Carlsberg’s charity concert returns, raising hope through music

For Malaysian artists Vanessa Reynauld and Daniel Chezi, performing on stage means more than just dazzling lights and thunderous applause — it’s about creating impact. This year, both home-grown stars are lending their voices to inspire hope and support education as they headline Carlsberg Malaysia’s 2025 Top Ten Charity Concert (Top Ten).

Now in its 38th year, the Top Ten has evolved from a humble grassroots effort into Malaysia’s longest-running and most impactful education charity campaign. Since its inception in 1987, it has raised more than RM587 million and supported 696 schools across the nation.

The 2025 edition will feature 10 concerts across Selangor, Melaka, Johor, Sabah, and Pahang, combining rhythm, community, and compassion in perfect harmony. Among the performers joining Vanessa and Daniel are crowd favourites Fuying & Sam, Nicole Lai, Geraldine, Ribbon Ooi, Madison Lau, and returning artist Jie Ying Tha.

“This is my first time joining Top Ten, and I’m thrilled to finally be part of this meaningful platform alongside fellow artists,” said Daniel Chezi. “It’s a powerful cycle — when we all contribute, everyone benefits. I was fortunate to receive so much growing up, and now I want to pay it forward to those who come after us. Performing in schools for the next generation makes it even more impactful.”

Empowering education, Inspiring generations

The Top Ten Charity Concert is more than an annual celebration — it is a movement that champions education as the cornerstone of community progress. This year marks the second consecutive year of support for Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Kampar, which will receive funding for education, medical, and student welfare initiatives.

For Vanessa Reynauld, the cause resonates deeply with her personal journey. “As someone who came from a Chinese education background, I truly understand how much support vernacular schools need from the community. That’s why this charity concert resonates with me deeply,” she said. “This is my second year performing, and being part of a cause that uplifts education and empowers the next generation feels incredibly meaningful.”

Vanessa added that her personal efforts towards sustainability — such as using reusable bottles and avoiding single-use plastics — reflect the spirit of the campaign. “Small actions can shape the kind of future we want to build,” she noted.

Seasoned performer Jie Ying Tha also reflected on the growth of the concert over the years. “Having been part of the Top Ten Charity Concert for three years, I’ve personally witnessed its incredible evolution. It has grown from classic music shows to a far more diverse range of performances,” she said. “It’s deeply meaningful to be on a platform that blends music with purpose, particularly in raising environmental awareness. This year’s line-up promises a standout show you won’t want to miss.”

Brewing a future of compassion

At its heart, the Top Ten Charity Concert is about empowering communities through music, sustainability, and compassion. Beyond entertainment, the campaign continues to inspire collective action — proving that progress happens when communities come together for a shared purpose.

“At Carlsberg Malaysia, we believe real progress happens when community and compassion come together,” said Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia. “The Top Ten Charity Concert is a platform that empowers artists to inspire, students to lead, and communities to thrive. By supporting education at every level, we’re contributing to SDG4: Quality Education and helping ensure inclusive, quality learning opportunities for all.”

Clini added that Carlsberg’s theme — ‘Championing Education Today for a Greener Tomorrow’ — underscores the company’s commitment to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future. “We may not change the world overnight,” he said, “but we can transform lives one school, one student, at a time.”

To participate in this meaningful initiative, Malaysians can visit Carlsberg Malaysia’s official Instagram or Facebook pages for the full Top Ten concert schedule. More information about the campaign is available at Carlsberg Malaysia’s community page.