Maestro Kahchun Wong, Singaporean Chief Conductor of the Nuremberg Symphony Orchestra, has been conferred the Order of Merit by the Federal President of Germany today, December 10th, for his dedicated service and outstanding achievements in Singaporean-German cultural relations and the advancement of German music culture abroad.

Kahchun Wong is the first artist from Singapore, as well as the youngest Singaporean, at age 33, to have received this prestigious award. About the honor, Maestro Wong said:

“My love and admiration for classical music brought me to Germany. Here, my generous colleagues have taught me that the arts embody inclusiveness and diversity - qualities which resonate with me as a Singaporean. I am proud to be deeply connected with these two countries that I can proudly call home, and I will continue to do my best in bridging cultures.”

Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany, outlined the partnerships forged during Wong’s career between the two countries and honored his contributions towards cultural exchange as a bridge builder in his laudation for Wong:

"There is hardly a more beautiful story from the treasure trove of the multi-faceted connections between Singapore and Germany than that of yours, Mr. Wong.”

The ceremony took place in conjunction with the on-going state visit by Singapore’s President Halimah Yacob.