C. Khor
Penang will host the 37th International Baba Nyonya Convention at G Hotel from 20 to 22 November. Delegates from Malaysia and several other countries will attend. It follows the opening of a Penang State Museum branch on Jalan Macalister.
The State Chinese (Penang) Association (SCPA), also known as Persatuan Peranakan Cina Pulau Pinang, is the organiser. Notably, the theme is “Unveiling the Peranakan Within”. Organising chairman and SCPA president Datuk Seri Tan Gin Soon called the event a special occasion. He said it matters to Penang and the Peranakan community.
Overall, here is who is coming, what is on the programme and what is still unknown. The organiser has not shared ticket prices or delegate numbers.
Delegates at the International Baba Nyonya Convention
Specifically, delegates are expected from Singapore, Australia, Thailand and Indonesia. Participants from other countries will join them. In addition, the gathering is meant to build ties among Peranakan groups worldwide.
Tan said the aims are closer friendships and more pride in Peranakan identity. Furthermore, he wants the event to show Penang as a top heritage tourism spot. He also said young people should know their roots.
Historically, Penang has held a big place in Peranakan culture. Its crafts, buildings and food support that role. As a result, the state is a natural host for the gathering. That history also helps explain why delegates travel here.
In fact, SCPA has hosted the convention three times before, in 1988, 2011 and 2017. The 2026 edition is the fourth. However, the organiser has not said how many delegates will attend this time.
Programme of the International Baba Nyonya Convention
To begin, the convention opens on 20 November with an official ceremony. Culture and heritage talks follow. So do social events for guests from abroad. Moreover, a fashion show and a Makan Malam Soiree are on the list.
After that, a charity and heritage auction takes place at lunch on 21 November. It is held at the G Hotel Ballroom. Delegates can bid for special items. Still, the text does not say what will be offered.
Finally, on 22 November, the closing ceremony will feature the making of the Longest Nyonya Kueh. Participants will make it together as a fun activity. Yet the organiser has not given a target length.
Sadly, the programme does not list times for each event. Likewise, it does not say which events are open to the public. Therefore, readers should ask SCPA before they plan to attend. Otherwise, some sessions may be closed.
Penang’s tourism gain from the International Baba Nyonya Convention
The organiser expects gains for Penang’s tourism trade. They include hotels, food and drink, transport and shops. Meanwhile, new hotels in Penang keep adding rooms.
Food is part of the draw for many visitors. For example, nasi kandar entered the Michelin Guide Penang for the first time this month. Nyonya kueh adds another local food story.
In addition, the organiser gives no figure for room nights or visitor spending. It also does not say how many hotels are involved. Equally, it names no sponsors. For now, the gain is only a hope, not a measured result.
In short, the International Baba Nyonya Convention runs at G Hotel from 20 to 22 November. Prices, public access and delegate numbers are still to be announced.
Navin Kumar Perianen
Yalinie Mathan
Admin
Add comment