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West Australian
10-07-2025
- West Australian
Opulent Peranakan Mansion reveals its treasures
I feel like I've discovered a hidden gem when I arrive in the Singaporean neighbourhood of Katong. I've come to visit the Singapore Peranakan Mansion Museum to see one of the finest private collections of Peranakan artefacts in Singapore — but I'm already smitten by this charming neighbourhood because of the lively streetscape which includes many fine examples of elaborately decorated Peranakan shop houses. Peranakans are the descendants of Chinese and Malays who intermarried after the first Chinese traders arrived in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. They developed their own unique culture by blending Chinese and local traditions — and I'm about to learn more about it. I enter the museum via an inconspicuous rear lane and a follow a narrow staircase to the first floor where I step through an intricately carved wood door and am welcomed by my guide Elaine Ng. 'Welcome to our museum,' she says, as she leads me inside. 'This a private museum and everything you see here belongs to one family — and a lot of the artefacts were handed me down over generations but the current owners also add on to the collection all the time.' It is almost sensory overload as look around the place. Every wall and every space is bursting at the seams with beautiful antique cabinets set against colourful walls and filled with Peranakan porcelain tableware. The walls are adorned with black-and-white family portraits in golden frames. Elaine, who must have sensed my amazement, explains that it is a living museum in that everything is used and placed where it once was 100 or 200 years ago. 'The artefacts are not behind glass cabinets where you can just take a look. Here you're allowed to touch.' I'm particularly impressed by the dining room where natural light streams in through three windows with mint green, soft pink and soft blue stained-glass features. The crimson-painted walls are lined with more antique cabinets with ornate gold detailing, and a large rectangular dining table, which is set for a Peranakan feast with fine porcelain tableware. Elaine, who is dressed in a stunning sarong kebaya with intricate embroidery to match the opulent feel of the room, explains that Peranakans loved to throw lavish parties to show off their wealth and western influences gained through their travels and trading. 'The Chinese would usually sit around a round table and share food using chopsticks but here it's a rectangular table and there are no chopsticks,' she says. During the next hour Elaine gives me a fascinating insight into the Peranakan culture. Because of the intermarriage, Peranakans have a fairly relaxed attitude to religion. Many practice Chinese religious beliefs such as Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, but some have also embraced Christianity or Catholicism. It is not uncommon to have three or four altars in a house. In the early days, the males, known as 'babas,' oversaw the business. They lived a privileged life with several wives, and the sons were often sent to Europe for a western education. The women, known as' nyonyas', ran the household, and amongst the wives there was a strict hierarchy with the number one wife being the matriarch. Marriages were typically arranged by a matchmaker who would extend a marriage invitation from one family to another when a young women came of age. The arrangement often involved a dowry, but it was also important for the young woman to possess excellent skills in things such as cooking, sewing, beading and embroidery. Cooking skills were highly regarded, and recipes were often passed down through generations like precious heirlooms. Good skills in sewing and embroidery were also extremely important because it showed the woman had the patience and organisational skills needed for running the future household. Once an agreement was made, an elaborate celebration lasting several days followed — and concluded with the marriage being consummated in an extravagant wedding bed decorated with beadwork, embroidery and silk curtains, while the matchmaker kept a discreet eye on things. At the conclusion of my visit, Elaine magically produces an exquisite high tea with a selection of rainbow-hued kueh cakes. It seems a perfect way to finish my visit and while I enjoy the tea and cakes, I reflect on what has been a fascinating insight into Peranakan life. What strikes me most is how they have managed to harmoniously blend different traditions, beliefs and styles into one cohesive culture. The Peranakan Mansion is much more than a museum, particularly when you have a guide like Elaine to explain the complex and layered identity of the Peranakan people. The Singapore Peranakan Mansion spans four heritage shophouses on the corner of Joo Chiat Road and Koon Seng Road in Katong. It is open daily from 11am to 6pm (except Tuesdays) and you can book direct on +65 9789 7628 or from various booking sites. The Peranakan Cultural Talk with the Nyonya Kueh Experience cost $S38.00 per adult ( about $45). As well as admiring the beautiful mansion, guests can also dress up in the iconic sarong kebaya and capture timeless photos in the authentic Peranakan setting of the museum. The Nyonya Kebaya Dress-up costs $S20 per set (about $24). Disclaimer: Mogens Johansen was a guest of the Singapore Tourist Board. They have not read or influenced this story prior to publication.
Straits Times
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Food Picks: Contemporary Asian flavours at one-Michelin-starred Willow
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox SINGAPORE – Willow executive chef Nicolas Tam, one of those self-styled straight-talker types, has no time for fine dining's typical frills, despite his restaurant's one Michelin star. So, do not expect ironed tablecloths or lavish courtesy here. As the contemporary Asian restaurant sways into a new season, it turns its attention from Japan to the rest of the continent. The gastronomic essence of other cultures, such as the Chinese and the Peranakans, comes to bear here in a menu that is constantly updated to keep pace with seasonal specialities and supply chain fluctuations. The $228++ dinner menu starts off with the familiar: a soothing and herbal black chicken consomme made with the Silkie breed of poultry prized for its gamier taste. Following a quick detour through the restaurant's traditional stomping ground of Japanese cuisine – a trio of snacks with uni and chutoro – chef Tam's French background delivers a cloud-like Pain Au Lait, to be dipped in a sweet-savoury miso sabayon that cradles in its centre a confit egg yolk. A zesty appetiser of zucchini, green apple and caviar cleanses the palate before the mains, generously portioned and boldly spiced, make landfall. One of the highlights is the toothfish with sauerkraut – an elegant nod to the suan cai yu (fish with pickled mustard greens) that has become so ubiquitous in Singapore. Willow's version is creamier and less puckering, the succulent fish dusted with rattan pepper for a light citrus zing. Also inspired by a local favourite is the Iberico pork with buah keluak sambal. The condiment's caramelised nuttiness, traced every so slightly with a bitter hint, complements the richness of the pork. Miyazaki A5 wagyu at Willow. ST PHOTO: CHERIE LOK Diners can upgrade this dish to a plate of Miyazaki A5 wagyu, grilled over binchotan and crowned with a nugget of foie gras. It is the kind of melt-in-your mouth luxuriance expected of a restaurant of this calibre and, in some ways, exemplifies Willow's ethos – maximum quality, minimal fuss. A final rice course rounds off the savoury act, before two desserts and a trio of sweets tuck you gently into a blissful food coma.
Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Take a deep dive into Peranakan culture at Sentosa Sensoryscape
The Peranakan House is part of the Peranakan Reimagined show, a tribute to the artistry and elegance of Peranakan designs. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR SINGAPORE – With the music of the 1940 Indonesian keroncong hit Bengawan Solo setting the mood, visitors to Sentosa Sensoryscape will rediscover heritage through a contemporary lens in a new Peranakan Reimagined show. The show pays homage to the Peranakans, recognising their culture as a vital part of Singapore's identity, while reinterpreting it for modern audiences through immersive art, performances, culinary events and projection mapping. Ms Thien Kwee Eng, chief executive of Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC), says the vibrant and colourful exhibition promises to captivate the senses and elevate every visitor's experience. 'Through this showcase, we reaffirm our commitment to creating engaging experiences and delivering memorable moments for all our guests,' she says. There are more than 10 installations, as well as close to 20 events and dining arrangements, planned for Peranakan Reimagined. Sentosa Sensoryscape is a 350m two-tier linkway designed as a day-to-night island experience. It presents a 'phygital' – physical and digital – celebration of the senses. From the outset at Beach Station, the trail's element of sensorial surprise awaits visitors who will see a transformation in the area linking Resorts World Sentosa in the north with the island's southern shoreline. Installations and experiences line the walkway, culminating in an after-hours experience called The Peranakan House, which weaves in a 'sixth sense' of the imagination through immersive displays and a choreography of lights. Even the island resort's cable cars have been transformed with panels depicting familiar Peranakan tile designs – also called majolica tiles – as part of the 10th anniversary of the Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line. The three-month show, which launched on May 23 and will run till Aug 31, is a collaboration between SDC and Mount Faber Leisure Group. One key contributor to the concept is Ms Regina Chia, SDC's senior assistant director of brand experience and marketing, who was inspired by the visual and cultural language of the Peranakans , from their intricate craftsmanship and bold batik motifs to the sounds and stories passed down through generations . Ms Regina Chia, Sentosa Development Corporation's senior assistant director of brand experience and marketing, was inspired by the visual and cultural language of the Peranakans. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR She wanted to highlight how this vibrant culture continues to evolve, bridging past and present while inspiring new expressions for generations to come. 'When I started out on this project, I reached out to my closest contacts from the different Peranakan communities,' Ms Chia, 53, tells The Straits Times. 'They went on to connect me with other contacts, demonstrating the warm and hospitable nature of Peranakans in Singapore. The showcase was made possible through the close collaboration of passionate individuals and partners, who brought unique perspectives and knowledge to the table.' The showcase began to take shape after partnering with advocates of Peranakan culture such as Baba Chia , co-founder of the Peranakan Mansion Singapore in Joo Chiat, and Baba Richard Tan. Ms Chia also reached out to organisations such as the Gunong Sayang Association and the Peranakan Indian (Chitty Melaka) Association of Singapore. Together with her team, she set about presenting the community's rich traditions through not only a traditional approach but also the lens of modern design and technology. Ms Chia adds: 'Sentosa Sensoryscape, with its purpose-built design centred on sensorial experiences, allows us to bring Peranakan culture to life in unexpected and meaningful ways.' ST looks at the highlights of the Peranakan Reimagined show . Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line revelry The Sentosa Line cable cars feature Peranakan-inspired exteriors such as pastel hues and majolica tile motifs. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The Sentosa Line cable car cabins feature striking Peranakan-inspired exteriors such as pastel hues and intricate majolica tile motifs from the historic shophouses of Koon Seng Road, once home to Singapore's Peranakan community. Developed with Mr Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, these heritage-inspired cabins turn the skies above Sentosa into a moving tribute to Peranakan culture. The tile motifs on the cable cars are from the historic shophouses of Koon Seng Road, once home to Singapore's Peranakan community. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Info: Singaporeans and residents get a special one-for-one Sentosa Line promotion between May 23 and Aug 31, including a Sentosa Line round trip for two at $4 (usual price: $4 for an adult and $3 a child). There is also a one-day unlimited ride for two, priced at $14 (usual price: $27 an adult; $22 a child). The promotion is available only for tickets purchased at the Sentosa Line at Sensoryscape Station Ticketing Counter, or at Sensoryscape's Guest Service Centre. Scented Sphere's Rempah and Riang: Secret Sauce of Peranakan Fare Guests can experience Peranakan cuisine at Scented Sphere's Rempah And Riang showcase. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION At Scented Sphere, guests can experience a tapestry of Peranakan aromas and flavours. Commonly used Peranakan herbs and plants are displayed within and behind the sensory garden's vessels. On display are various ingredients in Nonya cuisine, such as laksa leaves (daun kesum), blue pea flowers (bunga telang), curry leaves and pandan leaves. There is also a replica of a Tok Panjang ('long table' in Malay), featuring recipes and information about traditional herbs and plants. Field of Beaded Bloom at Tactile Trellis An installation of beaded Peranakan slippers at the Field of Beaded Bloom at Tactile Trellis. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Within the Field of Beaded Bloom at Tactile Trellis, guests can 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 sandals. One interactive installation to check out is a p air of larger-than-life beaded Peranakan slippers, where guests are invited to touch and experience the ornate beadwork. At night, a light show at Tactile Trellis brings batik motifs to life through digital light art displays. From giant installations to mosaic magic An installation of tiffin carriers at a stop along Sentosa Sensoryscape. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Dotted throughout the 350m thoroughfare are larger-than-life installations at resting nooks that showcase everyday objects Nonyas and Babas still use today. These include objects such as kamcheng (traditional Peranakan containers), with their intricate craftsmanship that alludes to the elegant lifestyles of the Peranakans. Meanwhile, Gilded Mosaic features hundreds of reflective mosaic tiles that form a pixellated image when viewed closely or through a camera, offering fresh perspectives. An installation of a kamcheng (traditional Peranakan container). ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The Peranakan House at Lookout Loop This 7.2m-tall Peranakan-inspired house transforms into a projection-mapped canvas by night. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The main attraction of the showcase is a 7.2m-tall Peranakan-inspired house that transforms into a projection-mapped canvas by night. A grand reimagination of a traditional Peranakan home, this larger-than-life centrepiece is adorned with intricate detailing and bold colours as a tribute to the artistry and elegance of Peranakan designs. After dark, the installation comes alive with a new experience featuring dynamic multimedia storytelling and projection artwork, illuminating the rich textures of Peranakan life, from intricate motifs and architecture to beloved cuisine. These can be admired from different angles while strolling along Lookout Loop. Info: The projection show runs daily from May 23 till Aug 31 every 15 minutes from 7.30 to 9.30pm . Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape Staff of Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape modelling some of the sarong kebaya ensembles available for rental. PHOTO: MOUNT FABER LEISURE GROUP Visitors can rent k ebayas and batik shirts for adults and children, and enjoy a Peranakan makeover at Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape. Rates for a two-hour rental start at $48 for women's kebayas and $38 for girls', and $35 for men's batik shirts and $30 for boys'. There is also complimentary use of props such as a hand fan and umbrella for women, subject to availability. Also on sale is a selection of kebayas and beaded sandals curated by Mr Raymond Wong from Rumah Kim Choo, a shop in East Coast Road dedicated to showcasing Peranakan culture. Other Peranakan-themed goods include scarves, plus an exclusive collection of Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line Peranakan-themed cable car illustrations on tea towels, tote bags, tumblers, coasters and notebooks by local illustrator @yenidraws. Prices start at $12.90 for a coaster. More ways to soak up Peranakan traditions Scentopia Discover the heritage of the Peranakans through the Allure of Oriented Aromas series at Scentopia's Peranakan Perfume Making Workshop, which costs $80 a person. The hands-on session blends culture and creativity, where workshop participants can concoct a 50ml keepsake of their own signature scent. Good Old Days Savour the flavours of Peranakan cuisine at Good Old Days, the island's popular eatery that offers local and Asian favourites outside Beach Station. Its two-course Peranakan Bento set meal ($26) features Nonya favourites such as ayam buah keluak (Nonya chicken and gravy made from buah keluak nuts), ikan chilli garam (fish cooked in a salt-and-chilli gravy) and chinchalok omelette (omelette made with fermented krill). Rumours Beach Club Rumours Beach Club marks SG60 with a taste of tradition, where every dish tells the story of Peranakan heritage. Its Hae Bee Hiam Ngoh Hiang is a blend of coriander, radish and carrot, wrapped around minced pork and prawns, fragranced with five spice and topped with hae bee hiam (dried chilli prawn paste). There is also Grilled Scallop with Curry Laksa Butter, which has three pieces of grilled half-shell scallops with roe, topped with torch ginger flower, curry laksa butter and toasted coconut flakes. It comes with a side of homemade shrimp sambal. The Peranakan Heritage Feast Set is priced at $71.94. Quentin's Bar & Restaurant Its Peranakan Tasting Menu, priced at $48++, is a curated Peranakan Set Lunch showcasing the depth and elegance of Nonya flavours. From Ayam Buah Keluak and Babi Tahu (braised pork in dark sauce) to the Gula Melaka Lava Cake, each dish is a tribute to Peranakan culinary traditions centred on a balance of spicy, savoury and sweet tastes. Designer and lifestyle journalist Chantal Sajan writes on design and architecture. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
