PERANAKAN: A MUSICAL LEGACY Concert Celebrates Diversity of South-East Asia’s Baba and Nyonya Heritage

Malaysia is a rich potpourri and melting pot of cultures and traditions, and this is so well personified by Peranakan heritage which dates back to colonial times and remains rich till today with its colourful history and special identity.

Official launching of Peranakan: A Musical Legacy concert to celebrate diversity of South-east Asia’s Baba and Nyonya heritage on 4th & 5th October at Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC) in Petaling Jaya

Enter Peranakan: A Musical Legacy, a concert that combines the talents of Somerset Music with the caring efforts of the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM) and World Vision Malaysia. Most of the singers are special needs persons.

“Somerset Music is pleased to organise this fund raiser which is in aid of The National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM) and the Malaysia Assistance Fund by World Vision Malaysia. Members of the public are invited to actively play a personal part in this charitable cause, while enjoying an artistic evening of songs, stories and culture with the choir attired in authentic Peranakan outfits!” said Joanne Poh, Principal of Somerset Music.

(Second from left) Director and Producer - Peranakan: A Musical Legacy Joanne Poh, (from left) President of NASOM Mohd Nazrul Mohd Amin, Executive Director of NusPARC Dr Mohd Anis Mohd Nor, and Channel Marketing Manager World Vision Malaysia Adrian Tham

“This fund-raising concert is a heartfelt celebration of Southeast Asia’s Peranakan heritage told through songs passed down across generations. “The programme features a thoughtfully curated selection of folk melodies, from playful childhood rhymes to soulful love ballads, rooted in the traditions of the Malay Archipelago and the Straits-born Chinese community. There will be many sing-along moments for the audience throughout the concert. We hope to bring to life again the sense of togetherness in a community through music and laughter,” said Joanne.

Julian Wong Ming Vui, Chairman of NASOM, expressed his excitement about the upcoming concert. "We are incredibly excited about partnering with Somerset Music on their upcoming fundraising concert, Peranakan: A Musical Legacy. This event celebrates a rich cultural heritage while directly supporting NASOM's vital work in our community. We believe this collaboration will create a truly meaningful impact.

A sneak preview into lively performances with participation of NASOM Maestros as songs and lively music come together to celebrate the rich musical heritage of the baba nyonya 

“We are delighted to present the exceptional talents of the NASOM Maestros, our very own choir group who are known for their heartwarming and inspiring performances. “This collaboration not only brings closer to our mission of raising awareness about autism but also offers a wonderful platform for the NASOM Maestros to showcase their incredible talents,” he said.

More than just a performance, this is a community effort at its best. Every voice and every note is brought to life with active audience participation as they interact and sing along – a coming together in something meaningful. It is a concert built on memory, a sense of belonging and the joy of coming together through music.

A sneak preview to Peranakan:  A Musical Legacy concert on 4th & 5th October at DPAC to celebrate diversity of South-east Asia’s Baba and Nyonya heritage with well-loved songs like Bengawan Solo, Burung Kakak Tua to name a few.

The songs include well-loved pieces like Rasa Sayang, Trek Tek Tek, Chan Mali Chan, Kopi Susu, Lenggang Kangkung, Bengawan Solo.. reflecting the richness of everyday Peranakan life. The concert is set against the rustic backdrop of playful kampung scenes, the warmth of family and the bittersweetness of growing up in changing times.

Hernando Betita III, Chief Executive Officer of World Vision Malaysia said: “We are grateful to be part of this initiative and to Somerset Music for making a difference with us. “World Vision Malaysia is dedicated to the wellbeing of children and vulnerable communities, both locally and globally. The support generated through this concert will go a long way in improving lives through child-focused development programmes especially individuals with special needs, towards a more compassionate and just world for all,” he said.

Peranakan: A Musical Legacy presented by Somerset Music

The musical debuts on the weekend of 4th and 5th October 2025 at Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC) in Petaling Jaya. Tickets are priced at RM80, RM130 and RM180 and the concert welcomes audiences of all ages!

The event’s community partners are Nusantara Performing Arts Research Centre (NusPARC) and supported by Acre Works; with attire supported by Giddy Nyonyas.

.: Peace Out ✌🏻:.