Magdeburg:Young talents from the PERMATA Seni Choir (PSK) emerged as overall champions at the 3rd Internationales Chorfest in Magdeburg, Germany, earning an impressive score of 29 out of 30 points.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the PSK's head and conductor, Datuk Syafinaz Selamat, expressed that the accomplishment was especially significant for the young choristers. It highlighted Malaysia's talent on the global stage while enhancing the choristers' confidence and teamwork.

The competition, held from September 16 to 20, featured mostly adult and experienced performers, making PSK's victory a pleasant surprise. Syafinaz shared that the announcement of their highest score left them in disbelief and joy, with the children moved to tears.

Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek was present at Kuala Lumpur International Airport to welcome and congratulate the PSK members. The choir celebrated their return with performances of Sewang and Enjut, filling the arrival hall with music.

Preparation for the competition began in April, with rehearsals twice a week. Besides singing, the choristers attended music theory and sight-singing classes to build a solid foundation. The competition organizers were impressed by the quality of PSK's performances despite the limited rehearsal schedule.

PSK member Valerie Soh Yue Yun, 14, attributed the victory to months of hard work and teamwork, emphasizing the importance of synchronizing every movement on stage. The youngest member, 12-year-old Tarshanaa Suresh, valued the experience beyond winning, as it fostered friendships and taught discipline and cooperation.

Nealda Tursina Mohamad Haris, 16, described the victory as an emotional culmination of their preparations, with many members in tears upon the announcement. PSK earned a Level 7 Gold Diploma in the Children's Choir category and a Level 9 Gold Diploma in the Folk Song category, excelling with performances of Jenny, Song of Hope, Ardi Bertuah, Sewang, Tari Tualang Tiga, and Jong Jong Inai.