December 31, 2008 - Miss Tourism International 2008 pageant proved to be a spicy one, with an Indian model beating 42 other contestants to win the title.

Manasvi Mamgai, 21, from India bagged the coveted Miss Tourism International 2008 title in a two-hour competition that saw beauties from all over the world parading in various forms of attire.

1st runner-up Cibele Franczak of Brazil; 2nd runner-up Alma Mulalic of Bosnia Herzegovina; 3rd runner-up Ananya Chinsangchai of Thailand; and 4th runner-up Ruby Wong of Hong Kong.

The surprised Mamgai said that she wanted to use her new title to promote her beloved country worldwide.

Asked what was the first thing she would do after winning the title, she said wanted to call her mom.

The 43 delegates arrived for the event on Dec 11th and went on to take part in promotional and charitable events. The beauties visited numerous tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur and Malacca.

The pageant was also a socially conscious one. In view of the growing concerns about global warming and climate change, the theme for this year’s pageant was “Green Celebration”. It was aimed at raising awareness of the threats facing Mother Nature and also to celebrate the green cause.

The event was hosted by Datuk Mahadzir Lokman and Stephanie Driesen, who also entertained the crowd with their singing.

The 2008 Miss Tourism International pageant was held on Dec 31 at the Sunway Resort Hotel Ballroom in Petaling Jaya.

The event was initiated by Datuk Danny Ooi, president and franchise owner of Miss Tourism International, which serves as an international platform to promote peace, tourism and cultural exchange, and to foster friendship and goodwill among all participating countries.