Five Nations, One Legacy: Bridging Generations at the 36th International Baba Nyonya Convention

The vibrant hues of kebayas and the rhythmic chatter of Baba Malay are set to fill the halls of Dorsett Grand Subang later this month as over 500 delegates from five Asia-Pacific nations gather to celebrate and safeguard a centuries-old heritage that refuses to fade quietly into history.

From 21 to 23 November 2025, the 36th International Baba Nyonya Convention will bring together Peranakan associations from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Australia under one roof — uniting tradition, innovation, and regional pride under the theme “Bridging Generations, Preserving Legacy.”

Hosted by the Persatuan Peranakan Baba Nyonya Kuala Lumpur & Selangor (PPBNKLS), the convention aims to breathe new life into the community’s cultural DNA — from the melodic Baba Malay language to the intricate beadwork, culinary artistry, and expressive performance traditions that have long defined Peranakan identity.

“As Babas and Nyonyas, we are custodians of a unique and colourful culture that continues to inspire and unite across borders,” said Nyonya Vivienne Lee, President of PPBNKLS. “Whilst our roots are buried deep in tradition, our branches must reach out to embrace new generations and spark novel ways of keeping our culture alive.”

One of the highlights this year is “Achar Ah-Cheh,” an immersive musical theatre collaboration with Yayasan Hasanah, blending nostalgia with innovation. The interactive performance is designed to engage audiences across generations, offering a lively, emotional exploration of identity and belonging — all wrapped in the distinctive humour and warmth of the Peranakan spirit.

Flavours, Fabrics, and Stories

The public will also have a rare chance to experience Peranakan culture up close at the Cultural Bazaar, held at the hotel’s ballroom foyer throughout the convention. Visitors can browse through a kaleidoscope of traditional and contemporary crafts — from beaded slippers and batik kebayas to jewellery, textiles, and culinary essentials — brought by artisans from across the region.

Adding a tasteful twist, Dorsett Grand Subang is partnering with PPBNKLS to offer a “Baba & Nyonya Weekend High Tea” at Terazza Brasserie, available every weekend until 31 December 2025. The curated menu showcases the delicate fusion of sweet and savoury flavours that define Peranakan cuisine — from nyonya kuih to spicy otak-otak and fragrant laksa.

“This partnership shows our commitment to being more than just accommodation,” said Kumar Renoo, Area General Manager of Dorsett Hospitality International. “We want to contribute meaningfully to Malaysia’s living cultural heritage whilst creating distinctive experiences for our guests.”

Preserving a Living Legacy

With the support of Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the convention also takes a forward-looking approach, establishing cross-border mentorship programmes connecting traditional craftspeople with younger learners. These initiatives ensure that age-old techniques — from embroidery to beadwork — continue to flourish in the hands of future generations.

Workshops and talks will explore new avenues for heritage tourism and community education, offering insights into how cities like Kuala Lumpur can champion sustainable cultural preservation while embracing modernity.

The gathering of five nations in Subang Jaya symbolises more than a convention — it’s a cultural bridge across time and borders. Where once the Peranakan story began in bustling ports and ancestral kitchens, it now thrives in grand ballrooms, on digital platforms, and through the voices of a new generation determined to keep their legacy alive.

For the public, the Cultural Bazaar and Baba & Nyonya Weekend High Tea promise a feast for the senses — and a reminder that the Peranakan story is not one of the past, but a living, evolving tapestry woven with pride, artistry, and heart.

Whilst the convention itself is for registered delegates from participating Peranakan associations, the public is invited to experience the culture through two accessible programmes:

Cultural Bazaar (21-23 November 2025, Ballroom Foyer, Dorsett Grand Subang)

Browse traditional and contemporary textiles, accessories, jewellery, culinary essentials, and artisan crafts from local and international vendors.
● Friday, 21 November: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
● Saturday, 22 November: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
● Sunday, 23 November: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Baba & Nyonya Weekend Hi-Tea (Now until 31 December 2025, Dorsett Grand Subang)
● Every Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
● Venue: Terazza Brasserie Restaurant, Ground Floor
● Pricing: RM98 nett per adult, RM88 nett for senior citizens above 60 years old, RM59 nett for children below 13 years old. Children 5 years and below dine for free.

For reservations: Call +60 3 5031 6060 or email bookfnb.subang@dorsetthotels.com