Most Asians have an idea of what “Peranakan” means. Most aren’t very sure how and when the Peranakan Culture started. But there was a time when being Peranakan meant you are “one cut above the rest”.

Today, this thin line isn’t so clear anymore. Some insist the Peranakan Culture began when immigrants started arriving in Singapore after the founding of modern Singapore.

Some insist that it was pretty Hang Li Po who came over to Malaya as the 5th wife of the Sultan of Malacca in the 15th century. She brought an entourage of 500 people, including many pretty dames and honourable men.

However, history has also shown that other immigrants from elsewhere arrived in Singapore as far back as the 10th century. These pretty people inter-married with the local folks, and from there, arose a brand-new culture of fashion, culture, cuisine and practices. All these factors added to form our current day so-called Peranakan Culture.

The decline of the Peranakan Culture began just after World War 2. By the 70s and the 80s, the Nonyas and the Babas were fast fading. They were our last true-blue Peranakans.

Hardly anyone lives the life of a real Peranakan these days. But the legacy of the Peranakan Culture must be preserved. It is a culture that evokes a very strong sense of unity at its height of popularity.

For the ordinary layman, we have a lot to gain from their culture – especially from their cuisine. Peranakan food culture must be kept alive. I wish they would do the same with Peranakan fashion – the sarong kebaya with its unmistakable blouse speaks volumes without uttering a word. You will agree.

We are fortunate that STB (Singapore Tourism Board) has decided to pursue the Peranakan movement after our local TV series “The Little Nonya” (2008) made waves halfway across the world. Even China bought it! And I think the Western World too!

We meet, 9am at Joo Chiat Complex on Sun, 21st May 2023. This tour will end at East Coast Road at about 12pm.

For reservations, contact:
UNCLE CHRIS WALKING TOURS
Chris WK Ng
T: 65 91814298
E: [email protected]
W: www.unclechrisdrivingholidays.com

Note:
• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.
• Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule.