By: Zaidul Khair bin Jungkim
PENAMPANG: Oct 26, 2026 — Borneo Rising has the potential to help singers from Sabah and Sarawak grow their careers into wider markets, including Peninsular Malaysia, through an eight-week programme held at ITTC Penampang.
Throughout the programme, the potential of Borneo singers also drew attention through the participants’ performances. The experience provided a new perspective on the ability of local talents to compete in the music industry and the importance of building their own musical identity.
Marsha Millan said the programme gave more singers from Borneo an opportunity to be showcased. Her 21 years of experience in the entertainment industry were also used to share knowledge with new talents.
“I feel there are many talents that should be highlighted,” she said.
According to Marsha, singers should not focus solely on vocals. They also need to explore other skills such as acting and performance art to enhance their abilities as entertainers.
Meanwhile, Noh Salleh said his involvement in the programme gave him a new perspective on the potential of singers from Sabah and Sarawak.
“I feel like my eyes have been opened,” he said, acknowledging that the participants he assessed possessed their own unique talents.
Noh opined that singers from Borneo have the potential to go further in the music industry. However, they need to continue producing quality works, build their own musical identity and make use of social media to introduce their works to a wider audience.
The potential of talents also stood out among audience members who were called up to the stage during break time. This showed that musical talent can also be found outside the competition participants.
Borneo Rising thus serves as a platform to highlight local talents, boost their confidence and encourage singers to continue developing their careers in the music industry.
