Sarawak to host International Dragon & Lion Dance Cup 2024, boosts local tourism

KUCHING (Oct 9): The upcoming Sarawak Open International Dragon & Lion Dance Cup 2024 is expected to generate spin-offs benefiting the local tourism industry, said state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

He said the competition taking place on Oct 26 and 27 is another major event hosted by Sarawak after the success of the recent Malaysia Games (Sukma) and Para Sukma as well as other events such as the International Dragon Boat Race at the end of this month.

“Such events are good to attract more visitors to Sarawak as well as cultivate a positive lifestyle for the love and participation in sports, performing arts and heritage,” he told a press conference here today.

More than 40 teams from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam and China have confirmed entries in the tournament organised by Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) and sanctioned by the Dragon & Lion Dances Federation of Malaysia.

Abdul Karim said it was heartening to note that for the very first time, Sarawak is taking up the challenge to host this prestigious and one of the biggest dragon and lion dance competitions in Malaysia.

He said it will feature four categories namely Traditional Southern Lion Dance, High Pole Southern Lion Dance, Northern Lion Dance and Luminous Dragon Dance.

“It is going to be very exciting and good show for enthusiasts and spectators, and we welcome all to attend and be entertained. Admission on both days of the tournament is free,” he added.

On lion dance, he said it has now become a symbol of cultural unity in Sarawak despite this unique cultural practice – which merges the domains of performing arts, heritage, and sports – is being deeply rooted in the Chinese communities.

He pointed out today in Sarawak, practitioners from various ethnic groups, including the Iban, Bidayuh, Malays, Melanau, and Orang Ulu, actively participate in lion dance events.

“The lion dance demonstrates the inclusive and evolving nature of this cultural tradition. This cross-cultural involvement reflects the spirit of mutual respect and appreciation that defines Sarawak’s multiethnic society.

“The participation of diverse communities in lion dance performances adds depth to its significance, turning it into not just a celebration of Chinese heritage but a broader expression of Sarawak’s shared cultural identity,” he said.

Meanwhile, CMAA president Chester Lim invited those in Kuching and surrounding areas to come and watch the event.

He pledged that the association will organise more of such tournaments in the near future.

Also present at the press conference were Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan and the Ministry’s deputy permanent secretary Desmond Jerukan.