KUCHING – The Kuching Teo Kiao Club hosted a grand Chinese New Year dinner, celebrating the rich traditions and heritage of the Teochew community. The event served as a reminder that culture is the soul of the Teochew people, and preserving it is a shared responsibility.
The dinner was attended by Gerald Goh, Chief Curator and President of the Sarawak Handicraft & Souvenir Association, who is also the Cultural Director of the Kuching Teochew Association. He highlighted the importance of protecting Teochew cultural heritage, stating,
“If Teochew people forget Teochew culture, we will no longer be ‘Tide’.”
Several other notable figures were also present, including JP JP Tan, Sim Kiang Chiok, Bee Kim Sim, Kueh Aik Seng, and Jacylin Goh, demonstrating strong support for preserving Teochew traditions in Sarawak.
The Teochew community takes pride in its rich traditions, including Teochew embroidery, porcelain, sculpture, music, opera, Gongfu tea, and cuisine. These are considered priceless treasures of Chinese culture and must be passed down to future generations.
Since its establishment in 1921, the Kuching Teo Kiao Club has been actively involved in preserving Teochew traditional music. The club has nurtured generations of musicians and cultural practitioners, ensuring that Teochew gongs, drums, and opera performances remain alive and vibrant.
Their commitment to cultural preservation has gained recognition, with frequent invitations to perform at various events, showcasing their dedication to the inheritance of Teochew music culture.
Looking ahead, the Kuching Teochew Association Cultural Department is preparing to launch a series of Teochew cultural heritage projects in collaboration with the Kuching Teochew Association and the Kuching Teo Kiao Club. These projects aim to further promote and safeguard the essence of Teochew culture.
Are you of Teochew descent? Join the Kuching Teo Kiao Club in preserving and celebrating this priceless cultural heritage!
