KUCHING: Stanford Ryan Sidi made Malaysia, and particularly Sarawak, proud by achieving a remarkable success at the 27th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA).
The prestigious event, often dubbed the “Olympics of the performing arts,” was held at the Long Beach Convention Centre, California, from June 28 to July 6.
Stanford was one of the participants representing Malaysia in a competition that saw over 70 countries, including Ireland, the US, Germany, and Japan, vying for the world title.
Team Malaysia achieved an impressive haul of 13 gold, 11 silver, and 13 bronze medals across 70 categories, with Stanford’s outstanding performances contributing significantly to this success.
The WCOPA features six categories: vocal, dance, music, acting, modeling, and variety arts, with competitions divided into junior (ages 5-15) and senior (ages 16 and above) divisions.
Stanford’s accomplishments included: Winner Original Work (Gold Medal); Second Place-Contemporary (Silver Medal); Second Place- Open Category (Silver Medal); Second Place-Classic (Silver Medal); Third Place-Jazz (Bronze Medal) and World Champion All Division- Original Work.
Following his triumph, Stanford expressed heartfelt gratitude to his family and Persatuan Anak Seni Sape’ Kuching (PUSAK).
“Thank you very much to my family, especially my mother, Endu Kechala, my grandparents , and my older brother. It was not easy for me to get here, and their support was invaluable. I also thank PUSAK, Elizabeth Bungan, and my brother Jeffrey Jack for their unwavering support and assistance.”
Stanford also extended his appreciation to Blair Flora Jn and ‘Cikgu’ Lia for sponsoring his performance attire, as well as Team Kemada and Manja Clan for their financial contributions.
He expressed profound gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his journey.
PUSAK congratulated Stanford on their official Facebook page, stating, “Congratulations to ‘Saudara’ Stanford Ryan Sidi for winning several categories in the World Championship Of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in California, USA! You have made Sarawak and Malaysia famous through Sape’ on the world stage. Congratulations and well done!!”
