By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 8: Sarawakian Dion Das Louis, fondly known as the “Little Bornean Birdie”, won big at the 27th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in the USA.
The eight-year-old took home two gold medals in the Junior Division for ‘Ethnic Dance’ and ‘Photo Shoot Model’ at the event held in Long Beach, California.
According to a report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Dion’s dance, inspired by the traditional Dayak Iban ‘ngajat,’ included Sarawak cultural elements of the ‘Ruai’ (Great Malaysian Argus Pheasant) and the ‘Kenyalang’ (Hornbill).
He also earned two silver medals in the ‘Formal Model’ and ‘Casual Model’ categories. Dion’s success helped Team Malaysia win a total of 37 medals—13 gold, 11 silver, and 13 bronze.
Out of the 15 participants from Malaysia, 11 including Dion, were named ‘Division Winners.’
Team Malaysia competed against participants from 30 countries in categories like Vocal, Dance, Music, Modelling, Acting, and Variety Arts, according to a statement from Mycreative Promotion, the Team Malaysia coordinator.
This competition is often called the ‘Olympics’ of the performing arts.
Dion’s achievements have made Sarawak proud and highlighted Malaysia’s talent on the global stage.
Meanwhile, Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian congratulated Dion in a Facebook post last night (July 7).
“Yet another fellow anak Sarawak, 8-year-old Dion Das Louis, has won two golds at the 27th WCOPA in California, USA.
“Heartiest congratulations for winning the ‘Ethnic Dance’ and ‘Photoshoot Model’ Junior Categories, on top of two other silvers,” he wrote. — DayakDaily
