Mediacorp has donated a selection of sarong kebayas and accessories from its highly anticipated SG60 blockbuster Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story to the Peranakan Museum, further celebrating Singapore’s rich cultural heritage.
This collaboration underscores Mediacorp’s commitment to preserving Peranakan traditions through storytelling.
Premiered on Netflix on March 10, Emerald Hill unfolds the drama of a wealthy Peranakan family, featuring intricately designed sarong kebayas, crafted by veteran kebaya maker Raymond Wong of Rumah Kim Choo, in collaboration with Mediacorp’s Senior Image Stylist Tee Yu Yan. These elegant garments reflect each character’s identity and the deep-rooted traditions of Peranakan culture.
Four of these sarong kebayas, worn by Tasha Low, Chantalle Ng, Ferlyn G and Jeanette Aw, are now showcased in the Fashion Gallery of the Peranakan Museum, highlighting the role of costume in Peranakan theatre and television. The exhibit also includes beaded shoes, camisoles and a signed series poster, offering a glimpse into the show’s artistry and storytelling.
Bridging Fiction and Cultural Heritage
Virginia Lim, Chief Content Officer at Mediacorp, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “Every stitch, bead and embroidery on these kebayas tells a story — not just of the characters but of the artisans and traditions behind them. Now part of the Peranakan Museum’s collection, they will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Clement Onn, Director of the Asian Civilisations Museum and Peranakan Museum, emphasised the importance of such collaborations in keeping Peranakan heritage alive. He noted that the donation aligns with the museum’s efforts to collect contemporary expressions of cultural identity, ensuring artistry and craftsmanship remain relevant.
Peranakan Museum’s Armenian Street Party & Star-Studded Festivities
Beyond the donation, Mediacorp also participated in the Armenian Street Party: Peranakan Stars, running from March 14-16, featuring a watch marathon of The Little Nyonya (2008), interactive installations and daily cast appearances from Emerald Hill, including Tasha Low, Zhang Ze Tong, Nick Teo and Sheila Sim.
Adding to the glamour, Chantalle Ng, Tyler Ten, Jesseca Liu and Dawn Yeoh will grace the fashion runway on March 15, celebrating Peranakan elegance. Visitors can also enjoy live performances, culinary delights, and cultural exhibits, including Ashley Yeo’s outdoor installation, Enduring Blessings, and a special performance by Dick Lee.
About Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story
Produced by Mediacorp and helmed by Executive Producer Loh Woon Woon, Emerald Hill premiered on March 10 on mewatch prime, March 17 on mewatch and March 19 on Channel 8, airing weekdays at 9pm. The gripping tale follows three “Little Nyonyas” caught in a web of ambition, love and mystery, set against the backdrop of a grand Peranakan mansion.
About Mediacorp & Peranakan Museum
Mediacorp, Singapore’s leading media network, engages 99% of the population weekly across multiple platforms, championing local storytelling and cultural preservation.
The Peranakan Museum, housed in the historic Tao Nan School building, holds one of the world’s finest Peranakan collections, exploring the origins, home, and style of Peranakan identity through art, fashion, and contemporary expressions.
For more details, visit mediacorp.sg and peranakanmuseum.org.sg.
