Celebrating diversity: Penang’s Jawi Peranakan community shines at gala event

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THE Jawi Peranakan Heritage Society, established in 2012, is dedicated to conserving and promoting the Jawi Peranakan community in Penang.

 

Its president Nurilkarim Razha emphasised the importance of the society, noting that it serves as a valuable resource for understanding the origins and growth of this integral part of Penang’s diverse and charming heritage.

 

This evening, the society hosted an extravagant event celebrating the ‘kebaya’, a traditional garment popular among Southeast Asian women and particularly notable in Peranakan communities.

 

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Nurilkarim (second from left) presenting the newly-launched book called ‘From Malay Garden to Table’ to His Excellency Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah (second from right).

 

The event was graced by the presence of the Kedah Raja Muda, His Excellency Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah, and his wife, Raja Puan Muda, Her Excellency Che Puan Muda Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff.

 

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow also attended.

 

In his speech, Nurilkarim expressed his privilege in leading the society and vowed to continue highlighting the importance and relevance of the Jawi Peranakan community in modern times.

 

He praised Penang’s diversity, noting that the inclusivity practiced in the state should serve as an example at all levels.

 

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Chow (seated, second from left), His Excellency Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah (seated, third from left) and Her Excellency Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff (third from right) posing for a photo with other individuals representing their respective entities.

 

“Touching on Penang’s diversity, we share very close relations with our other Peranakan friends.

 

“As a hybrid community of mixed cultures and practices, we are proud to be inclusive, forward-thinking, and progressive,” he said at E&O Hotel, Penang.

 

The evening featured beautiful traditional performances by the Peranakan communities, and guests enjoyed amazing lucky draw prizes.

 

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One of the kebaya booths during the dinner.

 

Nurilkarim also expressed gratitude to the Penang government for their continuous support, which has helped the society grow and become well-known in vibrant, multicultural Penang.

 

He thanked Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid and state Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, both passionate supporters of arts and culture, for their unwavering support.

 

Additionally, Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai received special mention for assisting the society through grants for promotional activities.

 

Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian