Faiszer Musthapha acknowledged by world-renowned artist

June 11 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lankan-born international entertainer Alston Koch has expressed gratitude to former Minister Faiszer Musthapha for the support extended to him during his efforts to promote Sri Lanka on the global stage.

In a video clip, Koch is heard telling Musthapha, “You’re the Minister who helped me,” recalling the encouragement and backing he received while using his international music career to showcase Sri Lanka to wider audiences.

Koch, often referred to as Asia’s "King of Pop," is among the few Sri Lankan-born artistes to have built a recognised international career, particularly in Australia and across Asia. Best known for his hit song Disco Lady, he later gained international recognition and became closely associated with Sri Lanka’s tourism and cultural promotion initiatives.

In 2008, Koch was appointed a Tourism Ambassador for Sri Lanka and was involved in several promotional campaigns, including A Land Like No Other, a song linked to Sri Lanka Tourism’s Earth Lung initiative.

Musthapha, a President’s Counsel and former Cabinet Minister, has held a number of key portfolios during his political career, including tourism, aviation, investment promotion, environment, technology, provincial councils, local government and sports.

Koch’s tribute highlights the role of public support in helping Sri Lankan artistes and members of the diaspora promote the country’s image and identity on the international stage.