance stood out in a field that brought together entrants from well over one hundred countries. Her progression into the final group places Malta among the leading contenders in a contest that draws global attention each year. What’s more, she was also the only participant from Europe to advance to the closing stages, something that has been warmly received in Malta and across the region.

The final was held in Bangkok, where Mexico’s Fátima Bosch claimed the crown following a competition marked by unusually high levels of scrutiny and public interest. Bosch had been at the centre of a widely discussed confrontation earlier in the month, which led to debate about the treatment of contestants and the responsibilities of pageant organisers. Despite the surrounding controversy, the outcome was greeted with loud celebration by supporters in the arena.

Alongside the winner, Thailand’s Praveenar Singh secured the first runner-up position, with Venezuela’s Stephany Abasali placing third. Contestants from the Philippines and Côte d’Ivoire completed the top five. Cluett’s inclusion in the final twelve places her among this year’s highest-ranking international finalists and marks a turning point for Malta’s presence within the competition.

The reaction in Malta has been one of great pride, with many seeing Cluett’s result as a step forward for a nation that continues to gain greater recognition on international platforms. Her performance has also drawn praise for the way she represented Maltese culture and identity on a stage that reaches millions of viewers.

Observers have noted that the country’s participation in global events of this scale helps broaden perceptions of Malta beyond its well-established reputation for tourism, history and cultural heritage. Cluett’s success adds to a growing list of areas where Maltese talent is appearing more prominently in international arenas, as well as sports, entertainment and the arts.

As the Miss Universe Organisation reviews this year’s edition, which included reports of disputes among organisers and concerns raised by participants, Malta’s achievement stands out as a rare point of positive consensus. For the first time in the competition’s seventy-four-year history, a Maltese entrant has reached the upper tier of finalists, setting a new benchmark for future representatives and offering the island a moment of well-earned celebration.

A huge congrats to Julia Ann!