KUCHING: Thirteen teams including four teams from outside the State will compete in the Third Plaza Merdeka Lion Dance Competition (International) on this coming Saturday.
The teams from Sarawak are Sarawak Sin Yang Lion and Dragon Dance Associat ion, Kuching Kwang Wai Siew Lion Group, Kuching Hong Yang Lion and Dragon Dance Association, Sarikei Buddhist Orthodox Association Dragon and Lion Dance, Sarawak Sibu Wushu Dragon and Lion Dance, Persatuan Ji Xiang Ru Yi Tarian Niaga Dan Singa Bau Kuching, Persatuan Hua Yaw Tarian Naga Dan Singa Kuching Sarawak, Persatuan Tarian Naga Dan Singa Kota Sentosa Kuching, and Sarawak Tian Eng Lion and Dragon Dance Association.
The four teams coming from outside the State are Singapore Tian Eng Dragon And Lion Dance Association, Kelab Tarian Niaga dan Tarian Singa Tian Eng Ban Hock Team Malaysia, Penampang Fook Tet Kung Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe Sabah, and Pertubuhan Tarian Singa Hong Teik Sekinchan Selangor Malaysia.
Tight competition is expected as all the 13 teams that have registered are ready to bring their best to the floor, showcasing their skills and showmanship on stilts after years’ worth of practice. As teams defy limits and display their skills and talents, spectators will be treated to superb performances and colourful display of lion dance props.
The competition will be judged by 18 excellent judges that will be brought in f rom al l over Malaysia. Marketing Manager of Plaza Merdeka Shopping Centre Debra Sim, at a press conference yesterday disclosed in the competition’s champion will receive cash prize of RM2,000, trophy and medals; first runner-up will get RM1,500, trophy and medals; the second runner-up will bring home cash RM1,000, trophy and medals, while the third runner-up will get RM800, trophy and medals. She also disclosed there will be Special Elite Award of cash RM800.
The teams that do not make it to the top four will receive consolation prizes of RM300. Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Haj i Abdul Ka r im Rahma n Hamzah, will officiate at the launching ceremony of the competition which will also be attended by Plaza Merdeka Plaza directors and senior management team.
The competition which will be held at Main Atrium, Ground Floor will start at 10am this coming Saturday. Admission to this magnificent event is free.
