How to Discover the Vibrant Heritage of the Peranakans in Singapore

The distinctive Peranakan ethnicity has been created by the Chinese immigrants. They intermarried with the locals in the Malaya Straits at the time of the British colonisation era. A significant portion of Singapore's history and culture can be attributed to this blend of civilisations. Check out these ways to get a taste of the unique way of life of the Peranakans in Singapore.   

Delve deeply into rich Peranakan culture 

Known as a unique hybrid culture which has emerged from Southeast Asia, Peranakans are mainly the communities of Chinese descendants which are found in nations like Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. Denoting the meaning ‘locally born’, the Peranakan community is made up of Chinese settlers who have entered intermarriages with the locals. These groups have their own concepts and cultural practices, which are worth exploring for travellers of all ages. One of the facts which sets this group apart from others is their dialect, which has been inspired by Malay phrases. Fashion, craftsmanship and the cuisine are other areas you can explore to immerse yourself in this group’s striking heritage. 

Wear Peranakan clothes 

Are your thoughts on preserving, celebrating and expressing the exceptional cultural identity of the area?  One of the simplest ways to do this involves donning Peranakan attire. This is called Nyonya kebaya, which sees elaborate embroidery and flower designs on a blouse. You also get clothing with nature-friendly motifs like birds and butterflies. It is normally worn with a batik sarong, much like a lungi, a rectangular piece of cloth wrapped around the waist, especially in regions belonging to South Asia. The Nyonya kebaya is usually designed from materials like silk, lace and voile. 

If you are seeking accessories to complete your look, try some ‘keronsang’. These are interconnected brooches. Buttons may be placed at the front of the blouse. It is a mark of cultural integration and a hallmark of this way of life. It represents the signs of unity and harmony within different groups in Southeast Asia. 

Indulge in the Peranakan cuisine

The Peranakan cuisine is influenced by Malay and Chinese traditions. You get aromatic, tangy and spicy flavours there. Slow-cooked meals are a staple, and so is herbalism. Some frequently used ingredients include chillies, lemongrass, torch ginger, and candlenut. 

Some of the popular dishes you can try at eateries include Laksa (spicy noodles), Itke Tim (peppery duck soup), Chap Chye (mixed vegetable stew) and Ayam Curry Kapitan (traditional Nyonya chicken curry). Visit Joo Chiat, which is close to a property like Venue Hotel, and you will find enough restaurants to taste Peranakan dishes like Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen and Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant.      

Visit attractions that are linked with the Peranakans in the city 

Anyone who stops by the city will have more than enough places to visit in Singapore. Top attractions to explore there include the Peranakan Museum, Katong-Joo Chiat Road's shophouses and The Eurasian Heritage Gallery. 

If you are looking for an educational experience to enjoy with your family, why not visit the Peranakan Museum? This exceptional monument is an emblem of the vibrant and hybrid culture of the Peranakan society, which can be found in parts of Southeast Asia. More than 800 artefacts, which give glimpses into the lifestyle of this community, can be found there. This place provides a distinct viewpoint of the cultural fusion which is the result of marriages between residents and Chinese traders. You get exhibits like traditional Peranakan attire there, along with other attractions like colourful ceramics and elaborate furniture. You and your children will have a gala time exploring this site the whole day, as there are many insights to take in.