SELANGOR: Sekolah Menengah Sains Kuching’s (SAINSKU) Scatz Winds clinched a Gold Award and finished fifth overall at the 24th National Fully Residential Schools (SBP) Wind Orchestra Festival here.
According to a statement, the achievement marked an improvement for the Sarawak team, which won silver at the same competition last year.
Held in Serdang, Selangor from August 11 to 13, the national-level competition saw Scatz Winds field 39 students comprising 20 boys and 19 girls.
The team was led by conductor, Ahmad Syahir Ahmad Daud, and accompanied by four teachers, Awang Shamsuri, Janice, Fiza and Azimin.
“Reaching this level was not easy. The players underwent intensive training, adapted to the ensemble’s composition, and ensured that every musical section was performed accurately, balanced and harmoniously.
“More importantly, this success proves that a team from Sarawak is capable of competing on the national stage and standing shoulder to shoulder with the best ensembles in the country,” the statement said.
Trumpet player, Atiqah Dhaniyah, who competed with Scatz Winds for the first time, said she initially found it difficult to adjust to the team.
“This is my first time joining Scatz Winds and at first, I felt quite shy. I am very grateful that we were able to achieve a gold medal and place fifth this time,” she said.
Saxophone player, Wardina Saffiyah, said preparations had also been challenging, but the team’s efforts eventually paid off.
“It was quite difficult at first, but alhamdulillah after the performance, we managed to get a gold medal,” she said.
She hoped the team could maintain its performance and continue securing gold awards in future competitions.
Alto saxophone player, Elden Baugh James, shared the sentiment, saying he hoped Scatz Winds could retain the achievement in future competitions.
The team also credited the school management, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), parents and SAINSKU alumni for providing support in its preparation, training, logistics and student welfare.
“The continuous commitment from all parties helped the team prepare more systematically and perform with greater confidence on stage.
“This achievement also shows that in music, talent alone is not the only factor, but also strong support from the school, family, community and alumni,” the statement added.
The Gold Award marks Scatz Winds’ progression from silver in 2025 and provides encouragement for its younger members to further develop their musical skills and performance.
“The achievement in Serdang is not just about winning a gold medal, but also a symbol of dedication, discipline, teamwork and the spirit of Sarawak students in bringing pride to their school and state on the national stage.
“From silver to gold – Scatz Winds SAINSKU has proven that success does not come by chance, but is built through training, sacrifice, support, and continuous effort towards excellence,” the statement said.
