By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 29: Sarawak’s very own rising songbird, 11-year-old Taylor Louise, has made history by becoming the first Sarawakian to win the Asia Students Arts Festival (ASAF) for her category, as well as being the youngest Sarawakian to perform at the Britten Theatre of the Royal College of Music in London.
According to a media release, she will represent Malaysia at the ASAF 2025 Winner Showcase, hosted at the prestigious Royal College of Music’s Britten Theatre on 1 August.
Marking ASAF’s 10th anniversary, this international event brings together the finest young performers from across Asia and Australia. Taylor is the only Sarawakian Malaysian selected to perform—a proud moment for her State.
For this performance, Taylor will present two pieces: a musical theatre showcase and her ASAF Malaysia Champion-winning pop ballad, ‘Easy On Me’.
Accompanying her will be her parents, as well as vocal coach Sabrina Tnay. While in London, Taylor will also attend vocal masterclasses with celebrated British baritone Jerome Knox, winner of the London Handel Singing Competition and a regular performer at leading venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Opera Holland Park.
“It still feels like a dream. From singing on the streets to performing in London—it’s all thanks to God’s blessings and everyone who believed in me. I’m proud to represent Sarawak and Malaysia,” said Taylor.
Her journey didn’t begin with fame. At the age of nine, Taylor could be found busking on sidewalks and performing at Kuching’s local open mic nights, hoping that someone would stop and listen.
Now, with perseverance, passion, and strong community support, she has become an international voice for Sarawak’s young talents.
Taylor’s story is more than a personal achievement—it’s a message to every Sarawakian child: Your roots are strong, your voice matters, and your dreams are valid.
Her journey is a living example of how young Sarawakians can break boundaries, and how community support can nurture world-class talent. — DayakDaily
