Ballroom dancing enthusiasts from across the country and foreign participants gathering at the Berjaya Hotel here for the Malaysia International Ballroom Dancing Championship 2024.
Th participants were from China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. Guest- of-honour was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
He was greeted by the organizing committee and also the participants.
In his opening address, Wong welcomed the participants, organizers and judges to Penang.
“On behalf of the Penang State Government, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the dancers, judges, guests and the organizing committee members who have worked tirelessly to make this event possible.
“It brings together the world’s elite dancers, including top competitors from China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. It is noteworthy to mention that there are 15 teams come from different cities across China, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Guiyang, Chongqing, Wenzhou and Hebei”, said Wong.
The competition included competitions in Modern and Latin Dance and dance camp led by world-class Latin dance masters, providing participants with high-level training and exchange opportunities.
“Ballroom dance perfectly blends dance, music and physicality, creating a myriad of dance moves and breathtaking visuals through the dancers’ rhythm and emotional expression.
“From Waltz to Tango, Cha Cha and Latin dances, the variety is endless and the styles are diverse. On the dance floor, dancers not only showcase their exceptional skills but also interpret the soul of the music with their bodies. Ballroom dance is undoubtedly a comprehensive art form.
“Moreover, ballroom dance can be seen as a branch of the creative economy, incorporating creative elements such as choreography, music selection and costume design”, added Wong.
He also welcomed participants to take in the sights and sceneries of Penang and promote cultural exchange and integration, adding an international flair to the city of Penang.