On 3 January 2026, the fifth TongChuang Award, marking its 10th anniversary, was held at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM (WKSGM). Co-organised by the TongChuang Cultural Foundation, SGM and the Taiping Hua Lian Alumni (KL and Selangor), the event also served as the first activity marking WKSGM’s 25th-anniversary milestone.
The event featured a calligraphy and painting exhibition by Venerable Chi Chern, lectures and an award concert. This diverse programme brought together leading figures in Chinese literature and music to reflect on a decade fostering humanistic values through campus-based creative work.
A Dialogue Between Literature and Music
Renowned Malaysian writer and academic Prof Chong Yee-Voon, who is based in Taiwan, delivered a keynote speech titled “The World Is an Artichoke: The Mutual Journey of Reading and Writing.” She likened reading to peeling back layers of an artichoke to reveal new perspectives. Through the contrasting literary worlds of writers Eileen Chang and Wang Zengqi, she illustrated that writing is a vital way of observing one’s inner self.
A second session was moderated by veteran musician Chow Kam Leong, featuring songwriters Keon Chia Kah Won and Lim Yi Qian. They shared their musical journeys, creative motivations, and the challenge of balancing dreams with reality. Keon Chia, a mainstream music specialist, recalled submitting over 100 songs before selling his first, urging young creators to persevere. Independent musician Lim Yi Qian encouraged them to remain curious, think flexibly, and never hesitate to seek guidance from mentors.
Star-Studded Awards Concert
The evening’s award concert commenced with a performance by singer Elaine Lee, followed by addresses from TongChuang Award co-chairperson Puah YouLai and SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai.
Mr Puah expressed that the support from various sectors has emboldened the team to continue nurturing the next generation of creators. Mr Koh then highlighted SGM’s commitment to collaborating with like-minded organisations to build a society rich in humanism, healthy culture and creativity, further brightening the future of Malaysia’s arts field.
The ceremony saw the announcement of the fifth TongChuang Award top honours, with Venerable Chi Chern and celebrated singer-actress Angelica Lee Sinje among the guest presenters. This was followed by an immersive musical showcase featuring Chow Kam Leong, Keon Chia, Lim Yi Qian and the award winners.
