IN conjunction with its 100-year anniversary, CIMB celebrates a century of positive impact in the community, advocating for inclusion, and empowering customers and society through its 'Kita Bagi Jadi' concert which will be held on Nov 24 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre's Plenary Hall.
CIMB's concert is an inspiring social movement designed to bring Malaysians together through music, culture and the arts. 'Kita Bagi Jadi' encapsulates CIMB's vision for a Malaysia where youth can thrive, supported by the nation's cultural heritage.
The initiative reinforces the idea that art and music are powerful instruments for personal growth and community resilience.
More than just a concert, the event celebrates unity, cultural pride, and the resilience of young Malaysian talent.
INSPIRING MALAYSIANS THROUGH UNITY AND OPTIMISM
With the theme 'Kita Bagi Jadi' ('Let's Make It Happen'), CIMB's campaign focuses on uplifting Malaysians by fostering resilience, pride and hope.
In an increasingly divided world, CIMB has created this platform to promote inclusivity, showing how the arts can empower and connect communities.
Through this initiative, the bank hopes to inspire and support the young talents of Malaysia as they are the future leaders.
A NIGHT OF TALENT AND CULTURE
The concert will be headlined by the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (MPYO), showcasing young musicians alongside some of the nation's revered artistes, such as Aina Abdul, Dayang Nurfaizah and Hael Hussaini.
Blending tradition with innovation and celebrating Malaysia's cultural heritage, the concert will also feature a choir and dancers in an exciting semi-musical presentation directed by Pat Ibrahim.
The MPYO will be led by Ahmad Muriz Che Rose, conductor of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO). His journey to this position has been one of dedication, resilience and triumph.
"Becoming a conductor with the MPO was a dream I never thought possible," he reflects. His story emphasises the power of hard work and perseverance, values he now imparts to the MPYO's youth members.
CIMB-MPYO PARTNERSHIP
As a conductor, he has dedicated himself to nurturing young talent, and he recognises the crucial role corporate partnerships, such as CIMB's, play in sustaining programmes like MPYO.
"Corporate support sustains youth programmes, funding essential training and development that may not otherwise be possible," he explains.
By nurturing the youth orchestra, CIMB is investing in a future that is creative, strong and united. This partnership ensures that young musicians receive the resources and guidance they need to excel.
RISING STARS OF THE MPYO
The 'Kita Bagi Jadi' concert will highlight the remarkable talents of Malaysia's premier youth orchestra.
For many of these young musicians, being part of the MPYO has been transformative, offering unique opportunities for personal and artistic growth.
Brenda Khor Hui-Ryu, a committed violinist, shares how the MPYO has enriched her life.
"MPYO has been such a rewarding experience. I've made new friends and learnt so much from the MPO tutors," she says.
Having started her violin journey at the age of four, Khor overcame her stage fright by performing with MPYO in various concerts.
"I used to be terrified of performing, but MPYO helped me build confidence," she adds.
Sha Kah Yan, another MPYO violinist, joined the orchestra as a step toward realising her dream. "Being in the MPYO is a dream come true, especially performing on the Petronas Philharmonic Hall stage and meeting wonderful new friends," she says.
Despite coming from a non-musical family, Sha's passion was nurtured by MPYO tutors, who continued to guide her even during the challenges of the pandemic. "I practiced at home and sent recordings for feedback, and the MPO tutors' support helped me keep improving," she recalls.
Benedict Koh Zheng Rong, who plays the viola, feels that MPYO has taught him valuable lessons which have shaped him as both a musician and an individual.
"Joining the MPYO has taught me teamwork and discipline," he shares.
GESTURE OF GRATITUDE FROM CIMB
Beyond the music, CIMB's 'Kita Bagi Jadi' concert is also a way for the bank to thank its community — customers and employees alike.
By making this event free for CIMB's loyal customers and staff, the bank provides an opportunity to celebrate shared values and achievements with those who have supported it.
CIMB's dedication to supporting local talent is well-established. Over the years, the bank has consistently supported programmes that empower young Malaysians in the arts, sports and community development.
This year, CIMB reinforced its commitment by signing a one-year agreement with MyCreative Ventures to support MPYO, further investing in the nation's future leaders.
Through this partnership, MPYO members gain access to a range of developmental programmes, including an intensive 30-day music camp at CIMB's Akademi Nazir Razak in Bangi.