THE PERANAKANNyonya Josephine Tan and Baba Clarence Ling share a few highlights from the 36th International Baba Nyonya Convention,
including a new logo for the Federation of Peranakan Associations.
The 36th International Baba Nyonya Convention, held from 21-23 Nov 2025,
brought together Peranakans from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia and beyond, reaffirming the unity of a community linked by shared history,
heritage and heart.
Hosted by the Persatuan Peranakan Baba Nyonya Kuala Lumpur & Selangor (PPBNKLS) at the Dorsett Grand Subang, the convention was a vibrant celebration of culture, scholarship and reunion.
This year’s theme, “Bridging Generations, Preserving Legacy,” resonated throughout the three-day programme — from the Opening Ceremony and keynote presentations to cultural showcases and evening festivities. Delegates enjoyed a dynamic mix of talks, performances and exhibitions highlighting language, culinary traditions, attire, craftsmanship and community storytelling, reflecting the lived expressions that continue to shape Peranakan identity.
Two meaningful milestones were recorded at the Federation of Peranakan Associations (FPA) meeting:
The first was the adoption of the new FPA logo, designed by Nyonya Josephine Tan (TPAS) — a symbol reflecting the phoenix’s resilience and the peony’s grace, embodying renewal, abundance and the enduring warmth of community. In the colourful quilt of Singapore’s communities, Peranakan culture is one of the most vibrant threads—rich with ornate kebayas, hearty nyonya dishes, and the musical charm of Baba Malay. But as our babas and nyonyas grow older in a rapidly modernising world, they face a double challenge: to age well and keep the culture alive.
Logo Design Rationale
The Federation of Peranakan Associations (FPA) logo captures the spirit, beauty, and unity of the Peranakan community.
At its heart, the phoenix embodies resilience, renewal, and harmony, reflecting our community’s enduring strength and shared heritage. The peony, positioned close to the phoenix, represents abundance, grace, and the warmth of family, virtues deeply rooted in our Peranakan culture.
Rendered in gold, the design celebrates the richness of intricate Peranakan artistry and conveys prestige, elegance and timeless tradition. The circular form symbolizes continuity and inclusivity, reflecting our unifying mission to bring Peranakan associations together in respect for our shared heritage.
The flowing “FPA” initials, elegantly woven into the phoenix’s form, serve as a seal of cultural authority and authenticity. They affirm our role as the guardian and voice of Peranakan heritage across generations and borders.
Elegant and contemporary, this emblem stands as a living symbol of our enduring legacy, preserving tradition while inspiring future generations.
The second was a sharing by Nyonya Josephine Tan on ChakapBot, Singapore’s first AI-powered conversational chatbot created to preserve and revitalise the endangered Baba Malay language. Supported by Temasek Polytechnic, the National University of Singapore, the National Heritage Board and TPAS, the initiative demonstrated how technology can strengthen youth engagement and sustain our linguistic heritage.
A heartfelt kamsiah to PPBNKLS for their warm hospitality and impeccable planning, and to all delegates who travelled from near and far to make this gathering such a meaningful success. The convention remains a cherished annual platform for reconnecting, celebrating our roots and shaping the future of a living, evolving heritage.
We look forward to gathering again at the 37th International Baba Nyonya Convention in Penang this year.
All images courtesy of PPBNKLS, Baba Clarence Ling, and Nyonya Josephine Tan
