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Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum Lantern

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Ancestral Hall (Thia Abu)


The Peranakan-Chinese still kept their religious beliefs: a mix of Taoism, Buddhism and ancestral worship. Ancestral worship was a way of respecting one’s elders through filial piety.

This hall is dedicated to the ancestors of the Chan family, and prayers (semahyang) are still conducted 7 times a year: during ancestor’s birthdays, death anniversaries, all Soul’s Day, Chinese New Year and the Hungry Ghost festival. Even though some family members now follow Christ, the act of honouring one’s heritage and ancestry and getting family members together becomes a treasured time for all.

Ancestral Portrait of Chew Poye Yan


As the eldest son, Cheng Siew was expected to keep the tablets of his mother and father in this altar.


A picture of Cheng Siew’s mother Chew Poye Yan (1845-1903) takes center-stage on top of the altar. This is telling of the Peranakan culture at home. In society, the babas played active roles, where young nyonyas were not allowed ruled the roost. Many tales are told of the fierce Peranakan mother-in-law as a force to be reckoned with!

Ancestral Portrait of Chew Poye Yan
Chan Chen Siew Funeral Showcase

Cheng Siew’s Funeral


Cheng Siew had a grand funeral. The Straits Times November 26th, 1919 reports:

The funeral of the late Mr Chan Cheng Siew, J.P took place yesterday. The cortege left his residence at Heeren Street, at 11:45am and preceded to the family burial ground at Peringgit where the mortal remains of the millionaire were laid to rest. The canopy used was one of the best and costliest seen in Malacca during the last ten years.

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