Malaysia 2027 Conference Theme
Dance education for all: Creating Inclusive Spaces for Children and Young Learners
15th to 20th July 2027
CONFERENCE HOSTS
The Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, the National Child Development Research Center, and the Faculty of Human Development Sultan Idris Education University and the Department of National Unity and Integration, Malaysia.
Aligned with the aims of daCi and daCi conference philosophy, the conference will focus on creating inclusive spaces for children and young learners through dance education for all.
The conference in Malaysia will:
- Focus on creative dance, creative movement and arts expression.
- Advocate for the importance of dance education for children and young learners.
- Facilitate partnerships and encourage ongoing community discussions before, during, and after the conference.
- Prioritize the creativity of children and youth by allowing them to take charge of the conference outcomes.
- Explore connections between dance and various other disciplines.
- Share and analyze research on teaching, learning, and the role of the body in creative dance practices.
- Strengthen collaborations between dancers, choreographers, instructors, and academics.
The conference will be held in a face-to-face mode so all presenters and participants are able to attend in person.
Conference Focus and Orientation
The 2027 conference will:
- Emphasise creative dance, embodied learning, and artistic expression
- Advocate inclusive dance education across diverse abilities and contexts
- Prioritise child-centred and youth-led practices
- Encourage interdisciplinary dialogue across education, health, and community sectors
- Strengthen international collaboration and research networks
- Extend discussions into advocacy and policy development aligned with global frameworks
Themes and Areas of Inquiry
Submissions may address, but are not limited to:
1. Creative Dance and Movement Practices
Improvisation, exploration, and embodied creativity in children’s learning
2. Inclusive Dance Education
Practices across diverse abilities, identities, and socio-cultural contexts
3. Children as Creators and Participants
Child-led processes, co-creation, and participatory approaches
4. Embodied Pedagogy and Learning
Teaching and learning through bodily experience
5. Dance in Community Contexts
Engagement in schools, communities, and informal settings
6. Interdisciplinary Approaches
Dance in relation to education, health, social development, and technology
7. Performance and Practice
Works involving children and young learners in performative contexts
Who Should Participate
- Dance educators and teachers
- Researchers and academics
- Artists and choreographers
- Students and postgraduate researchers
- Community practitioners and organisations
- Children and youth participants
Presentation Formats
Submissions integrating theory and practice are strongly encouraged.
Format
Duration
Description
Individual Paper
20 minutes + 10 minutes Q&A
Research-based or conceptual work
Lecture Demonstration
30–45 minutes
Analytical presentation integrating explanation with live or mediated demonstration
Workshop
60–90 minutes
Practice-based, interactive session
Panel / Roundtable
60 minutes
Thematic group discussion
Performance / Showcase
10–20 minutes
Works involving children or youth
Each submission must include:
- Title of paper or presentation
- Author name(s), affiliation(s), email address and contact number
- Abstract (250–300 words)
- 3–5 keywords
- Biographical note (maximum 100 words)
- Indication of presentation format (e.g., Individual Paper, Lecture
Demonstration, Workshop, Panel, Performance, etc.)
“The abstract must clearly state:
- Purpose or focus of the work
- Methodological, pedagogical, or creative approach
- Key ideas, findings, or outcomes
- Relevance to the conference theme
Additional Requirements by Presentation Format
Individual Paper (Paper Presentation)
- Paper title
- Research aims and objectives
- Research methodology or creative inquiry approach
- Key findings, arguments, or discussion
- Significance and contribution to dance education, research, or practice
- Presentation format (oral presentation with PowerPoint)
- Audio-visual or technical requirements (if applicable)
Lecture Demonstration
- Description of demonstration components
- Explanation of pedagogical or analytical framing
- Integration of theory and demonstration
- Technical or spatial requirements
Workshop (Interactive Session)
- Workshop objectives and learning outcomes
- Description of participant engagement and activities
- Target participants (e.g., children, teachers, mixed groups)
- Maximum number of participants
- Space and technical requirements
Panel / Roundtable
- Panel theme and rationale
- Name and affiliation of Panel Convenor/Chair/Interlocutor
- Names and affiliations of all speakers (maximum 4 speakers)
- Short description of each contribution
- Intended outcome or focus of discussion (e.g., debate, knowledge exchange, policy dialogue)
Performance / Showcase (Children and Youth)
- Concept and description of the work
- Duration and number of performers
- Age group of performers
- Music details (title, composer, source)
- Video documentation or rehearsal excerpt (if available)
- Audio file or music link (if applicable)
- Technical requirements (lighting, sound, stage setup)
- Spatial requirements and safety considerations
Conference Language
The official language of the conference is English. Presentations may be delivered in Bahasa Melayu, provided that:
- The abstract is submitted in English,
- Presentation slides are in English, and
- A brief English summary is provided during the session.
Review Process
All submissions will undergo a peer-review process
Evaluation Criteria:
- Relevance to conference theme
- Clarity and coherence of concept
- Methodological or artistic rigour
- Contribution to knowledge, practice, or pedagogy.
Acceptance Categories
Submissions may be accepted as:
- Oral presentation
- Workshop
- Lecture Demonstration
- Panel session
- Performance / showcase
The Committee reserves the right to reassign submission formats where appropriate.
Originality and Ethical Considerations
- Submissions must be original and must not have been previously published or presented elsewhere.
- Authors are responsible for ensuring that their research complies with ethical standards, including obtaining informed consent where applicable.
- Authors must disclose any use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the preparation of their submission. AI tools may be used to support
language editing or formatting but must not replace the authors’ intellectual contribution. Authors remain fully responsible for the originality, accuracy, and integrity of their work. - All submissions may be subject to similarity checking.
Full Paper Submission (Optional)
- Length: 4,000 – 6,000 words
- Format: APA 7th edition
- Submission is required for inclusion in the conference proceedings
- All accepted papers will be published in the official conference e-proceedings.
- Publication is subject to:
- Successful peer review
- Compliance with formatting guidelines
- Presentation at the conference
Other Publication Opportunities
Selected high-quality papers will be invited for further development and
submission to:
- Malaysian Journal of Music
- MyCite indexed journals
- Other UPSI-affiliated journals
Journal publication is:
- Not automatic
- Subject to additional peer review
- Based on editorial selection and journal standards
Publication Fees:
Some journals may require an Article Processing Charge (APC).
Any applicable fees are determined by the respective journals and are the responsibility of the authors.
TECHNICAL AND PRESENTATION REQUIREMENTS
All presenters are required to prepare their sessions in accordance with the following:
General Requirements
- Presentation slides must be prepared in PowerPoint, PDF, or equivalent format
- Presenters are encouraged to bring their presentation files on a USB drive as backup
- Standard presentation equipment will be provided, including:
- Laptop with HDMI connection
- LCD projector and screen
- Basic audio system
Format-Specific Requirements
Important Note
Requests for specialised technical setups beyond standard provisions are subject to availability and must be approved by the organising committee in advance.
Individual Paper / Lecture Demonstration / Panel
- Slides (if used) must be compatible with standard projection systems
(e.g: *.ppt/*.pptx, Canva etc.) - Any additional software or media must be pre-tested prior to the
session
Workshop / Lecture Demonstration / Performance
- Must specify additional technical needs in advance, including:
- Audio playback requirements
- Special lighting (if required)
- Props or equipment
- Open floor or studio space
Performance / Showcase
- Must provide:
- Music/audio file in standard format (e.g., MP3 or WAV)
- Backup copy of audio
- Clear cueing instructions
- Video submission may be requested for programming purposes
Official Call for Presentations (CFP) Launch
July 2026
Abstract Submission Deadline
October, 10 2026
Notification of Acceptance
December 10, 2026
Presenter Confirmation of Attendance
February 10, 2027
Early Bird Registration & Payment
January 10 – Marc 10, 2027
Standard Registration & Payment
March 11 – May 30 2027
Final Programme Announcement
To be announced
Conference Dates
15 – 20 July 2027
Full Paper Submission
August 10 2027
At least one author must register and attend the conference to present theaccepted submission.
All prices in MYR – Malaysian ringgit.
Notes:
1. Special registration rates for school or youth delegations (applicable only to Performance / Showcase Proposals), chaperones, workshop-only access, and one-day passes may be offered. Detailed information and applicable rates will be announced at a later date through the official conference website.
2. Presenters who require assistants, performers, demonstrators, or technical support personnel for their sessions must ensure that all accompanying individuals are registered as conference participants/attendees.
3. Registration fee include:
- Access to all conference sessions
- Conference materials
- Opening and closing ceremonies
- Selected performances and showcases
- Certificate of participation
- Light refreshments during conference days
Presenter Commitment
Accepted presenters must be available to present on any date within the conference schedule The organising committee reserves the right to determine the final scheduling of sessions.
Technical and Space Requirements
Workshop and performance proposals must specify:
- Space requirements
- Technical needs (audio, projection, etc.)
- Number and profile of participants (if applicable)
Conference Secretariat:
- Mdm. Nooraini binti Abu Kassim
- Dr. Nurezlin Binti Mohd Azib
Address: Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, Sultan Idris Education University, 35900 Tanjong Malim Perak, Malaysia
Telephone: +605 – 450 5181 / 5515
Fax: +605 – 458 3602
Conference Venue
The conference will be held at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Tanjong Malim, Malaysia. UPSI comprises two main campuses; however, the conference
will be conducted primarily at Kampus Sultan Abdul Jalil Shah (KSAJS), which houses the main academic, studio, and performance facilities.
The conference will be held at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Tanjong Malim, Malaysia. The campus provides lecture halls, studios, and performance
spaces suitable for both academic and practice-based sessions.
A campus map and venue layout will be provided on the conference website.
360° VR Campus Tour
Participants are invited to explore the UPSI campus experience through a virtual tour.
Location and Accessibility
Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) is located in Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia, in the northern corridor of the Klang Valley. The campus is strategically positioned between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, making it accessible from major urban centres.
UPSI is approximately:
- 1 hour from Kuala Lumpur by car
- 1 hour from Ipoh by car
- Accessible via the North–South Expressway (PLUS Highway)
Accessible by KTM Komuter service (Tanjong Malim station), located within close proximity to the campus (10-15 minutes walk)
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation
Participants can reach Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Tanjong Malim, via the following routes:
The nearest international gateway is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA/KLIA2).
From KLIA, participants may proceed to Tanjong Malim by:
- Train + Komuter:
KLIA Express (KLIA → KL Sentral, ~30 minutes)
KTM Komuter (KL Sentral → Tanjong Malim, ~1 hour 30 minutes) - E-hailing or Taxi:
Direct journey to UPSI (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic)
Important Note
Participants are advised to plan their journey in advance and allow sufficient travel time, particularly during peak hours. Detailed directions and
recommended routes will be provided on the conference website.
Recommended
- KTM Komuter service operates regularly between Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral) and Tanjong Malim
- Participants are advised to refer to the official KTM website for the latest train schedule.
- Indicative morning departures from Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral Train Station):
- 6:58 am (arrives Tanjong Malim at approximately 8:23 am)
- 7:35 am (arrives Tanjong Malim at approximately 8:59 am)
- Average travel time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Tanjong Malim station is located within close proximity to the UPSI campus From the station to the conference venue:
- 5–10 minutes by e-hailing or taxi
- 10–15 minutes on foot
Car or E-hailing
- Accessible via the North–South Expressway (PLUS Highway)
- Exit at Tanjong Malim interchange
- Estimated travel time from Kuala Lumpur: ~1 hour
- E-hailing services such as Grab:
Estimated Fare: RM140-RM170
ACCOMODATION
Tanjong Malim is a small town with a limited range of accommodation options. Participants are therefore encouraged to make their arrangements early.
Accommodation options include:
- Scholar’s Suites, UPSI University Hotel
- Nearby hotels and guesthouses in Tanjong Malim (within walking distance or short travel): Hotel Sri Malim, Hotel Cahaya, Hotel Tanjong, Greenland Boutique Hotel
- Other hotels in Tanjong Malim may require short travel to the conference venue via e-hailing services (approximately 5–10 minutes)
- Hotels in Kuala Lumpur, with the option of daily travel to the conference venue (approximately 1 hour by car or 90 minutes by train).
A list of recommended accommodations and any negotiated conference rates (if available) will be shared prior to the event. Here are selected examples for your orientation.
Accommodation Options for daCi 2027 Delegates
Special accommodation rates have been arranged for daCi 2027 delegates at three hotels in Tanjong Malim. Additional accommodation options may be announced as they become available.
Participants are welcome to choose from the following hotels during the conference.
- Standard Twin – RM219 per night
- Standard Queen – RM219 per night
- Deluxe Queen – RM294.60 per night
- Deluxe King – RM316.20 per night
Rates include breakfast for two persons.
Address
Hospitality Training Center, Scholar’s Suites, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Kampus Sultan Azlan Shah, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia.
Website
www.scholarssuites.com.my
Reservations & Enquiries
Tel: +605-448 1922 / +6019-447 4922
Email: scholars_suites@upsi.edu.my
- Superior Single Room – RM128 per night
- Grand Superior Room – RM178 per night
- Hillview & Garden Deluxe Room – RM188 per night
- Hillview Premier Deluxe Room – RM198 per night
- Signature Premier Room – RM188 per night
- Twin Superior Duplex Suite – RM218 per night
- Hillview & Garden Deluxe Duplex Suite – RM278 per night
- Hillview Premier Duplex Suite – RM288 per night
- Signature Premier Duplex Suite – RM298 per night
- Grand Superior Duplex Suite – RM358 per night
Address
24A, Jalan Taman Sri Indah, Taman Sri Utama, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia.
Website
Greenland Boutique Hotel
Reservations & Enquiries
Tel / WhatsApp: +60 12-242 4863
Email: glboutiquehotel@gmail.com
gltgmalim@gmail.com
- Deluxe Single (Window) – RM180 per night
- Deluxe Single (No Window) – RM170 per night
- Deluxe Queen (Window) – RM240 per night
- Deluxe Queen (No Window) – RM200 per night
- Deluxe Twin (2 Single Beds) – RM200 per night
- Deluxe Family (1 Queen + 1 Single Bed) – RM300 per night
- Family Suite (1 Queen + 1 Single Bed with Bathtub) – RM350 per night
- Executive Family Suite (1 King + 1 Queen) – RM400 per night
- Executive Suite (1 King with Bathtub) – RM380 per night
- Azya Suite (1 King + Double Decker Bed with Bathtub) – RM450 per night
Address
21, Jalan Permai 1, Taman Ketoyong Permai, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia.
Website
Azya Hotel
Reservations & Enquiries
Tel: +605-691 4223
WhatsApp: +60 11-1276 3467
Email: azyahotel@gmail.com
Coming Soon University Residential & Community Centre (URCC):
A new University Residential & Community Centre (URCC) will offer affordable on-campus accommodation for student participants and other daCi 2027 participants, subject to room availability. This accommodation is designed to provide a convenient and comfortable stay within the UPSI campus throughout
the conference.
Information on room types, rates, eligibility, and the reservation process will be available from December 2026.
Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur
Participants who prefer to stay in Kuala Lumpur, particularly around the Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) area, may conveniently travel to Tanjong Malim via the Electric Train Service (KTM ETS) or the KTM Komuter. As KL Sentral is Malaysia’s main railway hub, it provides direct rail connections to Tanjong Malim and offers seamless access to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA Terminal 2), the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), the KL Monorail, and other public transportation services.
A list of recommended hotels near KL Sentral, together with any special accommodation rates for daCi 2027 delegates, will be announced from November 2026 onwards.
VISA AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Participants are responsible for ensuring compliance with Malaysian visa and entry requirements.
Applicants are advised to check their visa requirements through the official portal of the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
Official invitation letters will be provided upon request to support visa applications.
CLIMATE AND PREPARATION
Malaysia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures typically range from 28°C
to 34°C (82°F–93°F).
Participants are advised to:
- Wear light, breathable and comfortable clothing·Bring a light jacket or sweater, as conference venues are air-conditioned.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially for movement-based workshops and dance sessions.
- Bring suitable attire for practical and movement-based activities.
- Carry an umbrella or a lightweight raincoat, as brief tropical rain showers are common.
Dress Code
As the conference will be hosted at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), participants are kindly requested to dress modestly and respectfully in accordance with Malaysian cultural values and the University’s dress code.
Conference sessions:
Smart casual or business casual attire is recommended.
Short pants, singlets, sleeveless tops, and overly revealing clothing are not permitted.
Dance and movement workshops:
Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement. To respect Malaysian cultural norms and the University’s dress code, short pants, singlets, sleeveless tops, and overly revealing attire are not permitted during workshop sessions.
LOCAL CONTEXT
Tanjung Malim is a charming town known for nature, heritage, and education, featuring attractions like the Muzium Pendidikan Nasional, scenic Strata Waterfalls, and unique street art. Visitors can hike Bukit Changkat Asa, explore the Sarang Art Hub, or enjoy recreational activities at Taman Tasik Embayu in Proton City.
Participants may find:
- Local eateries and cafés within walking distance of the campus
- Cultural and heritage sites such as the National Education Museum (UPSI)
- Informal town spaces including street art and local markets
The town offers a relaxed environment that supports both academic engagement and informal networking. Additional information on local attractions and activities will be provided on the conference website.