Little Birdie wins gold in USA

KUCHING: Eight-year-old Sarawakian Dion Das Louis, affectionately known as ‘The Little Bornean Birdie,’ has won gold at the 27th World Championship of Performing Arts in California, USA.

Dion represented Malaysia in the competition, which took place from July 1 to 5.

He secured his place by winning a gold medal at the Malaysia Championship of Performing Arts held in Kuala Lumpur on January 27.

His dance, inspired by the traditional Dayak Iban ngajat, incorporates elements from two iconic Borneo birds: the ruai, or Great Malayan Argus pheasant, and the kenyalang, or hornbill. These elements were beautifully depicted in his attire.

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan congratulated Dion on his achievement.

“Congratulations to Dion Das Louis, the little birdie from Sarawak. Well done and we are very proud of you,” he said in a Facebook post.