Chan Tyng Tyng, a distinguished alumnus of Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, resilience, and vision. A graduate of the MBA program in 2015, she has transformed her passion into a powerful movement that elevates Sarawak’s cultural identity while setting new national and regional benchmarks in arts education and community impact.
Winner of Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) 2025 – Chan Tyng Tyng, Founder of Tyng Dance Academy and President of the Kuching Performing Arts Association.
A Recognition Rooted in Purpose
Tyng Tyng’s influence extends far beyond her academy and initiatives, earning her recognition that acknowledges the lasting difference she has made in arts education and cultural development. Receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award holds deep meaning for her, who views the recognition as both affirmation and encouragement.
“I am truly grateful for this recognition. It feels very meaningful to know that the work I have been doing is seen and valued. It encourages me to keep going and continue contributing to the community,” she shares.
Reflecting further, she adds, “This award is a reminder of how much my journey has been shaped by the people and experiences around me. It also reflects the foundation I received at Swinburne, which continues to support me today. I am inspired to keep growing and to give back even more.”
Chan Tyng Tyng receives the Distinguished Alumni Award certificate and trophy, presented by the Right Honourable Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg during the 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.
Impact Beyond the Classroom
As the Founder and Principal of Tyng Dance Academy (TDA), Tyng Tyng has built one of Malaysia’s most structured and internationally accredited dance institutions. Integrating global systems such as ISTD (UK) and ComDance (Australia), the academy has produced an outstanding record of over 1,200 awards and medals, including 254 championship and gold titles, and 109 first-place wins in 2024 alone.
This remarkable level of achievement places TDA among the most decorated academies in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
In 2025, she reached a historic milestone as the first Sarawakian to receive the ISTD Fellowship in Latin Dance, the highest teaching qualification in her field. Awarded with distinction, her examiners praised her as “an asset to the global dance industry.”
Pioneering Cultural Innovation
Tyng Tyng’s work extends well beyond her academy. As the creator and director of the Borneo Open International DanceSport Championship (BOIDC), she has built one of Southeast Asia’s premier competitions, drawing competitors from more than 17 countries and contributing significantly to Sarawak’s cultural tourism.
Her role as the President of the Kuching Performing Arts Association further cements her influence. Through her charity concert series, Dance for Love, she has mobilised hundreds of dancers, attracted audiences of over 800, and raised funds for local causes, strengthening community bonds and expanding cultural appreciation.
Her commitment to modernising the dance industry is equally notable. She led the digital transformation of dance competition management in Sarawak, implementing an end-to-end digital system for registration, scrutineering, and tabulation, positioning Sarawak at the forefront of dance-tech innovation in Southeast Asia.
These accomplishments have earned her national recognition, including the Malaysia Top Entrepreneur Award in Dance Education and a feature among The Most Successful People in Malaysia 2022.
Chan Tyng Tyng delivers her remarks as Chairperson of Borneo Open International DanceSport Championship and Convention at the 3rd Borneo Open International DanceSport Championship 2025.
Cultivating Vision and Impact
Much of Tyng Tyng’s leadership approach and innovative mindset was shaped during her formative years at Swinburne Sarawak. “Swinburne Sarawak played a big role in shaping how I think and how I approach challenges. The environment pushed me to be creative, to solve problems, and to step outside my comfort zone. Those lessons continue to guide me in everything I do today,” she reflects.
Today, Tyng Tyng continues to lead with vision, drive, and unwavering dedication, transforming not only the landscape of arts education but also the broader community. Her journey demonstrates the transformative power of education and the profound impact one individual can achieve when passion is paired with purpose. Through her work, she embodies the spirit of a Swinburne Sarawak graduate: innovative, forward-thinking, and committed to fostering excellence that inspires communities and elevates Sarawak on the global stage.
A Message for Future Leaders
For current Swinburne students and young professionals, Tyng Tyng leaves an empowering message:
“Don’t be afraid to start, even if the path isn’t clear yet. Learn consistently, stay curious, and build something that feels meaningful to you. Opportunities will always come to people who show up with purpose and courage.”