KUCHING,13 June: A melodic sape medley by 11-year-old Eason Eyeo Yik Xing captivated both judges and audiences, earning him the national title in the Traditional Musical Instrument category at the Kids Got Talent Malaysia 2025 competition, held on June 7-8 in Kuala Lumpur.
Eason’s performance featured a medley of three popular Sarawak ethnic songs, Lelo Ledung, Lan E and The Storm, layed on the sape, a traditional lute instrument closely associated with the Orang Ulu community of Sarawak.
His victory comes with a special invitation to audition for Season 21 of America’s Got Talent, offering him the opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s cultural music on an international stage.
Eason had earlier earned a Golden Pass during the state-level audition in Sarawak on March 22, granting him direct entry to the Grand Final without undergoing intermediate rounds.
His father, Eyeo Chin Boon, said the win was a meaningful milestone for their family, not just in terms of recognition but also as a platform to introduce Sarawak’s unique heritage to the world.
“We are very grateful for all the support from friends, teachers, and everyone who has followed Eason’s journey from the beginning.
“Special thanks as well to the educators, especially Cikgu Elezebert Bungan of Bungan Creative, who has constantly guided and encouraged our son,” he added.
Eason’s mother, Tan Ai Chia, said her son will continue to hone his skills in playing the sape and hopes to raise greater public appreciation for traditional musical arts.
Eason’s performance featured a medley of three popular Sarawak ethnic songs, Lelo Ledung, Lan E and The Storm, layed on the sape, a traditional lute instrument closely associated with the Orang Ulu community of Sarawak.
His victory comes with a special invitation to audition for Season 21 of America’s Got Talent, offering him the opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s cultural music on an international stage.
Eason had earlier earned a Golden Pass during the state-level audition in Sarawak on March 22, granting him direct entry to the Grand Final without undergoing intermediate rounds.
His father, Eyeo Chin Boon, said the win was a meaningful milestone for their family, not just in terms of recognition but also as a platform to introduce Sarawak’s unique heritage to the world.
“We are very grateful for all the support from friends, teachers, and everyone who has followed Eason’s journey from the beginning.
“Special thanks as well to the educators, especially Cikgu Elezebert Bungan of Bungan Creative, who has constantly guided and encouraged our son,” he added.
Eason’s mother, Tan Ai Chia, said her son will continue to hone his skills in playing the sape and hopes to raise greater public appreciation for traditional musical arts.