KUCHING: Sarawak-born Dion Das Louis, affectionately known as ‘The Little Bornean Birdie,’ will represent Malaysia at the 27th World Championship of Performing Arts 2024 in Long Beach, California, the United States.
He will be part of the Malaysian team participating in the competition taking place from July 1 to 5.
Dion secured his spot on the Malaysian team after winning the gold medal at the Malaysia Championship of Performing Arts grand finals in Kuala Lumpur on January 27.
His winning performance featured an ethnic contemporary dance, embodying the persona of a small bird, hence his moniker – The Little Bornean Birdie.
His dance routine, inspired by the traditional Dayak Iban ‘Ngajat’ dance, integrates elements from two majestic Bornean birds — the ‘Ruai’ or Great Malayan Argus pheasant, and the ‘Kenyalang’ or Hornbill.
These avian influences are gracefully portrayed in Dion’s traditional feather-adorned costume.
His choreography mimics the movements of these birds, illustrating the Kenyalang’s flight through treetops and the Ruai’s display of its rich plumage on the forest floor.
A Primary Two student at SK Green Road, Dion frequently showcases his talents during significant events in the city.
Recently, he performed at the Sarawak Media Conference welcoming dinner held in conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) 2024, with the presence of Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
