What is Peranakan culture and how it is still alive? All you need to know
'Peranakan culture is an integral part of Singapore's multicultural tapestry,' he tells me. 'It's known for its vibrant aesthetics, distinctive cuisine, and deep-rooted traditions that reflect the blending of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences.''At The Lobby Lounge, we offer iconic Peranakan dishes such as Ayam Buah Keluak, Nyonya Chap Chye, and Kueh Lapis as part of our local highlights,' Mr Kapek shares. 'We also serve two special Peranakan tasting menus in a vibrant three-tiered tingkat, letting guests experience the diverse and delicious heritage of Singapore.'And the connection goes beyond cuisine.'We regularly feature Peranakan craft demonstrations and workshops for children and families,' he says. 'And our curated heritage trails at nearby Emerald Hill immerse guests in the beautifully preserved shophouses and boutiques that still keep the Peranakan spirit alive.'For Mr Kapek, heritage is not static 'Our approach is about honouring tradition while making it accessible and engaging for the modern traveller.'CULTURAL EVOLUTION ROOTED IN IDENTITYBut what exactly does 'Peranakan' mean?The term 'Peranakan,' from the Malay word for 'local born,' historically referred to descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago and intermarried with local populations. Over centuries, a distinctive culture evolved, defined by a hybrid language (Baba Malay), intricate beadwork and embroidery, and a cuisine famed for its complexity.In Singapore, the Peranakan community became especially prominent during the British colonial era, holding positions of influence while preserving a deeply personal and community-based identity.'Peranakan traditions are expressed not just in food or fashion, but in family values, community rituals, and even architecture,' Ms Chia reflects. 'Every element—whether it's a tiffin carrier or a kebaya—is layered with meaning.'NEW LENS ON THE PERANAKAN IDENTITYRegina Chia, who has spearheaded the Peranakan Reimagined showcase at Sentosa's Sensoryscape, speaks from a different, but equally passionate vantage point.'I was inspired by the visual and cultural language of the Peranakan communities, from intricate beadwork and bold batik motifs to the sounds, flavours, and stories passed down through generations,' she explains. 'There's a richness in the craftsmanship that has evolved with time. We wanted to honour that, but also reinterpret it through the lens of modern design and technology.'advertisementThe result? An immersive sensory wonderland that engages sight, sound, taste, and touch, from towering projection-mapped Peranakan Houses to enormous beaded slipper displays and contemporary kebaya fashion showcases. And it's not just a display, it's participatory.'We have felt beaded slipper workshops, embroidery sessions, and clay kueh-making activities for families,' Ms Chia says. 'Our goal is to create experiences that feel both familiar and fresh.'Indeed, Peranakan Reimagined balances nostalgia with innovation. Visitors stroll through installations like the Field of Beaded Blooms and the Giant in Grace walkway, where life-sized kamcheng jars, teapots, and wedding baskets celebrate traditional forms while surprising guests with digital interpretations through augmented visuals and photo effects.- Ends
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