KOTA KINABALU: Two young Sabahans received a big boost in their preparation for a global talent competition with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor encouraging them on.

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

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

       Amberly, 15, and her parents Maidon Bernadus and Florena Francis Obong were invited to meet Hajiji at his office in Menara Kinabalu here yesterday.

       “I am proud of Amberly and Hayden for being selected to represent the country at the WCOPA. They will carry Sabah’s as well as Malaysia’s names on the world stage.

       “I have full confidence that they will give their best there.

       “I wish them all the best,” Hajiji said.

       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 for singers aged between 18 and 24.