Tony Sim Charity Concert raises RM77K for charities

The “Tony Sim Charity Concert”, held last Saturday, April 27, managed to raise a total of RM77,000 for two charitable bodies in Penang.

Of the total, the Penang Caring Dialysis Society received RM52,000 and the Penang Pure Lotus Hospice received RM25,000.

Celebrating Tony Sim’s legacy and generosity

The charity concert, held in conjunction with Tony Sim’s 76th birthday, was not only a celebration of his milestone but also a reunion of students whom he had taught or mentored over forty years.

Among his notable students are David Quah, an outstanding tenor in Hong Kong; Susanna Saw, an accomplished local choir conductor; Evelyn Toh, a soprano and recording artiste; and local singers and social media influencers like Li Siwei, Selina Gan, and Liow Jun Yi, among others.

Many of his former students paid tribute to Tony during the charity concert attended by about 880 people.

“It is my passion to help others in whatever way I can, to bring joy to the community and to see people smile when they hear my students sing,” said Tony Sim, who is better known as Teacher Shen Huaxing (沈华兴) among the community.

A lifetime of musical dedication

Reflecting on his lifelong career, Tony recounted his journey from starting as a choir accompanist at 18 to studying abroad at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London in 1971.

He studied under the world-famous German vocalist, Rudolf Piernay. Tony also volunteered his services as a choir conductor for various schools and community choirs in Penang and beyond.

In 2005, Tony moved to Kuala Lumpur and established the Crescendo Music and Dance Studio with Dr. Yap Jin Hin and Liow Jun Yi.

Despite his years of experience, Tony remains dedicated to nurturing musical talent, conducting choirs in Selangor while hoping to see more talents flourish in Penang.

Erlinna Tan, the honorary coordinator and treasurer of the organising committee of the charity concert, played a significant role in the fundraising effort.

“I’d like to extend my appreciation to the whole team and especially to Erlinna for helping to make this charity concert a success,” said Tony.

The Caring Dialysis Society operates from Wisma MCA at Transfer Road, and the Penang Pure Lotus Hospice operates from Jalan Utama.