9.63-point masterclass sends Johor’s Wen Ching to national glory

GENTING HIGHLANDS: Wen Ching Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe from Kelapa Sawit roared to the national crown with a stunning 9.63 points at the 21st Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship final today.

Held at the Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting, the Johor-based troupe’s sharp and disciplined routine, featuring lightning-quick footwork and impressive balance, had the crowd roaring with cheers and proved enough to withstand the challenge from nine other finalists.

Wen Ching’s victory came after a tense final in which the lead changed hands several times.

Persatuan Penganut Agama Buddha Xi Nan, also from Kelapa Sawit, briefly seized the top spot with 9.51 points after delivering a smooth and energetic routine marked by fast footwork, balance and tight execution.

But Wen Ching responded with a stronger performance to move ahead by 0.12 points and ultimately leave Xi Nan as first runner-up.

The top three of the 21st Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship – Wen Ching Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe from Kelapa Sawit, Persatuan Penganut Agama Buddha Xi Nan from Kelapa Sawit, and Xuan Long Rawang Dragon and Lion Dance – in a group photo.

Defending champions, Xuan Long Rawang Dragon and Lion Dance, had to surrender their title after finishing third by scoring 9.41 points, despite a strong display of mobility, quick footwork and balance.

Wen Ching’s triumph earns the troupe RM20,000, while Xi Nan and Xuan Long Rawang troupes receive RM12,000 and RM9,000 respectively, along with trophies and medals.

Meanwhile, Penang Meihu Culture and Sports Association finished fourth with 9.40 points after earlier setting the benchmark with its clean and disciplined routine.

Kwong Ngai Lion Dance from Penang scored 9.15 points, followed by Persatuan Penganut Buddha Seng Fatt Kampar from Perak with 9.10 points.

Sin Ong Kong Temple Lion Dance from Labuan, the final troupe to perform, scored 9.03 points, while Persatuan Penganut Agama Sin Ong Dian from Labuan and Kwong Ngai Lion Dance from Kuala Lumpur recorded 8.83 and 8.77 points respectively.

The other seven finalists each receive RM3,000, while all semi-finalists are awarded RM2,000.

Wen Ching’s victory marks the culmination of a fiercely contested final and sees the Kelapa Sawit troupe take the national title from defending champions Xuan Long Rawang.

Wen Ching Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe from Kelapa Sawit in action during the 21st Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship final.