Dance education in Malaysia has flourished over the years, with a growing number of academies offering structured and high-quality training across a wide spectrum of dance genres. From classical ballet to contemporary dance, these schools not only nurture technical excellence but also foster discipline, creativity and confidence in their students. Many of Malaysia’s top dance institutions are led by experienced professionals and internationally certified instructors, with some gaining global recognition through competitions and performances. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia shares its list of the Top 10 most distinguished dance schools in Malaysia. Whether for aspiring professionals or passionate learners, these academies play a vital role in shaping the country’s performing arts landscape—raising the bar for artistic achievement and creating a space where talent and passion take centre stage.
MY Dancesport Academy
Founded in 2012 by Chua Zjen Fong and Evon Chong, MY Dancesport Academy is one of Malaysia’s leading dancesport institutions. With decades of competitive and coaching experience, the founders have shaped champions who excel locally and internationally. Its elite coaching team includes national champions, ISTD/WDSF-certified instructors and world-class competitors. The company’s expertise has led athletes to podium finishes in World Championships, Asian Championships and World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) global events. MY Dancesport Academy grooms athletes from grassroots to elite levels, emphasising technique, discipline and a champion mindset. Its success is showcased in global wins, including Cherry Yeo’s 2023 triple gold in Spain and 2024 WDSF World Cup victory. Beyond training, it organises major events like the WDSF Malaysia Open, bringing world-class competitions to Malaysia. The 2025 championship will feature Asia’s first U21 Ten Dance event and live Astro broadcast, solidifying its role as a dancesport pioneer.
Tutu Toe Dance Academy
Founded in 2015 by Jess Foo and Queennie Chng, with Zen Chow as Managing Director, Tutu Toe Dance Academy has evolved into one of Malaysia’s foremost ballet institutions. Tutu Toe delivers a comprehensive Classical Ballet curriculum for children (aged 3+) and adults. Students begin with “Mum & Me” and Pre-Ballet classes, advancing through its selective, audition-only Elite Programme and Young Star Programme, specifically crafted for its Professional Dance Team. Overseen by experienced senior instructors, these programmes offer intensive coaching, performance preparation, and mentorship designed for competition success and career readiness. The academy’s accolades include the Professional Dance Team’s Overall Champion title at the 2019 Get the Beat Dance Competition, top honours at CSTD Malaysia and The World Ballet Trial. In a historic milestone, Tutu Toe proudly sent two Malaysian girls to the Youth America Grand Prix finals in the USA, marking them as the first and second Malaysians ever to compete at this prestigious global event—underscoring its commitment to world-class, internationally recognised training.
Vivace Dance Academy
Founded by Corine Beh Yeat Chen, Vivace Dance Academy has come a long way since 2005, continuously transforming to create a platform that truly benefits its students. With a people-oriented philosophy, Vivace is committed to nurturing not only skills but also the mindset and personal growth of its students, maintaining uncompromising standards in teaching quality. With over 20 years of professional teaching expertise, it is Malaysia’s first dance-and-gymnastics academy to pioneer integrated training, qualification and franchising systems, secure a national franchise license, and develop an academically recognised university diploma programme in gymnastics education—all supported by a comprehensive system for business management and technical training. Vivace’s excellence is further demonstrated through recent achievements at major competitions, including multiple gold awards and top placements at Get the Beat 2024, Top Scorer accolades at the 4th KL City International Ballroom Dance Championship, gold medals and international recognition at the Youth Performing Arts Championship.
The Dance Stage
Founded in 2012 by Lovell Chia, The Dance Stage trains dancers skilled in Classical, Modern Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary and Musical Theatre. The school boasts a faculty of multi-genre trained instructors with outstanding teaching and choreography results. The Dance Stage has grown to become a premier institution for dance education, commitment to excellence and nurturing talent. The academy provides rigorous training programmes that cater to aspiring dancers of all ages and skill levels. The curriculum is designed to develop technical proficiency, artistic expression and professional discipline. The Dance Stage also offers regular masterclasses, workshops and performance opportunities to enhance students’ learning experiences and exposure to the diverse world of dance. Each instructor at the academy brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge, ensuring that students receive top-notch education and mentorship. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities further support an environment conducive to creative growth and innovation.
Fusion Dance & Music Academy
Founded by Catherine Ng, Fusion Dance & Music Academy is one of Malaysia’s leading performing arts institutions. The academy is dedicated to cultivating a strong classical foundation in ballet, Latin dance, belly dance, piano and more—providing a structured yet nurturing environment for students to explore and develop their artistic potential. Catherine is an internationally certified educator with qualifications from both the UK and Malaysia. With extensive experience as a judge in over 25 local and international competitions, she is widely recognised as a prominent figure in the performing arts industry. In 2024, she launched the Malaysia Triumph Talent Competition, attracting more than 560 participants from across Asia. Together with its sister brand, Dansation Studio and its signature event platform, Talent Triumph Event, Fusion continues to nurture and empower emerging talent through professional training and international exposure. Backed by numerous accolades and media recognition, the academy remains committed to inspiring the next generation of performing arts talents both locally and globally.
The Dance Academy Kuching
The Dance Academy Kuching (TDAK) was founded by sisters Mary Chan and January Chan. TDAK offers a wide spectrum of dance disciplines, including Classical and Folk Chinese Dance, Classical Ballet, Modern Jazz, Tap Dance, Contemporary, Theatrical Performing Arts, Street Dance, as well as local ethnic dances. Complementary classes such as Adult Body Conditioning, Adult Ballet, Belly Dance, Pilates and Combat Dance are also available to promote holistic physical expression across all ages. In 2024, TDAK achieved a significant milestone by becoming a recognised member of the World Dance Educaton Alliance. Throughout the years, the Academy has nurtured and produced numerous talented dancers, certified dance instructors, and internationally recognised professionals. TDAK dancers have represented Malaysia and Sarawak in numerous competitions and performances, both nationally and internationally. Its presence has graced stages at renowned dance festivals and competitions across China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Hong Kong, the USA and various parts of Europe.
DANCELINK Performing Arts
DANCELINK Performing Arts is an award-winning ballet academy based in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur. Founded by former professional dancers Alfren Salgado and Hong Violet, DANCELINK is committed to nurturing dancers of all levels through a holistic, inclusive approach. The academy combines non-syllabus (free work) classes rooted in the Vaganova Method with structured syllabus training to deliver a well-rounded ballet education. DANCELINK offers two core programmes which are the Ballerina Project, a pre-professional track for dedicated students seeking intensive training and stage experience; and the Ballet Conservatoire Program designed for those pursuing ballet recreationally, with structured learning and certification. Its mission is to equip students with the technical skills and personal values needed to reach their full potential, and be able to carry themselves with confidence and grace. The academy actively promotes the art of dance through masterclasses, workshops, holiday camps, and performances featuring esteemed local and international artists.
Pointe & Music Dance Academy
Founded by Fion Too, Pointe & Music Dance Academy was established with a vision to elevate the standard of dance education in Malaysia. The academy offers thoughtfully designed programmes that provide a comprehensive and well-rounded ballet education, tailored to the developmental needs of both young children and young adults. With a strong emphasis on excellence, discipline and creativity, Pointe & Music Dance Academy is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of dancers and instilling a lasting appreciation for the art of ballet. Known for its award-winning achievements, the academy provides holistic dance education that nurtures well-rounded dancers equipped with both technical expertise and artistic expression. Its comprehensive training not only builds strong foundations in ballet but also prepares students for a potential career in dance. Beyond physical skills, the academy’s programmes are designed to instil confidence, creativity, intelligence, motivation and a deep appreciation for the arts—shaping dancers who are expressive, resilient and inspired.
Alice Chow Ballet
Alice Chow Ballet was founded by Alice Chow, a Royal Academy of Dance Registered Teacher, Certified Teacher of Progressing Ballet Technique and Russian Ballet International. Established in 2013, the award-winning school has offered professional training in Classical Ballet for young dancers aged 6 to 18. It offers students the best possible training and maintains the highest standards of excellence in classical ballet, as well as providing opportunities to outstanding students by establishing dance scholarships to international ballet competitions and summer schools. Students are carefully selected through strict adherence to selective entrance criteria, ensuring that its dancers receive a unique and invaluable start to their classical ballet training. Entry is offered to suitably facilitated and dedicated students, ensuring that the pursuit of excellence in classical ballet is highly appreciated. Alice Chow Ballet is a perfect place for the young ones who are inspired to become ballerinas to learn and work with its passionate teachers.
Kinetic Dance Academy
Established in 2004 by its principal Yap Lee Peng, Kinetic Dance Academy is an award-winning institution committed to nurturing young dancers and helping them pursue their goals with purpose and passion. The academy believes that children with clear vision are more motivated to work towards their dreams and aims to support that journey through comprehensive dance education. Kinetic Dance Academy offers a wide range of classes, including ballet, aerobics, yoga, Chinese traditional dances, pop dance and teacher training programmes. Dedicated to continuous improvement, the academy actively researches and refines its teaching methods to enhance training quality, dance knowledge and overall dance education standards. Students benefit from a dynamic calendar of events, including dance grade examinations, domestic and foreign achievement dance exhibition, living camps, student exchange programmes and competitions — all designed to enhance their knowledge and improve performance skills.