KUCHING, 16 January 2026 – History is being made as Sarawak’s very own CMAA Northern Lion Dance Team prepares to represent Malaysia at the prestigious 2026 Sanya Cup International Dragon & Lion Dance Elite Competition in Sanya, Hainan, China. The championship, organised by the Hainan Tourism & Cultural Bureau and sanctioned by the International Dragon & Lion Dance Federation, will be held from 16 to 20 January.
The team earned its spot after an exceptional performance throughout 2025. Highlights include clinching the Optional Routine Champion title at the Sarawak Open International Dragon & Lion Dance Cup 2025 and securing silver and bronze medals at the Malaysia National Championship 2025. These achievements cemented the team’s reputation as one of Malaysia’s top lion dance contingents.
CMAA President Chester Lim revealed that the Malaysia contingent has been officially announced by the Dragon & Lion Dances Federation of Malaysia Secretary General Datuk Yong Kheng Chien. The team comprises 16-year-olds Kong Wen Ying from St Joseph’s Private School, Kuching, and Lee Kian Cheng, Jonas Chu Ting Hai, and Vincent Wong Hung Jing from SMK DPHA Gapor, Kuching, alongside 26-year-old Phang Yi Quan from Kuching. The group will be led by team manager Ivan Lee Teo Heng from Johor, coached by Calvin Kong Ngon Chung, and accompanied by chaperone Chai Yit Tien, both from Kuching. Additionally, Sarawak’s Nelson Nguang Kim Ban will serve on the Championship Panel of Judges.
“This is a historic moment for Sarawak dragon and lion dance. It is the first time a Sarawak-based team has been selected to represent Malaysia at an international championship overseas,” said Lim. “We are proud to showcase our Northern Lion Dance team with a routine that blends traditional Sarawak ethnic Sape music and Ngajat elements.”
Coach Calvin Kong added that the team has been training intensively despite the limited preparation time. “We will give our best for Malaysia and Sarawak. This is also a valuable opportunity to gain international exposure and experience for future competitions,” he said.
Earlier today, the team received the Malaysia and Dragon & Lion Dances Federation of Malaysia (DLDFM) flags in a simple send-off ceremony at KLIA, officiated by DLDFM Vice President Clement Tan and Deputy Secretary Kong Pui Ling. The team is now en route to Sanya to compete on the international stage.
