Alvin Yapp

Collector, advocator, believer, educator – I'm one of Singapore's foremost purveyors of Peranakan culture with over two decades of experience as a curator of Peranakan antiques. Born to Peranakan parents, my interest in my heritage was piqued when he was 16, after watching a Peranakan-themed play entitled Menyesal ("Regret‟, in Malay). While my parents enjoyed the show, I found it a challenge to grasp the play‟s context and nuances. I decided to set out on my journey of cultural and self discovery.

At 18, I started collecting Peranakan antiques. It was through this process that I realised there was inadequate documentation on Peranakan antiques, which in turn spurred me to find out more. In 2003, I started The Intan after word of my collection got round, which led to constant requests to exhibit my antiques. Today, I am also resolutely committed to sharing my knowledge and preserving Peranakan heritage through The Intan.

Together with my parents, I curate and upkeep the museum collection, as well as conceptualise and run awareness programmes at The Intan. I see The Intan not as a commercial endeavour, but as an emotive and constantly evolving tribute to one of Singapore's most unique communities. The joy of sharing Peranakan culture and the experience of doing it with my parents are the greatest rewards.

Away from The Intan, I am the Director of Corporate Affairs for BusAds Pte Ltd, a family-run enterprise specialising in large-format printing for buses, trains, aeroplanes and outdoor advertising.

Language spoken: English.

Location: Singapore.