By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, July 10: Sports Toto Malaysia has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to community development by contributing RM40,000 to support Kuching Got Talent 2026.
As one of the signature events of the Kuching Food Festival (KFF) aimed at discovering and nurturing local performing arts talent, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng described Sports Toto as one of the festival’s most valued corporate partners, having continuously supported the annual celebration for more than two decades.
Speaking during the sponsorship handover ceremony today, Wee said the company’s steadfast commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) has enabled MBKS to organise quality events that promote healthy lifestyles, celebrate arts and culture and create opportunities for local communities.
“We are truly grateful for Sports Toto’s unwavering support. Their contribution continues to empower local talents while strengthening the KFF as one of Sarawak’s most anticipated annual events,” he said during a press conference at MBKS here.
Wee also announced that auditions for Kuching Got Talent 2026 attracted an overwhelming response, with 126 entries received across five competition categories.
The competition drew 14 entries in Cultural and Classical Dance, 17 in Contemporary and Urban Dance, 45 in Junior Singing, 27 in Youth Singing, and 23 in Open Singing, reflecting the growing popularity of the event and the abundance of artistic talent in Kuching.
Following the auditions, seven Cultural and Classical Dance teams qualified directly for the Grand Final, while 13 Contemporary and Urban Dance teams, 20 Junior Singing contestants, 15 Youth Singing contestants, and 13 Open Singing contestants advanced to the semi-finals.
The semi-finals will be held on Aug 15, followed by the Grand Final on Aug 16 at the MBKS Theatre, Kuching Park.
This year’s competition offers cash prizes and trophies across all five categories, made possible through Sports Toto’s sponsorship.
For the Junior Singing category, the Champion will receive a Trophy and RM1,000, the First Runner-Up a Trophy and RM800, the Second Runner-Up a Trophy and RM500, while three Consolation Prize winners will each receive a Trophy and RM100.
For the Youth Singing category, the Champion will receive a Trophy and RM2,000, the First Runner-Up a Trophy and RM1,500, the Second Runner-Up a Trophy and RM800, while three Consolation Prize winners will each receive a Trophy and RM100.
In the Open Singing category, the Champion will receive a Trophy and RM2,500, the First Runner-Up a Trophy and RM2,000, the Second Runner-Up a Trophy and RM1,000, while three Consolation Prize winners will each receive a Trophy and RM100.
For the Cultural & Classical Dance category, the Champion will receive a Trophy and RM2,500, the First Runner-Up a Trophy and RM2,000, the Second Runner-Up a Trophy and RM1,000, while three Consolation Prize winners will each receive a Trophy and RM200.
Similarly, in the Contemporary & Urban Dance category, the Champion will receive a Trophy and RM2,500, the First Runner-Up a Trophy and RM2,000, the Second Runner-Up a Trophy and RM1,000, while three Consolation Prize winners will each receive a Trophy and RM200.
“These awards represent more than monetary rewards, but serve as recognition for contestants’ hard work, creativity and perseverance while inspiring young people to pursue excellence in music and dance.
“Congratulations to all participants for their courage and dedication. I also invite the public to attend the semi-finals and grand finale to support local performers and celebrate Kuching’s vibrant creative community,” Wee concluded. — DayakDaily
