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SIFMA 7.0

SIFMA Performers

Dancer Interface Performing Arts (Malaysia)

Dr Poom Prommachart (Thailand)

Kahayag Dance Company (Philippines)

Victor Ong (Singapore)

Nataraharja (Indonesia)

Rangsagar Performing Arts (India)

TroVessional (伍人粵)

(Hong Kong)

Joost Flach (Netherlands)

Kenneth Chia (USA)

Helobung Community Dance Troupe (Philippines)

Yumiko Shibuya (Japan)

The Dance Society (TDS) (Malaysia)

Abel Law (UK)

The GFPI Guitar Ensemble (Philippines)

Regina Handoko (Indonesia)

ASK Dance Company (Malaysia)

Absolutely Thai by Kansadaeng Watthanatham (Thailand)

 

Nataraharja & Puspa Karima 

(Indonesia)

Dr Mohamad Faizuan bin Mat

Sylvester Wielding ak. Jussem 

Clement Anak Jimel

Dr Mohd Razif Mohd Rathi

Awangko’ Hamdan Awang Arshad

Junior SIFMA Line Up

WaWaHuaDan

(Mine Dance Studio)

SJ Borneo (Shawn & Jane)

KEWARIS (Malaysia)

Samuel Lin Tian (Indonesia)

Yang Zhi Nuo (Singapore)

Keith Lim Tze Jie (Malaysia)

ROTA Piano Trio (China)

Dancer Interface Performing Arts (Malaysia)

Dancer Interface Performing Arts Studio, founded by Mr. Kelvin Bong in August 2008, is dedicated to the study, teaching, creation, and promotion of Chinese ethnic and folk dance. The studio integrates systematic dance training with artistic practice and stage experience. Students develop dance technique, cultural understanding, artistic expression, discipline, teamwork, and confidence through classes, rehearsals, performances, and community programmes. With a non-profit philosophy, the studio seeks to preserve ethnic dance heritage while embracing creativity and contemporary stage expression, nurturing dancers who appreciate tradition, value culture, and contribute positively to the performing arts.

Dr Poom (Thailand)

Poom Prommachart, Steinway Artist

Born in Bangkok, Poom Prommachart is a Steinway Artist, pianist, and educator. He is currently the Head of Department, Junior Music, at the School of Young Talents, and a Senior Lecturer at the School of Music, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, University of the Arts Singapore. He was educated under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana.  

Poom earned his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as an Artist Diploma, from the Royal College of Music, London, where he was awarded the prestigious Tagore Gold Medal by King Charles III and the Concerto Prize for his performance of Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor.

He also studied at the Moscow Conservatory and completed his Doctor of Music at the University of Montreal, where he was named to the Rector’s List of Honour as the most outstanding graduate of his cohort.

His international career began with major competition successes, winning First Prize at the Sussex International Piano Competition, where his performance of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 received great acclaim, followed by the Gold Medal at the 5th Isidor Bajić International Piano Competition in 2010. These achievements led to invitations to perform with the Kazakhstan Philharmonic, Montevideo Philharmonic, Worthing Symphony Orchestra, Timișoara Philharmonic, Thailand Philharmonic, Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, and many other leading orchestras. His debut album on Champs Hill Records, featuring works by Medtner, Liszt, and Scriabin, was praised by American Record Guidefor its “refined artistry and poetic insight.”

A passionate advocate of the music of Carl Vine, Poom gave the premiere of Three Fantasies with the support of UOB and was praised by the composer for his “unique passion and intensity,” “formidable technical mastery,” and “sonorous serenity” in his interpretation of Piano Sonata No. 1. His recordings of works by Medtner, Scriabin, and Rachmaninoff for Champs Hill Records have received international acclaim. Most recently, a live recording of Carl Vine’s Three Fantasies, recorded at HKMUSE, was released by Faber Music, London.

As an educator and researcher, Poom has given masterclasses and research presentations at institutions including the Kazakhstan National Conservatory, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and the University of Hong Kong. He was an Elite Fellow at the University of Malaya and became the first Asian piano professor appointed to the European Piano Teachers Association (EPTA), Denmark.

Most recently, Poom received the 2026 Christine Ip International Faculty Award from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore. In February 2027, he will perform Carl Vine’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, further affirming his international reputation as one of the foremost interpreters of Carl Vine’s music.

Kahayag Dance Company (Philippines)

Kahayag Dance Company Philippines Inc. (Kahayag) is a vibrant community-based organization in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. Collaborating with renowned institutions such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and local government units, Kahayag fuels the electrifying dance tradition of the Philippines. From Macau to Nanning, China, Cambodia to South Korea, Taiwan to Shanghai, and beyond, Kahayag has left an indelible mark on international platforms, showcasing the lively essence of Philippine dance culture throughout our illustrious two-decade history. 

Kahayag’s dedication to cultural leadership and artistic excellence was splendidly demonstrated when it achieved the prestigious Grand Prize at the 2015 World Cultural Dance Festival in South Korea. This extraordinary feat not only honored our nation but also garnered significant recognition. The City Government of Dumaguete acknowledged Kahayag with a Resolution of Recognition, while the Province of Negros Oriental bestowed upon them the title of Resident Artistic Group and the esteemed Sidlak NegOrense distinction. 

Further evelating their stature, Kahayag was honored with the coveted “Ani ng Dangal” award by the National Commission for Culture & the Arts (NCCA). This national accolade recognizes their exceptional achievement in attaining the highest level of artistic excellence and bringing honor to our country through international recognition.

Victor Ong (Singapore)

Victor Ong is a Singapore-based pianist and distinguished educator, known for his versatility and commitment to excellence in performance and pedagogy. He serves as Head of Keyboard at Singapore Raffles Music College and is a faculty member of the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts School of Young Talents under the University of the Arts Singapore. He has performed internationally, including at Carnegie Hall in New York, and across Europe and Asia.

His accolades include First Prize at the Manhattan International Music Competition and Second Prize at the Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition (2016). He has appeared as a soloist with the Asian Cultural Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his solo work, Victor is a sought-after accompanist and received the Best Accompanist Award at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. He was the official accompanist for the GSF Singapore Festival 2023 under Yin Ke and collaborates regularly with violinist Min Lee and her studio. Recent engagements include a recital of the Franck and Strauss Violin Sonatas with violinist Siew Yi Li.

Victor is co-founder of The Pianology and an examiner for ABRSM. He is also Singapore’s representative for St. Cecilia Examinations International and has conducted masterclasses for prize-winning pianists worldwide. His teaching emphasizes aural awareness as the foundation of musical development, fostering tonal sensitivity, expressive range, and artistic individuality.

An active adjudicator, he has served on juries for international competitions including La Pianista, the Devier Piano Competition (Medan, Indonesia), the Asia Pacific International Arts Festival, the Asia Students Arts Festival, the Singapore Raffles Cultural and Arts Festival, and the 7th Steinway Youth Piano Competition in Singapore.

 

Nataraharja (Indonesia)

Nata Raharja is an arts group in Sumedang Regency actively dedicated to preserving the arts and culture of West Java, particularly those originating from Sumedang. Established in 2019, the group was formally incorporated as a foundation in February 2025. It encompasses studios dedicated to Karawitan (traditional Sundanese music), Padalangan (puppetry), and dance.

Rangsagar Performing Arts (India)

India is a country of tradition and rich culture. It is our humble effort to mirror colourful heritage of India through cultural activities of RANGSAGAR PERFORMING ARTS. The RANGSAGAR Organization was established 15 years ago by a group highly motivated professionals, working to promote Indian culture in India and many parts of the globe.

We have participated in many International festivals all over the world in last 12 years like, America ,U.K, Canada, Spain, Germany Hungary, Czech Republic, France, Poland, Malaysia, Thailand, China, Turkey, UAE and many more to represent Indian culture. We have to our credit, performances of 28 folk dances of Indian culture. We also perform a few Unique and Innovative traditional dances which people like the most in all the festivals.

We are proud to share Rangsagar Performing Arts has made a “Vajra World Record”for a performances, comprising of 113 Folk Dancers of India in Folklore Festivals in France , Spain and Czech Republic in 2017. Also we have performed in more than 30 countries and have made more than 65 international Cultural tours during last 15 years. We have received many prestigious Awards at National and International level. To add one more feather to the CAP. Rangsagar Performing Arts has marked its presence in Asia book of world records with 140 artist Performance in France , Poland , Hungary and Turkey July and August 2023.

Vision

To create a world in which exchange of art is free from all restrictions and make the world a better place by helping the society become more tolerant, open and empathetic through cultural exchanges.

Mission

  • To provide opportunities for students seeking self fulfillment through performing arts.
  • To generate a sense of appreciation for performing arts through cultural exchanges.
  • To develop love for a country by indulging in its culture.
  • To sustain and enhance a supportive, caring and responsible community among students, society and citizens.
  • To provide positive, life-changing experiences through music for all.
  • Catering opportunities to visit the whole world to broaden their cultural experience.

TroVessional (伍人粵) (Hong Kong)

TroVessional is a Hong Kong-based Cantonese music ensemble formed in 2020. Rooted in Cantonese musical heritage, the group rebuilds traditional Chinese music through contemporary curation, bringing classical sounds into renewed urban relevance. Their approach treats tradition as a living language rather than a static artefact, reimagining how Cantonese music and nanyin are framed, perceived, and experienced.

In 2021, TroVessional won the Gold Award in the Ensemble and Chamber Music Professional Group at the 3rd Nanyang International Music Competition. Their 2022 Singapore concert, Oriental Friends – Traditional Essence, presented with Ding Yi Music Company, traced the historical development of Cantonese music for cross-regional audiences. The ensemble has since performed at the Esplanade, the University of Chicago Hong Kong Campus, and the Kagoshima Asian Youth Arts Festival, and toured Qatar and Kuwait in 2025 as the sole performing arts group at a diplomatic reception led by Chief Executive John Lee. Recent projects include Cantonese Music & the 16 Personalities at HKUST (2025) and an opening performance for Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Month 2026, etc.

Joost Flach (Netherlands)

Joost Flach is a graduate of the Sweeteerlinck Conservatory Amsterdam. In the Netherlands, he was a member of the Dutch National Youth Orchestra and several smaller ensembles. He worked for 25 years as a professional oboe player in the Malaysian Philharmonic, Singapore Symphony, and Bangkok Symphony Orchestras.

He also contributed as an educator to the development of the musical infrastructure of Southeast Asia, serving as a lecturer for leading art institutes in the region, such as the Institut Seni Indonesia Yogyakarta (ISI) and the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts Singapore (NAFA), as well as a project officer for the Ministry of Education Singapore. In all of these institutions, he developed meaningful educational programs to expose students to the beauty of sound and music.

Currently, he finds rest, space, and retirement in Kuching. He believes strongly in the spiritual, physical, and mental health benefits that music can bring to performers and listeners, both young and old.

Kenneth Chia (USA)

With over 25 years of pedagogical experience, Kenneth Chia is a distinguished flautist and conductor whose influence spans from the United States to Malaysia. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Carnegie Mellon University and a Master of Music from Indiana University, specializing in Western Classical Flute Performance.

During his formative years in the US, Kenneth studied under legendary flautists, including Julius Baker, Thomas Robertello, and Laurel-Ann Maurer.

As a conductor, Kenneth has led prominent ensembles including the Youth Orchestra CYCNY and the Children’s Orchestra Society in New York. Recently, he served as the Music Director and Conductor for the 2025 production of The Carnival of the Animals with the Society of Performing Arts Kota Kinabalu (SParks).

Kenneth remains dedicated to the art of the flute, nurturing students ranging from age 5 to 77 with a philosophy rooted in technical excellence and musical storytelling.

Helobung (Philippines)

HELOBUNG COMMUNITY DANCE TROUPE

Helobung, meaning “unending joy” or “endless joy,” is a T’boli community cultural organization and performing arts ensemble based in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines. Established in 1986 by young T’bolis, it safeguards, revitalizes, and shares T’boli heritage through traditional dance, music, visual arts, craftsmanship, agriculture, and indigenous knowledge. Helobung connects elders and youth, nurturing cultural identity, artistic skills, and leadership while sustaining living traditions across generations. Through local, national, and international performances, the group promotes cultural understanding and community participation. Its mission is to restore, protect, preserve, promote, and practice T’boli cultural expressions, ensuring their vitality for generations to come.

Yumiko Shibuya (Japan)

Born in Iizuka City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Won 2nd prize in the Western Region Division of the Student Music Competition of Japan. After entering Toho Gakuen Girls’ High School, she studied under Teiko Maehashi, Isako Shinozaki, and Hideo Saito. Received the TV Nishinippon Award.

After graduating from Toho Gakuen School of Music, she studied abroad at The Juilliard School starting in 1976 under Joseph Fuchs and Felix Galimir, while also receiving chamber music coaching from members of the Juilliard String Quartet. While enrolled, she formed a string quartet and gave concert performances across major cities in the eastern United States.

After returning to Japan in 1979, she joined the former Miyagi Philharmonic Orchestra and served as concertmistress for 22 years in its reorganized successor, the Sendai Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition to holding recitals and chamber music concerts in Sendai, Tokyo, Fukuoka, and other cities, she has made numerous broadcast appearances on NHK-FM, NHK-TV, and NHK-BS.

2016: Received the Sendai City Educational and Cultural Merit Award.

2018: Received the Miyagi Prefecture Educational and Cultural Merit Award.

March 2021: Retired from Senzoku Gakuen College of Music.

Current Roles: Member of the Organizing Committee, Vice Chair of the Management Committee, and Planning Promotion Committee Member for the Sendai International Music Competition.

The Dance Society of Malaysia (TDS)

The Dance Society of Malaysia (TDS) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the love and appreciation of dance across Malaysia. First envisioned in 1985 and formally established in 1989, TDS aims to raise technical and artistic standards—particularly in classical ballet—while providing a platform for emerging local talents to showcase their skills through national competitions, masterclasses, and collaborative performances.

The Dance Society (TDS) provides an exceptional platform for dancers to showcase their artistry, and Alice Chow Ballet proudly made its mark on stage with outstanding achievements across categories:

  • 1st Place Winner (Duo / Trio – Age 16 & Above):Bianca Wong Jia Xin, Shermaine Chan Shuen Ern, and Ooi Jing Xuan secured the 🥇 1st Place title with their mesmerizing and beautifully synchronized routine, “Rachmaninoff”.
  • Ballet Category 2 Finalist (Classical Solo):Bianca Wong Jia Xin also showcased her exceptional individual technique and artistry on stage, earning a well-deserved Category 2 Finalist placement for her stunning classical solo performance of Giselle Grand Pas Classique.

Cstage Dance Academy

Everyone Can Dance
With over 25 years of dedication to excellence in ballet and dance education, Cstage Dance
Academy has grown into a place where passion meets purpose. We believe that dance is more than
just movement—it’s a lifestyle, a discipline, a way of expression, and a path to personal
growth.
Founded on the principle that “Everyone Can Dance,” our academy nurtures students of all ages
and backgrounds. Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or preparing for the
stage, we help dancers break through their comfort zones and discover their fullest potential.

Performance with Purpose
At Cstage, performance is not just about the spotlight—it’s about giving back. Over the years,
we’ve organized and performed in numerous charity concerts to support meaningful causes such
as:
• TAR College’s Education Fund
• T-Ratana Welfare Society
• Orphanage and Elderly Homes
• Community Aid Projects
Through dance, we raise not just funds, but awareness, compassion, and a sense of connection.

Dance in Everyday Life
As we move into the future, our mission expands:
How can dance become a part of everyone’s daily life?
We explore this by weaving ballet and dance into community spaces, daily routines, and wellness
practices. Because for us:
• Dance is discipline.
• Dance is freedom.
• Dance is living.
Whether on stage or in the everyday moments, Cstage is here to inspire, educate, and uplift.

The GFPI Guitar Ensemble (Philippines)

The GFPI Guitar Ensemble serves as the principal performing group of the Guitar Foundation of the Philippines (GFPI). Bringing together guitarists from different generations—from its pioneering members to its current roster—the ensemble proudly carries forward the Foundation’s rich legacy and enduring commitment to promoting and celebrating the beauty of classical guitar music. Currently under the artistic direction and mentorship of Mr. Anton Solomon, President of GFPI, the ensemble brings together passionate and talented students from diverse academic backgrounds, including music majors from the AB Music Department of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF), Tabor Hills College-OAD, as well as a Computer Science major from the University of Cebu. What makes the ensemble special is its diversity and shared love for music. Regardless of their academic backgrounds, these young musicians come together through their passion for the guitar, their dedication to their craft, and their desire to grow as performers. Their collaboration reflects GFPI’s continuing mission to nurture musical talent, build connections across generations, and bring the beauty of classical guitar music to wider audiences.

Regina Handoko

Regina Handoko is one of Indonesia’s most renowned sopranos of her generation, known for her powerful voice, graceful stage presence, and rare artistry of singing while playing the harp. A prizewinner of international competitions in Vienna, New York, and London, she has performed at world-renowned venues such as the Wiener Musikverein and Carnegie Hall. With her dual talent in voice and harp, Regina continues to enchant audiences across Indonesia and beyond.

ASK Dance Company 

ASK Dance Company (ADC) is a full-time dance company comprises of professional dance collective. We specialize in providing training, workshops, master classes, performances, choreography as well as undertaking collaborative projects in traditional and contemporary genres of dance. The company comprises dancers who have a minimum of a Bachelor of Dance in Performance or Choreography and are full-time professionals. They have also received numerous awards including winning gold medals at World Championship of Performing Arts, Selangor Young Talent Award 2011, BOH Cameronian Arts Awards for Performance, Choreography and other categories, International Scholarships and other distinguished prizes. The company’s philosophy is that to be alive, one must continuously learn, and thus be unafraid to ASK pertinent questions. Its dance productions serve as a platform for this dialogue, from issues about disenfranchisement to celebrations of life. ASK Dance Company has become a shining example of Malaysia’s plurality danced through its repertoire and the ethnicity of company members. The company aspires to become a unique force with a distinct Malaysian identity providing employment, experience and a career pathway for outstanding dancers and choreographers. Further, ADC intends to play a significant role in bridging innumerable boundaries and breaking glass ceilings and bring this into the forefront of national/international consciousness. ASK Dance Company…dancing the Malaysian!

Absolutely Thai by Kansadaeng Watthanatham

 

Kansadaeng Watthanatham Co., Ltd., which means “cultural performing arts”, was originally established ni Singapore in 2008 as “Absolutely Thai” by Dr. Paphutsorn Wongratanapitak also known as Koong, who has almost 20 years experiencing in teaching, performing, and promoting Thai and ASEAN cultures around the world. The company was moved to be based in Thailand in 2011. Dr. Wongratanapitak and the company have been serving the global community for more than a decade.

 

Under the direction of Dr. Koong, the company organises traditional music & dance workshops, cultural study trips, and cultural performances for events and festivals internationally and locally. We work closely with artists from around the world and always collaborate with educational institutions and organisations.

Nataraharja & Puspa Karima

Sundanese Performing Arts by Nataraharja & Puspa Karima

This performance is presented by Nataraharja and Puspa Karima, two art collectives dedicated to preserving and sharing the richness of Sundanese culture with a wider audience. The show features a 12-member ensemble consisting of nine musicians and three dancers who bring to life the vibrant traditions of West Java through rhythm, movement, and storytelling.

On November 6, audiences will experience Jaipongan, a dynamic and expressive traditional Sundanese dance accompanied by lively kendang (drum) rhythms that reflect the energy and vitality of Sundanese culture. The performance will also include Wayang Golek, the iconic wooden puppet theater known for its humor, heroism, and moral wisdom.

On November 7, the celebration continues with Kawih Sunda, traditional Sundanese songs that highlight the beauty of melody, language, and harmony. The performance captures the joyful spirit and communal warmth of Sundanese life, expressing love for nature and everyday experiences through music.

Through these two days of performances, Nataraharja and Puspa Karima invite audiences to rediscover the living spirit of Sundanese traditions, where heritage is not only remembered but continues to resonate in the present.

Dr Mohamad Faizuan bin Mat 

Dr Mohamad Faizuan Bin Mat is the Deputy Director of the Institute of Creative Arts and Technology (iCreaTe), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (2025–present). His expertise lies in co-creation art, curatorship, and visual arts, where he actively bridges academic research with creative practice. He is the author of Ko-kreasi Seni: Perihal (National Art Gallery, 2024) and has published more than 50 works, including academic journal articles, books, book chapters, and digital magazine features. As an artist and curator, Dr Faizuan has participated in over 30 art exhibitions locally and internationally, and in 2025, he was chosen to represent Malaysia at the BIMP-EAGA International Art Exhibition by the National Art Gallery of Malaysia, reflecting his contribution to fostering regional cultural exchange. From 2015 to 2017, he represented Malaysia in the prestigious CuratorsLAB Program, a regional initiative supported by Goethe-Institut Indonesien, Institut Teknologi Bandung, PORTIKUS, and Städelschule Frankfurt am Main, Germany. This experience contributed to his growth as a curatorial practitioner/artist in Malaysia, encouraging thoughtful exploration of innovative and cross-cultural approaches to the arts.

Sylvester Wielding ak. Jussem 

 

Sylvester Wielding ak. Jussem is a Bidayuh artist born in 15 May 1960 Bau, Sarawak.

Areas of specialization are drawing illustration, painting and has special interest in research which relates to ethnic arts and culture. Through his travels he was exposed to many styles, techniques and cultural influences, which later influenced the development of his own dialogue and style of painting almost semi- abstract in nature.

Currently lectures at the Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts, Design Technology Program, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) since 2000 and actively participating in art exhibitions both local and abroad.

1980 –1984 Obtained his art diploma in Art and Design, Mara Institute of Technology, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.

1985 – 1987 Masters in Fine Art, Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New York

 2003 ─ Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning, UNIMAS

Under the direction of Dr. Koong, the company organises traditional music & dance workshops, cultural study trips, and cultural performances for events and festivals internationally and locally. We work closely with artists from around the world and always collaborate with educational institutions and organisations.

 Clement Anak Jimel

 

Clement Anak Jimel is a visual artist whose work centres on expressive drawing, mixed-media
painting, and cultural storytelling. Actively sketching as part of his daily practice, he often joins
Urban Sketchers Kuching, capturing the quiet tensions, rhythms, and corners of Sarawak’s
landscapes. His work reflects faith, memory, and social complexity, shaped by personal experience
and Bidayuh heritage.

He is a senior lecturer in Illustration and Visual Communication Design at Universiti Teknologi
MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Sarawak. His academic work includes teaching illustration and design,
shaping curriculum materials, and contributing visual communication for university programmes. He
brings studio discipline into the classroom, encouraging students to connect technical skill with
cultural understanding.

Clement is an active member of the Sarawak Artists Society (SAS) and the Aftermath Thinker Art
Collective. His exhibitions span Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Japan, the United Kingdom, and
Ireland, forming a practice rooted in Sarawak while engaged with wider artistic networks.

Awangko’ Hamdan Awang Arshad

 

Awangko’ Hamdan Awang Arshad is a Senior Lecturer in the Fine Arts Programme, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. His area of expertise include visual arts and crafts, fine arts ceramics, sculpture, folklore and cultural objects. He started his carrier with UNIMAS since 1998 as tutor with degree in arts and design (majoring in pottery and ceramics) from Institute Teknologi MARA at Shah Alam, Selangor. He then pursued his study in ceramics sculpture and obtained his Master Degree of Art in Visual Arts from Australian National University (ANU, Australia). He is currently focusing in research, teaching, supervising undergraduate and master students.

WaWaHuaDan (Mine Dance Studio)

WaWaHuaDan is a traditional dance performed by ten talented six and seven-year-old dancers from Mine Dance Studio, Kuching. Guided by the creative vision of choreographer Mdm Alice Yong, these young performers bring together graceful movements, lively expressions, and the joyful spirit of childhood.

Their performance celebrates the beauty of traditional dance while nurturing teamwork, confidence, and a love for the performing arts. Each dancer contributes her own charm to a shared artistic expression, creating a delightful performance that will shine on stage.

SJ Borneo (Shawn & Jane)

SJ Borneo is a young sibling music duo from Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, featuring Shawn Thien Shuen  (16) and Jane Thien Jing (13).Combining the traditional sounds of the Sape’ and Djembe, together with singing and modern musical influences, SJ Borneo celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak and Borneo through music.

As members of Persatuan Anak Seni Sape’ Kuching (PUSAK) and Potres Orkestra, Shawn and Jane continue to develop their musical talents while contributing to the preservation and promotion of Sarawak’s traditional music and cultural heritage.

Achievements & Recognition

* Top 5 National Stars Award – Anugerah Bintang Negara – Traditional Music Instruments 2026/27

* Gold Award – World Championship International Competition 2025, Bangkok, Thailand.

* Gold Award – CCTV Colorful Planet 17th International Campus Arts Festival China Beijing 2025.

* Gold Award – Taiwan New Generation International Music Competition 2024, Malaysia Preliminary.

* National Champion – Kids Got Talent Malaysia 2025, Singing with Musical Instruments.

With performances on local, national and international stages, SJ Borneo is passionate about preserving and sharing traditional music with the world, embracing cultural diversity, and inspiring the younger generation.

Through their unique blend of Sape’, Djembe and vocals, Shawn and Jane hope to bring Sarawak’s cultural heritage to a wider audience and make Sarawak and Malaysia proud.

Sape’ for All — Sharing Sarawak’s Heritage, One Beat at a Time.

KEWARIS

KEWARIS is the Cultural and Heritage Club under Politeknik Kuching Sarawak’s Sports, Co-Curricular and Cultural Department, dedicated to preserving and celebrating Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage through traditional and creative dance, singing, theatre, and performing arts. Guided by Advisor Mr. Saiful Irwan Sarkawi, Assistant and Dance Instructor Mrs. Liyana Binti Murni, and Assistant Choreographer Mr. Feldon anak Riket, the club nurtures student talent, fosters creativity, and prepares members for institutional, national, and international performances and competitions.

Samuel Lin Tian (Indonesia)

Flying in from Indonesia, 18-year-old rising star Samuel Lin Tian is a highly dedicated pianist whose commitment to excellence sees him regularly traveling to Kuching for lessons at International Music House under the guidance of Dr. Geraldine Law Lee.

Samuel’s musical journey began at age seven, quickly blossoming into an impressive musical resume marked by consistent competition victories. His dedication is reflected in his numerous accolades, including:

1st Place Wins at the Yamaha Piano Competition (Music School & Regional Levels)

1st Place at the Aneka Musika Piano Competition (Advanced Category)

1st Prize in the prestigious ABRSM High Scorers’ Competition 2019

Having achieved distinctions across all his practical examinations, Samuel is currently preparing for his ABRSM diploma. He is also a proud recipient of the prestigious Sunway University Tun Dr. Hasmah Mohd Ali Scholarship for Creative Arts and Music 2025.

As a student at Sunway University, Samuel has actively expanded his artistry into collaborative performance, working extensively with vocalists and instrumentalists for exams, concerts, and recitals. Notable recent engagements include serving as an accompanist for the university choral ensemble in the Music by the Bs concert and performing as a collaborative pianist for the Kuala Lumpur City Opera Student Recital.

Combining technical precision with profound musicality, Samuel’s performances showcase both his solo brilliance and his exceptional sensitivity as a collaborative artist.

Yang Zhi Nuo (Singapore)

Yang Zhinuo is a dedicated young piano student based in Singapore.
She began her piano journey at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, School of Young Talents under the tutelage of Ms Xie Xinying when she was six. Since June this year, she has been receiving advanced piano coaching from Dr. Poom Prommachart.

Zhinuo has participated in a variety of piano competitions across Singapore and achieved commendable results. Driven by her genuine love for classical music, she keeps practising steadily and diligently, aiming to discover the rich emotional depth and delicate artistic details within each piece.

Keith Lim Tze Jie (Malaysia)

Keith Lim Tze Jie’s musical journey began at age 14 as a self-taught pianist, blossoming into a dedicated path as a performer, arranger, composer, and educator. After graduating high school in 2024 and earning his ABRSM Grade 8 Piano certificate in 2023, Keith pursued music full-time, building on his early teaching experience to further his own education in UNIMAS’ Level 6 Music Program and under the guidance of mentors like Ms. Janice Loh and Ms. Kristene Alcances at IMH as he prepares for his Associates of the London College of Music (ALCM) diploma. Always expanding his artistic horizons, he also picked up the guitar as a secondary instrument to broaden his musical understanding. Versatile across classical, pop, jazz, and rock genres, Keith brings a fresh, multi-faceted perspective to everything he plays and arranges. His mission as a musician and educator is clear: to share the beauty of classical and lesser-known works, helping others appreciate music far beyond the lyrics and develop a deeper sense of musical awareness.