A look at the Peranakan culture – A blend of many traditions
http://youtu.be/ah15DyGrlIc
Multimedia Document Report
Written by: Ahny Mus
The exclusive fusion Peranakan culture is part of Singapore’s heritage.
In the
15th century, the descendant of the Chinese community settled in the
Malay Archipelago. The Peranakan Chinese were the first Peranakan community. The
other communities are the Chitty Melaka who descended from the South Indian
Hindu, and the Jawi Peranakans who descended from the South Indian Muslims. Of mixed parentage, they are known as "babas" and "nyonyas".
The cultures interacted and the Peranakans produced new and distinctive customs, traditions, beliefs and language. Their language is a mixture between Bahasa Melayu and Chinese dialects such as "bunga rampay", "pantangs" and "kahwain belarak".
They retained their ancestry beliefs in Buddhism and Taoism. They worshipped their ancestors identical to how the Chinese practiced. The Three Star Gods that symbolise longevity, prosperity and happiness are placed in their houses.
Their social culture draws from the traditions of China and the broader combinations of cultural influences of Southeast Asia such as their collection of objects. Their porcelain wares are different from the Chinese as they have intricate motifs of peonies, butterflies and phoenixes.
Their popular costumes are "kebayas" and "sarongs" which were originated from the Malays but were embroidered with the Chinese motifs designs. One of their special accessories is the "Kasot Manek", a hand-made colourful beaded slippers which required months in the making.
They created exquisite ornaments and jewelleries.
"A Peranakan woman's jewellery revealed her husband's wealth and status," said Nicole Tan, a tour guide from the Peranakan Museum.
Even though the Peranakan communities have similar traditions, the difference between Singapore / Malacca and Penang Peranakans is the styles of wearing "kerosang", a set of 3 brooches and "chochok sanggol", hair pins.
The rich hybrid of many traditions influenced the Peranakans, making it a unique culture in Singapore.
For a closer look, you may view the below video.
Sources:
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