The 20th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards (20BCAA) made a dazzling return on 4 May 2025, lighting up Stage 1 Theatre at the Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC) with a grand celebration of Malaysia’s performing arts legacy. Marking two decades of honouring excellence in theatre, dance, music, and musical theatre, the event brought together creators, performers, and supporters in a night filled with pride, passion, and artistic brilliance.
This year’s milestone carried the theme 20 Years of Legacy: Igniting Inspiration for Tomorrow, reflecting on the visionary journey of the Malaysian arts community while looking ahead to an even brighter, more inclusive future. It was a poignant moment to celebrate how far the scene has come and to set the stage for the talents that will define its next chapter.
The awards spotlighted the outstanding nominees of 2024, each representing the resilience and creativity of the local arts scene. In theatre, The Bee and Randai “MacBeth” emerged as top contenders, with the latter clinching seven category awards and reinforcing its place as a standout production of the year. These works showcased powerful storytelling and innovative stagecraft that captivated audiences and judges alike.
In the realm of dance, Geetha Shankaran-Lam’s win for Best Featured/Lead Performer in Samskara – Past Reflections, Present Expressions by GSD Performing Studio was a heartfelt highlight. At 56, her performance stood as a testament to lifelong dedication and enduring artistry, proving that excellence knows no age.
The music category saw esteemed recognition for Dr. Bernard Tan, who won Best Musical Direction, and Dr. Poom Prommachart, awarded Best Solo Performance Instrumental. Both winners exemplified the fusion of performance and pedagogy, enriching Malaysia’s musical landscape through both stage presence and academic contributions.
Meanwhile, Teater Muzikal Sakti Merong Mahawangsa shone in the musical theatre segment, winning four awards for its engaging storytelling and production value. Its success underscored the rising strength and creativity within Malaysia’s musical theatre space, captivating audiences with a culturally rich and visually stunning narrative.
Three prestigious Best of 2024 accolades were also presented, celebrating productions that elevated the year’s artistic standards. Honourees included Randai “MacBeth” by Pusat Seni Pentas Tradisional (PuTRA), ASWARA; Spice, Magic and Mystique by The Young KL Singers; and Teater Persiapan Seorang Aktor by Studio Sedar Ruang. Each of these works reflected the exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation that continue to push the boundaries of local performing arts.
A heartfelt tribute was paid to Professor Dr. Tan Sooi Beng from Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, who received the BOH Cameronian Lifetime Achievement Award. A towering figure in ethnomusicology, her career has been instrumental in shaping generations of scholars, artists, and cultural thinkers. Her legacy stands as a powerful symbol of the values the Cammies seek to honour: passion, education, and impact.
In a commemorative message, Caroline Russell, Executive Chairman of BOH Plantations, shared, “It has been BOH’s privilege to walk alongside Malaysia’s vibrant and ever-evolving performing arts community over these two decades and witness countless Ummph moments of artistry, passion and innovation. Our heartiest congratulations to the performing arts community on your achievements.” Her sentiments were echoed by Kakiseni President Low Ngai Yuen, who added, “The BOH Cameronian Arts Awards uplifts, connects, and discovers. With every name announced, we celebrate not just individual achievements but the collective strength of the Malaysian arts community and its boundless potential.”
As the curtains fell on this landmark evening, the spirit of celebration lingered a celebration not only of awards and accolades but of stories, milestones, and the shared commitment to artistic growth. The past 20 years have seen local talents rise to prominence, spark national conversations, and build a vibrant space where the arts can thrive.
To explore the full list of winners and learn more, visit www.kakiseni.org/awards or follow @kakiseni on social media. The BOH Cameronian Arts Awards, fondly known as the Cammies, continues to receive strong support from the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN), BOH Plantations as title sponsor, and key partners including Yayasan Sime Darby, Taylor’s University, A Cut Above, Sephora, and Capri Communications.
