KUCHING: Over 400 participants joined the International Open Dragon-Lion Dance Championship, representing 45 teams from Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, and across Malaysia.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah expressed pride in Sarawak’s initiative to take on the challenge of hosting this prestigious event.
“Dragon and Lion Dance is a unique cultural practice that combines performing arts, heritage, and sport. While rooted in the Chinese community, its appeal extends beyond, becoming a symbol of cultural unity in Sarawak.
“Today, practitioners from various ethnic groups, including Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Melanau, and Orang Ulu, also actively participate in dragon and lion dance events.
“This showcases the inclusive nature and evolution of this cultural tradition, and I hope this competition will be the first of many to come,” he said.
He shared this through a text read out by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini during the launch of the International Open Dragon-Lion Dance Championship at Stadium Perpaduan here yesterday (Oct 26).
He added that this cross-cultural involvement reflects a spirit of mutual respect and appreciation, showcasing Sarawak’s multiethnic identity.
The diverse community involvement in dragon and lion dance performances makes it not just a celebration of Chinese heritage, but a shared cultural expression of Sarawak’s identity.
“I am proud to witness Sarawak’s ongoing success as a host for numerous major events throughout the year, including sports, social, arts, and cultural events like SUKMA, Para-SUKMA, the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), the Dragon Boat Regatta at Kuching Waterfront, and more.
“Events like these are valuable for attracting more visitors to Sarawak and promoting a positive lifestyle that embraces sports, performing arts, and heritage,” he said.
The competition features four categories: Traditional Southern Lion Dance, High Pole Southern Lion Dance, Northern Lion Dance, and Luminous Dragon Dance.
The event runs for two days on October 26 and 27 (Saturday and Sunday) at Stadium Perpaduan.
