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Monica Tong

Budget 2025 Malaysia Music Press Asia

Budget 2025: Malaysia Commits US$37 Million to Arts & Creative Industries

Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia has increased its digital content fund to RM65 million/US$15 million to promote creative works “especially those that embody the spirit of nationalism”, and will provide about RM40 million/US$9.3 million to support international film production in the country. The 2025 Budget also provides RM25 million/US$5.8 million to “support the creative industry through equity injections into high-potential companies, and to provide financing for creative social entrepreneurs”. In addition, the Madani Creative Youth Programme will be organised with an allocation of RM30 million/US$7 million “to attract about 16,000 youths to…

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Snoopy Jazz with Music Press Asia
Editor's Pick

Why We Should All Listen to Snoopy’s Favorite Jazz

Allow me to elucidate why it is most beneficial for us all to indulge in the mellifluous strains of jazz music post-labour. Furthermore, it is equally advantageous to immerse oneself in such harmonious melodies whilst engaged in the culinary arts at home. Should we consider the animated character Snoopy, one might ponder his preferred jazz compositions for a leisurely afternoon…

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GuoGang Jingju ZhuangZi Test Wife Music Press Asia
Editor's Pick

Review: Classic Chinese Opera Gets New Look

Before you think of this as a dull old show on a stage, get a new perspective! Classic Chinese opera is developing current trends in the best interest of today’s needs. GuoGuang Opera Company revitalizes and keeps alive a 200-year-old theatre performance originating from China. Recently, I get to sit in a comfortable auditorium in Sentul West’s Kuala Lumpur Performing…

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Literature Music Press Asia
Editor's Pick

Joyce Carol Oates’ review: The Lost Landscape

In many ways, literature stands firmly as part of music, just as lyricism is an integral aspect of creativity. Recently, I found myself reading a book written by Joyce Carol Oates. Oblivious to how this American author has profoundly affected American literature, I started the book with a desire to understand how childhood journaling can make any sense after growing…

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Silat performance at Malaysia Tourism Art Culture Media Appreciation. Music Press Asia

A Night Steeped in Malaysia Heritage

A rediscovery of the home country After a decade away, returning to Malaysia felt like a warm embrace. The familiar sights, sounds, and aromas sparked a surge of nostalgia, a potent reminder of the nation’s enduring charm. With this sense of homecoming, I found myself at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture’s recent media appreciation gala. Held under a…

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Asian Youth Orch 2015 performance Japan. Music Press Asia
Editor's Pick

Asian Youth Orchestra Audition Deadlines

With audition deadlines looming, its ultimate goal is its Summer Festival in Hong Kong. The program? It offers opportunities for advanced study, performance and international concert touring with celebrated artists and conductors. Are you a musician or studying to be one? If so, look no further. For a chance to participate at AYO’s Summer Festival Asian Concert Tour in Hong…

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Netflix Bradley Cooper Leonard Berstein. Music Press Asia
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Deutsche Grammaphon release Leonard Bernstein conducts Mahler video

Detusche Grammophon release Leonard Bernstein conducts Mahler’s Resurrection video December. A month of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and, for us music lovers, the sweet anticipation of discovering the year’s most treasured musical moments. This year, Deutsche Grammaphon has gifted us a musical treasure: a collection of Leonard Bernstein’s recordings that will resonate with both seasoned listeners and those just starting…

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Review AI Technology. Music Press Asia

A Day With Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft’s Kuala Lumpur event painted a compelling picture of AI’s influence. Stretching far beyond mere spreadsheets and managerial tasks, I wonder how it can help reclaime 100+ minutes a day, even when using your smartphone. The November 30th gathering at the EQ Hotel was a buzzing hive of anticipation. Just yards away from the iconic KLCC tower, I will be…

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Chilly Gonzales LIVE ARTE Concert Festival 2023. Music Press Asia
Editor's Pick

How did Chilly Gonzales make the piano sexy again?

It is officially the month of great gigs. ARTE Festival 2023 returns this season and we are spoilt for choice. Out of the already spectacular program, I thought choosing Chilly Gonzales’ would be apt. There is a certain expectation, of course, to watch any year-end show on my work desk. With a document opened on my right screen (because I…

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Mulan Chinese Dance Drama Premiered in US. Music Press Asia
Editor's Pick

Chinese Dance Drama ‘Mulan’ Amazed Audience at US Premier

Chinese dance drama Mulan was recently performed in the United States from Sept 23 to Oct 1. The show had two performances at the Boch Center in Boston, followed by four performances at the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. Based on the legendary tale of Hua Mulan, the production tells the inspiring story of a courageous woman who…

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