BABA NYONYA
"THE PERANAKAN PEOPLE"
Embark on a journey through the vibrant heritage of Singapore and Malaysia with the Baba Nyonya Peranakan people. This unique community traces its roots back to the 14th to 19th centuries when Chinese immigrants settled in Southeast Asia, marrying local women and forming a distinct hybrid culture that merges Chinese and Malay influences.
LEGEND HAS IT THAT...
The Peranakan culture in the region began with a princess from China who married a local prince. Historically, the term "Peranakan" encompassed various ethnic and cultural groups in Singapore and Malaysia, highlighting the locally born descendants of these unions.
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Beyond the Straits Chinese Peranakans, other groups such as the Peranakan Jawi, Peranakan Dutch, Peranakan Serani, and Peranakan Chitty contribute to the diverse tapestry of Peranakan culture.
Wedding Portrait Of A Peranakan Couple | Photo credits: Wikimedia
Family Portrait Of A Large Peranakan Family | Photo credits: Elizabeth Tay
Family Portrait Of A Large Peranakan Family | Photo credits: Elizabeth Tay
THE ROOTS OF...
the Peranakan-Chinese in Southeast Asia can be traced back to the 12th century when Southern Chinese merchants established settlements in cities across Java and the Malay Peninsula. Through intermarriage with local women and the adoption of Southeast Asian customs and languages, the unique Peranakan identity emerged.
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Over the years, the Peranakan Chinese community has been known by various names, from "the Kings Chinese" during colonial times to "orang cina bukan cina" (Chinese people who are not Chinese) in more recent years.
The term "Baba" is an honorific title for a Peranakan male, denoting a descendant of a long-standing Chinese resident of the Straits. Similarly, "Nyonya" refers to a Peranakan female, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the community.
Join us as we uncover the captivating history, traditions, and legacy of the Baba Nyonya Peranakan people, a testament to the enduring spirit of cultural fusion and diversity in Singapore and Malaysia.
THE DYING ART
OF BATIK
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