To promote a better understanding of local clan associations and strengthen interaction between new immigrant groups and local clan associations, the SFCCA Social Affairs Committee organised its second “Clan Associations Heritage Visits” event on 31 March 2012, following the inaugural visit to Lam Ann Association and Hong San See Temple in October 2011. About 30 new immigrants from different groups and regions visited the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan at Tank Road.
Established in 1929, the association is one of the oldest clan associations in Singapore and also the apex body connecting and uniting Teochew clansmen and Teochew associations in Singapore. On that day, the President of the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan, Mr Goh Nam Siang, personally led new immigrants on a tour of the Ngee Ann Kongsi Heritage Hall to share the intricate tapestry of the history between Ngee Ann Kongsi and Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan. These two associations share many common links and origins. The participants learned about the subtle ties between the two organisations and their significant joint contributions to the development of the local community.
The group then watched a 10-year review video produced in 2009 about the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan, which highlighted the association’s major events, celebrations and milestones over the past decade. Additionally, a video showcasing the establishment of the Teochew International Economic Cooperation Organisation was also played. Mr Goh announced that the organisation plans to hold its inaugural ceremony in 2013, which would open a new chapter in Teochew trade and economic cooperation.
Mr Goh Nam Siang introducing new immigrants to the historical ties between Ngee Ann Kongsi and the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan.
Welcoming new immigrants to the association’s activities
During the Q&A session, Qiu Bo from Shanxi province enquired about the activities or courses new immigrants could participate in. Mr Goh replied that the association holds occasional economic panel discussions, as well as Teochew dialect courses. In addition, the Youth Committee also organises its own activities, so interested individuals could visit their website for more details, or keep themselves updated through news reports.
Lin Yimin from Putian city, Fujian province, believes that the core aim of clan organisations is to “strengthen community ties and relations, and achieve mutually beneficial development.” He expressed his interest in participating in association activities, and asked if new immigrants like him, who were of different dialect groups or born in other regions, could still participate in the activities of the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan. Mr Goh clarified that while core membership is reserved for those of Teochew origin, the activities hosted by the association are open to new immigrants from all regions.
Among the new immigrants that day, Wang Ying, in particular, happened to hail from Chenghai, Shantou city. She had only arrived in Singapore in August last year, and for the first time, she was able to enjoy authentic Teochew snacks in a foreign country. She said excitedly, “Finding my own clan association is my biggest gain from this event.”
Aside from visiting the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan to learn about its origins, the association had also specially prepared a lantern riddle game steeped in Teochew culture. The new immigrants participated enthusiastically, solving the riddles in a competitive spirit. Winners were awarded prizes, creating a more vibrant and lively atmosphere. Simultaneously, the immigrants enjoyed a variety of delicious Teochew snacks, which enhanced the overall experience of the visit.
