Protection and cooperation are cornerstones. These concepts define the Singapore HAN Family Association’s earliest days. Since 1819, Hainanese immigrants sought new lives in Southeast Asia. By 1842 Singapore became a hub. Many were from the Han Clan.
Imagine 1899. Life was tough for these newcomers. They needed jobs and places to stay. Clan leaders gathered. They decided to form the first Singapore HAN Family Association. Its mission was clear. It would protect Han Clan members. It would help them find accommodation. It would foster cooperation for survival.
In 1900 the HAN Family Association acquired a permanent home. It was on Thomson Lane. Membership grew steadily. By 1907 the building was too small. The HAN Family Association moved to shophouses on Thomson Lane. Then in 1916 it moved again. This time it was to Bencoolen Street and Middle Road.
Management worried about the frequent moves. Rent payments were a burden. They launched a donation drive. By 1925 they bought a property at 21 Halloway Lane. A two-storey complex was built for the HAN Family Association. Statues of Wang Chi Gong were erected. These honored their ancestors.
For nearly 50 years the HAN Family Association remained on Halloway Lane. This lasted from 1925 to 1975. Singapore’s Urban Renewal Scheme forced another relocation. The new address was 2 Derbyshire Road. It had a gross floor area of 7379 square meters. To mark this event the anniversary was set. It fell on February 15 1976 a Sunday.
Initially the HAN Family Association lacked funds. It needed funds to run activities. The focus was property investment. This was a unanimous decision. In 2008 the HAN Family Association bought 23 Tessensohn Road. The balance was used for other freehold estates. Investment returns would fund activities. It would also help the HAN Family Association grow.
Besides benefiting members the HAN Family Association seeks youth. It wants capable Han members. They can help build the family. The Singapore HAN Family Association aims to be a beacon. It hopes to guide future generations. The HAN Family is an integral part of Singapore’s history. It showcases community and resilience. The HAN Family Association preserves heritage and promotes progress. It looks forward to future growth.