It’s Gold in Paradise at the African Asia Pacific Choir Games 2025

UPDATE
14 October 2025

It’s Gold in Paradise at the African Asia Pacific Choir Games 2025

After a triumphant feat at last year’s Sing For Gold in Spain, Vocal Pizzest strikes Gold once again, this time in Mauritius at the “Sing in Paradise” African Asia Pacific Choir Games.

Vocal Pizzest, a spirited show choir of 15 students with an average age of 10 from Cempaka International School and Cempaka National School, proudly represented Malaysia on the world stage. Led by conductor Melinda Sik, they competed in the Children’s Choirs and Pop, Jazz, Show categories at this prestigious INTERKULTUR event. With over 35 years of success, INTERKULTUR continues to unite singers and choirs from around the globe to celebrate the universal joy of choral music. This year’s edition saw participation from 14 nations across Africa, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

In the Children’s Choirs (Open Competition) open to singers aged 6 to 16, Vocal Pizzest performed a vibrant medley of Malaysian folk tunes, arranged by Wong Shen Vee: Jong Jong Inai, Chan Mali Chan, Lenggang Kangkung, Rasa Sayang, Ikan Kekek, and Wau Bulan. Their repertoire also featured Sayang Kinabalu and Can’t Stop Dancing. Performances were evaluated by five international jurors from Spain, Norway, South Africa, Australia, and Mauritius. Their stellar performance earned them a Gold Level Award, propelling them into the Champions Competition where they stood as the sole qualifying choir.

At the Awards Ceremony, it was announced that Vocal Pizzest had achieved the highest marks in the Children’s Choirs category and was crowned Winner of the Category. The moment grew even more meaningful as they took to the stage to receive their recognition, with the Malaysian national anthem played in honour of their victory.

Among the festival’s many highlights was the Choir Parade, where teams proudly represented their countries as they marched through the streets of Port Louis, from Champ de Mars to the Municipal City Council for the official Opening Ceremony. Several choirs were also invited to perform during the event adding colour and music to the celebration.

Another key highlight was the Friendship Concert, held at the scenic Mahebourg Waterfront and Cascavelle Mall. Here, Vocal Pizzest joined other choirs to perform for the public, sharing songs and smiles in the spirit of cultural exchange.

The young singers also had the privilege of learning from renowned choral educator, Prof. Basilio Astulez of Spain during a workshop. It was an invaluable opportunity to refine their vocal artistry and deepen their understanding of choral performance.

Beyond the competition, the team explored the beauty of Mauritius, visiting Casela Nature Park, Vallée des Couleurs Adventure Park, the Botanical Garden, and the L’Aventure de Sucre Museum, where they learned about the island’s sugarcane heritage, culture and natural wonders.

The entire experience was enriching and memorable. Despite the long hours of rehearsals and preparation, every effort culminated in a golden moment to be cherished for the years to come. Beyond the medals, these young singers return home with memories of friendship, artistic growth, and pride in representing Malaysia on the world stage.

UPDATE
14 October 2025