by KT Leong
Ipoh Parade’s Main Court was abuzz with energy and cultural pride last Sunday as Sekolahku Berbakat 3.0 – Edisi Citrawarna Tarian Melayu took centre stage. The event, jointly organised with the State Education Department (JPN) of Perak, saw enthusiastic participation from secondary and primary school students across the state, showcasing their skills in traditional Malay dance and the dynamic Tarian Pencak competition.
Shoppers and visitors alike were treated to a colourful afternoon filled with traditional music, vibrant costumes, and powerful performances that highlighted Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage. The blend of youthful energy and cultural traditions created an exciting atmosphere, making it a memorable Sunday at Ipoh Parade.
“Knowing the beat by heart is the key to winning in dance battles,” said Yusri Zabidi, the school dance trainer from SMK Kampong Perak, whose team beat eight other participating school teams in the traditional Malay dance battle.
With barely a month’s worth of disciplined preparation, the team of five dancers impressed the crowd and judges with their well-coordinated, on-the-beat dance steps set to random traditional music played by the official deejay. Despite strong competition, particularly from SMK Raja Perempuan Ipoh, SMK Kampong Perak’s graceful and poised moves of Zapin and Inang, won them the champion title and a prize money of RM1,000.
Adding to their celebration, SMK Kampong Perak also clinched Second Runner-up in the Tarian Pencak category and took home the award for Most Creative Choreography.
The list of winners is as follows:
Pertandingan Tarian Pencak
- Champion: SMK Raja Perempuan Ipoh (RM1,500 cash)
- First Runner-up: SK Seberang Perak (RM1,000 cash)
- Second Runner-up: SMK Kampong Perak (RM500 cash)
- Third Runner-up: SMK Bagan Serai (RM200 cash)
- Fourth Runner-up: SK Convent Teluk Intan (RM200 cash)
Pertandingan Tarian Tradisional Melayu Battle
- Champion: SMK Kampong Perak (RM1,000 cash)
- First Runner-up: SMK Raja Perempuan Ipoh (RM500 cash)
- Second Runner-up: SMK Bagan Serai (RM300 cash)
- Third Runner-up: SMK Sri Kota (RM150 cash)
- Fourth Runner-up: SMK Tarcisian Convent (RM 150 cash)
Special Awards
- Best Performance: SMK Raja Perempuan Ipoh
- Best Gerakan Pencak: SK Ngah Ibrahim
- Most Creative Choreography: SMK Kampong Perak
- Most Energetic Performance: SK Seberang Perak
The event successfully introduced tarian Pencak, a traditional Minangkabau dance that blends the arts of silat with traditional music, and achieved its goal of promoting traditional arts among the younger generation and reaffirmed the important role of cultural heritage in uniting communities.
The guest of honour, Deputy Director of the Student Talent Development Unit at the Perak State Education Department, Puan Hajah Fadhilah binti Hawary, thanked parents for their unwavering support in encouraging their children to learn traditional dance. She also encouraged the students to keep the spirit of learning alive.
“We are truly proud to have witnessed such dedication and talent from our young participants,” said Lim Huey Tyng, Manager of the Advertising & Promotions Department at Ipoh Parade. “Their passion for our cultural heritage, combined with youthful creativity, made this event a truly unforgettable experience for everyone present.”
Ipoh Parade extended its heartfelt thanks to the Perak JPN for their invaluable support, to all participating schools, and to the families and shoppers who helped turn the event into a memorable community celebration.
Ipoh Parade looks forward to continuing this tradition and providing even more platforms for young talents to shine in the years to come.
