GEORGE TOWN: Lions soared across towering poles while dragons weaved through the air to the thunderous beat of drums as the 23rd Penang Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Championship transformed the venue into a vivid showcase of colour, rhythm and precision.
From gravity-defying high-pole lion dance stunts to fast-paced dragon dance routines, 23 teams from across Penang captivated spectators with performances that demanded balance, timing and raw athleticism.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the championship reflects the strong growth of wushu and lion dance in the state over the years.
“This championship is more than just a sporting competition.
“Wushu and lion dance are important cultural traditions that carry values such as discipline, confidence, perseverance and respect,” he said during the opening ceremony here yesterday.
Wong said the strong participation of children and teenagers is particularly encouraging, as it shows that the traditions will continue to thrive among younger generations.
He said the championship also serves as an important platform to identify and develop athletes for the Penang contingent ahead of Sukma 2026 in Selangor.
Penang youth, sports and health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said the state government continues to place strong emphasis on youth and sports development, with wushu remaining one of Penang’s stronger traditional disciplines.
“We hope to discover more promising young athletes through more high-level competitions in the state,” he added.
Also present were Penang Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Association president H’ng Ban Choon and Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng.
The wushu competition will be held on May 16 and 17, featuring events such as contemporary routines, traditional routines, sanda and tai chi push hands.
Separately, Wong said Penang is spearheading efforts to secure Unesco recognition for three major Chinese cultural traditions: the lion dance, Chingay procession and 24 Festive Drums performance art.
He said nomination documents for the lion dance and Chingay procession were submitted to Unesco in March last year, while the 24 Festive Drums nomination was submitted in March this year.
