Reproduced with permission of Nathan Co, author & founder of Chinese Ancestry Research
Clan Visit: The Philanthropy of Leong Khay Huay Kuan
“We’re Roping in the Clan and Hometown Associations!”
The Eight Counties of the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan 潮州八邑會館
August 20, 2024
The Eight Counties of the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan 潮州八邑會館
August 20, 2024
We’re on a roll!
Today marked another electrifying chapter in our journey, as we stepped into the heart of the Teochew community at the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan 潮州八邑會館.
The morning sun seemed to shine a little brighter as we entered their hallowed halls — a temporary location pending the renovation of their main headquarters, yet still a place steeped in history and tradition, thanks to the aged and historically significant plaques and artworks on display. From the moment we crossed the threshold, we were enveloped in an air of warmth and camaraderie. Our hosts, led by the ever-gracious Ms. Tan Siew Kiang 陳秀娟, Chief Executive Secretary of Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan, welcomed us with open arms, their smiles setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable experience. The introductions, though formal, were filled with mutual respect as Mr. Ng Yew Kang 黃友江, founder and president of Genealogy Society Singapore (GSS), proudly introduced the GSS delegation, including the founder of Chinese Ancestry Research, Nathan Co 施日勤, who is also an active member of GSS.
In this vibrant meeting room, rich with the echoes of history, representatives from our three organizations united under a common banner: to champion the search for Chinese ancestry and to foster reconnections with our shared Chinese heritage, with special attention to those of Teochew descent. As Mr. Ng Yew Kang eloquently laid out our shared vision, the room seemed to buzz with a collective energy. It was more than just words; it was a pact, sealed with the enthusiastic nods and approving smiles of everyone present.
The discussions were lively, punctuated by moments of shared excitement and deep contemplation. We were treated to a captivating introductory video that painted a vivid picture of the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan, tracing its origins and celebrating its monumental contributions to the thriving city-state of Singapore. This wasn’t just a history lesson — it was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Teochew people and their indelible mark on one of Asia’s most dynamic economies.
To fully appreciate the depth of this experience, one must understand the roots of Cháozhōu 潮州, the ancestral homeland of the Teochew people. Nestled in the eastern reaches of Guǎngdōng Province 廣東省, China, Cháozhōu has a history as rich as it is complex. Over the centuries, its name and status have evolved, reflecting the region’s ever-growing significance. From Jièyì County 揭義縣, established over 1,500 years ago, to its reconfiguration under various dynasties, Cháozhōu’s story is one of resilience and transformation. The Míng Dynasty 明朝 (1368–1644) and Qīng Dynasty 清朝(1644–1911) saw it become Cháofǔ 潮府, which oversaw the following counties: Cháoyáng 潮陽, Hǎiyáng 海陽 (now Cháo’ān 潮安), Chénghǎi 澄海, Ráopíng 饒平, Pǔníng 普寧, Jiēyáng 揭陽, Huìlái 惠來, Nán’ào 南澳, Fèngshùn 豐順, and Dàpǔ 大浦.
Among these, Fèngshùn 豐順 and Dàpǔ 大浦 are regions where the Hakka dialect 客家話 is spoken, while the other eight counties collectively formed the cultural and linguistic heart of the Teochew people. The people from these eight counties have preserved the Teochew dialect and culture, serving as the wellspring of Teochew identity. It was to honor and serve these eight counties that the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan 潮州八邑會館 was established in Singapore in 1929. Since then, it has grown into a formidable institution, with over 5,000 members representing a broad spectrum of professions, including many of Singapore’s most influential figures.
The Teochew community, comprising 20% of Singapore’s Chinese population, has been a driving force in the nation’s development. The contributions of the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan extend beyond cultural preservation; they have been pivotal in fostering social cohesion and economic growth, making them a cornerstone of Singapore’s vibrant tapestry.
Amidst the rich tapestry of discussions, several moments stood out. Ms. Suzanna Yean’s heartfelt sharing of her maternal granduncle’s life story was a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring one’s ancestors. Her narrative, laced with deep pride, was a powerful lesson in humility for her son and, indeed, for all of us — to never forget the legacy of those who came before us.
Mr. Su Zhangkai 蘇章恺 brought a wave of excitement as he unveiled the organization’s ongoing efforts to digitize their records. The prospect of unlocking the secrets of ancestry searches through these business-related directories and historical documents sparked keen interest, particularly among the GSS members. Eyes widened at the thought of these records potentially revealing long-sought answers to personal genealogical quests.
A particularly enthralling moment came when Mr. Lim Poon Heok 林本煜 shared his family zupu 族譜 (ancestry book), a meticulously preserved chronicle of the KēLǒng 柯隴 branch of the Lín 林 clan. This particular edition of the zupu, made in the 10th year of Qīng Emperor XiānFēng 咸豐 (1860), was more than just a family record — it was a living piece of history. The room was abuzz as we pored over its pages, each entry a thread in the rich tapestry of the Lín clan’s legacy. Mr. Lim’s pride in his heritage was palpable as he pointed out his place in the Běn (Poon) 本 generation, the 8th in line.
Mr. Ng Yew Kang also shared excerpts from the deeply personal book “My Maternal Roots: A Story Of Family, Faith And Freedom,” written by fellow GSS member Cyprian Lim. This account of a maternal ancestry search was more than a book — it was a journey of rediscovery, one that resonated deeply with everyone present.
Nathan’s introduction to Chinese Ancestry Research added another meaningful layer to an already inspiring meeting. His passionate plea for support in reconnecting people with their ancestral roots was met with an enthusiastic and definitive response from the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan. The broad smiles and firm handshakes that followed were more than just gestures — they were the beginnings of a new chapter in our shared mission.
This visit to the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan was more than just a meeting. It was a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of our shared goals, and a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from unity. As we left the halls of this venerable institution, we carried with us not just the memories of the day, but the renewed sense of purpose that will drive us forward on this incredible journey of discovery.
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