Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a gala concert, and together with SPH Foundation, pledged a sum of $500,000 to the Community Chest.

The concert at the Esplanade Concert Hall was performed by the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) and led by its music director Tsung Yeh. 

It was attended by business partners, advertisers, readers, staff, government officials, diplomats, as well as caregivers and beneficiaries of the charitable programmes.

The highlight of the concert was a specially commissioned piece called Engaging Moments – 25 Years of Photojournalism, which featured photographs taken by SPH photojournalists, accompanied by music from the SCO and the voices of the SYC Ensemble Singers (formerly Singapore Youth Choir) and the River Valley Chamber Singers.

The sensory treat was put together by internationally acclaimed photo-choreographer James Westwater.

Other musical talents featured in the concert were local pianist Lim Yan and violinist Ling Yun Zhi. Cultural Medallion recipient Iskandar Ismail also penned a new work entitled Time Changes Light for the special occasion.

Dr Tony Tan, who is Chairman of SPH and SPH Foundation, presented a cheque of $500,000 to Ms Jennie Chua, Chairman of the Community Chest, in the first part of the evening.

Both SPH and SPH Foundation have been active donors to the Community Chest every year. 

Said Dr Tan: "This evening, SPH and the SPH Foundation are pleased to jointly make a combined donation of $500,000 to 20 charity programmes under the auspices of Community Chest. Just as we have received your support, we would like to support others, so that they too may one day give back to society."

He added: "One good deed inspires another. As Singapore begins to see signs of recovery in the economy, I would like to urge everyone to remember that the less fortunate people in our midst still need our help."

Ms Chua said: “This year marks a special milestone for Singapore Press Holdings as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Community Chest is honoured to partner SPH and SPH Foundation over the years in supporting social service programmes that will help nurture our children and dignify the lives of elderly in our community.”