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Thanks to its unique geography and position straddling major trade routes, Maritime Southeast Asia has always been a melting pot where cultures intermingle in surprising ways. The term Peranakan describes the progeny of indigenous (often Malay or Javanese) women and Chinese, Indian, or Arab traders; their rich heritage is the focus at Singapore’s <a href="https://destinasian.com/singapore-attractions-peranakan-museum?DestinAsian">Peranakan Museum</a>. A nearly four-year-long upgrade has seen the exhibition galleries completely overhauled to better showcase a precious collection of more than 800 artifacts—these span everything from batik fashions and home accessories to jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and ceremonial objects. It isn’t all about the past, mind you: touchless interactive screens unlock interviews and personal stories told by 21st-century Singaporeans, and in the section on food culture, mouth-watering recipe videos introduce visitors to a traditional dish from five disparate Peranakan communities. Rounding out the experience are newly commissioned pieces like Coming Home, contemporary artist Sam Lo’s installation of colorful lanterns in the central airwell. —James Louie
<a href="https://www.nhb.gov.sg/peranakanmuseum/?destinasian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">nhb.gov.sg/peranakanmuseum/</a> 
+65 6332 7591 
<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/j2RoeC3yDEcMCD9j9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">39 Armenian Street, Singapore</a>

Peranakan Museum: Singaporean Culture

Singapore Attractions