Publications

This section highlights books published by Hinghwa organizations, other cultural organisations, and individuals. Their efforts are highly commendable, as they help enrich readers’ understanding while preserving historical and cultural knowledge.

China’s opening-up has sparked strong interest among the descendants of migrants, many of whom are eager to learn more about their ancestral homeland and cultural heritage. In response, the Chinese government has also begun publishing books and producing videos to support and encourage this renewed connection.

This section features a selection of books published in Singapore, Putian, and other regions, reflecting a shared commitment to cultural preservation and a growing curiosity about our common heritage.

Among them, is the Volume 2 of my book that was launched on 12 May 2026. It is now available for purchase on www.amazon.com. Please visit their website for more information.

Format: Hardcover
Size: 7 x 10
Pages: 244
Price: USD88
Available on Amazon.com

Foreword to World of Hinghwa:

History and Stories of the Hinghwa People, Vol. 2
By Dr. Ng Eng Hen
Minister for Defence (2011–2025)

This foreword was graciously written for the publication of World of Hinghwa: History and Stories of the Hinghwa People, Vol. 2. It is reproduced here as part of the historical record of that publication.

In this follow-up of his first successful and well received book Hinghwa: The History and Stories of The Hinghwa People (2022), Dr Jason Ong devotes a chapter on 兴花 – remarkable Hinghwa women who surmounted life’s difficulties, social prejudices and their allotted station in life. Their motivation in an era where women were provided less opportunities than men, was usually to ensure that their children were able to move up in life.

It is a theme that resonates deeply with me. My Hinghwa mother never went beyond primary education. But she gave to me, my siblings and her grandchildren a priceless gift – her love and devotion – that enabled us all to do better in life. I can still remember in my mind’s eye, many images of her earning extra money to upkeep the family – whether it was sewing clothes, selling cakes and curry puffs, and even preparing skewered satay sticks.

When I went on a postgraduate fellowship to Houston for my cancer training, my mother spent six months with me to help take care of her grandchildren. She fed my younger son so well that he became plump!

Dr Ong’s second book on the Hinghwa people details the stories of these women, as well as expands on the Hinghwas who gained prominence in China and their diaspora. Their life examples, men and particularly women, inspire us to be the best that we can be, to enrich the lives of others and society.
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With heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mochtar Riady, Chairman of Lippo Group, for these three autographed volumes.

Besides sharing his life story, he has also unselfishly shared his principles for living, guided by the ancient philosophical principles beautifully captured in his writings.

It was my good fortune to meet him on 20 December 2019 at his office in Jakarta. On that memorable occasion, I was not only gifted with three of his treasured books, but also gained deeper insight into the history of the Hinghwa people in Indonesia.

His simple philosophy on how one can become successful is:

“Listen to your wife.”

With heartfelt gratitude to former Senior Minister of State for Education, Mr. Peter Chen Min Liang, for these two volumes.

Before entering politics, Mr. Chen served as Chairman and Chief Executive of Shell Companies in Singapore. These books present a fascinating perspective on Singapore’s history as seen through the lens of the Chinese press, complemented by a thoughtfully curated selection of Chinese poems. Rich in cultural and historical insight, they are truly well worth a read.

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With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Ng Chee Hwa, CEO of Chiu Teng Construction and Deputy Chairman of Hin Ann Huay Kuan, Singapore, for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

This book chronicles the 100-year history and activities of Hin Ann Huay Kuan, the first Hinghwa association established in Singapore.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. 黃逸耕, and the Taiwan Hin Ann Association and for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift (臺灣興安會館).

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Lin Shuanghua (林双华先生) for this wonderful autographed gift, "歲月如歌".

Mr. Lin is the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Meizhou Daily and Editor-in-Chief of Putian Evening News.

Through lyrical prose and evocative storytelling, this book beautifully captures the spirit and essence of his hometown, Putian. I am deeply honored to receive a signed copy from the author himself.

An award-winning work, "歲月如歌" has been widely praised and warmly embraced by readers.

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Source: 林双华, Author, 林洲 & 张元昌

Source: Author, 林洲 & 张元昌

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Lin Zuquan (林祖泉先生, 主编), and Jiangkou Town Committee of the Communist Party of China and the People’s Government of Jiangkou Town, Hanjiang District, Putian City, for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

The book 锦江流韵 (Jinjiang Liu Yun) offers valuable insights into Putian, showcasing its rich history through vivid images of historical sites, traditional houses, and local culture.

This informative Chinese-language publication provides readers with a concise and accessible introduction to the heritage and character of Putian.

The project was initiated by the Jiangkou Town Committee of the Communist Party of China and the People’s Government of Jiangkou Town, Hanjiang District, Putian City. It was edited by Lin Zuquan (林祖泉主编) and officially published by the Straits Literature and Art Publishing House after years of meticulous compilation and editing.

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Source: Author, 林洲

《魁山侨屋漫话》 (Kuíshān Qiáowū Mànhuà), published on 1st July 2024, is a captivating chronicle of Yeow Village, located in Jiangkou Town, Hanjiang District, Putian City.

In this beautifully written account, author Mr. Yao Bin (姚斌先生) captures the rich history of the village, bringing to life the stories behind the grand mansions built by the Yeow clan. I am honoured to receive a copy from the village chief.

At the height of its prosperity, many villagers migrated overseas to Nanyang, supporting their families and fellow townspeople in managing and expanding businesses abroad.

Ironically, as success abroad grew, many of the grand ancestral mansions were left empty, and almost every villager had left in search of opportunity.

Eventually, the entire village, including its historic mansions, was donated to the local authorities. It has since been preserved like a vast estate museum.

Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction, drawing not only returning members of the Yao clan but also locals eager to witness this unique piece of heritage.

It remains a powerful symbol of pride for overseas Chinese, especially among the Hinghwa community.

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With heartfelt gratitude to Putian historian Mr. Zhang Yuanchang (张元昌先生) for this valuable gift.

This comprehensive volume offers an in-depth exploration of Putian’s culture and history.

For anyone aspiring to gain a deeper understanding of Putian’s rich heritage, this book stands as an authoritative and indispensable resource.
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Source: Author, 林洲 & 张元昌

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Wang Wenzhen (王文珍) of the Jiangdou Village Committee for this beautifully autographed book, Jiangdou Village Chronicle (江兜村志).

This remarkable volume beautifully captures the history, heritage, and enduring spirit of the Hinghwa group from Jiangdou, Fuqing. It is undoubtedly one of the most comprehensive books ever written on the Jiangdou “Wang” Clan.

The wealth of facts, anecdotes, and stories contained within its pages does great justice to the remarkable legacy left behind by the eminent members of the clan. It is a truly valuable record of their contributions and an important testament to the rich heritage of the Jiangdou Wang Clan.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Fang Fenqiang (方奋强先生), a native of Putian, for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift. These two volumes proved invaluable in helping me verify key historical details.

An avid photographer, Mr. Fang captures the evolving landscape of Putian through his lens, preserving its transformation for future generations.

Although we have never met in person, he thoughtfully mailed the books to me at his own expense upon learning that I was writing a book on the history and stories of the Hinghwa people. His kind gesture deeply moved me and remains a powerful reminder of the generosity and connection that can transcend distance.
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With heartfelt gratitude to Dato' Alan Tong for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to Dato' Alan Tong for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift, A tribute to his brother, Mr. Tong Kok Teck, An unsung hero.

The book tells the remarkable story of Mr. Tong Kok Teck, a selfless and devoted sibling who gave up his promising education so that his younger brothers and sisters could attend school. His noble sacrifice was not in vain: among his siblings is Dato' Alan Tong himself, who rose to become widely known as the "King of Condos" in Malaysia.

This inspiring story is a powerful testament to the values of family, sacrifice, and perseverance.

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With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Robert Tan Bee Chuan for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

The book chronicles the remarkable life of Robert Tan's grandfather, Tan Shen Heung (陈善馨; 1879–1934), who began his journey as a rickshaw puller. Through perseverance and the support of one of his regular passengers, he rose to become one of the earliest members of the Hinghwa community to own a ship, a testament to his resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

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With heartfelt gratitude to the Federation Heng Ann for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. B.J. Tay for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to the Persatuan Shing An dan Selangor & Kuala Lumpur for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to JP Hong Boon Siong for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift. This book proved to be invaluable in the initial stage of my writing.

With heartfelt gratitude to the Kuching Hin Ann Association and JP Hong Boon Siong for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to the Koperasi Kemajuan Henghua Kuching Berhad and JP Hong Boon Siong for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. B.J. Tay for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift. The book is a chronicle of some of the earliest pioneers in the region.

With heartfelt gratitude to the Sibu Hin Hua Pou Sen Association and Kapitan Frankie Nee for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

The Hinghwa Bible

With deep reverence, I received the gift of these Bibles from Reverend Yong Shin Rong (杨欣荣牧师) of Tien Tao Methodist Church
(卫理天道堂), Sungai Merah, Sibu.
My heartfelt gratitude also goes to Kapitan Frankie Nee, whose kind efforts made this meaningful gift possible.
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Dong Yueguan Temple, Kuching, Sarawak

With heartfelt gratitude to JP Hong Boon Siong for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift. The history of the temple and all that it represents is beautifully captured in this remarkable book. It traces the temple's origins from the beginning of time and follows its evolution into what it is today.

At its core, the book weaves together the philosophy and theology of Taoism, offering deep insights into both its spiritual foundations and cultural significance.
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Jiu Lidong (Putian)

Centennial Anniversary

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Liu Qixing (刘启星先生) of Jiulidong Temple, located in Sitthen, Jiulidong Town, Jiangkou, Hanjiang District, Putian (莆田涵江区江口石庭九鲤洞总镇), for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

The book he shared offers valuable insights into the temple’s history and the legends of its revered deities.

Their affiliated organizations in Singapore include:

Jiulidong Temple (九鲤洞): Jalan Tambur, Singapore
Chairman: Alex Tay Yee Chen (郑义昌)
Qiongyau Jiao Di (琼瑶教邸): 741 Jurong West Street 42, #01-01, Singapore 649369
Contact: 6560 3069
Qiongyao Xian Jiao (琼瑶仙教): 29 Lorong 29 Geylang, #02-01, Chan Khoo Kong Huay, Singapore 388078
Contact: 9221 8658

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With heartfelt gratitude to 玉湖陈氏理事会 for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Ng Suat Kheng for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude also to Mr. Ng Hong Lin for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Fung Chi Chung for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

A Chinese publication of Singapore Puxian Hinghwa Network.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Andrew Tjioe for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

An English publication of Singapore Puxian Hinghwa Network.

With heartfelt gratitude to the Yeow Si Kong Huay for these thoughtful and much-appreciated gifts. I am deeply touched by the elderly gentleman who gave me these books, which he had treasured for decades. While he was delighted to pass them on, I was equally honored to receive such valuable records—offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Yao Clan and its building established in 1958 in Singapore.

A tribute to the Seven Sisters Festival

With heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Lynn Wong Yuqing for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

I would also like to extend my warmest congratulations to Lynn and Mr. Lee Kok Leong for their tireless efforts in documenting the remarkable history of women migrants in Singapore. Their dedication to reviving and preserving this rich cultural tapestry is truly commendable.

The Festival of the Seven Sisters, once widely celebrated across ethnic communities, stands as a poignant reminder of our shared heritage. It remains a vibrant and meaningful part of Singapore’s multicultural legacy.

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A tribute to the Keng Teck Whay for their 200 years of Brotherhood.

With heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Ronney Tan Koon Siang for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift. I also extend my warmest congratulations to Mr. Kua Bak Lim and Mr. Lim How Seng for their tireless efforts in documenting the remarkable history of Keng Teck Whay, an association that has truly stood the test of time.

Their dedication to reviving and preserving this rich cultural tapestry is deeply commendable. The continuing existence of Keng Teck Whay stands as a powerful testament to the importance of cultural preservation, and to its enduring role as a vibrant and meaningful part of Singapore’s multicultural legacy.

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With heartfelt gratitude to Mdm. Ong Lee Wha for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

This book brings back fond memories of the wonderful Asian cuisine I used to savour when I was young. The chef was none other than my grandmother-in-law, Mdm. Salachee, who lovingly prepared these wonderful dishes for her grandchildren.

Her daily menu began with breakfast, followed by a hearty lunch and afternoon tea, complete with delicious desserts.

I had always wanted to make a video of her cooking, but at that time, I could not afford a video recorder.

Fortunately, one of her grandniece, Ms. Chantel, managed to document her culinary heritage in a book about her cooking. Her recipes and traditions have since come alive through her regular cooking workshops, which she regularly shares on TikTok.

For those who miss authentic Chitty Melaka cuisine, this book is truly a gem.

A History that Taught the Value of Peace

With heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Law Siao Mei for this thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

Ironically, it was her father, Mr. Law Fah Ngin, who shared accounts of the hardships people endured during the war, when both livelihoods and businesses suffered greatly.