Malaysia has long been a world pioneer in the cultural art of lion dance, from inventing the gravity-defying high pole discipline to hosting the most prestigious international competition: the World Lion Dance Championship at Resorts World Genting (RWG).
This year marks the 15th edition, where 40 elite teams from Asia, Africa, Europe, and USA will converge at RWG’s Arena of Stars, competing for the coveted world title. For over three decades, RWG has served as the competitive home of lion dance. Now, that legacy takes centre stage in Jiwa Singa, Malaysia’s first full-length lion dance documentary on YouTube, which explores the tradition’s rich history, its transformation, and its evolution into a world-class competitive sport.
Spencer Lee, Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Public Relations at Resorts World Genting said, “The Genting World Lion Dance Championship is more than just a competition. Our vision is to provide a global platform that celebrates tradition, unites all races, and showcases the beauty of lion dance to the world for generations to come.”
“Lion dance is deeply rooted in our culture, yet so little has been documented. With Resorts World Genting’s role in elevating it as a sport, they’re the perfect partner to tell this story,” said Aaron James Leong, Lead Creative of Digital Experiences at Naga DDB. “As experience makers, we wanted to bring Malaysia’s heritage into the modern era, and this documentary is our contribution to the national archives.”
The film also follows the discipline, sacrifice, and unity of the 2024 Malaysian National Champions — Xuan Long Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe from Rawang, Selangor — as they prepare to reclaim the world title from reigning champions, Yi Wei Athletic Association of Singapore.
“Jiwa Singa reminds us that Malaysia is filled with amazing stories that need to be told. So part of our jobs is to seek them out like journalists and put them in the spotlight.,” said Alvin Teoh, Chief Creative Officer of Naga DDB.
The 15th World Lion Dance Championship will be held from 25–27 July 2025 at the Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting.
Watch Jiwa Singa now, exclusively on Resorts World Genting’s YouTube channel.
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