In conjunction with the upcoming “Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra – Debut Malaysia Tour 2024” which will be held on 3 and 4 August 2024 at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, Kuala Lumpur and on 7 August 2024 at Dewan Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew, TAR UMT Penang Branch (previously at Dewan Sri Pinang), a second press conference was organised on 18 May 2024 at Hui Yin Seh Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang.

UTAR is proud to organise this debut performance in Malaysia in collaboration with the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (HKCO). This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time the HKCO performs in Malaysia. The HKCO performances will be under the guidance of the Assistant Artistic Director and Resident Conductor of HKCO, Mr Chew Hee Chiat.

While the HKCO performances promote the appreciation of Chinese orchestra music; they also provide a platform for cultural exchange, networking among orchestra music fans, and a broader appreciation of the Chinese culture, its musical instruments and its unique rendition of Chinese music. Additionally, the performances also aimed to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relationship between Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China.

In correspondence to the changes made to the venue at Penang, UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat said, “Due to unforeseen issues, we have decided to change the venue for the third show (7 August 2024) from Dewan Sri Pinang to Dewan Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew at TAR UMT Penang Branch. For individuals who have previously purchased the tickets, they can opt for ticket refund or seat change options via ticket2U platform.”

Prof Dato’ Ewe also expressed his excitement for the shows. He enthused, “This will be the first time for the ‘leader in Chinese ethnic music’ and the ‘cultural ambassador of Hong Kong’ HKCO to perform in Malaysia since its formation in 1977. The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is renowned for its rich collection of Chinese orchestral music, and their performances are a testament to the beauty and cultural heritage of China.”

Attending the press conference virtually via Zoom, HKCO Assistant Artistic Director and Resident Conductor Mr Chew also expressed his excitement for the opportunity to perform in his homeland, Malaysia. “Although I always return to Malaysia at least once a year, the upcoming shows are very meaningful to me. This is because I get to lead a world-class orchestra in my homeland and not only relive old memories, but also share the performances with my families, old friends, and fellow Malaysians.”

Mr Chew also shared the development status regarding some changes towards the shows. He commented that about 90 HKCO musicians will be performing at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, and about 60 musicians will be performing at Dewan Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew due to the hall’s design. He remarked that HKCO will make further changes to the coordination of performances at Dewan Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew. “The audience can nonetheless still expect a diverse array of classics such as Joseph Koo’s ‘A Medley of Themes from Television Drama Series’, Joe Hisaishi’s ‘Theme from Laputa’, P. Ramlee’s ‘Getaran Jiwa’ and Pak Ngah’s ‘Dikir Puteri’ during the performances,” Mr Chew remarked.

Hui Yin Seh Association Chairperson Mr Khiah Hock Leong said, “HKCO’s tour in Malaysia is a rare and meaningful opportunity, as HKCO is well-known for its excellent standards and innovative interpretation of traditional music. This music tour is not just a music show, but it is also a grand event of cultural exchange that will bring us a high-level Chinese music show.”

He added that Hui Yin Seh Association is happy to be working with others as one of the co-organisers to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Malaysia and China’s diplomatic relationship. Besides exploring Buddhism and promoting education and charity, Mr Khiah stated that the Hui Yin Seh Association also puts emphasis on cultural activity.

Also present at the press conference were UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Hui Yin Seh Association Vice Chairperson Mr Lim Thung Hin, the Coordinator of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra Debut Malaysia Tour 2024 Mr Hew Kok Leong, Malaysia Zhong Hua Artifacts Association Advisor Mr Teoh Peng Seng, representatives from Hui Yin Seh Association Mr Ng Heng Siang, Mr Chuong Kwang Chung, Mr Ooi Kok Hwa, and Ms Goh Lean See; a representative from Chong Yee Chinese Music Centre/Music Academy Mr Lim Kok Hong; and representatives from Professional Cultural Center Orchestra.

Discounts will be available for group booking of tickets (5% for 10 – 24 purchases; 10% for 25 – 49 purchases; 15% for 50 purchases and above) for the show at Dewan Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew, TAR UMT Penang Branch (7 August 2024).

For more details on the upcoming shows and ticket purchases, please visit https://www.dfp.com.my/hong-kong-chinese-orchestra (Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS) or https://www.ticket2u.com.my/event/34618/hong-kong-chinese-orchestra-debut-malaysia-tour-2024 (Dewan Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew).

For further enquiries, please contact Ms Hee (016-3312561) / heecy@utar.edu.my or Mr Lim (016-4150325) / lsjen@utar.edu.my

Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra – Debut Malaysia Tour 2024

The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra – Debut Malaysia Tour 2024 is mainly funded by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. It is supported by The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, the Professional Cultural Center Orchestra, and Pertubuhan Hui Yin Seh Ayer Itam. The media partners are Sin Chew Daily, Guang Ming Daily, Mango Media and The Star Media Group.