The Peranakans, also known as the Babas and Nyonyas, was a prominent community of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world, especially in the Straits Settlements (Penang, Malacca and Singapore) hence its other name, the Straits Chinese. Adopting selected ways of the local Malays and later, the colonial British, the Peranakans had created a unique lifestyle and customs which had not only left behind a rich legacy of antiques but its cultural influences like cuisine and language are still evident in Penang today.
At the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, the typical home of a rich Baba of a century ago is recreated to offer a glimpse of their opulent lifestyle and of their many customs and traditions. With over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectibles of the era on display, this Baba-Nyonya museum is also housed in one of Penang’s heritage mansion of eclectic design and architecture. Built at the end of the 19th century by one of local history’s famous personalities, the ‘Hai Kee Chan’ or Sea Remembrance Store had once served as the residence and office of Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee. Though not a Baba himself, his Chinese courtyard house was much like a typical large Baba home of eclectic style, incorporating Chinese carved-wood panels and English floor tiles and Scottish ironworks. Having survived the many decades of neglect and decay, the mansion has now been restored to its former glory of a stately home.
dear dear with Baba Nyonya Kandar Basket
Tiles with the 'corak'
2nd floor outer balcony with the traditional design framework
The S-shape chair
Vintage standing camera
Baba Nyonya clothing and shoes
Baba Nyonya dressing table with all the perfumes and oilment
The old identification card
Baba Nyonya bedroom
The old luggage for travel
Old style player, 黑胶唱盘
A frame of phoenix sewing
The dining table
Baba Nyonya kitchen with collection of cutlery
Very special window pane
The entrance door of the Peranakan house
Handpulled antique Rickshaw
Visiting Hours
Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 5pm
Daily Tours at 11.30am and 3.30pm
Ticket Prices
Adults (Ages 12 and above) : RM10.00
Children (below 12) : Free
School children (in uniform) : RM5.00
Complimentary tours are only available with prior arrangements for a group of 5 persons and above. Discounts are available to school bookings and other large groups.
The Mansion and its grounds are available for private gatherings and events. Contact us for further information and attractive rates.
29, Church Street, 10200 Penang, Malaysia.
