Penang has always been a place rich with culture and tradition. Peranakan, also known as Baba-Nyonya, is a cultural group commonly found in Penang, originating from Chinese immigrants who settled in the region and intermarried with local Malays, Indonesians or Thais. This fusion of Chinese, Malay, and sometimes European influences has given rise to a distinct hybrid culture characterized by unique language, cuisine, attire, and customs.
To understand better about the Peranakan heritage, we went to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, located in the bustling streets of Georgetown, Penang. It is also fondly referred to as the “Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum,” an enchanting destination beckons travelers and locals alike to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of Peranakan history.
Finding the Mansion
Located on Church Street, the mansion is easy to spot with its grand facade. Getting in won’t break the bank either; the entrance fee is pretty reasonable, making it a great stop for anyone curious about Penang’s past.
| Adult | RM25/pax |
| Child (6 to 12 years old) | RM12/pax |
| Child (below 6) | Free |
Guided Tour
I lucked out and joined a guided tour led by Mr. Stanley! He had a knack for storytelling, turning the tour into a mix of history lesson and stand-up comedy. His jokes had us chuckling while we learned about the mansion’s past. Guided tour is free, but it is scheduled according to batches. You may check with the counter for the full schedule timing.
Dress-Up Time
If you are feeling adventurous, you can opt to rent a Baba Nyonya costume. It wasn’t very pricey and it add-on value to the whole experience! I saw many lady visitors wearing the traditional Nyonya costume that day, and that’s definitely a pretty sight. More info here.
A Scene from TV Drama
Here’s a fun fact: ever watched the internationally-acclaimed Singaporean TV drama, “The Little Nyonya”, that featured Jeanette Aw, Joanne Peh, Qi Yuwu, Pierre Png, Yao Wenlong and Dai Xiangyu? Well, guess what? Some scenes from this popular drama were filmed right here! Walking through the mansion, you might feel like you’re in the show, adding a cool twist to your visit.
Preserving History
More than just a tourist spot, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion is like a time capsule, preserving the stories and traditions of Malaysia’s Peranakan community. It’s a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Penang so special. There are many replicas and real antique items, like furniture, costumes, vase, treasure boxes, accessories, and paintings, to name a few, on display in the huge mansion.
Lady is Always Right
In the Peranakan culture, there’s a traditional practice where during photographs, men typically sit or stand on the left side of their wives, symbolizing leadership or power. However, in one particular photograph on display, this convention is reversed. The couple chose to do so because it was believed that the man had married into the woman’s family, a practice known as “ĺ…Ąč´…” (rĂą zhuì).
Kingfisher Feather Jewelry
There was a set of stunning accessories—a headdress, earrings, and necklace—that are noteworthy. Kingfisher feather jewelry, a traditional adornment, features the iridescent feathers of the kingfisher bird crafted into decorative pieces like hairpins, earrings, brooches, and pendants. Originating in China during the Qing Dynasty, this style gained popularity across East Asia and beyond. The vibrant blue and green hues of the feathers add a luxurious touch to the pieces. However, modern versions often use synthetic materials to mimic the feathers, addressing concerns about wildlife conservation. Mr. Stanley, our guide, mentioned that typically only 2-3 feathers were used per accessory, ensuring no harm to the birds.
Overall, my wife and I had a pleasant time visiting this mansion and learned new things about the Peranakan culture from this visit. I would suggest you to pay a visit in your next trip to Penang and join in the guided tour for a more wholesome experience.
đź“ŤPinang Peranakan Mansion
29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
Operation hours: 9.30AM to 5PM (Monday to Sunday including Public Holidays)
IG: https://www.instagram.com/pinang_peranakan_mansion/
Website: http://www.pinangperanakanmansion.com.my/
dixonthum 