By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Aug 12: Mohd Narawi Nadhar Idrus and Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Chung Hua Primary Dance Club emerged victorious in the Above 13 Years Old Singing Category and Dance Category respectively at the 10th edition of Kuching’s Got Talent (KGT) last night.
Mohd Narawi and SJKC Chung Hua Primary Dance Club each walked away with a trophy and prize money of RM3,000.
The first and second runners-up of the Above 13 Singing Category were Felice Chang Ker and Agnes Ling Sing Yue. In the Dance Category, the first and second runners-up were KinAte’s Sprouts and Tatakai.
They all walked away with trophies and prize money of RM2,000 and RM1,000 respectively in each category.
In the Other Talents Category, the champion was Constant Noah Chong, while the first and second runners-up were Bung Rentak and Sync Wave respectively. They collected trophies and prize money of RM2,000, RM1,500 and RM800 respectively for their efforts.
In the Singing of 12 Years Old and Below, Natalie Chai Jia Wei was declared the winner while the first and second runners-up were Kaylyn Wong Yan Lin and Ava Chang You Rui respectively. They collected trophies and prize money of RM1,500, RM1,000 and RM500 each, respectively for their efforts.
This year, 300 participated in the 10th edition of KGT across four categories—singing for ages 12 and below, singing for ages 13 and above, dancing, and other talents. The oldest participant was 83-years-old.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, And Performance Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah acknowledged KGT has become a canvas for young talents to paint dreams, tell stories, and move hearts.
He said KCT 2024 continues to be a testament to the boundless potential of local young talents and provides them with opportunities to perform outside of Sarawak.
He added that the dazzling performances witnessed are symbols of their hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
“Our ministry could pick up these talents and showcase them in West Malaysia and even the world. We can bring them to other countries to show our talent. This is Sarawak’s talent,” he said.
His speech text was read out by his deputy, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, and on their behalf, Kuching City South Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng presented the prizes to the winners.
Abdul Karim elaborated that the youth are not only the custodians of the future, but also the architects of the present.
“As we nurture and guide them, it is crucial to recognise that education is not the sole measure of their success.
“Yes, education is vital, but equally important is the recognition and celebration of their achievements, dreams and unique talents. KGT stands as a prime example of this principle,” he said.
KGT 2024 is part of this year’s Kuching Food Festival programme, also held in conjunction with the 36th Anniversary of the Kuching City Celebration.
Others present included MBKS Deputy Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili, Kuching Food Festival 2024 Organising Chairman Councillor Mok Chuang Ping and Kuching Got Talent 2024 organising Chairman Councillor Andy Lester Tan. — DayakDaily