The Peranakan Chinese, also known as Baba Nyonya, began establishing their ethnic lineage during the era of the Malay Melaka Sultanate. This community emerged when Chinese traders (men) married local Malay women or Javanese girls. Over time, this lineage flourished in the Straits Settlements following the arrival of the British, resulting in a significant population of Peranakan Chinese in Melaka, Penang, and Singapore.

The men who initiated these intermarriages were predominantly of Han descent, who migrated to the Straits of Melaka for trade and eventually assimilated into Malay culture through these unions. This cultural blend is reflected in their attire: Peranakan Chinese women, or Nyonya, wear the Kebaya Nyonya, a short kebaya (Malay influence) paired with batik fabrics featuring animal and floral motifs (a mix of Malay and Chinese styles). Meanwhile, the men, or Baba, retained traditional Chinese clothing.

The Peranakan Chinese have a unique culinary tradition. Their snacks, referred to as kueh, include delicacies like kuih bakul, kuih rotan, and kuih chang, often stored in siah (tiffin carriers) and closely tied to Chinese traditions. On the other hand, their main dishes, such as asam pedas, laksa, and kari Nyonya, reflect strong Malay culinary influences.

In Melaka, the term Peranakan remains widely used, whereas in Penang, they are more commonly known as Baba Nyonya. The terms "Baba" and "Nyonya" originated as familial titles for male and female children of Peranakan parents, respectively, and eventually became identifiers for the community.

Although Malay customs are deeply ingrained in Peranakan Chinese culture, most members of this community do not practice Islam. Instead, they celebrate Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival, and other traditional Chinese festivities. They also enjoy social dances like joget lambak, a reflection of their historical status as a respected group often invited to colonial-era celebrations with the British and Portuguese. This esteemed status earned them the nickname "King's Chinese" during colonial times.

The Peranakan Chinese are known for their linguistic versatility, fluently speaking Malay, Chinese, and English. This multilingual ability highlights their adaptability and social standing during colonial times.

Peranakan Chinese weddings are vibrant affairs that blend Chinese heritage with Malay customs. Key elements include:

Betel Nut Box Ceremony: Symbolizing the bride’s purity.

Dowry Presentation: Given to the bride’s parents as a token of gratitude for raising her with virtue.

Ring Exchange: A mutual exchange of rings by the bride and groom.

Flower Scattering and Incense Rituals: Adding a touch of solemnity and tradition.

The wedding is enlivened with Dondang Sayang songs and beautiful Malay pantuns (poetry). Sometimes, a pantun duel and symbolic toll gate set up by the Mak Andam (traditional wedding consultant) occur before the groom is allowed to join his bride on the dais.

Guests are invited to participate in traditional dances such as joget lambak, fan dances, handkerchief dances, bowl dances, and orange dances, adding a unique and festive flair to the event.

The Peranakan Chinese uphold strict cultural norms, prohibiting any interaction between the bride and groom before marriage. The Chim Pang ceremony serves as their formal meeting before the wedding day. During this ritual, both families light candles at a table, and the bride and groom sit facing each other as if meeting for the first time.

One of the most interesting aspects of Peranakan wedding traditions is the 12th and final day of celebrations, where nasi lemak is a mandatory dish. A designated cook, known as the Bibi Nasi Lemak, ensures the dish is perfectly prepared. This day marks the end of public festivities, leading to the Che Umm ceremony—a formal meal shared by the newlyweds and their in-laws to signify the establishment of a new family.

The Peranakan Chinese customs and traditions offer a fascinating glimpse into the harmonious blend of Chinese and Malay cultures, creating a unique and enduring heritage.