Martell Malaysia recently presented the return of the Martell Noblige Swift Talent Quest, a thrilling competition where the nation’s top DJs battled for an impressive RM100,000 in prizes and RM30,000 in cash. Partnering with DJs Playground – recognised as Malaysia’s Best Pioneer DJ Certified Academy – the event fused tradition with innovation, redefining the nightlife experience.
After rounds of competition with an overwhelming wave of entries, four standout talents were shortlisted and went head-to-head in the finals at the Martell Noblige Swift Festival on February 15, where top regional DJs were invited to judge their skills. The top four finalists – DJ 2 Aces, DJ Ric, Silent, and Svggy – commanded the festival stage, mentored by industry icons like DJs Playground founders DJ Julian, DJ Nexto, and DJ Reeve.
With high-energy sets and an electrified crowd, the competition showcased the future of DJ-ing in Malaysia, culminating in DJ SVGGY being crowned champion and earning a place among the rising stars of Malaysia’s music scene. DJs Playground – Malaysia’s leading DJ academy that’s officially recognised by AlphaTheta and Pioneer DJ – played a crucial role in the success of the Martell Noblige Swift Talent Quest by providing world-class mentorship and training, empowering participants to elevate their craft.
DJ-ing is more than just mixing tracks. It’s an art form, and both DJs Playground and DJ SVGGY prove that Malaysia’s music scene is thriving with talent and innovation. In an exclusive with FirstClasse Malaysia, DJs Playground representatives and DJ SVGGY take us behind the decks and along her journey to becoming a winning DJ, sharing everything from her first beat to her final drop.
DJs Playground on their partnership with Martell
What inspired DJs Playground to partner with Martell Noblige for the Swift Talent Quest?
DJs Playground (DJP): Martell Noblige has always stood for boldness, creativity, and a forward-thinking spirit – values that align perfectly with our own at DJs Playground. As a DJ academy committed to shaping the next generation of music talent, we’re constantly looking for partners who not only understand the culture but actively invest in its growth. Together, we set out to create more than just a contest as we aimed to build a launchpad for future headliners.
How does Martell’s ‘Soar Beyond The Expected’ movement reflect their commitment to nurturing and empowering local talent?
DJP: Martell’s ‘Soar Beyond The Expected’ isn’t just a tagline – it’s a mindset that challenges individuals to push past limitations and redefine what’s possible. It speaks to the boldness, resilience, and passion required to turn raw potential into remarkable achievement. This philosophy deeply resonates with us at DJs Playground, where we believe that talent, when given the right stage and support, can transcend expectations.
How did DJs Playground’s mentorship program shape the participants’ journeys?
DJP: Our mentorship program played a crucial role in refining and elevating the contestants’ abilities as they prepared for the finals. While they were already highly talented and skilled, the mentorship helped sharpen their techniques and, most importantly, execute them flawlessly in a live setting. We guided them through potential challenges they might face during their performances, equipping them with the best strategies to overcome obstacles and deliver their absolute best on stage.
What kind of growth did you witness in DJ SVGGY throughout the competition?
DJP: DJ SVGGY came into the competition very ready to battle it out all the way but witnessing how she used her talents from playing the piano and incorporating them into her set showed her definition of “Soar Beyond The Expected”. Her energy throughout her set from the preliminary round right up to the finals only got stronger. Though competing and feeling nervous she managed to overcome them and showcased her skills with remarkable finesse.
How are platforms like the Martell Noblige Swift Talent Quest crucial for the development of Malaysia’s music scene?
DJP: The Martell Noblige Swift Talent Quest plays a vital role in shaping the future of Malaysia’s music landscape. In an industry where visibility and opportunity can often be limited for emerging artists, platforms like this provide more than just a stage, as they also offer a chance for real breakthrough.
For us at DJs Playground, it’s about equipping aspiring DJs with not just technical excellence, but also the mindset and confidence to seize every opportunity that comes their way. When paired with a bold and visionary partner like Martell Noblige, that potential is supercharged. The competition ignites a deeper drive in these young talents; it gives them validation, motivation, and a platform where their craft is recognised and celebrated.
Beyond individual growth, initiatives like the Swift Talent Quest elevate the entire local music ecosystem. They spotlight the richness of homegrown talent, foster creative excellence, and lay the groundwork for our DJs to one day represent Malaysia on larger regional and international stages.
DJ SVGGY on her Martell Noblige Swift Talent Quest journey
How was your journey as a DJ leading up to this competition?
DJ SVGGY (DJS): Honestly, it has been a crazy ride for me – performing for a few years and constantly refining my skill sets. This competition marks all my years of practice, dedication, and learning from every experience.
Who would you say played a significant role in your Swift Talent Quest journey?
DJS: I was fortunate to have the guidance of my senior DJs throughout the Swift Talent Quest. They spent countless hours checking on my craft, offering limitless advice, and pushing me to practice until everything was perfected. I’ll always be thankful for their mentorship and the impact they’ve had on my journey.
What was the most memorable moment from the entire Swift Talent Quest journey?
DJS: The most memorable moment of my entire Swift Talent Quest journey was when I stood on the final stage of the competition. It was the biggest stage of my career, and I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement. After years of hard work, I was finally there, ready to give my absolute best. It was a surreal moment that made me realise how far I’d come.
How would you describe your signature sound and style?
DJS: My signature sound and style are centred around toneplay. I love blending tracks creatively, chopping samples from tracks to throw a hint to the crowd for the upcoming track. My strength comes from having perfect pitch, thanks to my mum making me play piano when I was younger. That early training has really shaped how I approach music, allowing me to experiment with melodies and transitions on the decks.
Any ideas on what you’re planning to do with the RM100,000 in prizes, especially the RM30,000 in cash?
DJS: I’m especially happy about the latest model of the Pioneer DJ controller, which will help improve my DJ skills. As for the RM30,000 in cash, I’d like to invest a portion of it to help secure my future.
Keep your eyes on DJ SVGGY as she takes Malaysia’s music scene by storm. Follow her on social media at @suggylim and catch her electrifying performances, unforgettable beats, and high-energy experiences you won’t want to miss.
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