From March 21 to 23, Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA), led by President Mr Thomas Chua, embarked on a strategic retreat in Penang, Malaysia, with a delegation of approximately 40 Council and Committee members. This marks SFCCA’s first overseas retreat in nine years, aimed at exploring future development strategies, fostering unity, and deepening engagement with Penang’s local Chinese community organisations.

Building on the discussions from the work plan meeting held in December last year, this retreat provided a deeper evaluation of key points, refined future directions and reinforced SFCCA’s steady progress.

This year marks Singapore’s 60th year of independence and SFCCA’s 40th Anniversary. Addressing SFCCA’s future directions, President Mr Thomas Chua stated, “We must keep pace with the changing times and continue contributing to the next phase of the nation’s development. It is also crucial for us to reassess our vision and mission to ensure that their continued relevance, making necessary adjustments as we move forward.”

During the retreat, attendees engaged in discussions on SFCCA’s mission and vision, while reassessing the direction of key events, including flagship events and publications such as Yuan Magazine and Oneness Magazine. Many found the retreat to be a valuable opportunity to reaffirm SFCCA’s future direction and strengthen consensus on its development plans.

Furthermore, Singapore and Penang share deep historical ties and a rich Chinese cultural heritage, each developing its own unique identity through the process of nation-building. In light of this, SFCCA’s Council and Committee members visited the Federation of Chinese Surnames Associations in Malaysia (Penang State Committee) and Penang Chinese Town Hall to engage with local community leaders.

Mr Ho Swee Chun, Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Surnames Associations in Malaysia (Penang State Committee), stated, “Both our organisations share a common vision and mission in promoting Chinese clan culture and played a vital role in local Chinese community. We hope this exchange will strengthen our ties and facilitate the sharing of cultural resources.”

Dato Hwang Thean Long, Vice-President of Penang Chinese Town Hall emphasised,“Although Penang Chinese Town Hall and SFCCA are in different countries, we share a common mission, sentiment and goal—to safeguard and promote Chinese culture in a globalised world while strengthening cohesion within the Chinese community, ensuring that our cultural legacy continues to thrive across generations.”

Both parties agreed on the importance of enhancing future collaboration and exchanges, with the aim of mutually benefiting and contributing to the continued development of the Chinese communities in both regions.

Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations Holds Insightful Discussion on Future Developments in Penang

A group photo of SFCCA Council members and Committee members, alongside representatives from Penang Chinese Town Hall

SFCCA President Mr Thomas Chua (left) presenting a memento to Mr Ho Swee Chun (right), Chairman of Federation of Chinese Surnames Associations in Malaysia (Penang State Community)

SFCCA’s 18th Council and Committee members exploring the rich heritage of Penang