Latest news with #Kuching-born
Borneo Post
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
‘Echoes of Love': Kuching pianist returns home in stirring recital with husband
Wong performs under the glow of stained-glass windows at St Peter's Church, Kuching, during the 'Echoes of Love' recital on July 1. KUCHING (July 6): Kuching-born pianist Esme Wong made a memorable return to her hometown with a stirring classical recital alongside her husband, acclaimed American pianist Jacob Nydegger, in a performance titled 'Echoes of Love' on July 1. Held at St Peter's Church in Padungan here, the concert unfolded under the soft glow of warm lights, setting the stage for an evening that lingered in the hearts of those in attendance. For Wong, the performance was more than a concert – it was a homecoming. This night marked a full-circle moment. From growing up in Sarawak to performing on stages like Carnegie Hall, Dresden Kulturpalast, and the Winspear Opera House, Wong's musical journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Wong and Nydegger in perfect synchrony at the piano, captivating the audience with their emotive and nuanced performance. Now based in Dresden, she serves as an opera coach at Landesbühnen Sachsen and is actively involved in musical outreach in countries such as Bosnia and Cambodia – a reflection of her belief in music's power to heal and unite. Her husband and musical partner, Nydegger, brought his own distinguished artistry to the recital. A winner of the Petroff Piano Competition, he has performed at renowned venues including the Royal Albert Hall and Frauenkirche. His playing in Kuching captivated with its breathtaking blend of power and elegance. The pianist duo take a bow to a standing ovation after their heartfelt performance. Their joint performance, marked by emotional intensity and technical mastery, moved the audience to silent awe, followed by a rousing standing ovation. But more than the music, it was the profound sense of unity that struck a lasting chord – two worlds, two hearts, and one shared language: music. 'For us, this was more than a concert. It was a reminder that our roots can reach far, and yet still return home – stronger, kinder, and full of love,' Wong said. Echoes of Love Esme Wong Jacob Nydegger Kuching pianist St Peter's Church
Barnama
26-05-2025
- General
- Barnama
ASEAN Summit: Platform For Student Volunteers To Build Character, Witness Regional Diplomacy
By Nurhafizah Tan KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 (Bernama) -- Welcoming guests, guiding directions, and setting up meeting rooms may seem like small tasks for others, but for 97 young volunteers at the 46th ASEAN Summit, it is a defining stage to build their character, gain invaluable experience, and shape their futures on the regional or even global platform. Hailing from various universities across Malaysia, these volunteers from the Student Volunteer Foundation, aged between 21 and 28, played more than just behind-the-scenes roles. Instead, they seized the opportunity to understand the intricacies of international protocol, engage with world leaders, and represent Malaysia as a youthful, capable, and ready nation. For 24-year-old Jeremiah Lucas Jugo David from the Raja Melewar Teacher Education Institute, volunteering was not merely a part-time activity but a form of national service and a chance to witness regional diplomacy firsthand. 'This opportunity not only allows me to contribute to the nation but also to understand the complex management of international protocols, which is something rarely exposed to youth,' he told Bernama at the event. The Kuching-born volunteer added that it was important for youth to participate in such programmes as it could help mould a more holistic, skilled, and globally competitive generation. Meanwhile, 28-year-old Muhammad Izzat Ibrahim, a PhD student in Special Education at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), said the experience boosted his confidence and gave him practical insight into managing official protocols and interacting with foreign dignitaries. 'At Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), we welcomed ASEAN foreign ministers from the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and others. Most were very friendly and warmly received us young volunteers,' he shared.
