JJ Lin, Benjamin Kheng, Shabir Sulthan, Awi Rafael and Taufik Batisah Join Forces for Gift a Guitar Initiative

Some of Singapore’s biggest music names are coming together to inspire the next generation. International Mandopop superstar JJ Lin, singer-songwriter Benjamin Kheng, composer and producer Shabir Sulthan, acclaimed artiste Awi Rafael, and Singapore Idol winner Taufik Batisah have pledged their signed guitars to the Gift a Guitar initiative, championed by Danny Loong, CEO and Founder of Timbre Group.

These one-of-a-kind instruments will be auctioned, with proceeds supporting the Business Times Budding Artists Fund. The funds will provide underserved youths with guitars, structured music lessons, and opportunities to perform at Sing60 this December. Beyond music education, the programme empowers youths aged 13 to 20 with confidence, discipline, and a creative community — opening doors to futures that may otherwise feel out of reach.

The initiative traces back to a defining moment in Danny Loong’s life. At 16, his father gifted him an old Yamaha guitar from their storeroom, a simple but powerful vote of confidence that shaped his path into music. Today, he hopes to extend that same encouragement to hundreds of young people.

Launched by SGMUSO in partnership with The Rice Company Limited (TRCL), Gift a Guitar aims to distribute 600 guitars this year, alongside mentorship from professional musicians. As part of Timbre Group’s 20th anniversary celebrations, the movement has already gathered momentum with support from Singapore’s top artists, who see it as more than just donating instruments, it’s about igniting belief, creativity, and opportunity.

How to Get Involved

• Youths aged 13–20 can sign up here to receive a guitar, join lessons, and perform at Sing60.
• Individuals and organisations can contribute by donating guitars or making cash donations.

For enquiries: danny.loong@timbregroup.asia | peishan_lim@trcl.sg