#MyFSGPledge - Noor Azhar

“I’m committed to giving back to the community through the arts; this includes getting at-risk youths off the streets by providing them with a safe space and positive role models in our opera troupe.”

— Noor Azhar, 47
Founder of Malay opera troupe Anggerik Temasek Bangsawan & Forward SG participant

We are a company of about 70 actors and talents, and come from all walks and ages.

We have children, teens and young adults to those in their 70s; professionals, academics, and those who need a fresh start in their lives.

The troupe has had some encouraging success so far – we were invited by the Esplanade to perform at this year’s Pesta Raya and it was a confidence booster for us.

When our actors perform – acting, dancing and singing – they build a sense of their own identity and are better anchored to the community.

The more mature ones also provide the youths mentorship and guidance, beyond what they are taught for the stage.

With Bangsawan, my aim is to empower youths, offer them opportunities to grow professionally in the creative industry and have role models to look up to so they can maximise their potential.

I am also developing them in community building, inspiring them to give back and be aware of the larger issues facing their own communities.

I attended a Forward Singapore engagement session at Siglap CC, and it was a refreshing experience as it opened my eyes to the perspectives of others.

We discussed and dwelled on matters such as the different definitions of success, and it gave me greater resolve to continue the work that I do at Bangsawan.

Download the infographic of Noor Azhar's MyFSGPledge [PDF, 696 KB] ↗ (opens in new tab)