(From left) Gao, Chen, Ooi, Kok and main sponsor Fan with their souvenirs after the Malaysia-Singapore-Thailand Singing Exchange event in Penang. — Courtesy photo
THE banquet hall of a Penang restaurant came alive as 46 singing enthusiasts from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand gathered for a night of music, friendship and spirited competition.
The inaugural Malaysia-Singapore-Thailand Singing Exchange event, which brought together vocalists of all ages, made for a melting pot of cultural and musical talent camaraderie.
Participants from three nations reveling in the occasion during the event. Photos: —CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
Co-organised by Penang-based Persatuan Muzik Qun You and Singapore’s Gao Fei Music Studio, the event drew an enthusiastic audience of nearly 400 people at a restaurant near Karpal Singh Drive.
Headlining the musical gathering was Singaporean singer Fan Qian Ping, who performed a string of nostalgic oldies and closed the evening with a heartfelt finale. She was also the event’s main sponsor.
Lee with her eye catching rainbow hairstyle performing on stage.
Singers from the three nations took turns on stage to showcase their vocal skills, performing a variety of musical genres in a celebration their shared passion.
The contest was split into two categories: the Rookie Group for newer talents and the Elite Group for experienced performers.
In the Rookie Group, Heidy Chow of Singapore emerged champion with a soulful rendition of the Hokkien ballad Half a Pack of Cigarettes. Runners-up were Chua Song Khoon (Singapore) and Lim Thuang Boo (Malaysia).
Elite category winner Sim (middle) flanked by second-placed Chin (right) and third-placed Wong.
In the Elite Group, Sim Loon of Malaysia took the top spot with his moving version of Am I the One You Love Most? while Candy Chin (Malaysia) and Walarie Wong (Singapore) placed second and third respectively.
Seven participants also received consolation prizes, each taking home a cash prize and a trophy.
(Below) Rookie category winner Chow (middle) flanked by second-placed Chua (left) and Lim.
Vocal coach Zoey Ooi of Persatuan Muzik Qun You said the event had been planned since last year with fellow coach Gao Fei from Singapore.
“I’m truly delighted to see our efforts come to fruition. It was heartwarming to see so many karaoke lovers coming together to share their passion for music.
“The standard of singing was exceptionally high. With such a strong response, we’re already planning a second edition and for that, we hope to include our friends from Indonesia,” said Ooi.
Gao Fei, who brought 120 students from Singapore, said the event was an unforgettable experience.
“Most of those who came with me are women. And for many, it was their first time performing in such a large competition.
“They were inspired and excited, and many have already asked when they can take part again,” he said.
Thai vocal coach Jerry Chen, who led a 26-member delegation from Bangkok, described the event as a meaningful cultural exchange.
“This is about more than just singing. It’s about connecting people through shared passion, forming friendships and creating unforgettable memories. Music truly is a universal language,” he said.
Also present was Persatuan Muzik Qun You chairman Kok Khee Piow.
Malaysian participant Cally Lee, who won a consolation prize, said she had a great time with fellow singers and looked forward to returning next year.
Singapore’s Lee Sau Ying, who stood out with her rainbow Mohican hairstyle, said she made many new friends and was already anticipating the second edition.
