Congratulations, Ling Kiong!

Congratulations to my talented friend and partner in service, Mr Quek Ling Kiong, for receiving the 2025 Singapore Chinese Cultural Contribution Award (SCCCA).

Ling Kiong is not only Principal Conductor of the Singapore Chinese Orchestra; he believed in my dream of an inclusive Singapore orchestra comprising musicians with and without special needs.

He is the music and creative director of The Purple Symphony, Singapore’s largest inclusive orchestra that my CDC and I started from scratch—with more than 100 musicians with and without special needs.

Established to honour individuals who and organisations which have made significant contributions to preserving and promoting local Chinese culture in Singapore, the SCCCA continues to celebrate those who have played a pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s cultural landscape.

When receiving the award, Ling Kiong said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the award. This recognition not only affirms the value of preserving and evolving our cultural heritage, but also encourages all of us in the arts community to continue this meaningful journey. I’m grateful to SCO, SCCC, The Purple Symphony, my mentor Dr. Tay Teow Kiat, SCO Chairman Mr Ng Siew Quan, SCO Executive Director Mr Terence Ho, my nominator Mayor, Central Singapore District Ms Denise Phua, and specially to all the musicians, educators, institutions and partners I’ve worked with. This award strengthens my commitment to nurture the next generation of musicians, foster inclusivity, and keep local Chinese culture relevant through dialogue between tradition and innovation.”

Behind all the official accolades and titles, LK is a fine citizen who walks many extra miles to bring out the soft power of our beloved country.