The Peranakan community is Singapore’s long-lost brother; they have coexisted with our community for more than 200 years (since the 1800s), yet the majority of Singaporeans have never heard of them. Ms. Afra Alatas, our guest speaker, belongs to the minority amongst the minority: the Arab Peranakans.
Her presentation covered the origins of Arab Peranakans, their contributions to Singapore, and her own background. Her personal narrative, combined with the history of Arab Peranakans, made the event even more special. A short Q&A session followed the presentation, where Ms. Alatas interacted with students from the Singapore American School.
One student, who had also attended the heritage walk to Sallim Mattar Mosque, shared how Ms. Alatas’ presentation deepened her understanding of the local Peranakan community.
We hope to continue engaging with the Peranakan community through heritage walks, guest speaker events, local gatherings, and more. Stay tuned for updates!
Video of the Arab Network @ Singapore event celebrating the publication of their coffee table book, “Arabs of Singapore: 200 Years On”
