THE Teochew Association preserves heritage through cultural initiatives, with even Premier Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg reminiscing about his younger days enjoying opera performances at the historic “Yang Choon Tai” stage on Carpenter Street.
Tucked away in the heart of Kuching, the Teochew Association stands as a quiet guardian of tradition, bridging the past and present.
Established 162 years ago, it is one of Sarawak’s oldest Chinese cultural associations, built on the struggles and perseverance of early Teochew immigrants.
Gambir Street was once known to the Teochews as “Chang Heng Street” and is commonly called Sin Pa Sat (New Market), while Carpenter Street was referred to as “Mukou Street.”
Over time, the Hiang Tiang Siang Ti Temple became not just a place of worship but also a hub for community affairs, with the company “Soon Hong” eventually overseeing its management.
In the early days, long before post offices existed, Teochew settlers used their temple or kongsi (clan house) not only for religious practices but also as a way to send money back to their families in China.
These gatherings for religious functions fostered a strong sense of community, eventually leading to the formation of the Teochew Association.
What began as a place of worship grew into an institution dedicated to cultural preservation and education.
However, as modern life took over, interest in cultural heritage began to decline, a trend seen in many Chinese associations. Concerned about this, the association’s elders pushed for a revival.
Leading these efforts is Gerald Goh, Head of the Teochew Cultural Department. Having served for over a decade, Goh is now focused on reigniting appreciation for Teochew heritage.
“It’s a challenge, as we don’t want to lose more of our identity,” he told Utusan Sarawak in an interview.
His approach centers on three key areas: customary practices, food heritage, and performing arts.
One of the most significant initiatives is the restoration of “Yang Choon Tai,” a 100-year-old stage on Carpenter Street, located across from the Hiang Tiang Siang Ti Temple.
In the past, even Malay bangsawan (Malay drama) performances were staged there. Goh hopes to revive bangsawan performances as early as April or May this year and has spoken with performers to arrange a show, possibly incorporating TeoMa—a cultural blend of Teochew and Malay heritage.
“Our Premier is familiar with TeoMa. During a Teochew anniversary dinner, Abang Jo mentioned how TeoMa descendants (marriage between Teochew and Malay), being fluent in Mandarin, have an advantage in trade and commerce with China,” said Goh.
He believes this cultural revival highlights Sarawak’s multiracial harmony, something envied across Malaysia.
As many audience members are tourists or from diverse backgrounds, he plans to organize monthly performances to restore the stage’s former glory.
“We’re even making the stage available for rental, including for dance academies, as it’s a strategic venue,” he added.
In the performing arts, the association has already formed a strong traditional Teochew music troupe, consisting mainly of students from SK Kuching High School.
This initiative encourages young people to learn and appreciate classical melodies.
However, Goh is concerned about the future of Teochew opera, as fewer than ten local performers remain.
To address this, the association is sending young trainees to China for professional training and collaborating with the Teo Khiaw Club, Kuching which has promoted Teochew music since 1921.
Reflecting on efforts to raise the association’s profile, he noted that a collaboration with TVS to produce a short film during Chinese New Year, featuring the historic stage, attracted nearly 400,000 views.
Food heritage is another pillar of the preservation efforts.
The association is compiling a book documenting Teochew recipes adapted to local ingredients.
“Food is an essential part of our culture. We plan to publish a book for the Teochew community, with guidance from chefs in China, and organize workshops to pass down traditional cooking techniques.
Many dishes have blended with local flavors, but we want them to be as authentic as possible,” he explained.
Beyond performances, the association is also committed to heritage conservation.
Skilled artisans from China have been brought in to restore the figurines and ceramic roof of the Hiang Tiang Siang Ti Temple, ensuring it retains its original design.
“We do everything possible to preserve artifacts, keeping the same shape and color,” said Goh, recalling how he spent two months on the temple roof ensuring the tiles’ original color was maintained.
Education has long been a priority for the Teochew community.
In the past, contributions were made to schools like Kuching High School and Chung Hua No. 2 School.
Now, the focus has shifted to cultural education.
With around 3,000 members, the association is working to keep younger generations connected to their heritage through documentation, performances, and preservation projects.
“Younger generations are losing touch with our culture,” Goh acknowledged.
“Our goal is to reintroduce it in an engaging way so they see the value in preserving it. This isn’t just about history—it’s about identity, and that’s something worth fighting for,” he vowed.
By Connie Chieng