Kristang Culture

Saving Our Past Before It Becomes History

Rachael Melanie Watson, Bay Jin Cheng Justin, Julian
Anthony Gerard Lim, Sherman Mak Fei Weng, Luqman-Nul
Hakim B M Lukman

1
Table of Contents
1. Introduction................................................................................................. 1
1.1. Rationale For project............................................................................. 1
1.2 Aim of project......................................................................................... 2
2. The Peranakan Culture................................................................................3
2.1. Background of the Peranakan Culture...................................................3
2.2. Learning from the Peranakan Culture...................................................3
2.2.1. Importance of a physical structure..................................................3
2.2.2. Importance of long-term sustainability of the project....................4
2.2.3 Importance of involving the ethnic community................................5
3. Our conservation plan: Kristang Symposium and the Kristang Hub............5
3.1. The Kristang Symposium.......................................................................5
3.1.1. Reason for the symposium..............................................................5
3.1.2. Plans for the symposium.................................................................6
3.1.3. Venue and timeframe for Symposium...........................................10
3.1.4. Summary of the symposium..........................................................11
3.2. The Kristang hub.................................................................................. 12
3.2.1. Reasons for the Hub......................................................................12
3.2.2. Features of the Kristang Hub.........................................................12
3.2.3 Location of the Kristang Hub..........................................................15
3.2.4. Cost of the Kristang Hub................................................................16
3.2.5. Timeline for construction of the Kristang Hub...............................17
4. Conclusion................................................................................................. 18
5. Bibliography............................................................................................... 19
6. Appendix................................................................................................... 20

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3
1. Introduction

When the soul of Portugal collides with the heart of the Malays, the Kristang Culture was

formed. So who exactly are the Kristang? They are an ethnic group of people based mostly in

Singapore and Malacca (Malaysia). Spreading far and wide across the Pacific region, they bring

their unique qualities and culture to the communities they settle in (Haji and Mohideen, 2008).

1.1. Rationale For project

An important factor that makes Singapore vibrant is its multicultural society where every

culture plays an important role in contributing to its uniqueness. Though the community is

small, it has a legacy that spans over five centuries that adds to the cultural diversity of

Singapore. Unfortunately, the Kristang community in Singapore is facing the risk of extinction

due to the lack of awareness and interest in the culture (Figure 1.1).

Figure 1.1: In a survey of 75 people, only 6% knew who the Kristang people are, while 94% did
not.

1
Furthermore, our survey results show that 5% out of the 6% of the people knew about the

culture only because they themselves belonged to it (Figure 1.2). Thus, only 1% of the non-

Kristang population knows about the culture, further proving the lack of awareness among

Singaporeans.

Figure 1.2: In a survey of 75 people, 5% of the people belong to the Kristang race, while 95%
do not.

Therefore, something has to be done to conserve this unique culture and maintain Singapore’s

diversity, before it is too late.

1.2 Aim of project

The goal of our project is to conserve the dying Kristang culture in Singapore and to make the

culture more recognized in our society. However, we hope to at least preserve the memory and

legacy of the culture as our group realizes the difficulty of ensuring its survival in the distant

future. Our survey results (Figures 1.1 and 1.2) clearly depict the ignorance of the population

regarding the existence of the Kristang culture. Thus, the first aim of the project is to create

2
awareness among Singaporeans, especially in our target audience – teenagers and young

adults. To achieve this, our project proposes to first generate awareness through a four-day

symposium, and sustain this effort with our long-term solution – the construction of the

Kristang Hub

The Peranakan culture was another unique culture that, very much like Kristang, was facing the

risk of extinction. However, conservation efforts made to save the culture were so successful

that even a television series was about it (Poon, 2009). It is such success that we hope to

emulate and many lessons can be learnt from the conservation of the Peranakans and applied

to our project.

2. The Peranakan Culture

2.1. Background of the Peranakan Culture

The Peranakan people are “descendants of an early Chinese community that settled in the

Malay Archipelago at least since the 17th century” and they too are unique due to the culture's

mixed heritage (Poon, 2009). However, with the turn of the 21st century, the Peranakans saw

many problems which threatened the survival of their culture (The Peranakan Association,

2008). Thus, conservation efforts were implemented to prevent the extinction of the

Peranakans.

2.2. Learning from the Peranakan Culture

2.2.1. Importance of a physical structure

Several things were done to conserve the Peranakan culture, but the setting up of the

Peranakan Museum (Figure 2.1) had to be the most vital step in the success of the conservation

3
efforts. The Peranakan Museum raised awareness among the public about the existence and

uniqueness of the Peranakan culture, hitting a visitorship of 50,000 in just 9 weeks of its

opening (National Heritage Board, 2008). Thus, one lesson learnt is that it is important to

establish a permanent physical structure for the showcasing and learning of a culture. This was

the inspiration behind our idea of the Kristang Hub – a place where people can find anything

and everything related to the Kristang culture.

Figure 2.1: The Peranakan Museum

2.2.2. Importance of long-term sustainability of the project

The museum also ensures long term sustainability of conservation efforts by constantly having

new exhibitions and events throughout the year (Figure 2.2) to renew interest among the public

(The Peranakan Museum, 2008). Thus, another lesson learnt is that constant and continual

work has to be done to sustain interest in the culture, so that past efforts do not go to waste.

4
Therefore, exhibitions, events and workshops will constitute a major part of the Kristang Hub

upon its completion.

Figure 2.2: “Baba Bling”, one of the many special exhibitions and events held by the
Peranakan Museum

2.2.3 Importance of involving the ethnic community

If the members themselves are unwilling or unable to preserve their own traditions and way of

life, then why would people of other cultures do it for them? The third lesson learnt is that for

conservation of a culture to be successful, members of that community must be interested in

and committed to the conservation of their own culture. This can be seen from the example of

the Peranakan Association, where the passion for the association by its Honorary Life President,

Mr T W Ong, has enabled it to thrive and become what it is today (The Peranakan Association of

Singapore, 2006). It had succeeded in preserving and raising awareness of the Peranakan

culture, with reports showing that membership has increased by an astonishing 500% since

1993 (The Peranakan Association of Singapore, 2006). Thus, our project seeks to involve the

Kristang community and related organizations such as the Eurasian Association.

5
3. Our conservation plan: Kristang Symposium and the Kristang Hub

Our conservation plan consists of two parts – the Kristang Symposium followed by the Kristang

Hub.

3.1. The Kristang Symposium

3.1.1. Reason for the symposium

Holding a symposium will raise interest and awareness about the dying Kristang culture. We believe

that the initial awareness generated by the symposium will provide enough momentum for the

next step in the conservation effort, the Kristang Hub, to be successful. The symposium is targeted

at teenagers and young adults (16-35 years old) to serve as a follow up to existing National

Education programmes (for example, Learning Journeys to the Eurasian Association) in our

education system today (Pereira, 2009).

3.1.2. Plans for the symposium

Food, arts, language and fashion are important aspects of the Kristang culture (Pereira, 2009) so the

symposium encompasses all these aspects in its various programs and activities. As seen from our

programme list (Figure 3.1.1), there will be ongoing activities to expose participants to the different

aspects of the culture. This ensures that people will have a complete appreciation of the unique

Kristang culture and that everyone can take something worth remembering from their experience

at the symposium.

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Figure 3.1.1: Programme List for the Kristang Symposium

Food fair

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The aspect of food was chosen because of Singaporeans’ love for food (Kong, 2006). In addition,

78% of people surveyed expressed interest in the food fair (Figure 3.1.2) so dedicating an area for

the appreciation of food would help to increase the response and participation of attendees.

Cuisine is also an important aspect of any culture and is a factor that contributes to the uniqueness

of a culture (Sudderuddin, 2009).

Figure 3.1.2: Activities the public would be interested in

Kristang dishes will be prepared by experienced and specialized chefs from Quentin’s, the Eurasian

restaurant and attendees can have a taste of the freshly cooked Kristang cuisine.

Initially, we also planned to hold cooking classes to attract those with a passion for cooking or those

who simply want to learn to cook the food they have enjoyed. These classes would have been

conducted by the aforementioned chefs, with each session teaching a different dish.

8
 Unfortunately, we cannot carry out the cooking classes and

demonstrations as it is in direct violation of the policies of

Suntec Convention Centre. However, cookbooks (Figure 3.1.3)

will be sold so participants can still pursue their interest in the

Kristang cuisine.

Figure 3.1.3: An example of a

cookbook that will be available

Dance performances and classes

Dance performances by the Kristang Dance Troupe will be put up during the symposium and each

performance will last 15 minutes (Figure 3.1.1). Each performance will have a different dance

routine so that people attending the symposium will be exposed to the different dance styles,

helping them better appreciate the unique dance aspect of the Kristang culture.

After watching the dance items put up by the dance troupe, it is likely that some people would be

interested in learning the various dance routines. As such, two one-hour dance classes will be

conducted daily by the dance troupe and are open to those keen on learning simple Kristang dance

moves. However, to maximize the learning opportunity for participants, the class size will be

capped at 40 people.

For those interested in furthering their interest, they would be able to sign up for classes which

would be held at our Hub in the future.

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Fashion parade

There will also be a fashion parade held, each lasting 30 minutes, where different traditional

Kristang costumes will be paraded and displayed (Figure 3.1.4). This gives people a better insight

into the fashion of the Kristang culture and those interested in fashion will be drawn to this aspect

of the Kristang culture, thus raising the interest and appreciation of this aspect of the culture.

Figure 3.1.4: The Kristang Cultural Troupe at the Peranakan Museum’s 1st anniversary celebration

Speeches by guest speakers

Guest speakers passionate about the Kristang culture such as Ms. Joan Marbeck(Appendix B), a

prominent figure in the conservation of the Kristang culture in Malaysia, will give speeches to

provide participants with deeper insights into the culture.

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Books like Linggu Mai - a book describing the Kristang language and culture will also be sold to allow

the public to better understand the topics that would be spoken upon.

3.1.3. Venue and timeframe for Symposium

We have chosen Suntec City Convention Hall 1 as the venue for the symposium as it can cater to

about 7000 people, making it large enough to accommodate the various activities and booths

planned (Figure 3.1.5)

Figure 3.1.5: Floor plan for the symposium

We believe that Suntec City would be the best choice as it is situated in the Central Business

District, in the heart of Singapore, making it highly accessible to the public. In addition, we have

approached Suntec Singapore and they have showed interest in our project(Appendix C).

The symposium would be held during the end-of-year school holidays, from 1230-2045h, from the

26th to the 29th of November (Thursday – Sunday), 2009. We decided to hold the symposium during

11
this time to ensure maximum attendance for the symposium, since our targeted audience includes

a large proportion of students. Young adults who are working would also have a less hectic

schedule towards the end of the year. Furthermore, the planned dates include a weekend,

increasing the likelihood of people having more free time and less work to do.

However, our survey results showed that only 52% of the people were willing to attend the

symposium if it were held during the holidays (Figure 3.1.6). While this might seem like a poor

response, this figure is likely to be even lower if it were held during other times of the year as

youths would be busy with school and young adults are less able to take time off work to attend the

symposium.

Figure 3.1.6: In a survey of 75 people, 52% said they would attend the symposium during the
year-end holidays

3.1.4. Summary of the symposium

The diverse range of activities cater to the varying interests of those who attend the symposium

and we believe that the activities and exhibitions carried out would have adequately provided the

12
uninitiated with enough information to whet the appetites of those who do not know about the

culture to learn more.

Our group acknowledges the inability of the Symposium to be a complete solution for the

conservation of the Kristang Culture. As such, the Kristang hub will be built to provide an in-depth

perspective of the culture.

3.2. The Kristang hub

The Kristang Hub will incorporate the different aspects of the Kristang culture into one place,

acting as an information hub for the public, as well as a place to hold exhibitions and functions

in the future.

3.2.1. Reasons for the Hub

The Hub aims to provide as much knowledge and information of the Kristang culture through a

wide scope of media and technology, classes and demonstrations, to aid our visitors in

understanding the culture.

Food and language have a tendency to be passed down from generation to generation. As such,

cooking and language classes will be organized to equip participants with sufficient knowledge

to pass on the culture.

In addition, food is a way to promote a culture, as can be seen in the popular TV show: Ways of

the Matriarch, which has successfully promoted the unique Peranakan cuisine (Poon, 2009).

Thus, this is another basis for having cooking classes in the Hub.

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3.2.2. Features of the Kristang Hub

As mentioned, the Kristang Hub aims to incorporate the various aspects of the Kristang culture

and will feature a two-story museum, library, souvenir shop, restaurant, classrooms, dance

studios and multi-purpose halls.

The foyer, restaurant and the first level of the museum make up the first floor of the Kristang

Hub (Figure 3.2.1).

Figure 3.2.1: The first floor of the Kristang Hub

The foyer (Figure 3.2.2) is where one can find out more about the Kristang Hub, and where

people can purchase museum tickets or sign up for lessons. It also acts as a souvenir shop

where merchandise related to the Kristang culture will be sold.

14
Figure 3.2.2: The Foyer

The museum (Figure 3.2.3) focuses on the historical aspect of the Kristang culture, showcasing

the Kristang culture and history through the exhibits and displays. In addition, it features vocal

recordings and hearing aids to help visitors with Kristang words and pronunciations, so they can

better appreciate the language. Thus, the museum is important as it gives people an insight into

the magnificent heritage, as well as greater knowledge and awareness of the culture.

Figure 3.2.3: Floor plan of the Kristang Museum

The restaurant (Figure 3.2.4) aims to promote the food aspect of the Kristang culture and it will

sell Kristang food and specialties. It is a place where people can have a taste of traditional
15
Kristang cuisine during their visit to the Kristang Hub, further deepening their experience of the

culture. The restaurant also appeals to food-loving Singaporeans who are eager to try

something different (Kong, 2006), and would serve as a means of attracting more visitors to the

Hub.

Figure 3.2.4: Floor Plan of the Kristang Restaurant

The second level of the Kristang Hub comprises of the library, classrooms, dance studios, multi-

purpose hall and the second floor of the museum (Figure 3.2.5). The library allows people to

gather information and expand on their interest in the culture, while the classrooms and dance

studios will be used for language and dance lessons respectively. The multi-purpose hall will be

a place where functions and events are held.

Figure 3.2.5: The second floor of the Kristang Hub

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3.2.3 Location of the Kristang Hub
Two locations for the Kristang Hub were considered - Choa Chu Kang (CCK) Ave 4 and Ophir

Road, as they were they only two white sites available (Urban Redevelopment Authority, 2009),

and each location has own their advantages and disadvantages (Table 1).

Choa Chu Kang Ave 4 has the advantage of being in the heartlands and near an MRT station,

which means there would a good amount of potential visitors to the Kristang Hub. However,

the location at Ophir Road also experiences high human traffic, and is even more accessible

with both a bus stop and MRT station very nearby. The site at CCK also has a smaller land area

and is at a more remote location as compared to Ophir Road.

Location Cost Advantages Disadvantages

CHOA CHU KANG S$6000 per -More remote location

AVE 4 (NEXT TO BLK square metre
422) - Near CCK MRT - Small land area
S$14.3 M
2381 square metres
- Residential area

OPHIR ROAD (NEXT S$6115 per - High human traffic - High cost
TO PARKVIEW square metre
SQUARE) - Very accessible; located near a
S$131M bus stop and MRT station
21360 square metres

Thus, we chose Ophir Road as the location for the hub, despite its higher cost. This is because

the Kristang Hub is a long term plan and effort, so the location’s accessibility and visitorship are

more important factors than cost as it will determine its success in the long run.

Table 1: Comparison between possible locations

17
3.2.4. Cost of the Kristang Hub

As mentioned above, the cost of the location was one of the factors taken into consideration.

However, there are other costs involved in the construction of the Kristang Hub, which include

the cost of the structure and the cost of furnishing and equipment.

It is estimated that the cost of building the structure is 30% of the land cost (Mak, 2009), which

is roughly S$39M.

We have also estimated the cost of renovation and equipment to be about S$15M, based on

the figures for the renovation of the Peranakan Museum (Limmell, 2008).

Thus, we have estimated that the total cost of building and furnishing the Kristang Hub would

amount to about S$200M.

3.2.5. Timeline for construction of the Kristang Hub

Due to the high cost of the construction of the hub, we have decided to split the process of

construction into three phases (Table 2).

The first phase will comprise of the construction of the museum, restaurant and souvenir shop,

beginning with the museum. This is because the museum is the most important feature for the

conservation of the culture (Section 2.2). They will also generate money, which will be used to

continue funding the project.

The second phase will include the building of the classrooms, dance studios and library. While

these encompass the important aspects of the culture – song, dance and language, the features

in the first phase are still more crucial. Furthermore, the classrooms, dance studios and library

would only be used when people are aware of the culture and want to develop their interest,

which would be achieved by the time the first phase is completed.

18
Finally, the third and last phase will be the construction of the multi-purpose hall, as it is not as

significant compared to the first two phases in terms of conservational value.

Phase Feature being built Reason Estimated date of

No. completion

1. July 2010

 Museum  Generates money

 Souvenir Shop  A museum is the most important

conservational feature (Section 2.2)

 Restaurant
2. December 2010

 Classrooms and  Does not generate as much money

dance studios

 Will be more successful and

 Library effective only once awareness and
interest is gained through phase 1
3. February 2011

 Function Hall  Not as significant as the other two

phases in terms of conservational
value

Table 2: Timeline of Construction

Thus, the Kristang Hub is estimated to be completed by February 2011, and marks the

completion of our project.

4. Conclusion

As can be seen in this report, we have used a two-pronged approach for the conservation of the

Kristang culture - the Kristang symposium and the Kristang Hub. We acknowledge the fact that

all our efforts in trying to conserve this spectacular culture would be for naught if we do not

have the support of the community. Thus, teamwork is the key component in ensuring our

19
project’s success. In the words of Henry Ford: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping

together is progress. Working together is success.”

5. Bibliography

Haji Mohideen Bin Mohamad Ali, Ph.D. and Shamimah Mohideen, M.HSc..(2008). Survival of
the Minority Kristang Language in Malaysia - Language in India www.languageinindia.com 8 :
7. [Online]. Available: http://www.languageinindia.com/july2008/kristanmalaysia.pdf (25 March
2009)

20
Kong, K. (2006). Food Paradise, Singapore Lifestyle.[Online]. Available:
http://ezinearticles.com/?Food-Paradise,-Singapore-Lifestyle&id=395511 (2009)

Limmell, H. (17 April 2008). Peranakan Museum opens its doors to public from April 26.
[Online]. Available:
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/342066/1/.html (24
September 2009)

Mak S.H., Senior Engineer, C.Pak Pte. Ltd., personal interview, 2009

National Heritage Board (2008). Peranakan Museum Welcomed 50,000 Visitors in Nine Weeks,
2008, 8 July. [Online]. Available: http://www.nhb.gov.sg/WWW/pr/acm/Press%20Release%20-
%20TPM%20Hits%2050K%20Visitorship.pdf (22 September 2009)

Pereira, B., Vice President, The Eurasian Association, Singapore, personal interview, 2009

Poon, C. (2009). Preserving Peranakan culture. [Online]. Available:

http://www.insing.com/news/Preserving-Peranakan-culture/id-aedb0000 (2009)

Sudderuddin, S. (20 September 2009). Special Report: Singapore's Food. The Straits Times. page
6.

The Peranakan Association. (2008). The Peranakan- Jul- Sep 2008. [Online]. Available:
http://peranakan.org.sg/Resources/2008_Jul_Sept.pdf (2009)

The Peranakan Museum. (2008). About Perankan Museum.[Online]. Available:

http://www.nhb.gov.sg/www/attach/NHBuzz/NHBuzz%20Mar-Apr08.pdf (2009)

The Peranakan Association of Singapore.(2006). History of the Peranakan Association of

Singapore.[Online].Available: http://peranakan.org.sg/index.php?
option=com_content&task=view&id=25&Itemid=56 (2009)

Urban Development Authority. (3 June 2009). Government Land Sales Programme for Private
Residential, Commercial and Hotel Developments for Second Half of 2009. [Online].
Available: http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/text/2009/pr09-26.html (24 September 2009).

6. Appendix

21
22
 APPENDIX A

23
APPENDIX A

Survey questions and results

1) Whats your age group?
a)12-18
b)19-25
c)26-32
d)32 and up
2) Do you know who the Kristang people are?
a)Yes
b)No
3) If your answer to the above question is No, please skip to question 4. If the answer is
Yes, please give a short description of the Kristang People.

4) Are you related or belong to this specific racial group?

a)Yes
b)No

5) Would you attend the symposium if it were to be held during the year-end holidays?
a)Yes
b)No

6) If your answer to question 5 is no, please skip this question. If your answer to this
question is yes, please select specific activities that you would be interested in
attending. (Multiple answers are allowed)
a)Dance Classes
b)Fashion Show
24
 c)Cooking Classes
d) Food Fair
e)Talks on the various aspects of the culture

7) Comments and suggestions on how to improve and help to increase awareness for this
culture would be appreciated.

1.

portuguese eurasians they can be found in southeast asian countries like malacca

Sat, Aug 8, 2009 12:28 AM

2.

i knw they are related to eurasians.

Sun, Jul 12, 2009 4:01 PM

3.

eurasians, portugese-malay mix.

Fri, Jul 10, 2009 7:50 PM

4.

Proceed to Question 3...?

This IS QUestion 3 -.-'

And in Question 4, how would we know what "this specific racial group" refers to if our answer
to Question 2 is "No"?

Thu, Jul 9, 2009 10:02 PM

25
5.

-eurasian ethnic group.

-culture is a mixture of Portuguese & Malay culture

Fri, Jun 26, 2009 9:21 PM

6.

proceed to question 3 lmao

Responses to Question 3:

Responses to Question 7:

1.Show what is so special about this culture, and draw your ideas from these unique
characteristics.
Sun, Aug 16, 2009 4:58 PM

2.perform in public for free! LOL PW suuucksSat,

Aug 8, 2009 12:30 AM

3.uh....
Mon, Jul 20, 2009 7:50 PM

4.inform schools to introduce this culture during the upcoming racial harmony day on 26
julySun,
Jul 12, 2009 5:08 PM

5.an exhibition maybe?

Sat, Jul 11, 2009 9:45 PM

6.documentaries on this group of people

Sat, Jul 11, 2009 9:22 AM

7..
Fri, Jul 10, 2009 9:31 PM

8.Hold this event during school hours and not during the precious hoiday time pls
Fri, Jul 10, 2009 10:42 AM

26
9.Get more people to talk about it. I have no idea about this culture. Promoting it is very
necessary.
Thu, Jul 9, 2009 11:34 PM

10.-
Thu, Jul 9, 2009 10:40 PM

11.Spread the word thru the media - newspaper; tv advertisement etc (if have the captial), if
not on facebook, msn....easily accessable forms of media
Thu, Jul 9, 2009 10:08 PM

12.make a show on national geographic channel 

go live with them in the jungle or something

-shannon
Tue, Jul 7, 2009 8:37 PM

13.include interesting facts that youngsters would be attracted to in the talk please! (:
Sun, Jul 5, 2009 6:53 PM

14.If aim of conservation is catered to youths, do more activities that they can relate to.eg.
games?
Fri, Jun 26, 2009 9:23 PM

15.Advertise
Thu, Jun 25, 2009 8:09 PM

16.Have a drama serial that revolves around this culture ;) Yay!

Wed, Jun 24, 2009 12:36 AM

17.organize a festival, where you have all of number 2 in it.

Wed, Jun 24, 2009 12:33 AM

18.put it on web
Tue, Jun 23, 2009 4:24 PM

27
28
 APPENDIX B

29
APPENDIX B

Ms Marbeck’s Distinguished Letters

united nations educational, scientific and cultural organization

organisation des nations unies pour l'éducation, la science et la culture

PRINCIPAL REGIONAL OFFICE FOR ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

BUREAU REGIONAL PRINCIPAL POUR L'ASIE ET LA PACIFIQUE

Office of the Regional Advisor for Culture in Asia and the Pacific
 

Ref:143.35 (CH-PHT)-1/CA/2111/99 15 June 1999

 

Dear Ms.Marbeck,

Subject : UNESCO Conference/Workshop

on the Adaptive Re-use of Historic Properties

9-17 May 1999 in Penang and Melaka, Malaysia

On behalf on UNESCO and the State Governments of Penang and Melaka, I am writing to express our sincere
gratitude to you for your valuable contribution to the UNESCO "Economics of Heritage" conference, which was
jointly held in Penang and Melaka from May 9-16, 1999.

I would like to personally thank you and members of your community for your warm hospitality during our
community dinner at the Portuguese Settlement in Melaka last 15 May. My colleagues and I are also grateful for the
copies of your anthology “Ungua Adanza”, which are providing us valuable insights into your rich cultural

30
traditions and history.

“The Economics of Heritage” greatly exceeded all our expectations, with more than 40 papers presented and 350
participants representing 25 countries in attendance. We have already received many positive comments from other
participants and stakeholders on the content and high caliber of speakers and their documented contribution. In
many ways and from many different perspectives we were able to meet our goal and of examining how the
conservation and appropriate adaptive re-use of historic properties makes good economic sense and is, at the same
time, effective social policy. We are now in the process of producing the conference report, which we expect will
bring the excellent output of this conference to an even wider audience.

Another encouraging result of “The Economics of Heritage” was illustrated through the number of delegates who
expressed their desire to initiate grass-root movements in their own communities for the long-term conservation and
sustainable re-use of their historic properties within the framework of the UNESCO LEAP programme.

It is good to see that during the conference we were able to light some fires for conservation which, we expect with
your continued support and help will have far reaching benefits. The foundation of the Melaka Heritage Trust, the
INTEC college art exhibition and the Art Rock Studio’s Penang heritage and mural, as well as UNESCO initiatives
such as LEAP Online, the UNESCO Heritage Award and IMPACT are just some of the exciting new initiatives that
have been generated. I hope that this is just a start, and that with encouragement from the members of our network,
many more innovative projects will be undertaken at the local level across Asia and the Pacific.

The preservation of our shared heritage is a challenge which we must address from many different directions. “The
Economics of Heritage” allowed us to explore issues from one perspective and I now look forward to your support
when we convene again in April 2000 in Bhaktapur, Nepal to consider the economic and social issues surrounding
heritage conservation and tourism management.

One again, thank you for your gift and support. Please let us know if you have any suggestions for collaboration
with UNESCO on future projects, integrating the conservation of the cultural heritage with the development needs
of Melaka.

I look forward to our next co-operative venture.

Sincerely yours,

Richard Engelhart
UNESCO Regional Advisor for Culture 
In Asia and the Pacific

Ms.Joan Margaret Marbeck
Adanza Marbeck Heritage House
No.64, St.John’s Hill Road
75000 Melaka, Malaysia

31
 The Honorary Consul of Portugal in Malaysia

Launching of A Kristang Keepsake "LINGGU MAI", on the 1st. September 2004, by Joan Marbeck

MESSAGE FROM THE

Y.Bhg. DATUK EUGÉNIO CAMPOS, DMSM., JSM.,
HONORARY CONSUL OF PORTUGAL
& PATRON OF THE 
SELANGOR AND FEDERAL TERRITORY EURASIAN ASSOCIATION
(S.A.F.T.E.A.)

Once the centre of a powerful empire stretching from Asia and Africa to South America, Portugal today is,
geographically and culturally, one of the richest countries in Europe. It is an European country layered as it is, with
diverse influences, which managed to integrate a variety of cultures and customs and, despite being the eldest
European Country, managed to preserve its very own particular identity.

It was the first European country to build a vast empire – which went from Malaysia and India to the coasts of
Africa and Latin America, taking in Brazil as well as a number of Atlantic islands – and the last to leave that
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empire.

This adventure, which lasted six centuries, has given the world a common language spoken by more than 200
million people, and an original intermixing of people, languages, cultures and identities.

A book on Kristang – one of those original intermixing of people, languages, cultures and identities – is always
important, not only in Malaysia but also in Portugal and all the other Portuguese speaking countries and territories,
such as: Angola, Brasil, Cabo Verde, Damão, Díu, Goa, Guiné Bissau, Macau, Moçambique, São Tomé e Príncipe,
and the newly and joyfully independent Timor-Leste.

May this book, second from the author on Kristang culture and language, help to preserve the Malaysian Kristang
identity. Malaysia, Portugal and the Portuguese Communities around the world are enriched by it!

It is therefore, my great honour to write this message on the occasion of the official launching of the book “Linggu
Mai” (Mother Tongue), which I am not able to attend personally (due to unforeseen circumstances that took me
overseas). However, the Hon. Consulate of Portugal will be represented by my Personal Assistant, Mrs. Maria Liew
and S.A.F.T.E.A. by its President, Y. Bhg. Brig. Gen. (R) Dato’ Richard Robless.

Lastly but not the least, I would like to congratulate the author, Ms. Joan Margaret Marbeck for her efforts in
enriching the “Portuguese World” and the hope that her past, present and future books may also be translated into
the Portuguese Language – the 5th. most spoken language in the world.

Kuala Lumpur, 24th. August, 2004

The Hon. Consul of Portugal & Patron of S.A.F.T.E.A.

 
S.A.F.T.E.A. Building, No 167 Jalan Pudu, 55100 Kuala Pumpur, Malaysia
Tel/Fax: (00 603) 2142 6136 Email: consportugal@po.jaring.my

Our correspondence with Ms Marbeck

Dear Ms Marbeck,

My name is Julian A.G Lim and I am a student of Catholic Junior College. For our 'A' level
Project Work, the topic we are working on is 'Conservation', specifically the conservation of the
33
Kristang culture. We understand that you are very involved in the conservation of the Kristang
culture, especially in the field of the Language. 

Our rationale for choosing this topic was simple. We decided on the Kristang culture over other
Eurasian or western/colonial powers simply because the Kristang culture is one of the few
cultures that is Vibrant (culturally diverse), and unique to only Southeast Asian.  It is the only
culture that is influenced by Dutch, Portuguese and Malay cultures, a fusion of cultures. With its
music and dance, it united different groups in society. In a region where slight disturbances can
lead to de-stability in the region, the Kristang culture is testament to the fact that different
cultures can co-exist and intermix to form new unique cultures.

As part of our project, we are planning a symposium and its aim is to create awareness of the
culture, which is the first of our two step approach in our efforts to conserve the culture. We
think it is a good idea to have someone who has first hand experience with the Kristang culture
to share their experiences with the public. Given the amount of effort you have put into
conserving the culture and the expertise you have, we hope that you would grace us as a guest
speaker at our symposium.

The second part of our two step approach is the establishment of a Kristang Hub, a place where
the knowledge and the history of the Culture can come  together. Our initial plan was to ask you
to personally conduct lessons on the language there. However, instead of personally conducting
the full workshops, we hope that you would be willing to train a few in the intricities of the
language so that in turn, they would be able to conduct language classes at our new Hub. 

Although we will not be physically carrying out the project, we hope that we could recieve your
personal endorsement and support for our project.

Thank You.
Julian A.G Lim
CJC068
H/P 93209573
Dear Julian,
Thank you for your letter and interest in wanting to conserve the Kristang Culture and
Language. You're an impressive young man. However, you only state that you are an 'A' level
Student of the Catholic Junior College and have chosen specifically for your Project, 'The
Conservation of the Kristang Culture'

I would like to know more details e.g. Where is this Catholic Junior College? Who are your
teachers/ supervisors? Who are the team players of this project.
You also mention that I train teachers in the Kristang Hub....where is this going to be
established/situated? How many trainees would there be? Have you already applied for
Funding? etc.etc.

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Would appreciate it , if I could get more information.
Best Regards,
Joan M. Marbeck

Dear Ms Marbeck,
Catholic Junior College is a junior college in Singapore, for students between the ages of 17-18.
This is the school's website: http://www.cjc.edu.sg/web/
These are my team mates, 
1)Rachael Melanie Watson
2)Justin Bay
3)Sherman Mak
4) Luqman Lukman
5)Julian Lim
And the names of my teachers-in-charge:
1)Mr. Lyncoln Lee
2)Ms Adrienne De Souza

In my earlier e-mail, I stated that we would have liked you to train a few(about 5) in the
Language so that in turn, they could conduct the language classes. This is all in principle
however as we do not require you to physically conduct those training classes. The objective of
Project Work is to theoratically plan out an event on our chosen topic that is relavent to the
topic. As such, we only require your principle sponsorship. 
Attached is a copy of my group's Group Project Proposal, detailing our objective, motive,
reason, feasibility and manageability of project.

Best Regards,

Julian A.G Lim

CJC068

Julian, I looked at the CJC website. Nice. However, you did not attach your proposals for the
Project Work detailing your objective, motive, reason etc.etc. as you wrote in email.
 As the CJC is in Singapore I would suggest that you contact the Eurasian Association in Ceylon
Road and ask for assistance re this Kristang Project. Even tho' you speak of it being only in
Principle and that my physical cooperation is not the issue here, my insistance will be that I see
you and your team mates personally before I can endoss anything.
 I live in Seremban and I am in the midst of doing research for my next work. I will travel to
Australia in September and will be very busy organising a Conference on the endangered
Kristang language. 
Do you have the Linggu Mai ( Mother Tongue) package. The Linggu Mai package consists of a
Reader, A Kristang Phrasebook and a Speech and Song CD. Price RM78/ plus RM10
( packaging and postage) This is still available from me. Linggu Mai should well, help your
35
Project. Please acknowledge if you are quoting or using any material from this book
Wish you all the very best with your Project.
Regards,
Joan M. Marbeck

Dear Ms Marbeck,
I apologize that the attachment was not there. Attached is our project proposal with our
objectives, motives and reasons for the conservation of the Kristang culture.

Many thanks for your suggestions, and we have been down to the Eurasian Association and
personally spoken to Dr. Barry Pereira, and they have been very helpful and supportive so far.
During our interview with Dr. Pereira, we heard a lot about you and your work, which was our
primary reason why we were enthusiastic to get in touch with you.

I understand your concerns regarding your reluctance to endorse anything before meeting in
person and we fully appreciate that. We have also had a look at the Linggu Mai package, which
we found at the Singapore Library and it has proved very useful so far. Rest assured, any
quotes we do use will certainly be acknowledged.

Given that we are ultimately trying to conserve the Kristang culture in the best possible way, any
input you have on our project proposal would add to our understanding of the issues
surrounding the conservation and the likely success of our proposed measures.

Many thanks in advance!

Julian A.G Lim

CJC068

36
Dear Julian,
Thank you for the Attachment. It is applaudable and comprehensive. If it is convenient for you
and 1 other Project member to visit me in Seremban for a weekend at the end of August, I will
be able to assist you with some information re 

1. Conserving the Kristang Culture through language documentation and usage.

2. Reviving traditional Kristang songs and encouraging new Kristang Music Compositions.
3. I will also be able to give you the opportunity to participate and experience the Merdeka
Luncheon on Sunday 30th. August at the Selangor and Federal Territory Eurasian Association
in Jalan Pudu, Kuala Lumpur where I will be presenting the Coffee table Book ' Amazing
Malaysian Heritage' where I am featured as 'The Kristang poet of Melaka'.

All you have to do is purchase a  train ticket from KTM in Keppel Road, Singapore and be in
Seremban by afternoon on Friday 28th. August.
I will be able to pick you up from the train station and take you to my house.

We will convene and have our discussions on subjects as proposed above from Friday evening
and all of Saturday.

On Sunday, I will personally drive you to SAFTEA for the luncheon and you can leave Kuala
Lumpur by bus for Singapore at about 4pm or alternatively you travel back with me from Kuala
Lumpur to Seremban on Sunday evening and take the train back to Singapore on Monday. As it
is going to be holiday time in Malaysia, during this period it is advisable to book train/bus tickets
in advance to secure a seat.

I will be able to provide you, hospitality, ( Bed and Breakfast) at my home for the time you are in
Seremban Friday28th. Aug- Sunday 30th. Aug 2009.

Julian I hope you understand that I will only have these dates to spare as I am preparing to go
to Australia in September.
 It will be a privilege for me to meet you and your project team-mate and assist your team who
have so much enthusiasm for cultural preservation.

Looking forward to your reply, meeting you and to the realization of your Project in November.
Best regards,
Joan M. Marbeck
PS. Let me know as soon as possible.

Dear Ms Marbeck,
Thank you for offering us this wonderful opportunity to work with you and the chance to improve
our project. We would sincerely have liked to accept your offer. However, our school term will
still be on during those dates and we would be unable to take a leave of absence to visit you in
Malaysia. 
Although we cannot meet you in person, would you still be willing to help us to answer some
questions and provide us with information which might provide us with a deeper understanding
of the conservation of the culture in your perspective, perhaps through an e-mail interview?

37
Again, we regret not being able to take up your generous offer due to uncontrollable
circumstances.

Best Regards,
Julian A.G. Lim
CJC068 

Dear Julian,
I understand your situation. If the email Interview can be done as quickly as possible, I could
just manage to assist. Correspondence through email should not go beyond September 5th.
All the best.
Joan M. Marbeck

Dear Ms Marbeck,
Sorry for the late reply and thank you for allowing us to conduct an email interview.
These are the questions we would like to ask,
1) What made you want to conserve the Kristang culture initially and why do you still do it?
2) If you could choose only one aspect of the Culture to conserve, what would it be and why?
3) What do you think of our conservation plans? Are there any major flaws in the idea or is it
unfeasible?
4) Do you have any additional suggestions for our project?
5) Are there any resources that you may recommend that may help us in any aspect of our
project?

6) What methods of conservation have been carried out in Malaysia and how successful do you
think they were?

7) What are some of the limitations and difficulties faced in those conservation efforts?

Thank you once again for your time.

38
Julian A.G Lim
CJC068

Sorry Julian. I couldn't manage the email interview. I'm still busy preparing some papers for the
Conference in Australia. I leave on Friday.
All the best of luck.
Joan M.Marbeck

39
 APPENDIX C

APPENDIX C

Suntec City Singapore’s Reply

Dear Sir/Ma'am.

My name is Julian Anthony Gerard Lim Meng Hwa and I am a J1 student from Catholic Junior
College. 

As part of my 'A' level Project Work, my group have decided to do a project on the Conservation
40
of the Kristang Culture. As part of our project, we will be holding a symposium during the year-
end holidays, my group would be organizing a three day symnposium.

This symposium will be a short term project to create the initial awareness needed
to bring the conservation message to the target audience.

Program list for symposium:

A food fair with traditional Kristang specialties i.e Devil's Curry, Babi Ponteh, etc.
throughout the symposium. A Kristang who knows how to cook the dishes/
Kristang cuisine chef to supervise a caterer to make the food for the symposium. 

Cooking lessons throughout the day to teach people how to cook the specialties so
that people can continue making this at home -> people don't just eat but also
remember/appreciate the food better. Also sell recipe books at the symposium for
interested people. A Kristang who knows the dishes would teach, get recipes from
them for the recipe book.

Dance performance- Participants are put into groups and taught the dance step by
step to audience followed by a mass dance after that comprising of all the groups.
Taught by Kristang people, or students from performing arts schools to learn the
dance from them then teach to participants.

Music performance/exhibition, showing the history/origins of the Kristang music,

teach audience basics on how to play instruments.

 Invite Joan Marbeck, the person who has spent her life studying and trying to
conserve the Kristang culture to give a talk on her work and why she
committed her life to the culture.

Where: Suntec City Convention Hall -> large enough to hold all the different
activities / stations
When: Mid November; Friday, Saturday, Sunday; 10am-5pm -> Middle aged
people have work on weekdays so they would be more available on the weekends.
November is towards the end of the year where people are generally more free.
However, December not chosen as it is the peak period for travelling overseas and
there are many festive events also going on at the same time.

41
The purpose of this email is to obtain the principle endorsement of the Organization
for our project and for the use of the Convention Hall during our Symposium. The
aim behind such an endorsement is to show that the Organization is willing to
support the project because it is feasible. Although the Project would not be
physically carried out, support in principle would be greatly appreciated.
I can be contacted at 93209573.

Best Regards,
Julian A.G. Lim
CJC068

Hi Julian,

Thank you for your email and your interest in using Suntec Singapore for your school project.

Before we agree to your request, may I ask:-

1) What kind of endorsement support are you expecting from Suntec Singapore?

2) What kind of information regarding Suntec Singapore that you will be putting up in your school
assignment.

3) Any other commitments that is expected from Suntec Singapore

Best regards

Rena Wong

Manager, CRM & Sales Administration

42
Suntec Singapore

DID: (65) 6825 2186

Dear Rena,
Thank you for your reply. 
As stated in the previous email, my group would be holding a symposium during the End-of-year
holidays on the topic of the Kristang Culture.
However, if we are to carry out such a project, we would require a venue to hold our symposium
and that is the support we require from Suntec City. We would like Suntec City to in principle,
sponsor us the use of a convention hall for the duration of our symposium. Our rationale is that
if Suntec City is willing to sponsor my group project, it would mean that indirectly, Suntec City is
providing us with support for our project.
If Suntec City is willing to sponsor us the use of one convention hall, in our final report, we
would be able to state that an organization such as Suntec City has seen and understands the
feasibility of our project and thus, is willing to support us. Conversely, if Suntec City is unwilling
to sponsor us, we would be able to show that our project is not entirely feasible and thus we
would be able to learn from our mistakes.
If requested, I would be happy to provide a copy of my groups Group Project Proposal, detailing
our objective, motive, reason, feasibility and manageability of our project.

Thank You,

Julian A.G Lim

CJC068

Dear Julian,

I have reviewed your proposal and would like to suggest that you consider the following:
43
 

1) How do you get the funding for this event/symposium?

2) What are the minimum attendance that you are expecting?

3) The Kristang community is pretty small in Singapore, thus, it may be a challenge to generate
the interest for participation

4) Is this going to be a free event or registration with a fee is required? If this is a paid event,
you will have to ensure that this event is interesting enough for public to sign up.

5) What is the expected number of exhibitors are you expecting to be able to break even for
this event.

As for Suntec Singapore's leasing policy, I would like to comment on the following:-

- Demonstration of cooking in Public is not permitted due to fire and safety regulations.

- Distribution and sampling of food and beverage products are subjected to compliance with
the general standards of health, safety, sanitation and any other specific requirements of
National Environment Agency. Proper license permits need to be obtained prior to the event.

- All catering to be supplied by Suntec Singapore, no outside catering is permitted.

- In actual scenario, event organisers are to ensure that the event that they are planning, meets
the overall objectives and goals (generate public interest to satisfy the exhibitors, funding
agencies, breakeven or profit generating).

- Suntec Singapore do not usually endorse organisers' events for support.

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I hope that the above information suffice, and good luck to your project.

Best regards

Rena Wong

Manager, CRM & Sales Administration

Suntec Singapore

DID: (65) 6825 2186

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