Penang will once again take centre stage in the national street dance scene as the state plays host to the United Dance Organisation (UDO) Malaysia Street Dance Championship 2025, which will be held on Nov 29 and 30 at 88 Island Plaza.
The announcement was made at a press conference by state Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who expressed pride in Penang being chosen as the venue for the second edition of the prestigious competition.
“First of all, I would like to congratulate the organising team for the wonderful success of the first UDO Malaysia Street Dance Competition, held earlier this year in January.
“That event brought together over 200 dancers from across Malaysia, and even saw our local talents representing the country at the UDO Asia Pacific Championship in Thailand. That was truly a proud milestone for Penang and for Malaysia’s creative community,” he said.
Gooi highlighted that the UDO, the world’s largest street dance organisation, is internationally recognised for celebrating street dance and hip-hop culture.
He noted that beyond competition, UDO promotes discipline, unity, and creativity, bringing together dancers of different ages and backgrounds through the shared language of movement.
“As an executive councillor helming the youth portfolio, I am proud to support initiatives like this, ones that inspire our youth to be active, confident, and creative.
“Street dance is not only about performance; it is about self-expression, teamwork, and mental well-being. It builds confidence, leadership, and resilience among our young people,” he added.
He further stressed that the championship aligns with the objectives of the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC) and the Penang2030 vision, particularly in strengthening civic participation and promoting liveability through sports and cultural opportunities.
Gooi also extended his appreciation to UDO Malaysia, the organising team, and supporting partners for their dedication, noting that the choice of 88 Island Plaza as the official venue partner would provide “a lively and energetic setting for dancers and the public to come together and celebrate.”
Meanwhile, UDO Malaysia coordinator Sean Loh Xiao Yi shared that the upcoming championship builds on the momentum of the inaugural event in January, which successfully attracted over 200 dancers nationwide.
From that competition, 26 Malaysian representatives went on to compete at the UDO Asia Pacific Championship 2025 in Bangkok, achieving notable results.
Among the highlights were strong performances by Penang’s YI Concept Dance School, Kedah’s Wuhoo Dance Studio, and Kuala Lumpur’s Sole to Soul Dance Academy, with dancers such as Kenji Koay, Urbaniks, Jamie and Su-Yoon, Jovynn, Yi Huai and Jasmine making their mark on the international stage.
“Most importantly, all our Solo and Duo dancers made it into the finals, a huge milestone for Malaysia in our very first international outing,” Loh said proudly.
Looking ahead, Loh explained that the 2025 edition will feature an expanded range of categories, from solo and duo showcases to parent-and-child performances and large team divisions, as well as battle categories in breaking, hip hop, popping, and open style.
So far, more than 150 dancers have registered, with organisers expecting more to join in the coming weeks.
Adding to the excitement, several international UDO-certified judges and street dance icons from Thailand, the Philippines, and Canada will be present, including B-Boy Dyzee, a global legend in the breaking community. These guests will also conduct exclusive workshops and sharing sessions for Malaysian dancers.
“It is not just a competition, but a valuable experience to learn, connect, and grow together.
“With the support of our sponsors and partners, we are not only building a platform for competition, but also helping to nurture the next generation of dancers and expand Malaysia’s street dance community,” Loh said.
Both Gooi and Loh encouraged dancers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned performers, to take part in the championship.
“Challenge yourself, express your creativity, and enjoy every moment on stage.
“Together, let us continue to promote the spirit of street dance, the energy of our youth, and the unity that dance brings to our community,” Gooi emphasised.
The UDO Malaysia Street Dance Championship 2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration of youth, creativity, and cultural exchange, further cementing Penang’s reputation as a hub for talent and innovation.