PRIZE-GIVING: The Groovers, a newly-minted ensemble from Kota Kinabalu, created waves with its rendition at the recent Bakat Sepilok Jazz 2026 of the 5th Edition of Sepilok Jazz Festival when it clinched the first runner-up spot in the Open Category of the talent competition. The semi-finals and finals were held in Kota Kinabalu in August.
The members comprise saxophone quartet, Zara Goh Flintoft (Alto), Xavier Wong Kwan (Alto), Ryan Searle (Tenor), Chloe Chern Ying Ker (Baritone), and Jordan Alexander Wong Jian Xiong (Drums). The entertaining pieces played at the festival were Spain (Chick Corea), and New York, New York (John Kander/Fred Ebb).
“I thank the organisers, FOSTER (Friends of Sea Turtles Education & Research), especially its Organising Chairman Alexander Yee, for giving our group a chance to participate and showcase our talents,” said budding saxophonist Zara, moments after receiving the prize, together with Ryan, from the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Mohd Jafry. Centred on Libaran Island off Sandakan, FOSTER was founded by Alexander alongside Roland Niun, former Director of the Sabah Wildlife Department in 2013, to protect endangered sea turtles and educate both locals and visitors on the importance of marine conservation.
Photo shows Ryan (2nd left) receiving a mock cheque for RM1500 and Zara (3rd right) a trophy from Mohd Jafry (4th left) on behalf of the ensemble, witnessed by Alexander (3rd left). Looking on at right is Sepilok Jazz by FOSTER’s Music Director Cheong Kok Ann.
