KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 3 — Malaysian singer Jeryl Lee Pei Ling recently became the champion of Chinese variety show The Next 2023.

The Penang-born emerged victorious in the final round with her rendition of Imagine Dragon’s Believer. She was mentored by Kpop stars Jackson Wang and Jay Park.

The 23-year-old was emotional as she received her award during the show's finale, expressing her gratitude in an Instagram post shortly after.

A post shared by Jeryl 李佩玲 (@jerylleex)

“I still feel like I'm dreaming, I'm really thankful for everyone around me,” she wrote.

“After singing for 15 years, it's not easy to keep singing until now. Every time I want to give up, I tell myself to hang in there for a little while more. This time, I can finally confidently say that I did it.”

She thanked everyone who has supported her along her journey, including her management team and the show’s producers, crew, choreographers and staff.

“I just want to say to you guys: Do whatever you want to do, be brave and dare to try!” she added.

“Adventurers! Don't be afraid and don't give up easily. If I can do it, and so can you!”

Her Instagram post received congratulatory messages from many Malaysian celebrities and influencers including Vanessa Reynauld, Choo Hao Ren and Priscilla Abby.

Many online users also praised Lee’s talents, adding that Wang praised her highly during her final performance.

Lee has been competing in many singing competition shows since she was eight years old.

In 2016, Lee was a finalist in the Chinese variety show Sing! China.