By Emily Ruran
KUCHING, July 30: The Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup will return for its third edition on Aug 8 and 9, featuring 44 teams from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and China.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the championship has grown into one of the most anticipated events on Sarawak’s cultural and sporting calendar.
He said spectators could look forward to captivating performances by the reigning Luminous Dragon Dance world champion from Johor and the defending High Pole Southern Lion Dance champion from China.
“The championship is now in its third edition following the successful editions held in 2024 and 2025.
“The Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup continues to showcase the richness of our cultural heritage and artistic traditions to local and international audiences.
“Admission is free, and I hope the public will take this opportunity to witness the spectacular performances and exceptional skills of some of the region’s finest dragon and lion dance teams on Aug 8 and 9,” he said during a press conference at the ministry’s meeting room in Baitulmakmur Building 2 here today.
Organised by the Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) and sanctioned by the Dragon and Lion Dance Federation of Malaysia, the two-day championship will be held at the Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Multipurpose Hall in Batu Kawa.
The championship will feature four competition categories: Northern Lion Dance, High Pole Southern Lion Dance, Traditional Dragon Dance and Luminous Dragon Dance.
Abdul Karim said Sarawak’s own CMAA Northern Lion Dance Team would defend the title it won last year after securing a bronze medal at the Sanya Cup in Hainan, China, earlier this year.
“The team’s performances feature original choreography that uniquely incorporates traditional Ngajat dance movements and the enchanting sounds of the sape, marking the first time such a fusion has been presented in a lion dance competition in Malaysia,” he said.
Abdul Karim said the championship was more than just a sporting competition, serving as a platform for cultural exchange that strengthens international friendships while enhancing Sarawak’s appeal as a tourism destination.
“The ministry is pleased to support the Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup 2026 as it not only nurtures local talent and preserves our cultural heritage, but also contributes towards our goal of attracting more visitors to Sarawak,” he added. — DayakDaily
