I refer to the article “Tommy Koh honoured for work that contributed significantly to Asia” (Sept 2).

Professor Tommy Koh’s receipt of the 2026 Ramon Magsaysay Award is a source of great pride for Singapore. His contributions to diplomacy and international law are well known. Less often highlighted is his deep commitment to Singapore’s arts, culture and civil society.

As founding chairman of the National Arts Council in the 1990s, he was a strong advocate of the arts and of the belief that a successful nation should be measured not only by economic progress but also by the richness of its cultural life.

The Jazz Association (Singapore), or JASS, experienced this support first-hand. When JASS was formed 10 years ago, we approached him to be our founding patron. He did not hesitate. He placed his trust in a young organisation with little track record but a big ambition: To build and sustain a vibrant jazz ecosystem in Singapore.

His encouragement gave us confidence. He urged us to look beyond Singapore and take our music overseas.

Today, our jazz orchestras have performed at festivals and events abroad, flying the Singapore flag through music.

His standing also helped open doors and gave others confidence to support our mission. For this, we remain deeply grateful for his mentorship, counsel and trust.

Congratulations, Prof Koh, on this richly deserved honour – and, above all, thank you.

Chairman, Jazz Association (Singapore)
Chief Executive Officer, Composers and Authors Society of Singapore