Astro Talent Quest

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Astro Talent Quest is an annual Chinese singing competition in Malaysia organized by ASTRO Wah Lai Toi, which was first held in 1996.

This competition is aimed at showcasing and unearthing talents among young Malaysian Chinese between ages 18 to 28. The winner (and runner-up, of late) will then represent Malaysia at the International Chinese New Talent Singing Competition. Guest judges and artistes, which are invited every year, include Wang Lee Hom, Jay Chou, Jordan Chan, S.H.E., JJ Lin and F.I.R..

While many talents have been birthed through this competition, it also boasts of many contestants who have went on to become successful artistes in their own right. Notable examples would be Nicholas Teo (winner of the 2002 edition), Cao Ge (1999 finalist), Vincent Chong (2002 1st runner-up) and Anthony Chang (winner of the 2006 edition).

[edit] Competition Format

In the initial format, the final ten contestants are selected by judges who will battle it out for the title on one night performing one song and a talent time performance each. The top three will then be chosen by a panel of judges, where after they would be subjected to a series of tests which assesses various aspects of their vocal and singing ability, such as vocal range, musical timing, vocal flexibility to adapt to different music styles, etc. The judges then determine the winner, first runner-up and second runner-up.

As of 2006, a new format was introduced whereby all contestants would go through vocal and dance trainings in addition to other challenges along the way to reach the finals. Although SMS voting was introduced (for the popularity award), the judges still held absolute decision in the contestants' fate.

[edit] Results & Awards

Year	Winner	1st Runner-Up	2nd Runner-Up	Best Talent Award
2007
2006
	Anthony Chang Wee Kuong[1]	Andrew Tan Say Aun[1]	Khor Hooi Shan[1]	N/A
2005
	Chan Kwok Fai
2004
	Goh Kok Hooi[2]	Wang Meng Lee[2]	Yapp Yun Sing[2]	Ong Chun Siong[2]
2003
	Koh Kian Ngee[3]	Ann Yunn See[3]	Chan Ee Heng[3]	Tan Vui Chuan[3]
2002
	Nicholas Teo Tun Liyan[4]	Vincent Chong Ying-Cern[4]	Yeo Ai Lian[4]
2001
	Eric Lim Kien Fai[5]	Wang Wai Yee[5]	Tan Chee Kang[5]	Chin Yoke Fong[5]
2000
	Winnie Ho[6]	Lim Kai Suen[6]	Vivian Lea[6]

[edit] References