By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Feb 1: The beat of drums and clash of cymbals set the tone as the Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) Dragon & Lion Dance Team unveiled 11 new lions, signalling the start of an intensive performance season for Chinese New Year (CNY) 2026.
The new lions were officially brought to life through the traditional eye-dotting ceremony officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, at the Tua Pek Kong Temple here today.
CMAA president Chester Lim Hian Thoong said the unveiling marks the team’s readiness for a packed schedule, with performances lined up at residences and commercial outlets from the first to the sixth day of CNY.
Also present at the ceremony were CMAA founder Master Law Kaw Chai, advisors Pemanca Tan Kun Gee and Victor Chin Chiu Hian, treasurer Nelson Nguang Kim Ban, wushu coach Calvin Kong Ngon Chung, association members, sponsors and invited guests.
CMAA has been actively involved in major State-level celebrations, having coordinated dragon and lion dance performances for Sarawak CNY State Functions for three consecutive years from 2024 to 2026.
The association has also successfully organised the Sarawak Open International Dragon & Lion Dance Cup in 2024 and 2025.
Additionally, CMAA Northern Lion Dance Team recently represented Malaysia at the 2026 Sanya Cup International Dragon & Lion Dance Elite Competition in Sanya, Hainan, China, on Jan 19, where the team secured a bronze award. — DayakDaily
