by Allan Dumbong
AUCKLAND, New Zealand: Aug 16, 2026 — A Sabah-based performing arts group made waves on the international stage at Viva Eclectika 2026, with their fusion performance blending Borneo and Congolese cultures earning the “Highly Recommended” Performance Award, along with a cash prize of NZ$600 (approximately RM1,600).
The event, held at the Victory Convention Centre in Freemans Bay, was organised by the New Zealand-Asian Association (NZAA) with support from the Ethnic Communities Department under New Zealand’s Ministry of Internal Affairs. It drew an audience of about 1,000 people.
The Sabah group combined the traditional Bajau song Daling-Daling and the Magunatip dance with cultural elements from the Congo in Africa, receiving an enthusiastic response.
Many youths and children also took to the stage to dance along, especially during the Magunatip performance, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere of cultural exchange.
Sabahan dancer Rose Angkaji expressed her joy, saying, “This event was truly exciting. Many groups from various countries performed their cultural dances. I am delighted to have been able to present our traditional dance on this international stage.”
SAANZI (Sabah Auckland Association New Zealand Inc.) President Devy Delicia emphasised that winning was not the main objective.
“We are happy to have taken part in this event. Winning or losing was never our primary goal. Our focus was to introduce Sabah’s indigenous culture so that it can be seen by the global community. There are communities from many different countries here in New Zealand,” she said.
She also said the Sabah group greatly enjoyed the experience of collaborating with Congolese dancers for the first time.
For the Sabahan participants, Viva Eclectika was not just a competition. It served as an opportunity to showcase indigenous identity, forge international friendships, and present Sabah’s traditional culture to the world stage.
