Latest news with #PeranakanReimagined
India Today
09-07-2025
- India Today
What is Peranakan culture and how it is still alive? All you need to know
Peranakan culture, an intricate blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences is more than a historical legacy. It's a living, breathing thread in Singapore's multicultural tapestry. But in today's modern world, how does one preserve such a richly layered heritage? And more importantly, how does one make it resonate with new generations?Indiatoday spoke with Mr Stephan Kapek, VP Operations, SEAA and General Manager at Shangri-La Singapore, and Ms Regina Chia, Senior Assistant Director, Brand Experience and Marketing at Sentosa Development Corporation. Their insights, along with immersive cultural showcases like Peranakan Reimagined, paint a compelling picture of how the Peranakan identity is evolving, thriving, and captivating audiences with Mr Stephan Kapek, one immediately senses a deep respect for cultural storytelling through hospitality. '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 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
CNA
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
CNA938 Rewind - Celebrate all-things Peranakan @ Sentosa
CNA938 Rewind Play In 'Culture Club', Melanie Oliveiro finds out about the new 'Peranakan Reimagined' showcase at Sentosa island spanning different areas — from Sentosa Sensoryscape and Singapore Cable Car to other spots across the island. Sentosa Development Corporation's Chris Pok will discuss highlights like a shophouse-shaped installation with light projection artworks, larger-than-life displays, kebaya dress-ups, interactive workshops, and lively performances. Artist Yeni Lim will talk about the embroidery workshops she's conducting and merch she's designed just for 'Peranakan Reimagined'.
Straits Times
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
From your Emerald Hill Netflix binge to real-life experience: Walk through a luminous Peranakan world at Sentosa
BRANDED CONTENT From your Emerald Hill Netflix binge to real-life experience: Walk through a luminous Peranakan world at Sentosa Swap your screen time for some scene time this SG60 as you don kebayas, explore beaded art by day and a glowing shophouse by night – all before the IG-worthy moments end on Aug 31 Live out your Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story fantasy as you explore the vibrant world of Singapore's distinctive heritage. From ornate shophouses to intricate motifs, every detail reflects how Peranakan culture remains an inseparable part of the nation's cultural tapestry. In celebration of SG60, Sentosa's latest showcase, Peranakan Reimagined, offers this multisensorial journey that reinterprets Peranakan culture for modern audiences. Perfect for family visits during the school holidays or to gain deeper insights into Singapore's diverse heritage ahead of the SG60 celebrations, the experience unfolds along Sentosa's lush 350m Sensoryscape. Catch a ride in cable car cabins wrapped in vibrant motifs inspired by Peranakan shophouses. PHOTO: MOUNT FABER LEISURE GROUP Even the iconic Singapore cable car Sentosa Line cabins of Mount Faber Leisure Group have transformed into colourful tributes to the beautiful shophouses found along Koon Seng Road to Joo Chiat Road. Hop off at each station – Siloso Point, Imbiah Lookout and Sensoryscape – to discover picture-perfect moments waiting at every stop. Local residents can also enjoy special 1-for-1 Sentosa Line promotions from May 23 to Aug 31, with round trips for two at just $4 or one-day unlimited rides for two at $14 – available only at the Sensoryscape Station Ticketing Counter and Guest Service Centre. Dress the part and enjoy scenic views in these beautifully decked-out Peranakan-themed cable car cabins. PHOTO: MOUNT FABER LEISURE GROUP Also indulge in joyous performances by the talented troupe Peranakan Sayang, as they bring lively joget (traditional dances) and delightful folk songs to life at the scenic Lookout Loop. Catch them on June 7 and 28, July 12, and Aug 9 and 31, from 6.30pm to 7.15pm. Here are the other highlights of Peranakan Reimagined to immerse yourself in. Step inside The Peranakan House Venture to the Lookout Loop within the Sentosa Sensoryscape to find a stunning life-sized shophouse, The Peranakan House, draped in intricate detail and bold colours. Inside, pause now and then to scrutinise each photograph on the wall: freeze-frames of love and family unity from a cherished time. It is a visual journey that unfolds through a curated collection of images, each capturing the spirit of Peranakan communities across generations. Snap a photo or take a video as you explore this elegant tribute to heritage and home. By day or by night, The Peranakan House stuns with intricate details and immersive storytelling. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Stay till or revisit at dusk, as there will be daily projection mapping shows (every 15 minutes from 7.30pm to 9.30pm) on the 7.2m-tall house – its facade now a canvas for dynamic multimedia storytelling and artwork. Strike a pose at the Field of Beaded Bloom Paying tribute to the traditional footwear worn by the Nonyas is a towering pair of beaded slippers, or kasut manek, adorned in a larger-than-life design, accompanied by oversized tools to highlight their creativity, patience and meticulous craftsmanship. You will find this centrepiece at the Field of Beaded Bloom installation, within Sentosa Sensoryscape's Tactile Trellis. Snap a shot with these towering kasut manek slippers and explore all the intricate beaded designs along the trellis. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION This delicate technique to create kasut manek, where each tiny spherical bead is threaded and sewn by hand to form an intricate pattern, demands hours of labour. Appreciate the showcase of 198 botanical designs on the Tactile Trellis' hoods, magnified in striking detail. Whether you are going for a wide shot with the expansive sky or a close-up with the massive slippers, the Field of Beaded Bloom is a not-to-be-missed photo spot. Marvel at supersized heirlooms at Giant in Grace At the lower deck of the Sensoryscape walkway, 16 colourful installations synonymous with Peranakan heritage adorn the resting areas along the main stretch. This collection of nine larger-than-life curios and seven sequin pieces is part of the Giant in Grace installation. A supersized teapot celebrates the beauty of everyday Peranakan treasures at Giant in Grace. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION From ornately decorated tea sets to tiffin carriers, these items offer a nostalgic connection for those who share the heritage while sparking curiosity and a sense of discovery for others. With cups as big as soup bowls, each giant piece allows visitors to fully appreciate the exquisite details and the rich stories these artefacts hold. An enormous talapa – the traditional batik headgear worn by Chetti Melaka men – rendered in shimmering mosaic tiles. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION There are also striking tiled artworks at the Gilded Mosaic installation, reminiscent of the intricate jewellery worn by the Nonyas. Fashioned after larger-than-life heirlooms, visitors will now be able to zoom in on every elaborate embellishment. Be sure to have your camera ready, as these installations also make for striking photo opportunities and unique backdrops to remember your visit to Sentosa Sensoryscape. Savour rich flavours and aromas Prepare yourself for a burst of rich aromas from the herbs and spices essential to Peranakan cuisine at the walkway behind the Scented Sphere, where the air is infused with the scents of pandan leaf, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, laksa leaf and bunga kantan (torch ginger), each planted among the lush greenery. Discover what forms the backbone of Nonya cooking, as you touch and smell the labelled edibles. Then imagine yourself dining at a Tok Panjang centrepiece – a grand, ornately carved dining table set with the family's finest Nonya porcelainware and silver cutlery – the focal point of Peranakan celebratory banquets. In addition, savour Peranakan dishes at various outlets in Sentosa, including a Peranakan Heritage Feast Set at Rumours Beach Club and other foodie promotions on the island. Feast your senses on a spread of rich, spice-laden Peranakan dishes served across Sentosa. PHOTO: WILDSEED CAFE AT 1-FLOWERHILL Get hands-on with activities and workshops Beyond admiring the beauty of Peranakan culture, why not experience it for yourself? Whether through fashion, fragrance or arts and crafts, Peranakan Reimagined offers plenty of ways to connect with heritage. At Sensoryscape, you will also encounter a fashionable showcase beyond the Tactile Trellis, featuring an exquisite display of intricately designed kebaya and even a traditional wedding dress, each reflecting the diverse styles of the Nonya women. You can also don one of these classic garments at the Kebaya Rentals available at Sentosa Shop @ Sentosa Sensoryscape. Indulge the artist in you or your child with fun Peranakan-themed workshops as well, happening at the Festive Market on June 7 and 8, July 5 and 6, and Aug 2 and 3 from 4pm to 9pm. Just spend $20 at the Festive Market to attend one workshop for free. Workshops include mini clay-making, designing your own kasut manek (five sessions a day) and even creating your own Peranakan tile-inspired coasters (five sessions a day). Last but not least, concoct a delectable fragrance at Scentopia, which will be conducting Peranakan perfume-making workshops till Aug 31 with ingredients such as tonka bean, reminiscent of kaya and kueh. Create your own Peranakan-inspired crafts at hands-on workshops happening on select weekends. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION *Fees apply for workshops. Find out more about Peranakan Reimagined and plan your visit today. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
The Sun
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Sentosa Development Corporation And Mount Faber Leisure Group Celebrate SG60 With ‘Peranakan Reimagined' Showcase
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 June 2025 - Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and Mount Faber Leisure Group (MFLG) have collaborated to transform Sentosa for 'Peranakan Reimagined' — a vibrant showcase that reimagines Peranakan culture through a contemporary lens. A double celebration in commemoration of SG60 as well as the 10th year anniversary of the Singapore Cable Car – Sentosa Line, this showcase will run from 23 May to 31 August 2025. The Peranakan Reimagined weaves a tapestry of nostalgia and heritage with immersive storytelling, inviting visitors to rediscover the richness of Peranakan culture through vibrant installations, projection artworks, performances, and workshops and specially curated Peranakan dining experiences across Sentosa. The showcase pays tribute to Peranakan heritage as a part of Singapore's cultural identity, while reimagining it for today's audiences. Sensoryscape: A Cultural Playground for your Senses At Sensoryscape, which is centered around the engagement of the five senses and the sixth sense of imagination, the Peranakan Reimagined showcase transforms the multi-sensorial thoroughfare into a bold celebration of culture, brought to life through immersive larger-than-life displays where guests can see, hear, touch, and experience Peranakan heritage reimagined for today's audiences. At the heart of the experience stands a striking 7.2-metre-tall Peranakan-inspired house at Lookout Loop, aptly named The Peranakan House — a stunning photo spot by day that transforms into a vivid projection-mapped canvas by night. A grand reimagination of a traditional Peranakan home, this larger-than-life centrepiece adorned with intricate detailing and bold colours is a tribute to the artistry and elegance of Peranakan design. A visual journey unfolds through a curated collection of photographs within the centrepiece with contributions by various partners, capturing the spirit of various Peranakan communities. As the sun sets, The Peranakan House comes alive with a whole new nighttime experience, with dynamic multimedia storytelling and projection artwork, illuminating the rich textures of past Peranakan life — from its intricate motifs and architecture to beloved cuisine and traditions which can be admired from different angles while strolling along Lookout Loop. Within the Field of Beaded Blooms at Tactile Trellis, guests can also look forward to an immersive day to night experience, where the garden's 198 panels have been transformed with vibrant designs inspired by the intricate beadwork of kasut manek - traditional Peranakan slippers. At the heart of Tactile Trellis, stands a pair of larger-than-life beaded Peranakan slippers where guests are invited to experience and feel the intricacy of Peranakan craftsmanship. Come nighttime, a new light show at Tactile Trellis brings batik motifs to life through stunning digital light art displays. As guests continue their journey down Sensoryscape, dotted throughout the main walkway, guests can discover the Giant in Grace @ The Walkway. The resting areas that line the entire stretch have been transformed into a showcase of larger-than-life Peranakan-inspired installations, including traditional Peranakan storage jars known as kamcheng, ornate teapot sets, wedding baskets, sequinned artworks and more. The sequinned installations reveal an unexpected transformation when viewed through a camera lens, surprising visitors with fresh perspectives of familiar Peranakan icons. Beyond Tactile Trellis and Lookout Loop, the other gardens of Sensoryscape have been refreshed to showcase different aspects of Peranakan culture that engage all senses. The showcase spans from traditional food displays complete with recipes contributed by the partners - to fashion with kebaya displays, musical instruments and various other cultural replica artifacts. These thoughtfully curated exhibits and displays are designed to provide guests with a multi-sensorial experience of Peranakan culture, reimagined in a whole new way. Adding to the Peranakan atmosphere, Sensoryscape will come alive with vibrant live music performances by Peranakan singing group, Peranakan Sayang, and the monthly Sentosa Festive Market at Palawan Beach Walk will be complemented by Peranakan-inspired workshops such as felt beaded slipper making and more. Singapore Cable Car - Sentosa Line: A Moving Tribute To mark the 10th anniversary of the Sentosa Line, the cable car cabins have been transformed with vibrant Peranakan-inspired designs. Each cabin features a striking palette of pastel hues, ornate tiles, and intricate motifs, taking inspiration from the historic shophouses of Koon Seng Road — once home to Singapore's Peranakan community. Developed with the creative input of Baba Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, these heritage-inspired cabins turn the skies above Sentosa into a moving tribute to Peranakan culture, offering guests an aerial preview of the island-wide celebration as they journey across Sentosa's golden beaches and coastal forests. As part of the celebrations, local residents can also enjoy special 1-for-1 Sentosa Line promotions between 23 May to 31 August 2025 — including a Sentosa Line round trip for two at only $4 (U.P. $4 per adult, $3 per child) or 1-day unlimited rides for two at $14 (U.P. $27 per adult, $22 per child). This promotion is available only for tickets purchased at the Sentosa Line — Sensoryscape Station Ticketing Counter and the Guest Service Centre at Sensoryscape. Sensoryscape Cable Car Station: Celebration of Kebaya Heritage In celebration of the kebaya's inscription on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024, a special showcase is now on display at both levels of the Sensoryscape Cable Car Station. Curated with recommendations from The Peranakan Association Singapore, the exhibition features eight distinctive kebayas by four acclaimed Singaporean designers, each offering a fresh interpretation of this iconic garment. Among the highlights is Kebaya Biku by Baba Raymond Wong of Rumah Kim Choo — a replica of the kebaya designed for actress Tasha Low's character in the hit TV series Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story. Other featured designers include Ratianah Tahir, known for her timeless Malay and Peranakan silhouettes; Kavita Thulasidas, who brings bold, cross-cultural flair; and Ada Goh, whose vibrant, nature-inspired batik artistry adds a contemporary twist. Together, their creations celebrate the kebaya's enduring legacy and evolving relevance. Guests can also visit the Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape to enjoy a kebaya dress-up experience, browse a curated selection of kebayas and beaded shoes, and shop a range of Peranakan-inspired merchandise. Siloso Point Cable Car Station: Craft, Cuisine and Culture At Siloso Point Station, visitors can experience Peranakan heritage through two striking tiffin carrier installations — one standing at 1.8 metres and the other at 1.6 metres — inspired by The Intan Peranakan Home Museum's collection. One installation also showcases three larger-than-life traditional Nyonya kuehs: Kueh Ku, Rainbow Kueh Lapis, and Kueh Salat. On weekends, a rotating line-up of workshops offers hands-on activities such as mini clay kueh-making and embroidery. These interactive sessions invite guests to engage with traditional crafts through a refreshed and reimagined perspective. Bringing Heritage to Life on Sentosa Peranakan Reimagined is part of SDC's ongoing commitment to creating meaningful and immersive experiences that celebrate Singapore's rich and diverse heritage. This vibrant showcase across Sentosa pays tribute to the rich legacy of Peranakan culture as part of Singapore's multicultural identity. Through contemporary interpretations and multisensory storytelling, Peranakan Reimagined not only honours the past but also invites new generations to connect with this unique cultural heritage in fresh and engaging ways. The showcase transforms the space into a canvas to celebrate history, spark interest, and deepen community bonds. 'As Singapore's premier leisure destination, we are proud to present Peranakan Reimagined in celebration of SG60. Set against the backdrop of our award-winning, multi-sensorial Sensoryscape, this vibrant and colourful showcase promises to captivate the senses and elevate every visitor's experience,' said Thien Kwee Eng, Chief Executive Officer of Sentosa Development Corporation. 'Through this showcase, we reaffirm our commitment to creating engaging experiences and delivering memorable moments for all our guests. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our partners for their invaluable contributions in bringing Peranakan Reimagined to life.' 'The 10th anniversary of the Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line marks a decade of sun, sand and scenic rides and it is our pleasure to be celebrating this key milestone alongside Sentosa Development Corporation through our very first thematic showcase on the Sentosa Line,' said Buhdy Bok, Managing Director at Mount Faber Leisure Group. 'We are also truly honoured to be collaborating with The Intan to pay homage to Singapore's unique Peranakan heritage, bringing the unique traditions, arts and culinary delights of Peranakan culture to life in this special SG60 year.' On top of the Peranakan Showcase, Sentosa is also offering various Peranakan-inspired workshops, deals and dining promotions across the island in celebration of SG60. Sentosa Islander members can also redeem a pair of Sentosa Line cable car tickets with a minimum spend of $40 at participating restaurants or shops from now till 31 August 2025. This showcase is made possible through collaboration with the following partners: Baba Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, Baba Gabra, Baba Richard Tan, Baba Raymond Wong of Rumah Kim Choo, Barry Yeow, Cynthia Wee-Hoefer, Gunong Sayang Association, Nyonya Christine Ong Kiat Neo (author of Nyonya Kebaya: Intricacies of the Peranakan Heritage), Peranakan Indian (Chitty Melaka) Association of Singapore, Peranakan Mansion, Peranakan Museum, Pulau Pulao, Tina Tan Leo and The Peranakan Association Singapore.
Sassy Mama
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sassy Mama
This FREE Peranakan-Themed Event Has Kebaya Rentals, Light Shows At The Peranakan House & More
Sentosa Sensoryscape turns into a colourful Peranakan wonderland from May to August with eye-catching installations, light shows, engaging activities and workshops, live entertainment and more Have you watched that Peranakan programme on Netflix, 'Emerald Hill', that has everyone raving recently? You're not alone, we're hooked too! If it got you curious about the culture, Sentosa's Peranakan Reimagined at Sensoryscape is the perfect next stop. This new installation has all things Peranakan, from larger-than-life displays to immersive experiences for the whole family. Think colourful shophouses, light shows, beaded shoes, dondang sayang melodies, kuihs, and more! Read more: Best Things To Do In Sentosa With Kids Exploring the Peranakan culture through your senses When you step into Peranakan Reimagined, you'll be greeted by The Peranakan House, a vibrant life-sized shophouse bursting with bold colours and intricate batik designs. Inside, the sounds of Nyonyas chatting, kitchenware clattering and nostalgic songs make you feel like you've stepped right into a real Peranakan home. Don't miss The Peranakan House Light Show that takes place every 15 minutes daily from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Just a short walk away is Tactile Trellis, a stunning display of craftsmanship featuring hundreds of detailed kasut manek bead patterns. At the heart of it all is a giant pair of beaded shoes, alongside oversized tools that highlight the patience and artistry of the Nyonyas who spent hours hand-beading these intricate designs. Behind the Tactile Trellis, visitors can discover the captivating story behind the Chinese, Malay and European threads that intertwine in delicate embroidery to form the beautiful kabaya. Explore why the kebaya is a symbol of Peranakan pride and how it has evolved. At the end of the path, kids will especially love the touchable art mural that depicts Peranakan heritage. For a full sensory experience, head behind the Scented Sphere where you'll be surrounded by the fresh scents of herbs and spices essential to Peranakan cooking, like pandan and lemongrass. At Symphony Streams, visitors can learn more about Cherki cards, a game that tells stories across generations, and listen to ronggeng melodies that served as a backdrop for lively family gatherings. Interactive workshops and live performances Peranakan Reimagined is also packed with plenty of exciting activities for all ages, from embroidery workshops and mini clay kueh making to creating your own beaded slippers (kasut manek), Peranakan tile-inspired coasters, and even adorable kueh tutu felt plushies! Get hands-on at Peranakan-themed workshops at Festive Market (7 & 8 June, 5 & 6 July, 2 & 3 August 2025, 4pm – 9pm). Simply spend $20 at Sentosa Festive Market to attend one workshop for free! To level up your experience, don't forget to rent a kebaya at the Sentosa Shop at Sensoryscape, so you can dress the part while you explore the culture! Even the cable car cabins have gotten a makeover, featuring designs inspired by the iconic shophouses of Koon Seng and Joo Chiat Road. Plus, on selected dates, catch live performances by local Peranakan cultural pop group, Peranakan Sayang. Their catchy tunes and lively energy will have you and the kids ready to joget in no time! Plan your day at Sentosa Island and find out more about what's happening at Peranakan Reimagined here! Peranakan Reimagined, Sentosa Sensoryscape,
