Miri – A vibrant singing competition filled Miri Boulevard Mall with cultural energy over the weekend. The Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin Challenge Cup Fujian Golden Melody Singing Competition 2.0 drew a crowd, featuring 54 contestants who competed in separate male and female categories.
The event was organised by the Miri Zhao’an Association with sponsorship from the Sarawak Zhangzhou and Quanzhou Associations.
Its primary goal was to champion the Fujian language and preserve cultural heritage through nostalgic songs that foster a strong sense of community identity.
Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak’s Minister of Transport and the Senading assemblyman, attended as the guest of honour and the event’s main sponsor.
In his address, he commended the Fujian community for its dedicated work in safeguarding its linguistic and cultural traditions.
He expressed admiration for the contestants, whose performances he said were on par with professional standards.
The minister highlighted that such events do more than just bolster community spirit; they also contribute positively to the physical and mental wellbeing of residents.
Furthermore, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin underscored the vital importance of maintaining harmony within Sarawak’s richly diverse society.
He urged the public to continue valuing the state’s peaceful environment and the freedom to celebrate all cultural traditions.
Also in attendance were Lim Xian Teck, Chairman of both the Sarawak Zhangquan Association and Miri Zhao’an Association, and the event’s Organising Chairperson, Sim Ya Si.
