Sabahans shine at Dance World Cup
KOTA KINABALU (July 6): Malaysia proudly celebrates a double silver medal victory at the Dance World Cup 2025 in Burgos, Spain – thanks to the remarkable performances of Tiara Izz Zayani and Ivana Iman binti Mohammad Ezral, two young dancers from Ballet By Nora, Kota Kinabalu.
Ivana with her coach Nora.
These talented young Malaysians earned second place in their respective solo categories, rising above thousands of international competitors and making their mark on the global stage.
Tiara, known for her powerful and expressive interpretations of Malaysian traditional dance, brought the house down with her performance of 'Kreasi Zapin Galit'.
Dancing through pain, she gave her all on stage:
'Tiara danced until her nails came off — but she never complained,' said her mother, Tuya, visibly emotional. 'She told me later, 'I just wanted to finish strong.' That's her strength — heart, discipline, and quiet courage.'
Ivana, age 10, earned silver in the Mini Ballet Any Style Solo category.
'I felt nervous at first, but once I started dancing, I just imagined I was home. I'm so happy I could make everyone proud,' she said.
Their teacher and mentor, Nora of Ballet By Nora, expressed her pride in both girls.
'This double silver is more than a medal. It's the result of years of discipline, late nights and unwavering commitment. I'm honoured to guide them. Tiara and Ivana have inspired all of us,'she said.
Ivana's parents, Dr Natassia and Mohammad Ezral , added: 'We're humbled by Ivana's achievement. She danced with joy, and that joy brought her here. We're just so proud — and even more proud to share this celebration with Tiara and her family.'
These two dancers stand as young ambassadors for Malaysia, showing the world the strength, artistry and cultural beauty that lives in Sabah.
The Dance World Cup 2025 continues, with more Malaysian dancers taking the stage in the days ahead.
Meanwhile, SK Muhibbahraya students from Tawau also put Sabah in the eyes of the world when they won third place in the same competition.
The young dance duo — Muhd Syahmi Asyraf bin Sulaiman and Muhammad Ammar Asyraf bin Mohd Taufik — captivated judges and audiences with their energetic and disciplined Zapin performance titled 'Suara Siam.
'Their success is the result of dedicated coaching and mentorship by their teachers, Sarena Sanin (Senior Assistant for Student Affairs) and Basri Kambung (Senior Assistant for Co-curricular Activities).
Upholding the school's motto, 'SK Muhibbahraya Unggul, Melangkah Jauh dari yang Biasa' (SK Muhibbahraya Excels, Moving Beyond the Ordinary), this team has proven that young talent from Sabah can not only compete but excel on the world stage.
This achievement is a reflection of the vision of Tuan Haji Sapri bin Haji Raupu, headmaster of SK Muhibbahraya, Tawau, who has long aspired to see his students succeed internationally.
Their accomplishment not only brings honour to the school and local community but also serves as an inspiration for students across the country to pursue their dreams with dedication and determination.
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