KOTA KINABALU:A singing competition honouring veteran voices is set to take centre stage in Sabah, accompanied by an immersive mini concert that promises to be anything but ordinary.
The event, titled the ‘National Singing Competition and Concert’, featuring the Veteran Chinese Singing Contest, will culminate in a grand finale on 17 August at the Putra Theatre Hall, Kota Kinabalu.
Organised with the vision of celebrating senior talents and rekindling their passion for performing, this event is more than just a competition, it is a heartfelt musical celebration with a meaningful purpose.
During today’s announcement, Organising Chairperson Datuk Eliza Goh explained that the event will feature a state-of-the-art 4D central stage, complete with dramatic lighting and sound effects, a connecting bridge between performers and the audience, and a carefully designed layout to ensure an equal and immersive viewing experience from every seat.
“This is not merely a singing contest; it’s a concert experience,” said Eliza. “We have invested heavily in the stage and performance environment. Whether you’re sitting at the front or the back, you’ll enjoy the same spectacular view.”
Open to Malaysians aged 40 and above, the competition welcomes performances in Mandarin, Hokkien, or Cantonese. Already, over 60 participants from Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia have signed up, demonstrating wide regional enthusiasm, she added.
The oldest contestant is 78 years old, a testament to the fact that age is no barrier to passion and talent.
A semi-final round will be held on 16 August, where judges will select the top 30 performers to compete in the grand final the following evening. To ensure fairness, contestants will perform anonymously while wearing masks, with judges only discovering their identities after scoring.
The evening will also feature the launch of veteran Astro singer Irene Tan’s fourth album, One Seat. The performance will include captivating face-changing dance routines and guest appearances from renowned artistes, including a former Astro Chinese New Year songwriter and a film/music director, who will also serve as judges.
The event will showcase Broadway-style dancers, bespoke stage visuals for each singer, and an opportunity for attendees to relive the golden era of music, featuring songs from the Teresa Teng era, among others, shared Eliza.
“Beyond the music, this event aims to foster cultural bridges between Sabah, Sarawak, and West Malaysia,” she noted. “It also carries a social message: proceeds will go to the Kian Kok Alumni Association’s education fund, supporting underprivileged students from rural areas pursuing private secondary education.”
“We want to empower talented students who lack the means to pursue their dreams,” Eliza emphasised. “This competition is about giving back — to the singers, the students, and the community.”
With over 70 participants and guests expected from across Malaysia, the event also aligns with Sabah’s tourism development strategy.
Many senior citizens from Peninsular Malaysia will be visiting Sabah for the first time, with sightseeing tours arranged around the event. Additionally, business leaders, including a Musang King plantation tycoon, are expected to attend, exploring potential collaborations with local growers.
“We want these singers to feel the glory again, to find joy, and to realise that they are still very much the stars of the show.”
Today’s event was also graced by veteran singer Irene Tan and members of the KKMS Alumni Association, including Acting President Terrance Ting and other committee members.-BNN
