Cover Tony Tan Keng Yam and Mary Tan with Raymond Wong and Peggy Loh at The Peranakan Ball 2015

The Peranakan Association returns with yet another carefully curated event to celebrate the organisation's rich culture and history

Whenever the Peranakans host a gala dinner, it’s usually a colourful celebration of culture and heritage, complete with sumptuous food and delightful entertainment. The Peranakan Ball by The Peranakan Association Singapore is no different, especially when it's one of the key events on the organisation’s calendar. However, last year, in light of Covid-19 restrictions, the event had to be postponed. 

Nevertheless, longtime attendees of the gala need not despair: initially scheduled for 2020 in celebration of the Peranakan Association’s 120th anniversary, the Peranakan Dinner returns this year as a virtual ball scheduled for 25 September—and it’s all thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Peranakan community.

“Much of 2020 was spent re-scheduling and re-organising our 120th Anniversary Peranakan Ball,” said Colin Chee, president of the Peranakan Association. “The complexity of managing that experience because of the very fluid public health situation, funding uncertainties, and venue sponsorships cannot be understated.”

He shared that while the Association had considered cancelling the ball, support from members, volunteers and friends ultimately helped them pull through.

“I cannot thank [them] enough,” praised Chee.

See also: Peranakan Food for Delivery: Raffles Courtyard and Fat Fuku Continue Collaboration Online

Tatler Asia
Above The Peranakan Dinner 2021 will be held in celebration of the Peranakan Association's 120th anniversary
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Above The 11-course dinner will be delivered in a traditional tingkat

Despite its virtual nature, The Peranakan Dinner 2021 promises to be just as exciting as its predecessors. Guests can expect to be treated to a decadent 11-course Tingkat Tok Panjang dining experience curated by renowned Peranakan chefs Violet Oon, Sylvia Tan and Christopher Tan. This feast of traditional Nyonya dishes, which will be prepared by the chefs of Shangri-La Hotel, will undoubtedly delight even the most discerning of babas and bibiks.

“Finally, we are going ahead with The Peranakan Dinner, featuring a Peranakan menu of 11 dishes—tok panjang style—all to be delivered to donors’ homes together with sake and goody bags!” says Genevieve Peggy Jeffs, chairperson of the organising committee. She is also the first vice president of The Peranakan Association Singapore. “[120 years] is a milestone to celebrate and it’s important to keep the Peranakan culture alive!”

120 years is a milestone to celebrate and it is so important to keep the Peranakan culture alive!

- Genevieve Peggy Jeffs -

While dining, guests will also be able to enjoy a virtual fashion show. This experience—featuring Lai Chan’s sophisticated cheongsams and Raymond Wong’s sensuous sarong kebayas, highlighted by intricate and glittering jewellery from Flower Diamond Boutique and Foundation Jewellers—will be a feast for the eyes, especially for those with an appreciation for signature Peranakan craftsmanship. The hour-and-a-half-long video will also spotlight short interviews from distinguished guests. 

Finally, attendees can also expect to be entertained by performances of Peranakan music, as well as a Best Dressed contest—so if there was ever a time to break out a beautiful new baju batik or kebaya, that time is now.

See also: One-Ninety Bar and Candlenut Team Up for a Peranakan-Inspired Afternoon Tea Spread


Tatler Singapore is the official media of The Peranakan Dinner 2021.

Tables are available for group sizes of four, six, eight and 10 (subject to safe distancing rules on September 25) at prices ranging between $200 and $500 per person. For more details, email genevievejeffs@peranakan.org.sg.

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