• In the late nineteenth century, many migrants moved to Singapore from China, and numerous clan associations were formed as a result. These clan associations promoted social cohesion among the new migrants, provided them with lodging and employment, and even assisted in their funeral matters.
• Clan associations can be based on kinship or locality. Clan associations based on locality are also known as folk associations. As most early migrants came from the southern parts of China, most clan associations can be grouped into Hokkien, Cantonese, Hakka or Sanjiang (Zhejiang, Jiangxi and Jiangsu) associations.
• Clan associations based on kinship are usually formed according to the family surname. Some clan associations are based on a single surname, while others are based on a joint kinship of several surnames.
• There are also some associations based on occupation, formed according to fields of work.
• Following Singapore’s independence, clan associations slowly evolved to assume the role of preserving and promoting Chinese culture and traditions.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong hopes that clan associations will boldly embrace the new ideas and methods of the new generation. This shall bring new vitality to the associations’ development. He also hopes that the clan associations will work closely with the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations, to preserve and promote Chinese culture. (Lianhe Wanbao, 29/9/2018)

宗亲会, 宗亲总会 (Hong Kong, Taiwan)