KUCHING: Dion Das Louis, known as the ‘Little Borneo Birdie,’ is set to represent Malaysia at the 27th World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA 2024) in Long Beach, California, at the end of June.
According to his father Lansam, the competition is scheduled from July 1 to 5, with the medals presentation ceremony on the subsequent day.
Dion secured his spot in the global event by clinching a gold medal at the recent Malaysia Championship of Performing Arts held in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 27.
His winning performance showcased an ethnic contemporary dance, portraying the persona of a bird, which earned him his endearing moniker.
His dance, inspired by the traditional Dayak Iban ngajat, incorporates elements from two iconic Borneo birds: the ruai, or Great Malayan Argus pheasant, and the kenyalang, or hornbill, beautifully depicted in his attire.
“These are elegantly depicted in the feathers of his traditional costume. His dancing steps are choreographed to mimic certain movement of the kenyalang as it flew through tree tops and the ruai as it spread out its rich plumage on the forest floor deep in the state interiors,” said Louis.
Dion, his father and mother Edina Lanying paid a courtesy call on Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah at his office here this morning.
Furthermore, Dion, a second-year student at SK Green Road, has a natural talent for the ngajat.
“I guess he inherited it from his maternal grandfather who was also an accomplished ngajat dancer from Nanga Entabai in Pakan in the Sarikei Division,” his mother said.
Both Louis and Edina will accompany their son to the championships, as they are currently preparing for the trip and refining Dion’s movements.
Uggah said it was very heartening to note that Dion is participating in a world class championships.
“We are very happy that a youngster from our community can make it to the world stage.” he said.
