By Anne Das
Months of rehearsals paid off for Seri Botani International School’s (SBIS) 24 Festive Drum Team when the Ipoh students won a Silver Award in Hangzhou, China.
The team represented Malaysia at the 10th International Music Arts Festival, The Drummers of China 2026, held last month. Their journey to the finals began with a Gold Prize at the Malaysia District Preliminary Competition, where they scored 92 marks.
Preparing for the international stage took sustained effort. Students worked on rhythm, coordination and stage performance, developing the physical endurance needed to deliver their routine.
Each rehearsal demanded concentration and an awareness of the other performers, with everyone working towards a cohesive performance.
In Hangzhou, that preparation earned them recognition from the judges. Competing alongside teams from different regions also gave the young drummers an opportunity to experience how others approached the art and to learn from fellow performers.
SBIS Principal Mr Andrew Richard Hamilton said the experience had helped students develop confidence and perseverance.
“I’m proud of every member of the team. What they have gained is more than an award. Through each training session and challenge, they have learned to persevere, work together and have the courage to step onto an international stage,” he said.
The trip also gave the students an opportunity to explore their cultural heritage through participation. By practising and performing 24 Festive Drums, they learn to carry an art form forward while sharing it with audiences beyond Malaysia.
Hamilton said the school encourages students to understand and preserve their cultural heritage within its multicultural learning environment.
Activities such as drumming allow them to develop interests alongside their academic studies, with teamwork and discipline put into practice through a shared goal.
For SBIS Ipoh team, the silver award marked a rewarding conclusion to months of preparation. From rehearsals at school to representing Malaysia in Hangzhou, the students have taken their skills onto a wider stage and brought an international achievement home.
SBIS offers education for children aged 3 to 16, from Early Years to Secondary. Enrolment is open, and parents are welcome to visit the campus to explore its programmes. Free trial classes are also available for prospective students.
For enquiries or to arrange a campus visit, contact SBIS at 05-226 2020. The school is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm.
