Sibling duo Shawn and Jane Thien, performing as SJ Borneo, captured international acclaim at the 2025 World Championship in Bangkok with a culturally rich performance showcasing Sarawak’s musical heritage—earning them a prestigious Gold 2nd Runner-up title and putting the sounds of Borneo on the global stage.
Young Talents, Timeless Traditions
Making waves on the international stage, brother-sister duo Shawn Thien and Jane Thien — under their band name ‘SJ Borneo’ — dazzled the crowd at the 2025 World Championship International Competition in Bangkok.
Clinching the Gold 2nd Runner-up title, their achievement at this prestigious global competition not only marks a significant milestone in their musical journey but also shines a spotlight on the rich and vibrant heritage of their homeland.
The championship was held in Bangkok from May 9-12, with a total of 178 participants from around the world showcasing their respective acts. Taking to the stage abroad, the Thien siblings delivered an electrifying performance that celebrated Sarawakian culture, earning international praise for their culturally rich presentation that highlighted the spirit of Sarawak.
The competition brought together participants and judges from 25 countries, including Australia, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kosovo, Malaysia, North Macedonia, the Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the United States, and more.
In front of an audience of over 500 spectators, 15-year-old Shawn played the djembe while his sister Jane, 12, captivated the crowd with the sape. Their performance was a uniquely rearranged composition of the classic Malay song “Anak Kampung”, performed in both Malay and Chinese. Dressed in traditional Sarawakian attire, the performance resonated with cultural pride and youthful passion.


A Multitude of Gratitude
The siblings’ participation was made possible with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak through the Dana Mudahcara Facilitation Fund. Their family extended heartfelt thanks to the Ministry for its trust and assistance.
“This competition gave us the opportunity to stand on the world stage representing Sarawak and Malaysia, and to share our culture through music. Sarawak’s heritage is unique and precious—we want the world to hear, see, and treasure it. We are deeply grateful to the Ministry for the support through Dana Mudahcara, which helped make this journey possible,” the siblings shared.
They also expressed their willingness to participate in any future government or agency-organised cultural events or official performances, as a gesture of gratitude and commitment to promoting Sarawak’s culture.
They also acknowledged the teachers who guided them along the way: Elizabeth Bungan, Danison Manium, Frederick Maldini, Sim Kok How, Sky Lim, Narawi Rashidi, Wong Yung Fong, Jenny Tan, Jong Wei Khim, and many others who worked behind the scenes.
Special appreciation was also extended to their schools — Chung Hua Middle School No.1, Kuching, and SJK(C) Chung Hua No.3, Kuching — for their ongoing support. “Special gratitude goes to their principals, Cikgu Bong Nyuk Siong and Cikgu Lee Chee Beng, and all the teachers who provided valuable stage opportunities that shaped their journey.”
They are also deeply inspired and encouraged by sape pioneers such as Dines Ngau Wan, Hallan Hashim, Standford Ryan, Anderson Kalang, Alena Murang, Jerry Kamit, Mathew Ngau Jau, and Hezekiah Asim.
They credited non-profit cultural groups like Persatuan Anak Seni Sape’ Kuching (PUSAK) and Perintis Orkestra Tradisional Remaja Sarawak (POTRES Orkestra) for their steadfast guidance and encouragement throughout the siblings’ artistic journey.
Looking Ahead
With the aim of continuing to share the sounds of Borneo with the world, ‘SJ Borneo’ remains committed to promoting Bornean traditional music and exploring innovative ways to preserve and evolve their cultural heritage. Their motto, “Sape for All”, reflects their belief that music transcends boundaries—and that Sarawak’s heritage deserves a place on the world stage.
To follow their journey and performances, visit their official Facebook page at SJ Borneo – Shawn & Jane.

