BENTONG: The highly anticipated 20th Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship makes a rousing comeback as the best lion dance troupes from across the country vie for the crown in what looks to be the most exciting competition yet at the Arena of Stars in Genting Highlands this Sept 21 and 22.
Having hosted the Malaysia National Lion Dance Championships since its inception, Resorts World Genting (RWG) will once again be abuzz with fans celebrating triumphs and lamenting losses as they cheer on their favourite teams in Malaysia’s most prestigious battle of the mystical beasts.
Captivating hearts with their spirited agility and gravity-defying manoeuvres on stilts as drumbeats pulsate and reverberate in the air, lion dancers enthral audiences and perpetuate a revered Chinese cultural art form that dates back several millennia.
The 20th Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship commenced with the regional competition in June, which saw 80 teams whittled to a mere 20 qualifying for the semi-finals.
At the recent press conference and drawing of lots for the semi-finals at Times Square, RWG assistant vice president for events and entertainment Roger Ong said, “Resorts World Genting is proud to showcase this popular extreme sport by hosting the renowned Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship for the 20th time.
“The lion dance has transcended gender and ethnic boundaries and is a true representation of multicultural Malaysia.”
He added, “We are honoured to work with the Federation of Selangor and Federal Territory Dragon and Lion Dance Association in bringing to life this magnificent display of Chinese culture and showmanship up here on the hills.”
Twenty teams will battle it out for a place in the finals, but only ten semi-finalists will be selected.
Additionally, the teams will also be in the running for the ‘Best Difficulty Move Award’.
The stakes are certainly high for this instalment of the Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship as cash prizes of more than RM85,000 await winners.
This championship is endorsed by the Youth and Sports Ministry.
Members of the public can take advantage of a two-day pass to see the championship semi-finals and finals on Sept 21 and 22 at RM250 (PS1/numbered seat) or RM150 (PS2/free seating) applicable only for purchases via cash, credit card or Genting Points redemption. A processing fee of RM4 applies.
Guests with little ones in tow are required to produce valid child passes.
A standard child ticket is RM26 per show with children shorter than 95cm eligible for a ticket without a seat.
Meanwhile, the 2024 Genting Durian Festival: The King Returns will take place daily until Sept 22, from 12pm to 8pm at Highlands Hotel Outdoor Car Park and Genting Grand Boulevard Walk.
This year’s festival promises a mouth-watering array of premium-grade durians from seven different vendors.
Guests can enjoy the unique flavours of Musang King B, A, AA, Black Thorn, XO, Red Prawn, D24, Golden Phoenix, D101, Black Pearl, and D24 Sultan.
You can now try the Durian Omakase experience for only RM188 per person. Treat yourself to an hour of unlimited quantities of Musang King, Black Thorn, Sultan King and Red Flesh varieties and compare their distinct flavours. This exclusive promotion is available daily from 4pm to 8pm at Highlands Hotel Outdoor Car Park.
As an added treat, guests will receive a complimentary coconut to cool off.
For more information, visit rwgenting.com or RWG’s official social media sites.