KUCHING – The Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup 2025 wrapped up as a spectacular success, showcasing world-class performances that mesmerised audiences and brought pride to Malaysia’s traditional cultural scene. The two-day international event, hosted at the Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Multi-Purpose Hall, attracted top troupes from China, Indonesia, Singapore, and across Malaysia, turning Kuching into the centre of Asian cultural excellence.
The competition featured two major categories — High Pole Southern Lion Dance and Luminous Dragon Dance — both delivering breathtaking displays of balance, rhythm, and teamwork.
In the High Pole Southern Lion Dance, Gong He Dragon & Lion Dance Club from China claimed the champion title with a score of 9.45, followed by Kelab Tarian Naga Dan Singa Tung Fa Kuching (9.32) and Tiger Warrior Dragon & Lion Dance Indonesia (9.27). The competition was intense, with every team pushing their limits in precision and artistry.
For the Luminous Dragon Dance, the top honour went to Yaya Awal Ang Shiang Tai Tee Temple Dragon Dance Troupe (9.37), followed by Negeri Sembilan’s Long Yi Association (9.14) and Johor’s Kang Yuan Sports Association (9.02). Their performances lit up the hall, drawing thunderous applause from spectators. Luminous Dragon Dance Champion is also the current World & Asian Champion title holder.
The Traditional Southern Lion Dance title went to Persatuan Tarian Naga Dan Singa Qun Yi Kota Tinggi, Johor (9.36), with Liang Sheng Dragon & Lion Dance Troupe, Sarawak (9.33) as first runner-up, and Sam Tiong Keng Dragon & Lion Dance Troupe, Melaka (9.14) taking third place.
What made the SOIDLDC2025 more memorable was that in opening event. CMAA Northern Lion Dance Team emerged Champion, historic achievement, from an interesting routine with blend of Sarawak traditional Ngajat with strains of Sape and fusion of Martial spirit.
Organising Chairman and CMAA President Chester Lim expressed great pride in the event’s success. “We are thrilled with the turnout and the world-class performances. The Sarawak Open International Dragon & Lion Dance Cup 2025 has truly elevated Sarawak’s name in the international arena. We look forward to the continued support from MTCP for the 2026 series,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Datuk Snowdan Lawan, who attended the closing ceremony after returning from Spain, commended the organisers and teams for making the event a major highlight in Sarawak’s cultural calendar. He assured that MTCP would continue supporting the competition, recognising it as an important platform for cultural preservation and sports tourism.
Also present were Padawan Municipal Council Chairman Tan Kai, Dr Elena Chai, CMAA Founder Master Law Kaw Chai, Event Chairman Pemanca Tan Kun Gee, and CMAA Secretary Chin Chiu Hian.
The event drew enthusiastic spectators throughout both days, filling the hall with cheers and applause. With its vibrant atmosphere and outstanding displays of skill and tradition, the Sarawak Dragon & Lion Dance Cup 2025 has set a new benchmark for cultural excellence and international friendship.
