KOTA KINABALU: The SabahVfm Song Awards returns for its second season tomorrow (July 10) with a showcase of the best ethnic songs from Sabah.
Organised by the Sabah Broadcasting Department, the event will take place at the Hongkod Koisaan KDCA in Penampang from 8.30pm onwards.
The biennial awards aim to elevate ethnic music and foster the creation of new works in Sabah's native languages.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});Launched in 2023 as a flagship programme of Sabah RTM’s SabahVfm radio station, the awards spotlight songs from the Kadazan, Bajau, Murut, and Dusun communities.
Twelve songs selected between May 2024 and May this year will compete, with three finalists representing each ethnic language category.
Sabah RTM's panel shortlisted finalists based on vocal quality, tempo, and musical arrangement.
The finalists are:
Kadazan: Hangadon Zou – Lyron Felix Sopiiso Nodaa Ngoduvo – Presley Petrus Kopiiso Zito Ngoduvo – Elden Isos and Esther D Kimsiong
Bajau: Selekat Kiti Mitu – Rozainie Rozali Rengot Jangat – Tantiana Tukiman Angay – Mohammad Hud Lufti Jamail
Murut: Simpatataan – Syamson Tingkalur and Afiezal Fahmi Inggu Insan Ru – Anjee Afirra Laijih Sumilah Poh Bulan – Sitipah Jahamin
Dusun: Sumilau – Wirona Malun Boros Ginawo – Norzizi Safira Iddy Sunudai Oku – James Sami
Finalists will perform live on stage accompanied by the Angkasapuri Orchestra and RTM Sabah Combo.
The awards ceremony will be aired live and streamed on RTM Klik, RTM Sabah Facebook, and SabahVfm, as well as on Sabahfm, Tawaufm, Sandakanfm, and Keningaufm.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is scheduled to attend the event as the guest of honour.
A total of RM48,000 in cash prizes will be awarded, an increase from RM27,500 in 2023.
The top prize for Song of the Year is RM6,000, while RM2,000 will be awarded each for Best Vocal, Best Performance, and Best Lyricist.
Winners for each ethnic category will receive RM4,000, runners-up RM3,000, and third place RM2,000, with all recipients receiving trophies and certificates.
Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to attend and support Sabah’s vibrant music scene, with lucky draws also available for attendees.