✨ Series Introduction: Echoes of Tradition: Discovering Peranakan Culture Through a Learner’s Eyes
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the details — the colours, the patterns, the stories behind traditions. Over the years, one culture in particular has quietly but powerfully resonated with me: Peranakan culture.
Though I’m not Peranakan by heritage, I’ve come to realise how deeply its spirit has influenced my life, my upbringing, and my work with artists and designers. As I begin a 12-week series exploring Peranakan culture — from fashion and food to architecture and rituals — I’d like to start with a personal reflection. This is my respectful statement of connection, and why I feel called to share and celebrate this incredible cultural heritage.
Walking Alongside Peranakan Culture with Respect and Heart
Hello,
my name is Vinh Van Lam, and I’m of Chinese heritage, born in Vietnam. Throughout my life, I’ve been surrounded by the richness of Southeast Asian cultures — and Peranakan culture, in particular, has left a quiet but lasting impression on me.
As a child, I spent two years living on one of the islands of Indonesia, where I experienced local customs, textiles, and traditions — many of which I now recognise as deeply influenced by Peranakan heritage. Later, growing up in Sydney, I was fortunate to be surrounded by friends of Peranakan descent who shared their food, stories, family rituals, and aesthetics with such pride and warmth.
Although I am not Peranakan by blood, I have always felt a sincere connection to its vibrant spirit — the intricate art, the heartfelt rituals, and the way beauty is woven into everyday life.
As a business coach for creatives, I’ve also had the privilege of working closely with artists who draw from Peranakan tradition in their work. This has further deepened my appreciation and understanding of how this culture continues to inspire and evolve — through craft, cuisine, fashion, storytelling, and heritage preservation.
I approach this journey not as a cultural authority, but as a respectful learner and passionate ally. My goal is to celebrate Peranakan culture through storytelling, visual documentation, and meaningful collaborations — always with full credit and heartfelt intention to support, not overshadow.
Thank you for the opportunity to learn, listen, and honour the legacy of a culture that has so generously shaped the world around me.
📖 What You Can Expect in This Series
Over the next 12 weeks, I’ll be sharing weekly articles covering a variety of topics such as:
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What Does “Peranakan” Mean?
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Food & Culinary Traditions
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Nyonya Fashion & Beadwork
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Architecture & Heritage Homes
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Ceremonies & Weddings
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Language & Expressions
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The Keepers of Culture
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Evolving Identity
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Preservation & Revival
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Everyday Design
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Cultural Appreciation vs Appropriation
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Personal Reflection: What I’ve Learned
Each post is crafted from a place of respectful curiosity, cultural admiration, and personal reflection.
❤️ My Commitment as a Learner and Ally
I am here to listen, learn, and share. I acknowledge that this culture does not belong to me — but I am grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside it and to share its beauty with my audience.
“Culture is not something we take. It’s something we honour, protect, and help breathe into the future.”
🔜 Coming Next Week:
What Does “Peranakan” Really Mean?
In my first exploration post, I’ll introduce the origins, history, and richness of Peranakan culture — and why it’s far more complex than any simple definition.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I invite you to walk beside me, with respect, curiosity, and heart.
Warmly,
Vinh Van Lam
