Sunway College JB’s Dancing Queens Shine at Malaysia Open DanceSport Championship 2024

Dancesport, a fusion of artistry and athleticism, is better described as competitive ballroom dancing. The World DanceSport Federation (WDSF), formerly the International DanceSport Federation (IDSF), is the international governing body of dancesport, as recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Known for its two primary categories; Latin and Standard—this sport showcases not only the skill of the dancers but also the beauty of movement set to rhythm. Latin dances include dynamic styles such as Samba, Cha Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive, while the Standard category features the classic Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Slow Foxtrot and Quickstep.

In the 3rd WDSF 2024 Malaysia Open Dancesport Championship held this year, two Sunway College Johor Bahru students, Ee Jia Xuan and Chin Bo Zhen demonstrated skill and grace in the Intervarsity University Open Solo Latin event. The five-dance intervarsity event was held as part of the championship and saw competitors representing institutions across Malaysia. Both students had showcased their talent at the event, where their performances stood out against stiff competition. Jia Xuan secured 1st place in the University Solo Rumba and Samba categories, 2nd in Paso Doble, 3rd in Cha Cha and 4th in Jive. Bo Zhen also performed admirably, placing 7th in Paso Doble and 6th in Rumba.

For both Jia Xuan and Bo Zhen, the art of dance has been a lifelong passion. Each began their journey at a young age— with Jia Xuan starting at age 7, inspired by traditional Chinese dance while Bo Zhen was 8 years old when introduced to ballet. Their paths eventually led them into the world of competitive dancesport, where they currently train for the Latin and Standard categories. “I enjoy how different music gives me new feelings while dancing the same routines,” shares Jia Xuan. “It’s indescribable as I find creative fulfilment through the dance choreography, blending technique with expression,” adds Bo Zhen.

As with any serious athlete, the ability to balance the nature of competitive dance with their academic responsibilities is key. Jia Xuan, an 18-year-old enrolled in the Diploma in Business Administration programme, schedules her day carefully, attending classes in the day while dedicating her evenings to training. Similarly, 21-year-old Bo Zhen, a student of the VU Bachelor in Business programme at the college, emphasises the importance of structured time management. “Scheduling is key. I make sure to allocate time for both my studies and dance practice and I always set goals to stay organised.” she explains.

Juggling two intense commitments, however, has not come without its share of challenges. Jia Xuan, who trains for 10 different dances, notes that there is never enough time to focus on each one individually. Yet, she pushes through, making sure to improve step by step, never losing sight of her goal. “The most important thing is knowing that I’m improving,” she says. For Bo Zhen, self-doubt has been a major hurdle. “I often question whether I am progressing enough, but overcoming these thoughts has strengthened me in resolving to stay focused on both my academic and dance journey.

Balancing dance and academia are not just about time management-it’s about fostering personal growth. Both Jia Xuan and Bo Zhen acknowledge the life skills they have developed through the course of their journey. Dancesport has taught them discipline, perseverance and resilience, qualities that will benefit them long after they leave the dance floor. Their experiences in the business programmes at Sunway College JB have complemented their dance ambitions by sharpening their analytical and strategic thinking skills-qualities which are important for a bright future where Jia Xuan aims to become a certified dancesport judge, while Bo Zhen looks forward to a career in marketing.

Their efforts are paying off. Jia Xuan’s competitive journey is remarkable, holding prestigious rankings in Malaysia’s dancesport scene. She is currently ranked 2nd in the Malaysia Youth Standard and 6th in Malaysia Youth Latin categories respectively. Bo Zhen is equally impressive and currently tied for 3rd place in Malaysia’s Adult Standard category and is the Johor State Solo Champion in the Adult Standard category.

As they continue to dance their way through both competition and the classroom, we wish Ee Jia Xuan and Chin Bo Zhen the very best in their future endeavours. Their dedication to excelling in both their academic pursuits and passion for dancesport is truly inspiring and we look forward to seeing all they will achieve in the future—both on the dance floor and beyond!