The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) gave its inaugural performance in August 1998 and now plays a prominent rôle as one of Malaysia's foremost music ambassadors. The orchestra is a mulicultural and international orchestra with over 100 musicians from about 25 countries around the world. Each member is an outstanding musician and many have worked with leadring orchestras in their home countries.
The MPO’s mission is to nurture an interest in classical music in Malaysia, a key component of this being the encouragement of home-grown talent. ENCOUNTER, the MPO Education and Outreach Programme, reaches beyond the concert platform to develop musical awareness, appreciation and skills through dedicated activities which include instrumental lessons, workshops and schools’ concerts. The most recent manifestation of this commitment is the creation of the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, coached by the MPO’s players.