ASEAN Records is proud to officially recognise Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association under Tourism Records by ASEAN Records for achieving a significant regional milestone as the:
First and Longest-Standing Surname Clan Ancestral Hall in Southeast Asia Built in Lingnan Architectural Style, Founded by an Overseas-Emigrant Clan and Maintained in Continuous Ancestral Use
(130 years of continuous ancestral use from 1896 to 2026, with the hall completed in 1906 and listed as a Heritage Building in October 2023)
This recognition celebrates the association’s remarkable 130-year legacy in preserving Chinese ancestral traditions, Lingnan architectural heritage and the cultural identity of the Chen clan community in Malaysia.
Preserving 130 Years of Chinese Ancestral Heritage
Founded in 1896, during the Qing Dynasty, Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association traces its origins to four pioneering Chinese immigrants and tin mining entrepreneurs: Chen Xiu Lian, Chen Xin Xi, Chen Chun and Chen Zai Tian.
Established to unite clan members, encourage mutual assistance and honour ancestral traditions, the association has remained an important cultural institution for generations of the Chen community.
Completed in 1906, the ancestral hall stands in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, distinguished by its traditional Lingnan architectural style. Its historical significance was further recognised when it was listed as a Heritage Building in October 2023.
Connecting Cultural Heritage with Future Generations
Beyond preserving ancestral customs, Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association continues to serve the community through cultural exchanges, educational activities, charitable initiatives and clan gatherings.
The association has also embraced modern initiatives, including an AI-powered visitor guide system and marriage registration services introduced in May 2023, connecting its historical significance with contemporary community needs.
As it celebrates its 130th anniversary, the association remains committed to safeguarding its historic building while encouraging younger generations to discover and appreciate their cultural roots.
A Milestone Moment of Recognition
The ASEAN Records certificate was officially presented on 12 October 2026 at Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Ancestral Hall, Kuala Lumpur, recognising the association’s longstanding contribution to preserving ancestral heritage in Southeast Asia.
The ceremony featured YB Tuan Tan Kok Wai, Honorary Advisor of Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association, KL & Sel.; Dato’ Tang Zhi Nian, President of Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association, KL & Sel.; and Mr. Chin Kok Tian, Deputy President of Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association, KL & Sel.
The recognition also coincided with the association’s 130th anniversary celebrations, marking an important milestone in its continuing efforts to preserve Chinese cultural heritage.
Voices of Leadership
YB Tuan Tan Kok Wai, Honorary Advisor of Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association, KL & Sel., highlighted the importance of preserving historical institutions that reflect the cultural roots and contributions of early Chinese communities in Malaysia.
He emphasised the significance of the ancestral hall’s 130-year legacy in maintaining ancestral traditions, strengthening community connections and passing cultural heritage to future generations.
The ASEAN Records recognition represents an important milestone in celebrating the enduring cultural significance of the ancestral hall within Southeast Asia.
About Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association
Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association, established in 1896, is a historic Chen clan institution based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Founded by four pioneering Chinese immigrants, the association has preserved its ancestral traditions for 130 years. Its Lingnan-style ancestral hall, completed in 1906, remains an important landmark of Chinese cultural heritage and community identity.
Through ancestral ceremonies, cultural programmes and community initiatives, the association continues to promote unity, heritage preservation and intergenerational cultural understanding.
Official Website: https://cssykl.com/
