MERADONG – Held in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations, a veteran singing competition has transformed Meradong into a vibrant cultural venue that draws audiences and performers from all over Sarawak and neighbouring Brunei.
Singers 45 years of age and older enthusiastically participated in the Sarawak and Brunei Veteran Elite Men and Women Champion Competition, which was held on Saturday at the Bintangor Community Hall. The occasion was widely regarded as a celebration of culture, talent, and camaraderie, emphasising the performers’ ongoing love of music.
Meradong State Assemblyman (ADUN) Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing officially opened the competition and commended the organisers for their commitment to maintaining it as part of the yearly Chinese New Year celebrations. In addition to offering chances for social interaction and artistic expression, he pointed out that these programs are crucial in maintaining cultural traditions.
Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing thanked everyone in his speech for their yearly efforts to organise the competition. According to him, the occasion not only preserves the cultural values of the Chinese community but also gives seasoned singers a significant stage on which to share their experiences and showcase their skills to a larger audience.
He claimed that the participants’ enthusiastic reaction demonstrated the timeless appeal of music as a medium for artistic expression. Every participation slot that was available was taken, indicating that singing is still popular among people of all ages. He went on to say that music is still a powerful tool for fostering community ties.
“The stage is always open to everyone as long as there is interest and dreams. According to him, these initiatives can promote social harmony and active community involvement.
Before moving on to the main performances in the evening, contestants had to go through auditions earlier in the day. The contestants, many of whom had spent weeks practicing for the event, demonstrated a high degree of dedication and preparation, according to observers.
In addition to the performers, sponsors, judges, members of the organising committee, and volunteers all contributed to the program’s success. Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing thanked them for their contributions and said that their help was crucial to the competition’s success.
Additionally, he expressed optimism that the Elite Veteran Chinese New Year Song Competition would keep expanding in the years to come. He claims that the event has the potential to become a signature cultural program for the Meradong region, acknowledged for its excellence and significance to the community.
The significance of the event was further highlighted by the presence of local leaders. Meradong District Police Chief DSP Tansli Mering was one of the attendees, and his presence demonstrated wider institutional support for cultural initiatives rooted in the community.
Overall, the occasion demonstrated how music can unite people from different backgrounds and strengthen Meradong’s position as a vibrant hub for cultural celebration during the holiday season.
