Nonya kebayas and Peranakan baskets were among the colourful displays for the Lien Fung’s Colloquium

On 28 November, SMU launched the inaugural Lien Fung’s Colloquium. The invited guest speaker was Mr Peter Wee, First Vice President of The Peranakan Association, who delivered a thought-provoking address entitled “The Peranakan Experience: A Singapore Story”.

Mr Wee walked the audience through a pictorial family history and personal memories, which brought to life the unique features of the Peranakan spirit, most of which deliberately embraced elements from various cultures in a somewhat exuberant expression, evident in its art, customs, rites, costume, food and language.

Prior to the lecture, SMU organised a Peranakan food-tasting followed by a wonderful music performance that was put together by members of The Peranakan Association. The event was a big success, enjoyed by all who attended.

The Lien Fung’s Colloquium, also known as (”Lien Fung Jiang Zuo”) was established by Mrs Ho Lien Fung as a “non-academic” educational platform for the general public and, in particular, the SMU community, in line with the University’s broad-based approach to education. It aims to enhance awareness and appreciation of cultural and societal issues, with a particular focus on everyday life.

As part of the Lien Fung’s Colloquium, SMU has invited Prof Xu Ping Fang, an eminent archaeologist from Beijing University and the series’ first international speaker, to deliver two lectures, backed by archaeological findings from his various expeditions. These will take us on a unique journey centuries back into the Chinese history and drama.

The lectures co-organised by Lianho Zaobao, will be held at the SPH Auditorium, with the first scheduled for 20 March. Transporting us to Dadu (where Beijing is today), the world’s most prosperous city during the Yuan Dynasty, Prof Xu will bring to light the 700 year-old fascinating architecture of Beijing.

The second lecture will be held on 23 March. From an archaeological viewpoint, Prof Xu will attempt to solve the mystery behind excavated figurines believed to be performing an ancient Chinese drama. Are they really acting?

For more information regarding the
Lieng Fung’s Colloquium, please visit www.smu.edu.sg/lfc.