Tea Talk: In Celebration of the 190th Anniversary of Yeoh Kongsi

Tea Talk: In Celebration of the 190th Anniversary of Yeoh Kongsi

Founded in 1836, Har Yang Sit Teik Tong Yeoh Kongsi stands as one of the "Big Five" clan houses in Penang. For nearly two centuries, it has served as a cornerstone for clansmen from Fujian Province, its legacy preserved through distinctive architecture and a rich cultural heritage.

While traditionally a "hidden gem" of George Town, Yeoh Kongsi now invites you to an exclusive afternoon of reflection and dialogue. We begin with a keynote by renowned researcher Ms. Lim Gaik Siang, followed by a panel discussion on The Evolving Roles of Clan Houses—Past, Present, and Future, featuring Ms. Lim Gaik Siang, Dr. Ling Zhengyuan, and Ms. Pan Yi Chieh. Together, we will explore the socio-cultural, economic, and governance shifts that continue to shape these historic institutions.

Following the session, we are pleased to offer an exclusive tour of Yeoh Kongsi, available only to talk participants. We invite you to join us in experiencing the beauty and historical significance of this heritage landmark.

• Date: Friday, 5 June 2025
• Time: 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm
• Venue: Black Kettle, 105 Beach Street, George Town

Program Highlights:

• 2:30 pm: Keynote Speech | The History and Architecture of Yeoh Kongsi by Ms. Lim Gaik Siang.
• 3:15 pm: Afternoon Tea & Refreshments.
• 3:30 pm: Panel Discussion & Q&A | Evolving Roles of Clan Houses featuring Ms. Lim Gaik Siang, Dr. Ling Zhengyuan, and Ms. Pan Yi Chieh.
• 4:30 pm: Exclusive Guided Tour of Yeoh Kongsi (Open to talk participants only).

Keynote Talk

Heritage and Harmony: The History and Architecture of Har Yang Sit Teik Tong Yeoh Kongsi

Keynote Speaker: Ms. Lim Gaik Siang

Lim Gaik Siang is a respected heritage conservationist and cultural advocate with over two decades of experience in preserving both tangible and intangible heritage. She served as President of the Penang Heritage Trust from 2015 to 2024 and currently contributes as an expert to the Penang State Heritage Commissioner.

Synopsis: 

In this insightful talk, Ms. Lim explores the ancestral lineage of the Har Yang Sit Teik Tong Yeoh Kongsi, tracing the roots and legacy of the Yeoh clan. She will also delve into the temple’s distinctive architectural features, uncovering the cultural symbolism and historical significance embedded within its design. Through this presentation, participants will gain a deeper appreciation of the temple as both a spiritual centre and a treasured heritage landmark.

About the Panellists

Lim Gaik Siang is a respected heritage conservationist and cultural advocate with over two decades of experience in preserving both tangible and intangible heritage. She served as President of the Penang Heritage Trust from 2015 to 2024 and currently contributes as an expert to the Penang State Heritage Commissioner. She has played a pivotal role in key conservation projects, including the restoration of the Han Jiang Ancestral Temple, which received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation. A key contributor to the successful George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription, Lim has also led initiatives documenting traditional trades and festivals. Her work has earned international recognition, including honors from China and an appointment as a cultural advisor to the Chaozhou (Teochew) City Government of China.

Ling Zhengyuan is a PhD candidate in History at the University of Connecticut, specializing in the cultural history of Chinese capitalism in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as well as the history of modernity in East and Southeast Asia. His research explores the reciprocal influence between political economy and social culture, with a particular focus on the cultural roots of Chinese capitalism and the intellectual paradigm of Confucianism. Prior to joining UConn, Mr. Ling earned a B.A. in History from the College of William and Mary and an M.A. from the University of Chicago.

Pan Yi Chieh is a Senior Analyst in the History and Regional Studies Program at Penang Institute. She holds an M.A. in Anthropology from National Tsing Hua University. Her work examines the relationship between community identity and urban change, including research on Penang’s Clan Jetties that highlights a unique “maritime-terrestrial” ethnicity and its role in local resilience. She also studies how individuals and community organisations adapt to evolving urban landscapes. In 2025, she co-authored History of Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi, Penang, drawing on archival minutes to illuminate its cultural practices and everyday life.

About the Moderator

Rachel Yeoh is the Commissioning Editor of Penang Monthly at Penang Institute. A former journalist and social media specialist, she has a deep interest in cultural heritage and regional travel. She is a newly minted clansmember of Yeoh Kongsi and during her free time, she participates in Penang's performing arts scene. 

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