Sabah’s 21st Dancesport Championship Boosts Eco-Tourism and Celebrates Cultural Excellence

19 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: First-time visitors participating in the 21st Sabah Open Dancesport Championship 2025 were encouraged to explore Sabah as a premier eco-tourism destination.

Caretaker Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, made this appeal whilst officiating at the event held at Hotel Promenade on Saturday evening.

"Take this opportunity to visit the nearby islands and discover the splendour of Mount Kinabalu and Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, among the many attractions Sabah has to offer.

"Make the most of our newly-launched 'Hop On, Hop Off' city bus service to tour the sights around Kota Kinabalu city and its surroundings," Liew said.

Approximately 160 participants, including overseas competitors from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines, competed for honours in the championship.

The Minister commended the Imperial Ballroom Dancing School Kota Kinabalu and other dance schools across the state for their positive contributions to fostering a healthier and more vibrant society.

"You have provided opportunities for both young and old to express themselves confidently and showcase their natural talents," she added.

Organising Chairman and Principal of the Imperial Ballroom Dancing School Kota Kinabalu, Antony Keung, described hosting such an event for the 21st time as a monumental undertaking.

"This would not have been possible without the steadfast support of numerous individuals, organisations, and well-wishers. We are particularly grateful to the Minister of Tourism for her ongoing support, which has been instrumental to our success.

"It is this support that has enabled this annual event to flourish and helped put Sabah firmly on the global dancesport map," he stated.

Keung then introduced Liew to the competition’s Chief Judge, William Lor; Lawrence Chan, President of the Hong Kong Ballroom Dancers Association; Yeap Yen Chin, President of the Malaysia Dancers Association; and a panel of 20 adjudicators.