About the Peranakans
In Singapore today, there is a vibrant Peranakan, or Straits Chinese, community whose unique blend of Chinese and Indonesian / Malay heritage forms the nation’s multicultural landscape. Many trace their heritage back to 15th-century Malacca, where Chinese traders are believed to have married local women. Peranakan men are known as baba, while the women are called nonya (or nyonya).
In the early 20th century, there was also non-Chinese Peranakans which include the Bugis Peranakans, Arab Peranakans and Java Peranakans. The Jawi Peranakan was another notable Peranakan group of non-Chinese descent, comprising Straits-born Muslims of mixed Indian (especially Tamil) and Malay parentage.
Over generations, they fused these diverse traditions, creating a unique cultural identity that remains vibrant today.
Renowned for their leadership and expertise in trade, the Peranakans played a pivotal role in Singapore's early growth. Their unique language, rich cuisine, elegant fashion, and intricate craftsmanship continues to influence and enrich Singapore's cultural identity.
Discover more about Peranakan heritage at Images of Singapore.
Book Now
Cultural Identity
The Peranakans' rich cultural heritage can be seen in the everyday elements that make up their way of life.
Explore the key aspects that define the Peranakan community.
Language
The Peranakans speak Baba Malay, a colourful creole of Bahasa Melayu with a Hokkien influence. Many are also fluent in English, influenced by the British Colonial era.
Men are known as Baba, while females are referred to as Nyonya.
Arts & Crafts
Peranakan craftsmanship is celebrated for its intricate design, especially in embroidery, pottery, beadwork and woodcarving.
Handcrafted items like Kasut Manek (beaded slippers) showcase their attention to detail and artistic flair.
Fashion
Peranakan attire reflects a unique cultural mix. Nyonya women wear the elegant kebaya with a batik sarong, styled with kerosang (brooches), kasut manek (beaded slippers), and intricate jewellery.
Baba men traditionally wore Chinese tunics or Western suits.
Nyonya Cuisine
Nyonya food is a flavourful fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences. Known for its bold spices and aromatic ingredients like coconut milk, lemongrass, and belacan (shirmp paste), it's a feast for the senses.
Signature dishes include nyonya laksa, ayam buah keluak, and kueh.
Roots in Singapore
In the past Peranakans resided in several different locations around Singapore, notably the Neil Road, Tanjong Pagar, Emerald Hill and the Joo Chiat, Katong areas.
Joo Chiat/Katong: In the early 20th century, many Peranakan families moved here from the other districts. Since then, Joo Chiat/Katong has become closely associated with Peranakan culture. This is evident in the distinctive facades of the heritage homes along Koon Seng Road, as well as the many Peranakan businesses that continue to operate in the neighbourhood.
Peranakan shophouses from as early as the 1800s were decorated with majolica tiles, on the walls and floors imported from from Europe and Japan. These colourful tiles come in a variety of floral, animal and fruit motifs in Art Deco design, and sometimes come with auspicious meanings.
Notable Personalities
Meet some of Singapore's most iconic Peranakans brought to life at Madame Tussauds Singapore.
Lee Kuan Yew
Singapore's founding Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, was of a Hakka and Chinese Peranakan descent. He and his wife , Kwa Geok Choo, are commemorated together in a touching display that honours their lifelong partnership and lasting contributions to the nation.
Find out more
