Ballroom Dancers' Federation International

Malaysia 2011

By John Lim, International Director, Malaysia

2^nd BDFI Malaysia Championships 2011, (Open to Asian Countries) & 3^rd Muar Rising Star Dancesport Championships 2011

The 2^nd BDFI Malaysia & 3^rd Muar Rising Star Championships was the first again for BDFI International, sanctioned championship held in this southern coastal town in west Malaysia, with a rich history of seafarers and the likes of the Chinese Admiral, Zheng He, who landed at this Muar river port and proceeded to Malacca where he married the Sultan’s daughter and help to create a diversify Malaysian race known as Nonyas & Babas, The generation still exists in Malacca and is still thriving.

The date 23^rd April 2011, held a significant occasion where for the first time, this championship is sanctioned and recognized by BDFI International and BDFI Malaysia, 35 Teachers members of BDFI Malaysia supported this event by sending their competitive couples in the 40 categories slotted from Beginners to Amateurs in both Standard and Latin disciplines from Asian countries making a total of 220 participants to make it another grand affair for the locals and visitors from other states to enjoy the top amateurs competing on the Floor.

The day session started from 2.00pm to 5.00pm was as usual to select the six (6) finalists for the evening finals, Nine (9) Adjudicators from Members of BDFI Malaysia and other countries were in attendance, the Chief Adjudicator was given to me, as a representative of BDFI International.

The evening finals attracted more than 350 diners and the 220 couples making a total of 600 gracing this championship. Mr. Siow Boon Wah, the Organizing Chairman, gave his welcoming speech and was quoting the words of wisdom, from BDFI, chairman, Mr. Greg Smith: “Objectives of BDFI- To promote sport with good fellowship and protect and advance the interests of competitors-goodwill and co-operation internationally.