If you love culture, food, colourful traditions, or simply discovering something new, you’re in for a treat this November! The 36th International Baba Nyonya Convention is coming to Dorsett Grand Subang from 21–23 November 2025, and it’s bringing a lively wave of Peranakan heritage.
More than 500 delegates from across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and even Australia will gather to celebrate all things Baba Nyonya, from language and craftsmanship to food, textiles, and performance arts. While the convention itself is a closed-door affair for registered Peranakan associations, you don’t have to miss out. Plenty is happening that’s open to the public (and absolutely worth checking out!).
A Convention Rooted in Living Heritage
Hosted by the Persatuan Peranakan Baba Nyonya Kuala Lumpur & Selangor (PPBNKLS), this year’s theme is “Bridging Generations, Preserving Legacy.” It perfectly captures the heartbeat of the community, honouring the past while finding fresh ways to pass traditions on to the next generation.
One of the most exciting showcases is “Achar Ah-Cheh,” an immersive theatre experience created with Yayasan Hasanah. It’s interactive, musical, and designed to spark discovery among both young and older audiences. Expect something fun, emotional, and beautifully Peranakan.
What You Can Enjoy (Open to the Public!)
1. The Cultural Babazaar
21–23 November 2025
Dorsett Grand Subang, Ballroom Foyer
If you love markets with character, this one will delight you. The Cultural Bazaar brings together local and international vendors offering:
- traditional & modern textiles
- kebaya accessories
- handcrafted jewellery
- Peranakan pantry essentials
- artisan crafts
It’s the perfect place to pick up meaningful gifts, learn from craftspeople, or soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Opening Hours:
- Friday, 21 November: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday, 22 November: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday, 23 November: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
2. Indulge in the Peranakan Weekend Hi-Tea
Every Sat & Sun until 31 December 2025
Terazza Brasserie, Ground Floor, Dorsett Grand Subang
Think kuih. Think spices. Think familiar flavours with a Peranakan twist. This high tea menu was specially created for the convention and is full of classics that evoke nostalgia, even if you didn’t grow up Peranakan. Perfect for family outings, friend meet-ups, or a little self-treat.
Time:
12 PM – 4 PM (Weekends Only)
Pricing:
- RM98 nett (Adult)
- RM88 nett (Senior 60+)
- RM59 nett (Children <13)
- Kids 5 and below eat FREE 🎉
Reserve:
📞 +603 5031 6060
📧 bookfnb.subang@dorsetthotels.com
Why This Convention Matters
This isn’t just a cultural meet-up, it’s a regional movement to preserve and reimagine Peranakan heritage. With support from Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the convention is pushing long-term initiatives like:
- cross-border mentorship for young artisans
- preserving culinary skills
- sustaining traditional beadwork and textile crafts
- heritage tourism planning
It’s a powerful reminder that culture survives when communities champion it together.
A Living Culture, Ready for the Future
As Nyonya Vivienne Lee, President of PPBNKLS, beautifully puts it, “Our roots are buried deep in tradition, but our branches must reach out to embrace new generations.”
The 36th International Baba Nyonya Convention celebrates exactly that, a heritage that’s colourful, alive, and constantly evolving.
And the best part? You can be part of it. Whether through the bazaar, the culinary experiences, or simply learning something new, this is your chance to immerse yourself in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cultural tapestries.
Website: ppbnkls.weebly.com | Facebook: PPBNKLS | Instagram: ppbnkls.my | TikTok: ppbnkls_official
