KOTA TINGGI: A lion and dragon dance troupe made up of youths from Kota Tinggi has made its strongest showing yet at a national championship, bringing home titles in five categories, including the top two awards.
Qun Yi Kota Tinggi Dragon and Lion Dance Association chairman James Kee said the 20-member team’s performance at the 13th National Dragon and Lion Dance Championship in Melaka was their best performance and highest number of wins at a national-level competition.
“We clinched first place in the Obstacle Southern Lion category, completing the course in just 48 seconds, well ahead of the second-placed team, which clocked one minute and 12 seconds.
“Our team was also the champion in the Luminous Lion Dance category, scoring 9.28 points against 9.07 points by the runner-up team,” he said.
Kee said the luminous lion category was particularly challenging as performers had to execute their routines in complete darkness, relying on their techniques, coordination and skills.
“It was our toughest act, but I am proud that the team managed to win the judges’ hearts with their performance.
“The team’s overall achievement was thanks to the hard work and dedication poured into the daily training by the members, aged 13 to 22, and coaches,” he added.
He said the team also secured second place in the Racing Northern Lion category, third place in the Northern Lion category and fourth place in the Traditional Lion Dance category.
The championship, organised by the Malaysia National Dragon and Lion Dance Federation from Oct 29 to Nov 1, had teams from all over the country.
Kee said the nine-year-old association is thrilled with the strong interest among youths in lion and dragon dance, which offers more than just an opportunity to preserve a traditional art form.
“We usually recruit members through schools and social media promotions to create awareness about the sport. There are also many existing members who bring in recruits.
“Besides keeping our traditions alive, lion and dragon dancing also helps young people build physical strength, character and resilience,” he said.
With the latest achievement boosting the team’s confidence, Kee hopes the members will continue honing their skills and take part in more competitions, including international championships.
