8. Laksa and the Great British Lie

Tried laksa with spaghetti? Or sour tamarind laksa? Laksa comes in many forms, but a classic Nyonya laksa has captured global hearts more than others. Its a dish that's central to the Chinese Peranakan community - a community that found unusual favour in Britain-controlled Malaya.

As the 18th Century rolled on, the Malay world faced growing European pressure, especially with the rise of the British East India Company. They came not just to trade, but to control. Armed with the power of deception, the Company set its sights on the island of Penang.

We hear from Peranakan researcher Dr David Neo, on the rise of Chinese Peranakan communities in colonial Malaya. He also shares his experiences on the extravagance of Nyonya cuisine and its uncertain future.

And Lillian Tong, Director of the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, recounts life g ...