Chinese kompang group prove to be a hit

JOHOR BARU: A group of 15 Chinese kompang players from the Soka Gakkai group have started to become an increasingly popular sight at functions in the city.

Group leader Danny Chong, 49, said the group was formed over eight years ago and had been invited to many official functions.

“Our team was even invited to welcome the Johor Mentri Besar during the recent opening of the Johor Baru Tiong Hua Heritage Museum,” he said, adding that the group practised at least twice a week.

Chong said that the group initially trained under a Malay kompang instructor but have recently started practising independently.

“We practise for at least two hours each session to ensure that we are in sync and perform well.

“The group was started as an effort to enhance unity among members and we have even formed other groups that learn traditional dances including the zapin,” he said.

The group consists of 15 members aged between 14 and 60 years.