The Raja Zarith Sofiah of Johor Foundation (YRZSNJ), in collaboration with Temasek Foundation, brought The Purple Symphony to Kuala Lumpur for their debut performance. The Purple Symphony is the largest inclusive orchestra in Singapore and consists of musicians including persons with disabilities. This special concert was held at the Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, KLCC.
The collaboration began in July last year when Yang Berbahagia Datin Paduka Ho Ching, Chairman of Temasek Trust, welcomed Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah Binti Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah to Temasek Shophouse. Two musicians from The Purple Symphony performed during the visit and their presentation touched the heart of Her Majesty. Following this meaningful moment, Her Majesty invited the orchestra to perform for the first time at the Permaisuri Zarith Sofiah Opera House in the year 2023.
The concert titled “The Symphony of Friendship” represents the second collaboration between YRZSNJ, Temasek Foundation and The Purple Symphony. The audience will experience a rich musical journey presented through special arrangements under the direction of Artistic Director Quek Ling Kiong.
Among the highlights included the participation of Choo Jun Wei, a musician on the autism spectrum who is also a
French horn player.
Chief Executive Officer of the Raja Zarith Sofiah of Johor Foundation said, “Our mission at the Raja Zarith Sofiah of Johor Foundation is to build bridges between communities through education and the arts. We believe that every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, has the potential to contribute meaningfully to society and to grow as a global citizen.
Through concerts like this one, we hope to nurture respect, understanding and empathy among all communities. We are deeply inspired by The Purple Symphony and its commitment to inclusion. It reminds us that music, just like life, is most harmonious when everyone is given a place in the ensemble. We remain committed to learning from this model as we work towards building a more inclusive and empowered community in Johor and beyond.”
“Temasek Foundation works with partners across Asia including Singapore to create opportunities that uplift lives and strengthen social resilience. The Purple Symphony is an example of this belief in action as an inclusive orchestra where musicians with and without disabilities make music side by side, united by passion and purpose. Temasek Foundation is honoured to support The Purple Symphony in its journey, and to advance the disability inclusion movement towards building a more inclusive society for all,” added Mr Ng Boon Heong, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Temasek Foundation..”
Also present was Mayor Ms. Denise Phua of the Central Singapore Community Development Council (Advisor of The Purple Symphony) who said that they are delighted to be here in Kuala Lumpur for this special performance.
“The Purple Symphony, started over 11 years ago, made its first appearance in Malaysia at the Symphony of Friendship in Johor Bahru in 2023, a milestone we continue to cherish. Returning now to the capital means a great deal to all of us. As Singapore’s largest inclusive orchestra, our musicians of all abilities remind us that music can connect people of all abilities, from different walks of life. We are deeply grateful to Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, the Yayasan Raja Zarith Sofiah Negeri Johor Foundation, Ms Ho Ching and the Temasek Foundation for their steadfast support. This concert celebrates inclusion and unity, and the belief that everyone can shine when given the opportunity,” said Ms. Phua of the concert.
The Purple Symphony is facilitated by the Central Singapore Community Development Council (CDC)
The Raja Zarith Sofiah of Johor Foundation is a non profit organisation established to support social, educational and scholarly activities in Malaysia and internationally. Inspired by the writings and work of Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah Binti Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah, the Foundation serves as a bridge between communities through educational initiatives.
The Foundation promotes dialogue and cooperation based on respect among different faiths, ethnic groups and shared values, while also conducting various educational programmes to empower future generations.
