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Respected Citizens – The History Of Armenians In Singapore And Malaysia
Armenians are one of the most scattered races in the world. Whether enticed by better conditions elsewhere or forced to flee by conquest, they have put down roots in many new lands.
When conditions for some Armenians long domiciled in Persia, became untenable, they looked for new homes, turning towards India and later the British trading settlements at Penang and Singapore. Although no more than 830 Armenians lived in Singapore and Malaya, they played a significant role in the social,civic and economic life of the early British settlements in both countries.
The Armenians’ achievements were quite incommensurate with their minute numbers. Not only did Armenians become respected citizens during their lifetime, but four of Singapore’s icons owe their existence to them: the Straits Times newspaper, Singapore’s national flower – the Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid, Raffles Hotel and the Church of St Gregory the Illuminator. This seminal account of the Armenians of Singapore and Malaysia focuses on the dynamics of the community, the achievements of individuals and the families themselves.