In this season filled with warmth and togetherness, we are delighted to witness the beautiful fusion of traditional Chinese music and Hari Raya culture. Music enthusiasts from diverse communities across Malaysia have brought these traditions to life through instruments such as the guzheng, erhu, pipa, and dizi—creating captivating melodies that reflect the richness of cultural diversity.

This competition was evaluated by a professional panel of judges, including Han Ning, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur; Steven Goh, President of the Malaysia He Yue Arts and Cultural Association, Chinese orchestra conductor, artistic and music director, and curator of music and cultural programmes; Kenwy Ho, Southeast Asia’s first graduate with a Master’s degree in Yangqin from the Central Conservatory of Music, member of the Chinese Musicians’ Association, President of the Asian Yangqin Association, and member of the World Yangqin Association; and Sara Heng, renowned guzheng performer, guzheng instructor at the China Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur, and founder of the Malaysian Guzheng Academy. The panel brings together distinguished artists and educators from China and Malaysia, ensuring a professional, fair, and authoritative evaluation process.

The awards focus on cross-cultural expression and artistic excellence:
“The Best Cultural Exchange Award” recognises works that successfully integrate traditional Chinese instruments with Hari Raya musical elements; “The Best Performance Award” honours work with strong technical execution, expressive musicality, and overall presentation quality; “The Best Creativity Award” celebrates innovative arrangements and distinctive artistic approaches.

All submissions underwent a rigorous evaluation process, including preliminary screening, nomination, voting, and final deliberation by the judging panel. The list of winners is now officially announced as shown in the visual.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all participants for their dedication and creativity. Each submission has contributed to the richness and diversity of this programme.

To those who were not selected this time, please do not be discouraged. The true value of music lies not only in results, but in expression and sharing. We look forward to seeing you continue to shine on future stages.

Thank you once again for your enthusiastic participation and support. May the melodies of traditional Chinese music and Raya continue to bring people together in harmony and celebration.

The organiser will be contacting all winners and participants in due course to arrange for the issuance of certificates. Thank you for your patience. 🎶