KUCHING, May 28: The Kuching Teochew Association Cultural Unit has launched its first online short-term training class on the Teochew dialect.
In a statement today, Kuching Teochew Association president Chew Boon Seng said the Teochew dialect has a long history, which can be traced back to the Warring States Period (478 BC) in China, and during the Tang (618 to 907AD) and Song (908 to 1279 AD) Dynasties.
According to him, it is one of the oldest ancient Chinese dialects. At the same time, it is also an essential carrier of Chaozhou culture.
“However, as the older generation of overseas Teochew from the south gradually passed away, the traditional customs and cultural forms, including the dialect of our ancestral hometown, are increasingly blurred or even forgotten.
“Therefore, as an association with a long history, we have this obligation and mission to do our best to inherit and build a platform for learning our hometown’s traditional customs and culture,” he said.
He added that the training class also provide the new generation of younger members with an opportunity to experience Teochew customs, culture and art. This activity will cultivate young members to be the successors to continue developing the association sustainably.
The online class were guided by two teachers from Chaozhou, China, namely Yeo Kiat Yong and Sii Ing Ia. The first lesson was based on a simple Teochew greeting and the correct pronunciation with its eight tones.
For those interested in future classes, contact Mr Chin at 016 885 2457. — DayakDaily
