Ageing Community Keeps Kampung Cina's Heritage Alive

By Nurfardlina Izzati Moktar

KUALA TERENGGANU, June 18 (Bernama) -- The row of old shophouses that defines Kampung Cina here is becoming increasingly quiet as most of its remaining residents are elderly, following the migration of younger generations to other states in search of better job opportunities.

Despite the demographic shift, the more than 300-year-old heritage enclave continues to hold strong potential as a heritage tourism destination capable of revitalising the local economy.

Kampung Cina community representative and researcher Lorenz Law, 65, said the settlement is believed to have been established by migrants from the Hokkien region of southern China who arrived in the 17th century in search of a new life.

“By the 18th century, Kampung Cina had grown into an important trading centre due to the presence of merchants from various countries, including India, China, Vietnam and Thailand,” he told Bernama. 

He said the settlement remained renowned for its rows of two-storey shophouses featuring Chinese vernacular architecture dating back to the 19th century, with many buildings still retaining their original features.

Law said the enclave also reflects the unique identity of the Peranakan Chinese community, which continues to use the Terengganu dialect and practise local customs in daily life.

According to him, the population is estimated at about 1,500, although the number of residents aged above 70 continues to decline.

“Around Jalan Kampung Cina alone, there may be about 20 residents aged over 70 and around 50 if nearby areas are included. If this trend continues, the area may become even quieter within the next decade,” he said. 

He said conservation efforts have been undertaken since 2004 through building restoration and infrastructure upgrades, including the construction of a one-kilometre pedestrian walkway. 

According to him, the area's distinctive architecture reflects influences from China, Vietnam, Thailand, India and several European countries, contributing to its heritage appeal.

Apart from its built heritage, Kampung Cina is also known for its Peranakan Chinese culture, particularly in its cuisine and lifestyle, which have been shaped by long-standing interactions with the Malay community.

“Most of the Chinese community here enjoy local dishes such as nasi dagang, nasi lemak and nasi minyak, while some traditional practices closely resemble those of the Malays,” Law said.

He said sustained conservation and promotional efforts could position the area as an international-class heritage tourism destination. 

Meanwhile, tailoring shop owner Gau Mekhua, 73, said she continues operating her decades-old business despite advancing age and growing competition from ready-made clothing retailers. 

“Orders are not as many as before, but long-time customers still come because they trust the quality of my work,” she said.

Hardware and household goods trader Phua Siong Khoon, 68, said traditional businesses face mounting challenges from supermarkets and online shopping platforms.

He said customer numbers have declined over the years, but he continues operating the shop because it has been part of his life since his youth.

“It is certainly difficult now to compete with larger stores because they offer a wider selection and lower prices, but I continue because I am accustomed to this work and still have loyal customers who support me,” he said.

Grocery shop owner Ma Suat Ngo, 86, said many long-established businesses had disappeared over time, but she was grateful her shop remained a convenient choice for local residents. 

“If no one takes over this business in the future, perhaps one day old grocery shops like this will exist only as memories in Kampung Cina,” she added.

-- BERNAMA