Rising S‘wakian star Taylor Louise shines at Sanremo Junior World Finals in Italy, bringing Malaysia pride

KUCHING (April 3): Eleven-year-old Sarawakian singer Taylor Louise has made Malaysia proud by earning her World Finals Diploma and Special Mention from the Sanremo Junior Committee and Jury at the prestigious Sanremo Junior World Finals 2025 in Italy.

Her recognition had placed Malaysia among the top five countries in the highly competitive 10-12 age category of the renowned international singing competition, now in its 16th edition.

Held on March 26 at the iconic Teatro Ariston in Sanremo, the event featured 25 young singers from around the world competing for top honours.

Taylor, the sole Malaysian, delivered a live performance with the Sanremo Junior Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Alessandro Scaglione.

With over 1,000 contestants vying for a spot in the finals, her achievement stands as a testament to her dedication and passion for music.

Her journey to Sanremo was made possible with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts and minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The competition featured participants from 25 countries, including Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Bulgaria, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Russia, South Africa, Thailand, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan, showcasing a diverse array of musical talent.

“I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me along this incredible journey. Competing in Sanremo has been an extraordinary experience.

“Receiving the Special Mention is a heartfelt honour that acknowledges the unique qualities of my performance and motivates me to keep growing as an artist,” she told The Borneo Post when contacted.

Taylor’s success at Sanremo has also earned her an invitation to perform at the Macedonia International Music Festival 2025 this August, with Malaysia being among the seven countries selected for this prestigious invitation.

The festival’s director Toni Aleksovki presented the official invitation certificate to her, marking another milestone in her rising musical career.

Expressing her gratitude, Taylor thanked her fellow Sarawakians and Malaysians for their unwavering support.

“Although I did not achieve a higher placement, I am committed to improving and continuing my journey. Every step I took on that stage was inspired by my love for Sarawak and my dedication to representing our community,” she said.

She also extended special appreciation to her father for sewing her competition dress, and to her mentor Teacher Sabrina for her unwavering guidance and belief in her abilities.

“To all the winners at the Sanremo Junior World Finals, congratulations! Your achievements inspire me to keep striving for greatness.

“I look forward to growing, improving, and continuing my musical journey,” she added.