News update Composer Ken Low dies

MR KEN Low, who composed the hit musical Chang & Eng and created the Uniquely Singapore campaign for the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), died on Wednesday night of complications from pneumonia.

The 49-year-old single was STB's assistant chief executive (marketing) and was responsible for much of the international marketing of Singapore as a world-class destination. He also oversaw the Singapore Pavilion showcase at this year's Shanghai World Expo, as well as the Aichi World Expo in 2005.

Ms Aw Kah Peng, STB's chief executive officer, said in a press statement that Mr Low was an inspiration to his colleagues.

'At work, Ken inspired us with his creativity and galvanised everyone in the most challenging of projects,' she said. 'He will be deeply missed by all his colleagues and friends at the board.'

Mr Low had been with the board since 2003.

He was hospitalised early last month and news of his death came as a shock for many in the arts and creative circles.

The Malaysia-born Mr Low, who became a Singapore citizen, earned a degree in engineering from the University of Leicester, Britain. Prior to joining STB, he was the marketing director for Singapore Post and Citibank's vice-president (marketing). He also worked with film company Warner Bros and the Esplanade.

As a board member of National Heritage Board (NHB), Mr Low contributed significantly during his five-year tenure, said the board's chief executive officer Michael Koh.

Mr Low was cremated on Thursday