SINGAPORE: Singapore's first heritage house, showcasing Peranakan lifestyle and culture, officially opened its doors Thursday evening, and gracing the occasion were President S R Nathan and Mrs Nathan.

The 150-year-old Baba House was previously home to highly-respected Peranakan community leader, Tan Cheng Lock, who was president of the Malayan Chinese Association from 1949 to 1958.

It was acquired by the National University of Singapore (NUS), using part of a 4-million-dollar donation from Mr Tan's last surviving child, Agnes Tan.

The house went through a 14-month restoration process - under the supervision and consultation of the Urban Redevelopment Authority and the NUS School of Design and Architecture - that cost nearly S$1.5 million.

- CNA/yt