TAR UMT's Diploma in Early Childhood Education student Lee Jun Ming (pictured above) has been very passionate about music since he was three years old.
In 2026, he took the opportunity to show his passion for music on the world stage, and this led to him winning one Gold and two Bronze medals in the World Championships for Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2026 held in Las Vegas, United States, from 13 - 21 July 2026.
As one of the 11 contestants representing Malaysia, Jun Ming did not disappoint after claiming the Gold medal in Piano Duet (classical category), and Bronze medals in the Piano solo category and Open category.
WCOPA is the premier global performing arts competition that celebrates and elevates performing artists in categories such as acting, dance, music, and modelling. Annually, the competition attracts world-class performers from over 70 countries.
"This was my first time competing overseas, so I was a little nervous when I went to Las Vegas. But I told myself that I had prepared for this, so I just focused on delivering my best performance on stage. Winning the three medals made me very happy and fulfilled, as I gave it my all in the competition. I am also extremely grateful that I could contribute to Team Malaysia and make my country proud on the world stage," said Jun Ming.
Other than music, Jun Ming is also deeply connected with early childhood education, and there is a reason behind this other passion of his.
“When I was a child, my parents realised that I was slightly behind my peers in learning. They took me to see an early childhood specialist who helped me develop my learning abilities and gave me the tools and guidance to learn and grow at my own pace,” he explained.
“As someone who benefitted from an early childhood specialist, learning to bee one is a way for me to pay back for the help I received that allowed me to become what I am today. I guess it is also because I can empathise and relate with children who may need a different approach or a little extra push – I hope I can be that someone who can help and support children, especially those who need the extra care, in their time of need,” he added.
Speaking about his TAR UMT study experience, Jun Ming describes it as “endearing”, which allowed him to come out of his comfort zone and embrace new challenges.
“My classmates and lecturers have been very welcoming and always encouraged me to try new things or involve me in their social activities. For example, I was roped into participating in choir for one of my extra-curricular activities thanks to their influence, which gave me a different perspective on music. Admittedly, it was a little challenging at first, but eventually I realised that by opening myself up to new experiences, I learned how to adapt to an unfamiliar environment and pick up new skills in the process.
“On top of that, they are very supportive of my musical journey. My lecturers always ensure I am up to speed on the lessons despite having competitions, while my classmates always check up on me to make sure I am not behind in lessons. Their support has been very helpful in my studies and my passion for music,” Jun Ming added.
