KOTA KINABALU: Two young Sabahans received a big boost in their preparations for a global talent competition thanks to words of encouragement from Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

       Amberly Maidon and Hayden Hansanon Humprey Suimin were selected to represent Malaysia at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) which will take place at Disneyland in California, United States from July 22 to Aug 2.

       They were picked from Sabah to contest in the WCOPA, which is also known as the Olympics for performers and entertainers.

       Amberly, 15, together with her parents Maidon Bernadus and Florena Francis Obong had the privilege of meeting the Chief Minister at his office in Menara Kinabalu here on Monday (May 9).

       “I am proud of Amberly and Hayden for being selected to represent the country to WCOPA.

       “They will carry Sabah’s as well as Malaysia’s names on the world stage.

       “I have total confidence they will be able to give their best there. I wish them all the best,” Hajiji said when meeting Amberly and her parents.

       Amberly will compete in the Junior Vocal category, which is for contestants aged between 13 and 15 while Hayden will be vying in the Senior Vocal category, which is for singers aged between 18 and 24.

       The WCOPA has churned out many Malaysian artistes such as Fanzi Ruji, Eylia Guntabid, Aina Abdul and the late Siti Sarah.

       Amberly, who is studying at SMK Datuk Peter Mojuntin in Penampang near here, won gold at MCOPA 2021.