Dr Sim: Lessons of Unity and Teamwork Shine at Sarawak’s Dragon and Lion Dance Cup
KUCHING (Oct 29) – The recently concluded Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup at Stadium Perpaduan drew much excitement, but it wasn’t just about the performances. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian emphasized that these traditional competitions highlight powerful lessons of teamwork and unity that Sarawak can adopt on a larger scale.
Dr Sim, who also serves as Sarawak’s Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, shared his observations during the event’s closing ceremony. “I noticed that in this competition, all teams displayed outstanding teamwork, with each member fulfilling their roles flawlessly,” he remarked. “In any competition, good teamwork is essential for success. No single person can carry the team alone – it requires collective effort.”
A Showcase of Strong Team Dynamics
With over 400 participants from 41 teams representing countries including Vietnam, China, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia, the Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup brought together a diverse mix of cultures and traditions. Teams worked in perfect synchronization, captivating the audience with intricate moves, colorful costumes, and synchronized drum beats.
Dr Sim highlighted how these performances exemplify values that are essential to Sarawak’s future. “This is not only about dragon and lion dance competitions but about building a sense of unity and teamwork that can drive Sarawak forward. Each performer has their role, and they perform it with pride and dedication – much like what we need in nation-building,” he said.
Building Sarawak’s Identity Through Unity
Dr Sim’s message wasn’t solely about teamwork but also a reminder of the unique ‘Sarawak values’ that unite the state’s multicultural society. “In Sarawak, regardless of race and religion, we come together. This is what makes us strong, and it’s the foundation of the Sarawak brand that we are building,” he pointed out.
These values resonate strongly in a diverse society like Sarawak, where unity among different ethnic groups is celebrated. Through this unique approach to unity, Dr Sim believes Sarawak can become an exemplary state in Malaysia, showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition, progress, and respect.
Lessons in Unity for Nation-Building
Dr Sim’s message extended beyond the competition, drawing parallels between the qualities observed in the performances and the principles required to build a resilient state. He shared, “If every Sarawakian can play their role well, Sarawak will be strong and prosperous.” This emphasis on collaboration and individual responsibility is something Sarawak could leverage in its nation-building efforts.
The deputy premier noted that the teamwork seen in dragon and lion dance teams can serve as a microcosm for larger societal goals. By supporting each other and embracing their unique roles, the people of Sarawak can build a strong foundation for the state’s future.
Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup: A Cultural Gathering
This year’s Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup was a major cultural event, drawing participants and spectators from around the region. As teams performed, the crowd at Stadium Perpaduan was treated to impressive displays of athleticism, creativity, and teamwork, bringing together people from different cultures.
The competition saw representation from various groups, including the Sarawak Sports Corporation, the Dragon and Lion Dance Federation of Malaysia, and the Chinese Martial Arts Association (CMAA) Sarawak, among others. Sarawak Sports Corporation CEO Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan, Dragon and Lion Dance Federation of Malaysia secretary Yong Kheng Chien, CMAA Sarawak president Chester Lim, and advisor Kapitan Tan Kun Gee also attended, underscoring the significance of the event in fostering unity and cultural pride.
A Bright Future Through Cultural Events
Dr Sim’s speech highlights the role cultural events play in shaping a shared identity for Sarawak. By nurturing values of teamwork and unity in youth through traditions like dragon and lion dance, Sarawak is investing in future generations who will carry forward these lessons in their personal and professional lives.
As Sarawak continues to evolve, events like the Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup are vital platforms for showcasing the state’s rich heritage and shared values. Dr Sim’s call for Sarawakians to embrace teamwork and unity in their everyday lives resonates deeply with the event’s spirit, leaving an impact that extends beyond the stadium walls.