Credit: Esther Glorie Leow, Daily Express
KOTA KINABALU: Twenty-five-year-old Sabahan dancer, Mohd Aydiel Izzuddin—also known as Dielo Madri—has made Sabah proud as the first from the State to reach the finals of the Choreography Cup 2025, placing sixth at the international competition held in Manila, Philippines, on March 29.
Hailing from Kota Belud, Dielo wowed the judges with his “Raha Sabah” performance, a fusion of Sabah’s traditional dance styles and modern techniques featuring self-composed music and locally-made costumes.
The Choreography Cup is one of the most prestigious dance competitions in the region, drawing top talents and renowned judges from across the globe.
Dielo, who has 17 years of choreography experience and leads the Sabah-based crew ill-eagle freedom, said it was a challenge to secure sponsorship and fund his trip, but he remained committed to showcasing Sabah’s culture.
“I never expected to place sixth, but I’m grateful for the chance to bring Sabah’s unique culture to an international stage,” he said, hoping his journey will inspire other Sabahan dancers to dream big.
