Resorts World Genting (RWG) officially unveiled the 20 semi-finalist troupes for the 21st Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship 2026 at Wisma Genting on July 23, 2026.
Following extensive regional qualifiers from 88 total preliminary teams, the semi-finals take place on September 26, 2026, at the Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting in Genting Highlands, with the top 10 groups advancing to the grand finals the next day, September 27.
Speaking at the semi-final draw lots ceremony for the 21st Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship 2026, RWG sales, marketing and public relations executive vice-president Spencer Lee said that the championship serves as a key platform for celebrating a cherished cultural tradition and highlighting Malaysia’s lion dance talents.
“This championship is more than a competition. It is a journey to discover the very best lion dance troupe in Malaysia, where talent meets discipline, tradition meets innovation, and every performance reflects years of dedication, sacrifice and passion.
“We look forward to witnessing the troupe that will rise above the rest and earn the honour of being crowned national champion, with the ultimate goal of representing Malaysia on the world stage and bringing home the prestigious Genting World Lion Dance Championship trophy next year,” he said.
With consultation support from the Federation of Selangor & Federal Territory Dragon & Lion Dance Association, the championship stands as a premier cultural sporting event, celebrating the enduring artistry, discipline and athleticism of lion dance, a performance tradition deeply rooted in the nation’s multicultural heritage and widely embraced by Malaysians across generations.
The semi-final line-up features Persatuan Tarian Singa dan Naga Chung Seng, Penang Meihu Culture and Sports Association, Pertubuhan Tarian Naga dan Singa Wen Ching Kelapa Sawit, Kwong Ngai Lion Dance (Penang), Che Yee Khor Moral Uplifting Society Lahad Datu, Persatuan Penganut Buddha Seng Fatt Kampar, Perak, Persatuan Tarian Naga dan Singa Jin Shan Tangkak Johor, Xuan Long Dragon and Lion Dance Ampang Selangor, Pertubuhan Kebudayaan Kesenian dan Kesukanan Tawau, Kwong Ngai Lion Dance (Kuala Lumpur) and Persatuan Penganut Agama Buddha Xi Nan Kelapa Sawit.
Also through to the semi-finals are Persatuan Tarian Naga dan Singa Khuan Loke, Sungai Way, Selangor, Sin Ong Kong Temple Lion Dance Troupe Labuan, Persatuan Penganut Dewa Tian Fa Wei Ling Tian Fa Kung Keningau, Persatuan Tarian Singa WLDF Pakatan Malaysia, Persatuan Penganut Agama Sin Ong Dian, Yi Ngai Lion Dance, Persatuan Tarian Singa dan Naga Keong Fatt Sabah, Persatuan Tarian Naga dan Singa Xuan Long Rawang Selangor, and Hong Teck Dragon & Lion Dance.
The championship offers a total prize pool that rewards both performance and technical mastery.
The national champion takes home RM20,000, the first runner-up receives RM12,000, and the second runner-up secures RM9,000, with all top three placings receiving trophies and medals.
The seven finalists will receive RM3,000 each, while all semi-finalists will be awarded RM2,000.
A special Best Difficulty Move Award of RM3,000 will also be presented to the troupe that delivers the most outstanding technical performance during the semi-final round, as judged by the official panel.
The championship also reflects Resorts World Genting’s continued commitment to elevating cultural sports and providing a platform for traditional performing arts to thrive on national and global stages.
Tickets for the 21st Malaysia National Lion Dance Championship 2026 are on sale for the Sept 26 semi-finals and Sept 27 finals
The two-day pass is priced at RM268 for PS1 (numbered seating) and RM168 for PS2 (free seating). Single-day tickets for the semi-final are priced at RM129 for PS1 and RM99 for PS2, while final day tickets are priced at RM248 for PS1 and RM138 for PS2.
For more information, visit rwgenting.com or follow their official media platforms.
